What makes a restaurant a “hole-in-the-wall?” It’s usually small, definitely not fancy, and almost always locally owned. But the real draw? The food. People seek out these unassuming spots for their unique takes on classic dishes, authentic flavors you can’t find anywhere else, and bang-for-your-buck value.
And that brings us to the heart of the matter: the hole on the wall menu. These menus are rarely cookie-cutter. They offer variety, customization, and one-of-a-kind dishes that set these establishments apart. In this article, we’ll dive into the kinds of menus you can expect to find when you step inside one of these hidden gems.
Appetizers and Starters: Setting the Stage
In the world of hole-in-the-wall dining, appetizers are more than just a prelude to the main course. They’re an opportunity to showcase the restaurant’s personality and set the tone for the meal.
Classic Comfort Food
- Wings: A staple on almost any menu, often with a choice of sauces and sizes. For example, you might see “½ lb. Wings (6 Pieces) $14” or “1 lb. Wings (12 Pieces) $22.”
- Fries: Another crowd-pleaser, available in small and large portions, like “Small Fries $13” or “Large Fries $23.”
Unique and Regional Specialties
To add a little local flair, menus might include items like:
- Fried Pickle Chips
- Southwest Egg Rolls
Burgers and Sandwiches: A Hole-in-the-Wall Staple
No hole-in-the-wall menu is complete without a solid selection of burgers and sandwiches. These are often the stars of the show, the dishes that keep people coming back for more.
Burger Variety
You’ll usually find two main types of burgers:
- Classic Burgers: These are your no-frills, straightforward burgers with the usual toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, maybe some cheese and pickles.
- Signature Burgers: This is where the creativity comes in. Expect unique combinations of toppings and sauces. I’m talking The Sheriff Burger, The Cowboy Burger, that kind of thing.
Sandwich Selection
Sandwiches are another must-have. Look for:
- BBQ Sandwiches: Pulled pork and brisket are the big hitters here. Think BBQ Pulled Pork for around $13.00 or Tender Smoked Brisket for maybe $18.00.
- Specialty Sandwiches: Philly cheesesteaks, po’boys, and club sandwiches are always a good bet.
Bonus points if they offer customizable options, letting you pile on extra toppings or swap out proteins.
Pizza and Calzones: From Simple to Spectacular
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a custom creation, we’ve got you covered.
Pizza Options
- Pizza by the Slice: A fast and easy lunch or late-night snack.
- Specialty Pizzas: These aren’t your average pies! Try one of our unique combinations of toppings and sauces. How about a BBQ Chicken Pizza?
- Make Your Own Pizza: Unleash your inner chef! Create your own pizza masterpiece with all your favorite toppings. (Extra toppings are priced per item.)
Calzones
Looking for something a little different? Our calzones are stuffed with delicious fillings and baked to perfection. Customize your calzone with your choice of ingredients.
Bowls: Pasta, Salad, and Beyond
If you’re after something in a bowl, Hole in the Wall has you covered.
- Pasta Bowls: You can customize your pasta with your choice of sauces and add-ons.
- Salad Bowls: The salads are fresh and equally customizable, with different lettuces, toppings, and dressings to choose from. For example, you might like the Lonestar Salad or the Smokehouse Cobb Salad. You can add protein to any salad.
BBQ and Smoked Meats: A Regional Specialty
No “hole in the wall” menu is complete without some smoked meats, am I right? Here’s a look at some of the BBQ platters and ribs you might find at your local hidden gem.
BBQ Platters
These platters showcase a variety of smoked meats, such as tender pulled pork and melt-in-your-mouth brisket.
- Hand Pulled Pork Platter: $15.00
- Sliced Brisket Platter: $22.00
Ribs
Choose a full rack or a smaller portion of ribs, smoked to perfection.
- Full Rack Ribs: $35.00
Sides, Desserts, and Beverages: Completing the Meal
No meal at Hole on the Wall is complete without the perfect sides, a sweet treat, and something to wash it all down with.
On the side, you can order classics like fries, onion rings, and coleslaw. Or, go for something a little different by choosing from the “Igniters” and “Kickers” sections of the menu.
For dessert, think simple and satisfying.
To quench your thirst, you can choose from a range of options, including Pepsi products and, for those 21 and over, draft beer and wine.
Key Takeaways
Don’t judge a book by its cover! Some of the best food you’ll ever eat comes from the most unassuming places. Hole-in-the-wall menus are often surprisingly diverse, with choices ranging from tasty appetizers to decadent desserts.
These locally owned restaurants offer a unique charm and value. You’ll find authentic flavors, often at prices that won’t break the bank.
So, the next time you’re looking for a great meal, consider ditching the chain restaurants and supporting a local gem. You might just discover your new favorite dish!