If you’ve lived in Nevada for any amount of time—short or long—you’re bound to have heard of the state’s most iconic burger: the Awful Awful. This famous cheeseburger is a treasured Nevada tradition, whether you love it or love to hate it. Known for being “awful big and awful good”, this giant burger isn’t for everybody. In fact, you’d have to have the appetite of a bear to eat this entire thing (plus the fries) in one sitting. However, it’s one of those things you just have to try if you live in Nevada. Who knows, you may find yourself just as obsessed with it as everybody else!
Can you really call yourself a Nevadan if you haven't eaten at least one Awful Awful in your lifetime? We're just joking...kind of. This iconic burger has a BIG reputation here in Nevada, and there's no denying its popularity.
Simply put, the Awful Awful is a Nevada tradition that dates back more than 60 years. It is served at several locations around Northern Nevada, including The Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, the Carson Nugget in Carson City, and—most famously—the Little Nugget Diner in Reno.
Legend has it, it all started in 1952 when a man named Dick Graves brought the burger to Nevada from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He used to serve it in the casinos in Idaho until gambling was outlawed. At the time, it was sold for just 60 cents.
Today, the Awful Awful is just as popular, if not more popular, as it was back when Graves first started serving it. The original version is comprised of a half-pound of ground chuck steak, served on an onion bun with all the trimmings. Oh, and a full pound of fries to go with it!
Each location that serves the Awful Awful has a loyal following, but it's easy to see why many gravitate toward the original location—the Little Nugget. Boasting an old-fashioned, no-frills vibe, the Little Nugget and the Awful Awful go together like PB&J.
Of course, there are many other mouthwatering items on the Little Nugget's menu if you don't feel like taking on the Awful Awful. Enjoy a variety of classic dishes, including the Nugget Chili Burger, Hot Pastrami Sandwich, and Philly Cheese "Grubsteak."
Despite its name, the Awful Awful is pretty dang delicious—especially if you've got a huge appetite that needs to be satisfied. It's no wonder it's become one of Nevada's most iconic foods. See for yourself if this famous burger lives up to the hype and stop by a Nugget location to give it a try.
Have you tried this iconic burger? What’d you think? Let us know in the comments! For more beloved state foods, check out this list of The 10 Most Iconic Foods In Nevada.
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