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Pasadena kicks off Cheeseburger Week this Sunday, celebrating its origins
Pie 'n Burger cheeseburger, one of nearly 50 spots participating in Pasadena Cheeseburger Week, Jan. 25-31.
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jslander
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LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr
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Topline:
The annual Pasadena Cheeseburger Week runs Sunday through Jan. 31, celebrating the burger's local origin story and the 100th anniversary of Route 66. Lionel Sternberger is credited with inventing the cheeseburger in 1924 at his father's roadside stand, the Rite Spot, on what would become part of Route 66 along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena.
Why it matters: Pasadena’s claim to the cheeseburger is a significant part of Southern California's food history, with direct ties to car culture and roadside dining.
Who's participating: Nearly 50 restaurants are taking part, including Dog Haus Biergarten, Pie 'n Burger, the Taproom at the Langham Huntington Hotel and Magnolia House. There are also week-only specials, including Tardino Bros. Italian Kitchen's chili cheeseburger pizza and Burrito Express' smashburger taco.
Why now: It’s a perfect opportunity to explore some of those Pasadena spots that you've been meaning to try (and a good way to fire up your palate before LAist’s citywide Tournament of Cheeseburgers later this year!).
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