ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in Avondale & North Center
Best Wings in Avondale & North Center
Best French Fries in Avondale & North Center
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Avondale & North Center
Master Critic Review
The Bad Apple
8.2
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
The Bad Apple in North Center pairs a serious craft beer list with a deep burger menu that ranges from a straightforward house burger to more elaborate builds like Elvis’s Last Supper and Slow Burn. With thousands of online reviews and a long run as a neighborhood standby, it’s where locals go when they want a sit-down burger with upgraded fries, wings, and patio seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Bad Apple Burger, Elvis's Last Supper burger, Slow Burn burger
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Craft-beer bar where the burger list is as serious as the taps.
Who should go: Burger fans who also care about what’s on draft.
When to visit: Evenings for full menu; warm days for patio seats.
What to order: The Bad Apple Burger, Elvis's Last Supper, Slow Burn.
Insider tip: Ask staff to pair your burger with a specific draft beer.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood; can be competitive during peak dinner hours
Dress code: Casual — jeans and everyday wear are totally fine
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during busy evenings or patio season
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal or no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetarian burgers and sides are available
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be modified, but options are not extensive
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free buns are usually available on request
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something relaxed and fun rather than formal. The beer list and creative burgers make for easy conversation, though it can get a bit loud at peak times.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are common, but expect a wait during prime dinner hours, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are common earlier in the evening, and the menu has approachable options, though the vibe trends more adult later at night.
Best For
Better for: Craft beer lovers and burger fans who want creative builds in a sit-down pub setting with patio seating
Skip if: You want a quiet, fine-dining experience or need a wide variety of vegan options
Hours
Monday4:30pm - 12am
Tuesday4:30pm - 12am
Wednesday4:30pm - 12am
Thursday11:30am - 1am
Friday11:30am - 1am
Saturday11:30am - 1am
Sunday11:30am - 12am