Hello yum fatty food best onion rings... Great malts and hell yeah a cheese burger with the works... We'll worth the calories
(5)
Brian H.
This place has great food and great ice cream but lets face it this cant be ignored. This place has been just sorta clean every time. Finally my parents were in town and asked me where we cold eat quick. Their were 4 of us so we went to the back and back their their was 100 plus fruit flys or naut bugs flying around that whole back area and this was my first tome back their. I desided to sit up front at the tables but the bar tables were mostly dirty. I told my parents lets go and we left. As much as I loved their food I will never go back. All those bugs yuck. If I worked their I would handle that bug problem even if I had to go back their 3 times a day!
(2)
doug r.
I had just departed Chateau Beaumont with a 'clean' pathology report. I wanted to celebrate. It was lunch time. I was hungry. I hadn't been to Knapp's in a very long time. Danielle was my waitress. She was prompt, attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the double cheeseburger and a bowl of chili. The chili arrived first. Hot food, served hot. This is typical Michigan chili (has beans). It was okay. I probably will not order again. I had forgotten how big the double cheeseburger would be. I arrived about the time I was finishing my chili. I immediately knew that half the burger would be going home. Hot food, served hot from the grill. The lettuce was fresh and crisp. The tomato was YADWT (yet another disappointing winter tomato). The ground beef had good beef flavor and a bit of flat top char. Yea! I had forgotten about Knapp's hamburger buns. It seems to be a bakery product, but it did not wow me. It was a tiny step up from a Wonder Bread bun. Will I return? Yea, when I'm in the area and seeking a burger. Will I drive 13 miles for a Knapp's burger? Nope. Price. $15.something, before tip. That's too much. No WiFi. CCW friendly.
(3)
Kate A.
The ambiance of the old style diner is more than enough reason to go here. But I mean it when I tell you that you will never look at milkshakes the same way once you've tried a Knapp's Malt! Seriously, I don't care how lactose intolerant you are (I am too) it worth it! I also love their season fries and cheese burger. It's not the kind of place you can eat everyday but it's worth the splurge once in a while!
(5)
Marc C.
God knows I want to love this place, really I do, but outside the malts, the food just doesn't deliver. The exterior of the place and counter seating is really incredible and very nostalgic, I mean, you's have to pay big bucks to recreate the 50's era charm that they've got going in spades. Pie in the sky, I wish new ownership would come in and turn the place into proper burger joint in the vein of a Shake Shack or something of that quality but I get that's a stretch. At this point, even a Five Guys would be an improvement. Unfortunately, a really great space is going waste in Downtown Rochester.
(2)
Lauren C.
This was delicious and fantastic. The service was great and the food was perfect. Yes, perfect. I have attached proof in the form of a photo of a Vernor's shake and a stack of giant battered onion rings... which my husband described as "oh my god" and "a savory onion pastry" respectively. He ordered a loaded bacon cheeseburger as well, that he enjoyed. I had a turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw on top. The fries (perfect) and coleslaw were a side dish. I made the executive decision to heap the coleslaw on. Now you might asking if I negated the benefits of a turkey burger by adding coleslaw to it and I would say to you GET OUT YOU ARE NO FUN. So yes. A turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw is now called an Executive Decision. Go. Enjoy it.
(5)
Bobbie E.
The Best hamburger I've had in some time. The servers are Wonderful, Quick, and Friendly. Loved the quaint atmosphere of an old soda fountain, with Oldies but Goodies piped in. I'm from California, we don't have a place like this in my area. Wish we did. Our food came out Fast & Hot ! Thanks for a great experience, it was great
(5)
Karen H.
Love the Boston Cooler. It's just a fun place to go for a burger and fries. The soups are good. It's all American.
(4)
Colin V.
Super average.. This knapp's used to be legit turn for the worse average service didn't even get waters and the burger was a joke for the price #Whatadive
(1)
Scott S.
If you like thin, overcooked, thin, tasteless patties on large good looking buns that look better than they taste then this is the place for you. If you are going to serve large buns at least make the patty large enough to fit them without having to leave so much bread on the plate. Very pricey burgers for the described quality and when you factor in the cost of (the small serving of) fries or the (rather large cut) onion rings and you've got yourself quite a tab (especially if you add a Malt or Shake).
(2)
Mary R.
Love the food but hate going here now because the waitresses are cold as ice. Couldn't be ruder.
(1)
Ashley E.
Knapps has an old school feel in the heart of Downtown Rochester. I had a cheeseburger with everything and a side of onion rings. The onion rings were HUGE! My husband and I split them and still had leftovers. The burgers were large as well (IMO) and I took home half of mine. They also have BLTs, pulled pork sandwiches, fries, seasoned fries, several different types of ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes, basically anything you would find at a diner! Seating is limited, but there was enough room for everyone while we were there. We were in and out in 30 mins. Overall, I would definitely return!
(4)
Melissa M.
Need a time machine back to 1958? Get yourself to Red Knapp's, slide into a shiny red leather booth (or hop on a metal stool at the bar!), and prepare yourself for a good, old fashioned diner meal. This is one of those places that has been around forever, and you'd expect to see on that wretched unmentionable Food Network show, but are super grateful that it hasn't. Red Knapp's is true diner food, and is the real deal when it comes to Oakland County, Michigan history. An institution as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the food. These are thin, well cooked (but not "well-done," thankfully) burgers on a soft white bun with gooey cheese, shredded lettuce, and tomatoes. They are quite large for one person, but usually one (read: I) finds themselves finishing it before they know what hit them. It's not the best burger you'll ever have, but it certainly is good, and the charm of it all makes it well worth 4 stars. I'd recommend finishing your meal with a true 50s throwback: the strawberry shake. You just can't not do it! So so so very tasty.
(4)
Regina S.
Headed into downtown Rochester Friday afternoon and was craving a burger. I remember coming here as a kid, but honestly, all I remembered was the amazing strawberry shake I had... I think I was 11. Ahhh, good times. Today we split one of those amazing shakes, had some delish bacon cheddar burgers and devoured some yummo chili cheese fries. Did you know they bake their own buns?? Some of the BEST chili cheese fries i've ever had!! I love the 1950s feel, it's actually authentic... and the prices are really really good!! It's a classic burger joint at it's BEST For sure!!! /Nostalgia!
(4)
Matt K.
I'll never set foot in this place again. My wife and I just finished our first and last visit. This place is disgusting. The employees were using nasty, dirty rags to wipe down everything, including the wands used to make shakes. They wiped down the counter, spilled ketchup, then the shake wands. The rags looked like they'd been used all day long. Filthy. As far as the food/drinks, we had a chocolate shake (ordered before we saw what they were doing with the rags) and a chocolate sundae. The sundae was made with chocolate ice cream. Inexplicably, the shake was made with vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup instead of chocolate ice cream. How does that make any sense? That's exactly what it tasted like - fake chocolate syrup.
(1)
Keilan F.
The double chocolate malt was very tasty! The portion size I quite generous as well! Sweet little diner-style place.
(4)
Rob B.
This place is a 1950's diner. It's a cute little restaurant on Main Street. The inside is small and quaint. I like the burger and ice cream smells as we entered. There are bar stools surrounding the dairy bar. It's first come first serve for these. There are also small booths for sitting too. Now that we are sitting next to the ice cream right behind the bar; it smells so good! We each had a cheeseburger with fries. It was decent. I had the chocolate malt with double malt and it was amazing! The prices here a bit on the expensive side for a diner but the ambiance and free smells a good.
(4)
Chris J.
Have been here dozens of times and have always enjoyed their burgers. The burgers are nothing fancy - but they differentiate themselves in how they spice their meat. It is very tasty. Their shakes are great too!
(4)
Brian P.
We normally come here for strawberry milkshakes and fried pickles. I know... Weird combination but the fried pickles are soooo good. The milkshakes are huge. I normally can't finish and my gf has to help me finish it.
(5)
Theresa T.
If your looking for a burger, fries and a shake for $13.00, this is your place. I must say it is totally NOT worth it. My nephew likes to go here so I put up with it. It's not the cleanest place around either. And the service is hit or miss as they have very young staff there. Sometimes they are just a little too busy talking to take care of business.
(3)
steve f.
And to all of you people raving about health food let me remind you that you are walking into a 50's diner that has been open since 1950! You are not walking into whole foods! I have been a loyal customer for about 20 years and have nothing bad to says. Oh and the chocolate peanut butter is to die for!!
(5)
Scott T.
My kids love this place. It is an old style diner for burgers, fries, and shakes. My kids like the food a lot. I find it to be just OK. I would come with the family but not without kids.
(3)
Nathasja T.
I am such a sucker for nostalgia, but I might be an even bigger sucker for chocolate malts. Knapp's may just have one of the best chocolate malts around, and that is no lie. Like some people mentioned, it is served in a metal cup and is super thick! My husband has fond memories of visting this place as a child. He remembers coming here for fries or rings and a burger, which was often a highlight for him. I love that at that point the place had been open for plenty of years, and that nowadays it is still alive and kicking. The fries are pretty good and the onion rings are hysterical, they are pretty much a quartered onion - they are huge! Like others mentioned, the service leaves something to be desired but the malt is totally worth it in the end!
(3)
Hailey D.
First of all, people who say their shakes are amazing.... You're liars. My boyfriend and I went their tonight after a dinner at Outback (which was amazing btw) ended the night with a first and last trip to this dump. All we wanted was shakes because you people claimed they were really good. Well thanks for waisting 10 minutes and $10. I figured they'd have a strawberry banana shake no. Just chocolate or vanilla. Okay well chocolate. Wrong. You get vanilla with chocolate syrup. Uh ew. The only reason I gave them two stars is cause the waiters were really nice. Another thing that doesn't really have to do with them is we sat next to some really disrespectful people who truly put the cherry on top to fully ruin the visit.
(2)
John W.
The burgers and shakes are amazing. I love the bread they use for their buns. The strawberry shakes are to die for. Love it!
(5)
Anna R.
Lunch was okay. Nothing fantastic except for the servers. Not crazy about how the seats are set up. A lot of people rave about their shakes but honestly, my husband makes shakes way better than their's.
(3)
Chris C.
People say bland and unseasoned. I say authentic, hot and flavorful. I don't want anything in my beef that would spoil the flavor. I was happy to see the Tupperware of onions and glad they served it that way. The onion rings were great too. very large. Not overcooked. Not too salty and not too much breading.
(4)
Matt R.
great spot. has not changed sense I started going with my Grandpa in the 70's thanks for keeping it alive and the same!! hamburgers great shake was the best! fries very good and my wife loved the grilled ham and cheese.
(4)
Ron C.
Well this one of my last several 'Rochester Bucket List items. As I parked I saw 3 men walking down Main St. and inquired is Red Knapps worthy of a visit, all 3 smiled & said 'Oh Yea!" and even recommended a certain burger & swore by the chocolate malt I walked in at noon Wednesday [ 10-5-11 ] and expected a wait, I was the only one in there, COOL! SO I ordered the Red Knapp Burger, loaded, a small seasoned fry & the famous chocolate malt, both gals at the counter were a hoot & very friendly The place is truly super clean! A+ The Burger was very good, cooked to perfection & the homemade bun from the bakery next door was truly a treat A Seasoned Fries ,they were okay C+ The Chocolate Malt served in a nice tall glass malt cup and all of the extra malt in the metal mixer container , brought to you!!! A++ plus it passed the straw test, where the straw could stand on its own PS: 2-3 have commented that they like the relish & onions being served in a shared Tupperware Container Me, not so much This was my only dilemma, the Burger , Fry & Malt came to a grand total of $13.67 + tip there are way to many places offering a $6 lunch for this to work for me anytime soon Plus I am still loyal to the Shamrock Irish Pub, The Redcoat Tavern & Millers Bar
(3)
K L.
This place is the real deal! Burgers were very good. Buns were delicious and they were not oversized like some places. Next time I will treat myself to a malt! Will definitely be back.
(5)
Amber T.
I love red Knapps except I ordered my blt without mayo, and they gave me mayo! I didn't eat it. Sadly.... But other then that it is family friendly, a nice milkshake shop theme, and good service! Their milkshakes are very good, they make alot, only give you a little then give you the rest to add it when you want. So, very nice pictures in the restrunt. Nice atmosphere, and good service. I rate this place 4/5 stars! Because of the mayo thing. But other than that it is family friendly, and GREAT MILKSHAKES!!!
(4)
Josh H.
Pretty good if you are looking for a quick fix of fried or unhealthy stuff and good shake. Don't over order as the portions are large. It is very cramped( not much they can do about that) and there was a lot of flies. Overall I'd recommend as a classic diner.
(3)
B T.
Wish I read the reviews before eating here. My husband grew up in Rochester Hills, and this was a favorite when they were kids. We just flew into Detroit, for our weekend getaway trip and this was our stop for lunch. I was starving, so we got the milk shakes and 2 burgers with an order of chili cheese fries. The milk shakes were delicious. The burgers and fries were not great. Our meal was about $40 bucks. There were alot of flies, which was annoying. Nonetheless - I ate what i could of the burger and fries - i wish i wouldn't have. I got so sick that afternoon. I was sick all night. It was awful. It totally ruined our little getaway.
(1)
Tiana O.
Is this a prime example of people liking a place based off of pure nostalgia? The place was cold and cramped, the waitresses weren't very pleasant, many people were complaining about their wait time, and the food wasn't anything special. The chili cheese fries were mediocre and the cheese wasn't melted, the onion rings, while enormous, were soggy and the burger was from a frozen patty. The bun was pretty good if you like that soft, stick to the roof of your mouth, white bread thing (which I do, sometimes). Also, we were not offered any refills on our soda. I regreted not ordering a shake because they did look really good, but I don't think I'll be back to get one anytime soon.
(2)
Kevin W.
on a level with burger king or mcdonalds, nothing special at all, way overpriced, fruit flies bothering us the entire time, three bugers and three pops cost almost $40.00... disappointed.... a whooper tastes better...
(1)
Erik M.
I loved this place as a kid. LOVED. I would sneak out of work to grab a burger, which at the time, seemed big. But times have changed and this place hasn't. I stopped here on a whim because I was in the area and missed the giant flat burgers and awesome seasoned fries. There was only one other person there. I sat at the bar. Everything was clean, but it did have the smell of grease. I'm cool with that, this is a dairy bar and burger joint. The waitress was very curt. Look, I know working here and listening to the American Graffiti soundtrack probably isn't the best, but try to be nice to the customers. She hurried me with my order because she was so busy. Oh, wait, she wasn't. She was talking to her co-workers about how terrible her other co-workers were. Cool. I'll just sit here then and wait. Got the burger and seasoned fries. The burger was very dry. I like that flat floury bun, that may have something to do with the dryness, but the burger really wasn't that great. Plus, it was like five bucks. You can go to Five Guys with that and literally get triple that burger, and it won't taste like Sudan. The fries were decent, but you can get the same sort of salt and pepper fries at Mr. B's across the street and they're friendlier there. I don't think I'll be back. Like all things from my childhood, this was not as good as I remembered. After coming here, I've decided that I'll not watch my old He-Man tapes and just remember it fondly, because it will probably be rude and dry.
(2)
Mark B.
Quite frankly, I'm surprised at the previous reviews. This place seems to be a local icon with great reviews. We're new to the area and wanted to try some quaint and local. Unfortunately, this is the worst customer service we've experienced in Michigan yet. The waitress was extremely curt and barely spoke to us. Our drinks were not refilled AT ALL during the entire visit. The malts were really good, which is why I'll give this place a star. However, we're suckers for good customer service and won't be back. True, the ambiance is vintage, quaint, and inviting; but there's just too many great places to eat in downtown Rochester to waist your time and money at Red Knapps. Sorry :(
(1)
Michele B.
Love knapps! My daughter thinks footling hotdogs and a chocolate shake at the counter is a treat. Burgers, seasoned fries and coleslaw are good too!
(5)
Brandi R.
Best place in Rochester for a quick burger. My kids love the real malts that they serve right in the metal container that they mix them in and it's very fun to sit at the bar. The decor is retro and it's very clean. The seasoned fries are good as well.
(4)
Tom O.
Great burgers, great onion rings, great shakes. I have never been disappointed here. Suck it Red Coat, you have nothing on Red Knapps' burgers. I only wish they had 1/2 orders of onion rings. I've never been able to finish a whole order, even with help.
(5)
Jamie F.
Food is really good- for cheap food! Definitely burgers, shakes, and fries. I've been multiple times and service is never good. Waitresses act like they are being bothered but the food is good and it's a fun environment for kids or tourists.
(3)
K Y.
Its a good place to eat, and has a nice retro look to it, but the food is a little overpriced
(3)
Tiffany D.
I love the cheeseburgers and onion rings the size of my head. They make a darn good chocolate malt too. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was slow, the server seemed annoyed to have to wait on me. They also keep weird hours; I've gone by on weekends to find it's closed. When they are open, they always seem busy but it can get a little crammed in that small 50's style diner. All in all, I like it!
(4)
Jon S.
I'll keep it short. I like their burgers. The place smells aweful. In fact my last trip was for take out because I can't stand the smell. It's expensive for what you get. I guess thats because it is downtown but there are a lot of burger joints with great food for less. The wait staff is unfriendly and only pays you attention when they are not talking to themselves. In fact they offered to spit my "malt to go" into two cups for me. After giving me just one I noticed a waitress drinking a malt in the same size cup right at the counter. I'm not saying she took my other one but it definitely gave me a bad impression. Needless to say after 4 visits, trying each time to enjoy my experience, I will not be returning.
(2)
Hannah L.
It's true that the customer service isn't the greatest! The service I experienced was fine, but I noticed others who weren't doing so great. The food and milkshakes and overall vibe and atmosphere of the place is undeniably good though. If you enjoy real American 50s styled meals and old school atmosphere, definitely give Red Knapps a try. I don't even like meat really, but I enjoy the food here.
(4)
Stephanie C.
Yes it's been said but I have to say it again... it's like traveling back in time. It's a kitschy 50's diner where you really want a stool at the counter because you're going to forgo comfort for authenticity. There's just something about slurping up one of those giant hand-poured thick-thick malts at the counter that seems pure, innocent and just like a scene in "Back to the Future." You have to do it. And you'll be glad you did. I adore Red Knapp's. Oddly enough I grew up in Rochester and never made it there during high school. I missed out on a lot of good burgers and fries, I can tell you that. These are some of the best cheeseburgers around. The menu is clear diner food. Don't walk in thinking you're gonna get a salad. Sure, you have the option, but it would be a shame. You'd miss out on all the fun. This is a burger and a shake place. And they make the best of both. So spoil yourself and really dive into the nostalgia of it all. Sometimes I suffer from what my dad called "eyes bigger than your mouth" disease. The symptoms? I think I can eat it all but I can't. If you're familiar with this problem, you may want to split the burger (or more likely the fries) with your honey. The shakes are huge too. I always end up with a to-go shake for later. Make that a chocolate malt, extra malt. Mmmm. I'm getting thirsty.
(4)
Scott B.
A decent downtown burger shop with awesome shakes. Despite the negative comments from others, the restaurant was clean and the waitress was friendly. However, it's very noisy so it's difficult to hear someone sitting right in front of you. Enjoy the deluxe cheeseburger. It's quite big!!!
(3)
Katie C.
This little dairy bar nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester gives me a different opinion about Rochester. Typically the restaurants are upscale and more expensive, but this burger joint offers a decent piece of meat for less cash. This place has a local feel, and a place to go to catch locals and a quick bite and delicious shake. The meat is good and the shakes are better. Who can deny themselves with hand-dipped shake with malt and chocolate? Don't forget they give you the extra from the shake in the mixer cup. You might be paying $4 for a shake, but you are definitely getting enough for two! I also really enjoyed their french fries, crisp, and seasoned well with salt and pepper! Lastly, I really enjoyed the large containers they brought to your table filled with diced onions and pickles to throw on anything you are eating. I still haven't decided If I would actually make a special trip to go out there, or just wait until I am in the downtown Rochester area. This place is packed during peak eating times, so be sure to catch in between times to catch a seat at the dairy bar!
(4)
Dusty S.
Other than my malt, which was above average, this place was a disappointment. My girlfriend and I took a booth seat, and there was a serious shortage of leg room for us. The seats were too low for the table, and the whole place smelled funky. Reminded me of the distant smell of vomit from carnivals. I ordered a deluxe burger and fries, which weren't that bad, but nothing special. When I asked for onions, I was brought a large sealed tupperware container full of minced up onions. What gives, was I just passed the community onion bowl? How many other customers have dished their onions out of this same container? The service was fine, and the decoration wasn't too bad, but again nothing too special. So, unless all you want is a quick stop for dessert, I would suggest heading elsewhere.
(2)
Jordan S.
This place is awesome. it is definitely not the health, but this place is an icon. Roll with a turkey special, with bbq sauce on the side and a vanilla malt. Fried pickles make a solid sidekick.
(5)
damian a.
Ok, this is a downtown rochester staple. I can't say the burgers themselves are "great." The meat is just okay, but like a lot of burgers of this nature the bun and condiments make the burger good. I find them to be pretty tasty when i'm in the mood for them. Mostly we go here because whenever I say to my daughter "where do you want to go?" and she says "red knapp's!" I think she likes the diner atmosphere with the old advertisements on the walls. oh and also the shakes. The shakes are huge and awesome. There are something like 16 different kinds and they let you mix and match (peanut butter banana is a pretty brilliant combination i think. scientifically proven). Some of them are flavor shots (the banana is just a syrup), but some use real stuff. I like the raspberry shake because it's made with real raspberries.
(3)
Delsean L.
I have been going to Knapps for over thirty years and I will continue until I die. The burgers are nice sized and delicious. The seasoned fries are more than just fries with lawrys like most places. As everyone else has said the shakes and malts are better than most ice cream parlors I have been to in my life. It is one of the last original diners that pleases people of all types. For newbies it is worth trying. It is a family business worth supporting
(4)
Bre K.
Great burgers. Greasy...very greasy...but yummy. The fries are so so. The onion rings are enormous, resulting in soggy, not crunchy onion rings. The waitstaff is hit or miss. Sometimes you get a great girl who keeps your coke refilled, sometimes you get ignored for 20 minutes. Or told that they "don't know how to make a cherry coke." Good for carryout, although A Burger, A Cheeseburger, and 2 fries is almost $20. =(
(3)
Amy B.
Funny that Knapps is in the ice cream catagory. I tend to think of it as a burger place that makes great shakes. I come here for the atmosphere (I like sitting at a bar), the shakes and the onion rings. The onion rings are the best around. At about an inch and a half in height I have no idea where they get onions that big but they make awesome rings. Crunchy too. I tend to go to Knapps when I'm feeling down. Going to Knapps always picks me up.
(3)
Brian C.
Burgers. Onion rings. Shakes Malts. ALL VERY GOOD. A little pricey but worth it.
(4)
Eric C.
Red Knapp's is one of those strange places that inspires loyalty far beyond the quality of the food or experience. It's your basic 50s diner, with the added attraction that is the legit thing not some recreation. It's fun to sit at the counter and the shakes are truly old-style and very good. If that was the extent of what they did I would rate it higher, but the food does let you down. It is nothing, and I repeat, nothing great. "Eats" would be a better name. If you want basic, not too great food, with a great shake go here. In other words, go for the shake and the 50s experience but don't expect quality diner food here.
(3)
Chris M.
Red Knapps is a staple of Rochester. It is the type of place you take someone who enjoys small, 50s style diners. Its not clean, but, in my opinion, its part of the charm. This is a place is a must go whenever I go on a photography expedition in Rochester. Hell, I've taken both dates and my grandma here and its turned out great. The service is usually pretty good, I've never personally ever had any problems. However, I always sit at the dairy bar, so I imagine that helps. Food takes a surprisingly short amount of time, and the waitresses have always been nothing but great. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is 50s diner style. Dairy bar, not exactly the cleanest floors, but its god charm. The food, however, is why I keep coming back. While their burgers aren't the pinnacle of gourmet eating, like some people here apparently think diner burgers should be, they are fantastic for what they are. I always get a deluxe bacon burger, but am probably going to start trying new stuff soon. The burgers are large, even though the patty is thin. Greasy burgers, thick bacon, thin diner style fries, and, best of anything they have to offer, absolutely amazing shakes. Their shakes are to die for. Anyone who likes a shake will thank you for bringing them there. Overall, a great place for a cheap(er) eat in downtown Rochester. Great atmosphere, helpful staff, amazing burgers. I will agree with some of the other reviewers and say I just wish they'd clean up a bit more. But besides that, one of my favorite places in downtown Rochester.
(4)
Chris W.
Onion rings are massive, Shakes are Classic. Its a small diner, its not the best but its pretty dang close. I ordered a BLT and I should have gone with a burger. (Its a burger and shake place!) If you want a burger you will be pleased, but the BLT wasn't that great. Price is pretty dang reasonable for downtown Rochester
(4)
Michael C.
Whenever I'm in Red Knapp's, I half-expect Marty McFly to come through the door at any minute. Their malts are amazing. Forget about dairy queen! Forget about Coldstone! Forget every other place you've had a shake or malt at, because Knapp's has been doing it longer and better than any of them. They serve food as well. I'd rank their burger as good, but not excellent. Still, I always felt like it was Red Knapp's itself that was making the dining experience interesting, and not the food per se. That being said, it's not a bad burger - it's actually quite nice (especially coupled with the McFly anxiety above). I'd suggest coming here most especially if you have kids; the hike up to Dairy Queen on north Main street is long, and driving there is pretty impossible in the summer as well. Red Knapp's has amble parking in the FREE public lots between 2nd and 3rd, and is less than a block walk. Plus it's delicious. And cheap. Why aren't you there yet?
(5)
C J C.
I wasn't alive in the 50s, so take this with a grain of salt: If you want a truly 50's experience, this gets ... well ... as close as you can get with current food safety laws. I've been eating at Red Knapp's since I was about ten years old, so understand that this place has a lot of nostalgia for me, and I've seen them grow as the times (and food codes) have required them to. The burgers are unique. They're very clearly not from frozen, previously formed, patties. Someone is smashing the meat in the back into a wide, round burger then cooking it (on what, or using what, I have no idea). Said burger is then placed pleasantly on a bun with a diameter that is much larger than a typical bun. They're either making these buns or they've found some secret "weird bun making place" to purchase them. They're really not anything all that special on their own (no sesame seeds, appears to be white bread in composition). It's just one of those things: the ratio of bread to burger is somehow exactly right and despite the bun being made of white bread and the burger likely having been fried, the bun is never soaked through with grease. Get the burger deluxe. Get the Chili fries (if you like Coney style chili fries). Get a malt. I recommend a Banana/Mocha. The banana comes from a bottle (or it did the last time I was there), however, that's a plus in this case: the flavor is within that one hour period of time that a banana can be put in a malt without tasting too ripe or too green. Give it a try. Ignore the interior and the look ... It's not fancy on purpose.
(4)
P J.
burgers are awesome!!! the buns(i'm pretty sure they are made at The Home Bakery) are the best! wish i could get that recipe. i've been a regular here since i was a kid and now my kids enjoy it as much as i do.service is awesome, especially in the daytime when brittany is there. she's worked there as long as i can remember and makes the absolute best chocolate malt in the city!!! bacon burger, seasoned fries, chocolate malt. HEAVEN!!! all in all a go-to spot in downtown rochester.
(5)
Loreen G.
I have always thought Red Knapp's is an awesome lil' gem with good food. I had lunch here the other day and for the first time I found an empty booth by the window! I usually get the food to go so I was happy to eat in for once. I have sat on those dairy bar stools in the past which seems cool at first, but there's quite a gap between the stools and the counter making it uncomfortable. Anyway I finally felt like this time I got to enjoy the whole 50s diner experience rather than just the food. I ordered their distinctive tasty hamburger (no pickles) with the seasoned fries! They also had a peppermint shake on the board that sounded good but I didn't get to try it this time around.
(5)
lesley s.
I hadn't been here in awhile and was surprised when my cheeseburger deluxe arrived on a plate barely big enough to hold it. It's not that the burger was huge, but that the plate was very small. At first I thought, this is it? Then I gobbled it up and realized part of what I love about this place is there are no frills. Just a good burger (though next time I will add fries, which will likely result in a bigger plate) and great milkshakes. Don't go changin, Red Knapp's.
(4)
Tiffany D.
Love this place! It takes me back to poodle skirts and sock hops and having a malt at the soda shoppe... or you know, the movie I saw like that. Red Knapp's is a classic diner, with burgers and fries and cokes and malts. They have your regular milkshakes, but the malts are creamier and worth the splurge. They have flavors ranging from chocolate to raspberry to lime and I haven't had a bad one yet. The fries are thinly cut and perfectly salty. The burgers are basic, but ask for the deluxe and get the chopped onions and a slice of cheese. They also have diner fare such as chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and surprisingly good chili. Very kid friendly place, but not great for groups (the tables are stationary). If you can, sit at the "dairy bar" and get the true experience.
(5)
Kit S.
The hamburgers aren't great. Yes, you get a lot of burger, but it's bland. The Milkshakes ARE huge and wonderful!
(2)
Curt B.
This is a family favorite. I think we head to this old time burger joint once every two weeks. We've only ever had a few things here, there's really only one choice as far as we're concerned...the burgers. The burgers are really big on really good bread and they taste great. You can get them with chili or a whole variety of options, but the plain old simple burger with ketchup, mustard, pickle does the trick for me. We always add a side of fried pickles to that and they are very tasty as well. The milkshakes are really good too. And again it's a pretty big shake. After a full meal we share a shake between the three of us and it hits the spot. Everyone's really friendly and we love sitting at the bar. It's a little pricey for a burger, but it's a good amount of food and they often have a coupon for a buy one get free burger.
(4)
Scott V.
I work at RARA. The recreation department for Rochester and Rochester Hills. We are two blocks from Red Knapps. Okay, Okay, the burgers are not Red Coat or Miller's Bar. But for the less than $6.00 bucks your getting a big fresh burger that's better than Five Guys. In full disclosure, I live in Berkley and Bagger Dave's is my favorite burger for now. Since it is only four blocks from my home. If you order the Onion Rings and your ordering for an office of six. Order two and ask for them to be cooked a little longer until they are just a tad extra crispy. They are big and they come out tasty and there will be none left when lunch is over. The burger. Fresh. Somewhat smashed. The size of maybe two Wendy's singles. Ask for it medium. it isn't the best bun, more like a bun that is there to hold the burger together while you eat it. It's somewhat floury on the base, but holds quite well. Non toasted. It's a big spread out burger. Like I said, it's not a thick burger, but what you are paying for you have to remember to ask for it medium because it comes in the size of two patties flattened. But by golly. for the price of what you order, especially the onion rings and the burger, it's well worth it. Yeah, it's a diner. So what. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Rochester. And Red Knapps is fine with me.
(4)
Joe S.
Great malted shakes; I just wished they served their to-go shake orders in paper cups instead of styrofoam ...
(4)
Brian G.
The amount of positive reviews for this place is depressing to say the least. Red Knapp's was basically the prototype for Steak N' Shake and the food is of the same quality. Flat, unseasoned meat patties with pretty slim fixings are appetizing if you're working towards your morbidly obese status. I look forward to the day that this place goes out of business and is replaced with a restaurant that has healthier and better tasting food.
(1)
Kristina D.
Red Knapp's is '50's-style or '60's-style diner, serving classic diner food to patrons in booths or on counter stools. Old ads, such as for Nehi soda and Borax, adorn the walls. I had my very first malt there recently--malt, as the waitress explained, is the same substance in Whoppers. Blended to perfection with butterscotch syrup and milk, it was definitely quite the treat.
(3)
Ted N.
This definitely not what I expected. The atmosphere takes you back to the 50's which is awesome. The Chocolate shake was great and that is where my positive review ends. This place is totally over priced and the food is very bland. The service is slow and I was the only one in the place on Sunday around 1 pm. I agree with some of the reviews that Steak n Shake has better burgers and I can not stand Steak and Shake. I walked out the door paying 16.00 for a Shake, a bland Cheeseburger and fries. I guess I should have expected to pay this much since I was in Rochester. I will never go back again not even the shake could bring me back.
(2)
L. O.
Another great lunch at the Dairy Bar! Burger was good, seasoned fries-tasty as always and the best mocha malt ever! Aside from the food, the waitress was very friendly and attentive, as usual. Definitely a good place for lunch in Rochester.
(5)
Bre K.
Great burgers. Greasy...very greasy...but yummy. The fries are so so. The onion rings are enormous, resulting in soggy, not crunchy onion rings. The waitstaff is hit or miss. Sometimes you get a great girl who keeps your coke refilled, sometimes you get ignored for 20 minutes. Or told that they "don't know how to make a cherry coke." Good for carryout, although A Burger, A Cheeseburger, and 2 fries is almost $20. =(
(3)
Eric C.
Red Knapp's is one of those strange places that inspires loyalty far beyond the quality of the food or experience. It's your basic 50s diner, with the added attraction that is the legit thing not some recreation. It's fun to sit at the counter and the shakes are truly old-style and very good. If that was the extent of what they did I would rate it higher, but the food does let you down. It is nothing, and I repeat, nothing great. "Eats" would be a better name. If you want basic, not too great food, with a great shake go here. In other words, go for the shake and the 50s experience but don't expect quality diner food here.
(3)
Chris M.
Red Knapps is a staple of Rochester. It is the type of place you take someone who enjoys small, 50s style diners. Its not clean, but, in my opinion, its part of the charm. This is a place is a must go whenever I go on a photography expedition in Rochester. Hell, I've taken both dates and my grandma here and its turned out great. The service is usually pretty good, I've never personally ever had any problems. However, I always sit at the dairy bar, so I imagine that helps. Food takes a surprisingly short amount of time, and the waitresses have always been nothing but great. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is 50s diner style. Dairy bar, not exactly the cleanest floors, but its god charm. The food, however, is why I keep coming back. While their burgers aren't the pinnacle of gourmet eating, like some people here apparently think diner burgers should be, they are fantastic for what they are. I always get a deluxe bacon burger, but am probably going to start trying new stuff soon. The burgers are large, even though the patty is thin. Greasy burgers, thick bacon, thin diner style fries, and, best of anything they have to offer, absolutely amazing shakes. Their shakes are to die for. Anyone who likes a shake will thank you for bringing them there. Overall, a great place for a cheap(er) eat in downtown Rochester. Great atmosphere, helpful staff, amazing burgers. I will agree with some of the other reviewers and say I just wish they'd clean up a bit more. But besides that, one of my favorite places in downtown Rochester.
(4)
Brian H.
This place has great food and great ice cream but lets face it this cant be ignored. This place has been just sorta clean every time. Finally my parents were in town and asked me where we cold eat quick. Their were 4 of us so we went to the back and back their their was 100 plus fruit flys or naut bugs flying around that whole back area and this was my first tome back their. I desided to sit up front at the tables but the bar tables were mostly dirty. I told my parents lets go and we left. As much as I loved their food I will never go back. All those bugs yuck. If I worked their I would handle that bug problem even if I had to go back their 3 times a day!
(2)
doug r.
I had just departed Chateau Beaumont with a 'clean' pathology report. I wanted to celebrate. It was lunch time. I was hungry. I hadn't been to Knapp's in a very long time. Danielle was my waitress. She was prompt, attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the double cheeseburger and a bowl of chili. The chili arrived first. Hot food, served hot. This is typical Michigan chili (has beans). It was okay. I probably will not order again. I had forgotten how big the double cheeseburger would be. I arrived about the time I was finishing my chili. I immediately knew that half the burger would be going home. Hot food, served hot from the grill. The lettuce was fresh and crisp. The tomato was YADWT (yet another disappointing winter tomato). The ground beef had good beef flavor and a bit of flat top char. Yea! I had forgotten about Knapp's hamburger buns. It seems to be a bakery product, but it did not wow me. It was a tiny step up from a Wonder Bread bun. Will I return? Yea, when I'm in the area and seeking a burger. Will I drive 13 miles for a Knapp's burger? Nope. Price. $15.something, before tip. That's too much. No WiFi. CCW friendly.
(3)
Kate A.
The ambiance of the old style diner is more than enough reason to go here. But I mean it when I tell you that you will never look at milkshakes the same way once you've tried a Knapp's Malt! Seriously, I don't care how lactose intolerant you are (I am too) it worth it! I also love their season fries and cheese burger. It's not the kind of place you can eat everyday but it's worth the splurge once in a while!
(5)
Marc C.
God knows I want to love this place, really I do, but outside the malts, the food just doesn't deliver. The exterior of the place and counter seating is really incredible and very nostalgic, I mean, you's have to pay big bucks to recreate the 50's era charm that they've got going in spades. Pie in the sky, I wish new ownership would come in and turn the place into proper burger joint in the vein of a Shake Shack or something of that quality but I get that's a stretch. At this point, even a Five Guys would be an improvement. Unfortunately, a really great space is going waste in Downtown Rochester.
(2)
Lauren C.
This was delicious and fantastic. The service was great and the food was perfect. Yes, perfect. I have attached proof in the form of a photo of a Vernor's shake and a stack of giant battered onion rings... which my husband described as "oh my god" and "a savory onion pastry" respectively. He ordered a loaded bacon cheeseburger as well, that he enjoyed. I had a turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw on top. The fries (perfect) and coleslaw were a side dish. I made the executive decision to heap the coleslaw on. Now you might asking if I negated the benefits of a turkey burger by adding coleslaw to it and I would say to you GET OUT YOU ARE NO FUN. So yes. A turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw is now called an Executive Decision. Go. Enjoy it.
(5)
Bobbie E.
The Best hamburger I've had in some time. The servers are Wonderful, Quick, and Friendly. Loved the quaint atmosphere of an old soda fountain, with Oldies but Goodies piped in. I'm from California, we don't have a place like this in my area. Wish we did. Our food came out Fast & Hot ! Thanks for a great experience, it was great
(5)
Karen H.
Love the Boston Cooler. It's just a fun place to go for a burger and fries. The soups are good. It's all American.
(4)
Colin V.
Super average.. This knapp's used to be legit turn for the worse average service didn't even get waters and the burger was a joke for the price #Whatadive
(1)
Scott S.
If you like thin, overcooked, thin, tasteless patties on large good looking buns that look better than they taste then this is the place for you. If you are going to serve large buns at least make the patty large enough to fit them without having to leave so much bread on the plate. Very pricey burgers for the described quality and when you factor in the cost of (the small serving of) fries or the (rather large cut) onion rings and you've got yourself quite a tab (especially if you add a Malt or Shake).
(2)
Mary R.
Love the food but hate going here now because the waitresses are cold as ice. Couldn't be ruder.
(1)
Ashley E.
Knapps has an old school feel in the heart of Downtown Rochester. I had a cheeseburger with everything and a side of onion rings. The onion rings were HUGE! My husband and I split them and still had leftovers. The burgers were large as well (IMO) and I took home half of mine. They also have BLTs, pulled pork sandwiches, fries, seasoned fries, several different types of ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes, basically anything you would find at a diner! Seating is limited, but there was enough room for everyone while we were there. We were in and out in 30 mins. Overall, I would definitely return!
(4)
Melissa M.
Need a time machine back to 1958? Get yourself to Red Knapp's, slide into a shiny red leather booth (or hop on a metal stool at the bar!), and prepare yourself for a good, old fashioned diner meal. This is one of those places that has been around forever, and you'd expect to see on that wretched unmentionable Food Network show, but are super grateful that it hasn't. Red Knapp's is true diner food, and is the real deal when it comes to Oakland County, Michigan history. An institution as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the food. These are thin, well cooked (but not "well-done," thankfully) burgers on a soft white bun with gooey cheese, shredded lettuce, and tomatoes. They are quite large for one person, but usually one (read: I) finds themselves finishing it before they know what hit them. It's not the best burger you'll ever have, but it certainly is good, and the charm of it all makes it well worth 4 stars. I'd recommend finishing your meal with a true 50s throwback: the strawberry shake. You just can't not do it! So so so very tasty.
(4)
steve f.
And to all of you people raving about health food let me remind you that you are walking into a 50's diner that has been open since 1950! You are not walking into whole foods! I have been a loyal customer for about 20 years and have nothing bad to says. Oh and the chocolate peanut butter is to die for!!
(5)
Scott T.
My kids love this place. It is an old style diner for burgers, fries, and shakes. My kids like the food a lot. I find it to be just OK. I would come with the family but not without kids.
(3)
Nathasja T.
I am such a sucker for nostalgia, but I might be an even bigger sucker for chocolate malts. Knapp's may just have one of the best chocolate malts around, and that is no lie. Like some people mentioned, it is served in a metal cup and is super thick! My husband has fond memories of visting this place as a child. He remembers coming here for fries or rings and a burger, which was often a highlight for him. I love that at that point the place had been open for plenty of years, and that nowadays it is still alive and kicking. The fries are pretty good and the onion rings are hysterical, they are pretty much a quartered onion - they are huge! Like others mentioned, the service leaves something to be desired but the malt is totally worth it in the end!
(3)
Chris C.
People say bland and unseasoned. I say authentic, hot and flavorful. I don't want anything in my beef that would spoil the flavor. I was happy to see the Tupperware of onions and glad they served it that way. The onion rings were great too. very large. Not overcooked. Not too salty and not too much breading.
(4)
Matt R.
great spot. has not changed sense I started going with my Grandpa in the 70's thanks for keeping it alive and the same!! hamburgers great shake was the best! fries very good and my wife loved the grilled ham and cheese.
(4)
Ron C.
Well this one of my last several 'Rochester Bucket List items. As I parked I saw 3 men walking down Main St. and inquired is Red Knapps worthy of a visit, all 3 smiled & said 'Oh Yea!" and even recommended a certain burger & swore by the chocolate malt I walked in at noon Wednesday [ 10-5-11 ] and expected a wait, I was the only one in there, COOL! SO I ordered the Red Knapp Burger, loaded, a small seasoned fry & the famous chocolate malt, both gals at the counter were a hoot & very friendly The place is truly super clean! A+ The Burger was very good, cooked to perfection & the homemade bun from the bakery next door was truly a treat A Seasoned Fries ,they were okay C+ The Chocolate Malt served in a nice tall glass malt cup and all of the extra malt in the metal mixer container , brought to you!!! A++ plus it passed the straw test, where the straw could stand on its own PS: 2-3 have commented that they like the relish & onions being served in a shared Tupperware Container Me, not so much This was my only dilemma, the Burger , Fry & Malt came to a grand total of $13.67 + tip there are way to many places offering a $6 lunch for this to work for me anytime soon Plus I am still loyal to the Shamrock Irish Pub, The Redcoat Tavern & Millers Bar
(3)
K L.
This place is the real deal! Burgers were very good. Buns were delicious and they were not oversized like some places. Next time I will treat myself to a malt! Will definitely be back.
(5)
Erik M.
I loved this place as a kid. LOVED. I would sneak out of work to grab a burger, which at the time, seemed big. But times have changed and this place hasn't. I stopped here on a whim because I was in the area and missed the giant flat burgers and awesome seasoned fries. There was only one other person there. I sat at the bar. Everything was clean, but it did have the smell of grease. I'm cool with that, this is a dairy bar and burger joint. The waitress was very curt. Look, I know working here and listening to the American Graffiti soundtrack probably isn't the best, but try to be nice to the customers. She hurried me with my order because she was so busy. Oh, wait, she wasn't. She was talking to her co-workers about how terrible her other co-workers were. Cool. I'll just sit here then and wait. Got the burger and seasoned fries. The burger was very dry. I like that flat floury bun, that may have something to do with the dryness, but the burger really wasn't that great. Plus, it was like five bucks. You can go to Five Guys with that and literally get triple that burger, and it won't taste like Sudan. The fries were decent, but you can get the same sort of salt and pepper fries at Mr. B's across the street and they're friendlier there. I don't think I'll be back. Like all things from my childhood, this was not as good as I remembered. After coming here, I've decided that I'll not watch my old He-Man tapes and just remember it fondly, because it will probably be rude and dry.
(2)
Mark B.
Quite frankly, I'm surprised at the previous reviews. This place seems to be a local icon with great reviews. We're new to the area and wanted to try some quaint and local. Unfortunately, this is the worst customer service we've experienced in Michigan yet. The waitress was extremely curt and barely spoke to us. Our drinks were not refilled AT ALL during the entire visit. The malts were really good, which is why I'll give this place a star. However, we're suckers for good customer service and won't be back. True, the ambiance is vintage, quaint, and inviting; but there's just too many great places to eat in downtown Rochester to waist your time and money at Red Knapps. Sorry :(
(1)
Michele B.
Love knapps! My daughter thinks footling hotdogs and a chocolate shake at the counter is a treat. Burgers, seasoned fries and coleslaw are good too!
(5)
Brandi R.
Best place in Rochester for a quick burger. My kids love the real malts that they serve right in the metal container that they mix them in and it's very fun to sit at the bar. The decor is retro and it's very clean. The seasoned fries are good as well.
(4)
Tom O.
Great burgers, great onion rings, great shakes. I have never been disappointed here. Suck it Red Coat, you have nothing on Red Knapps' burgers. I only wish they had 1/2 orders of onion rings. I've never been able to finish a whole order, even with help.
(5)
Regina S.
Headed into downtown Rochester Friday afternoon and was craving a burger. I remember coming here as a kid, but honestly, all I remembered was the amazing strawberry shake I had... I think I was 11. Ahhh, good times. Today we split one of those amazing shakes, had some delish bacon cheddar burgers and devoured some yummo chili cheese fries. Did you know they bake their own buns?? Some of the BEST chili cheese fries i've ever had!! I love the 1950s feel, it's actually authentic... and the prices are really really good!! It's a classic burger joint at it's BEST For sure!!! /Nostalgia!
(4)
Matt K.
I'll never set foot in this place again. My wife and I just finished our first and last visit. This place is disgusting. The employees were using nasty, dirty rags to wipe down everything, including the wands used to make shakes. They wiped down the counter, spilled ketchup, then the shake wands. The rags looked like they'd been used all day long. Filthy. As far as the food/drinks, we had a chocolate shake (ordered before we saw what they were doing with the rags) and a chocolate sundae. The sundae was made with chocolate ice cream. Inexplicably, the shake was made with vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup instead of chocolate ice cream. How does that make any sense? That's exactly what it tasted like - fake chocolate syrup.
(1)
Keilan F.
The double chocolate malt was very tasty! The portion size I quite generous as well! Sweet little diner-style place.
(4)
Rob B.
This place is a 1950's diner. It's a cute little restaurant on Main Street. The inside is small and quaint. I like the burger and ice cream smells as we entered. There are bar stools surrounding the dairy bar. It's first come first serve for these. There are also small booths for sitting too. Now that we are sitting next to the ice cream right behind the bar; it smells so good! We each had a cheeseburger with fries. It was decent. I had the chocolate malt with double malt and it was amazing! The prices here a bit on the expensive side for a diner but the ambiance and free smells a good.
(4)
Chris J.
Have been here dozens of times and have always enjoyed their burgers. The burgers are nothing fancy - but they differentiate themselves in how they spice their meat. It is very tasty. Their shakes are great too!
(4)
Brian P.
We normally come here for strawberry milkshakes and fried pickles. I know... Weird combination but the fried pickles are soooo good. The milkshakes are huge. I normally can't finish and my gf has to help me finish it.
(5)
Theresa T.
If your looking for a burger, fries and a shake for $13.00, this is your place. I must say it is totally NOT worth it. My nephew likes to go here so I put up with it. It's not the cleanest place around either. And the service is hit or miss as they have very young staff there. Sometimes they are just a little too busy talking to take care of business.
(3)
Hailey D.
First of all, people who say their shakes are amazing.... You're liars. My boyfriend and I went their tonight after a dinner at Outback (which was amazing btw) ended the night with a first and last trip to this dump. All we wanted was shakes because you people claimed they were really good. Well thanks for waisting 10 minutes and $10. I figured they'd have a strawberry banana shake no. Just chocolate or vanilla. Okay well chocolate. Wrong. You get vanilla with chocolate syrup. Uh ew. The only reason I gave them two stars is cause the waiters were really nice. Another thing that doesn't really have to do with them is we sat next to some really disrespectful people who truly put the cherry on top to fully ruin the visit.
(2)
John W.
The burgers and shakes are amazing. I love the bread they use for their buns. The strawberry shakes are to die for. Love it!
(5)
Anna R.
Lunch was okay. Nothing fantastic except for the servers. Not crazy about how the seats are set up. A lot of people rave about their shakes but honestly, my husband makes shakes way better than their's.
(3)
Tiana O.
Is this a prime example of people liking a place based off of pure nostalgia? The place was cold and cramped, the waitresses weren't very pleasant, many people were complaining about their wait time, and the food wasn't anything special. The chili cheese fries were mediocre and the cheese wasn't melted, the onion rings, while enormous, were soggy and the burger was from a frozen patty. The bun was pretty good if you like that soft, stick to the roof of your mouth, white bread thing (which I do, sometimes). Also, we were not offered any refills on our soda. I regreted not ordering a shake because they did look really good, but I don't think I'll be back to get one anytime soon.
(2)
Kevin W.
on a level with burger king or mcdonalds, nothing special at all, way overpriced, fruit flies bothering us the entire time, three bugers and three pops cost almost $40.00... disappointed.... a whooper tastes better...
(1)
Amber T.
I love red Knapps except I ordered my blt without mayo, and they gave me mayo! I didn't eat it. Sadly.... But other then that it is family friendly, a nice milkshake shop theme, and good service! Their milkshakes are very good, they make alot, only give you a little then give you the rest to add it when you want. So, very nice pictures in the restrunt. Nice atmosphere, and good service. I rate this place 4/5 stars! Because of the mayo thing. But other than that it is family friendly, and GREAT MILKSHAKES!!!
(4)
Josh H.
Pretty good if you are looking for a quick fix of fried or unhealthy stuff and good shake. Don't over order as the portions are large. It is very cramped( not much they can do about that) and there was a lot of flies. Overall I'd recommend as a classic diner.
(3)
B T.
Wish I read the reviews before eating here. My husband grew up in Rochester Hills, and this was a favorite when they were kids. We just flew into Detroit, for our weekend getaway trip and this was our stop for lunch. I was starving, so we got the milk shakes and 2 burgers with an order of chili cheese fries. The milk shakes were delicious. The burgers and fries were not great. Our meal was about $40 bucks. There were alot of flies, which was annoying. Nonetheless - I ate what i could of the burger and fries - i wish i wouldn't have. I got so sick that afternoon. I was sick all night. It was awful. It totally ruined our little getaway.
(1)
Jamie F.
Food is really good- for cheap food! Definitely burgers, shakes, and fries. I've been multiple times and service is never good. Waitresses act like they are being bothered but the food is good and it's a fun environment for kids or tourists.
(3)
K Y.
Its a good place to eat, and has a nice retro look to it, but the food is a little overpriced
(3)
Tiffany D.
I love the cheeseburgers and onion rings the size of my head. They make a darn good chocolate malt too. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was slow, the server seemed annoyed to have to wait on me. They also keep weird hours; I've gone by on weekends to find it's closed. When they are open, they always seem busy but it can get a little crammed in that small 50's style diner. All in all, I like it!
(4)
Meghan R.
Hello yum fatty food best onion rings... Great malts and hell yeah a cheese burger with the works... We'll worth the calories
(5)
Dusty S.
Other than my malt, which was above average, this place was a disappointment. My girlfriend and I took a booth seat, and there was a serious shortage of leg room for us. The seats were too low for the table, and the whole place smelled funky. Reminded me of the distant smell of vomit from carnivals. I ordered a deluxe burger and fries, which weren't that bad, but nothing special. When I asked for onions, I was brought a large sealed tupperware container full of minced up onions. What gives, was I just passed the community onion bowl? How many other customers have dished their onions out of this same container? The service was fine, and the decoration wasn't too bad, but again nothing too special. So, unless all you want is a quick stop for dessert, I would suggest heading elsewhere.
(2)
Jordan S.
This place is awesome. it is definitely not the health, but this place is an icon. Roll with a turkey special, with bbq sauce on the side and a vanilla malt. Fried pickles make a solid sidekick.
(5)
Jon S.
I'll keep it short. I like their burgers. The place smells aweful. In fact my last trip was for take out because I can't stand the smell. It's expensive for what you get. I guess thats because it is downtown but there are a lot of burger joints with great food for less. The wait staff is unfriendly and only pays you attention when they are not talking to themselves. In fact they offered to spit my "malt to go" into two cups for me. After giving me just one I noticed a waitress drinking a malt in the same size cup right at the counter. I'm not saying she took my other one but it definitely gave me a bad impression. Needless to say after 4 visits, trying each time to enjoy my experience, I will not be returning.
(2)
Scott B.
A decent downtown burger shop with awesome shakes. Despite the negative comments from others, the restaurant was clean and the waitress was friendly. However, it's very noisy so it's difficult to hear someone sitting right in front of you. Enjoy the deluxe cheeseburger. It's quite big!!!
(3)
Stephanie C.
Yes it's been said but I have to say it again... it's like traveling back in time. It's a kitschy 50's diner where you really want a stool at the counter because you're going to forgo comfort for authenticity. There's just something about slurping up one of those giant hand-poured thick-thick malts at the counter that seems pure, innocent and just like a scene in "Back to the Future." You have to do it. And you'll be glad you did. I adore Red Knapp's. Oddly enough I grew up in Rochester and never made it there during high school. I missed out on a lot of good burgers and fries, I can tell you that. These are some of the best cheeseburgers around. The menu is clear diner food. Don't walk in thinking you're gonna get a salad. Sure, you have the option, but it would be a shame. You'd miss out on all the fun. This is a burger and a shake place. And they make the best of both. So spoil yourself and really dive into the nostalgia of it all. Sometimes I suffer from what my dad called "eyes bigger than your mouth" disease. The symptoms? I think I can eat it all but I can't. If you're familiar with this problem, you may want to split the burger (or more likely the fries) with your honey. The shakes are huge too. I always end up with a to-go shake for later. Make that a chocolate malt, extra malt. Mmmm. I'm getting thirsty.
(4)
Katie C.
This little dairy bar nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester gives me a different opinion about Rochester. Typically the restaurants are upscale and more expensive, but this burger joint offers a decent piece of meat for less cash. This place has a local feel, and a place to go to catch locals and a quick bite and delicious shake. The meat is good and the shakes are better. Who can deny themselves with hand-dipped shake with malt and chocolate? Don't forget they give you the extra from the shake in the mixer cup. You might be paying $4 for a shake, but you are definitely getting enough for two! I also really enjoyed their french fries, crisp, and seasoned well with salt and pepper! Lastly, I really enjoyed the large containers they brought to your table filled with diced onions and pickles to throw on anything you are eating. I still haven't decided If I would actually make a special trip to go out there, or just wait until I am in the downtown Rochester area. This place is packed during peak eating times, so be sure to catch in between times to catch a seat at the dairy bar!
(4)
Amy B.
Funny that Knapps is in the ice cream catagory. I tend to think of it as a burger place that makes great shakes. I come here for the atmosphere (I like sitting at a bar), the shakes and the onion rings. The onion rings are the best around. At about an inch and a half in height I have no idea where they get onions that big but they make awesome rings. Crunchy too. I tend to go to Knapps when I'm feeling down. Going to Knapps always picks me up.
(3)
Brian C.
Burgers. Onion rings. Shakes Malts. ALL VERY GOOD. A little pricey but worth it.
(4)
damian a.
Ok, this is a downtown rochester staple. I can't say the burgers themselves are "great." The meat is just okay, but like a lot of burgers of this nature the bun and condiments make the burger good. I find them to be pretty tasty when i'm in the mood for them. Mostly we go here because whenever I say to my daughter "where do you want to go?" and she says "red knapp's!" I think she likes the diner atmosphere with the old advertisements on the walls. oh and also the shakes. The shakes are huge and awesome. There are something like 16 different kinds and they let you mix and match (peanut butter banana is a pretty brilliant combination i think. scientifically proven). Some of them are flavor shots (the banana is just a syrup), but some use real stuff. I like the raspberry shake because it's made with real raspberries.
(3)
Delsean L.
I have been going to Knapps for over thirty years and I will continue until I die. The burgers are nice sized and delicious. The seasoned fries are more than just fries with lawrys like most places. As everyone else has said the shakes and malts are better than most ice cream parlors I have been to in my life. It is one of the last original diners that pleases people of all types. For newbies it is worth trying. It is a family business worth supporting
(4)
P J.
burgers are awesome!!! the buns(i'm pretty sure they are made at The Home Bakery) are the best! wish i could get that recipe. i've been a regular here since i was a kid and now my kids enjoy it as much as i do.service is awesome, especially in the daytime when brittany is there. she's worked there as long as i can remember and makes the absolute best chocolate malt in the city!!! bacon burger, seasoned fries, chocolate malt. HEAVEN!!! all in all a go-to spot in downtown rochester.
(5)
Loreen G.
I have always thought Red Knapp's is an awesome lil' gem with good food. I had lunch here the other day and for the first time I found an empty booth by the window! I usually get the food to go so I was happy to eat in for once. I have sat on those dairy bar stools in the past which seems cool at first, but there's quite a gap between the stools and the counter making it uncomfortable. Anyway I finally felt like this time I got to enjoy the whole 50s diner experience rather than just the food. I ordered their distinctive tasty hamburger (no pickles) with the seasoned fries! They also had a peppermint shake on the board that sounded good but I didn't get to try it this time around.
(5)
lesley s.
I hadn't been here in awhile and was surprised when my cheeseburger deluxe arrived on a plate barely big enough to hold it. It's not that the burger was huge, but that the plate was very small. At first I thought, this is it? Then I gobbled it up and realized part of what I love about this place is there are no frills. Just a good burger (though next time I will add fries, which will likely result in a bigger plate) and great milkshakes. Don't go changin, Red Knapp's.
(4)
L. O.
Another great lunch at the Dairy Bar! Burger was good, seasoned fries-tasty as always and the best mocha malt ever! Aside from the food, the waitress was very friendly and attentive, as usual. Definitely a good place for lunch in Rochester.
(5)
Tiffany D.
Love this place! It takes me back to poodle skirts and sock hops and having a malt at the soda shoppe... or you know, the movie I saw like that. Red Knapp's is a classic diner, with burgers and fries and cokes and malts. They have your regular milkshakes, but the malts are creamier and worth the splurge. They have flavors ranging from chocolate to raspberry to lime and I haven't had a bad one yet. The fries are thinly cut and perfectly salty. The burgers are basic, but ask for the deluxe and get the chopped onions and a slice of cheese. They also have diner fare such as chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and surprisingly good chili. Very kid friendly place, but not great for groups (the tables are stationary). If you can, sit at the "dairy bar" and get the true experience.
(5)
Kit S.
The hamburgers aren't great. Yes, you get a lot of burger, but it's bland. The Milkshakes ARE huge and wonderful!
(2)
Chris W.
Onion rings are massive, Shakes are Classic. Its a small diner, its not the best but its pretty dang close. I ordered a BLT and I should have gone with a burger. (Its a burger and shake place!) If you want a burger you will be pleased, but the BLT wasn't that great. Price is pretty dang reasonable for downtown Rochester
(4)
Michael C.
Whenever I'm in Red Knapp's, I half-expect Marty McFly to come through the door at any minute. Their malts are amazing. Forget about dairy queen! Forget about Coldstone! Forget every other place you've had a shake or malt at, because Knapp's has been doing it longer and better than any of them. They serve food as well. I'd rank their burger as good, but not excellent. Still, I always felt like it was Red Knapp's itself that was making the dining experience interesting, and not the food per se. That being said, it's not a bad burger - it's actually quite nice (especially coupled with the McFly anxiety above). I'd suggest coming here most especially if you have kids; the hike up to Dairy Queen on north Main street is long, and driving there is pretty impossible in the summer as well. Red Knapp's has amble parking in the FREE public lots between 2nd and 3rd, and is less than a block walk. Plus it's delicious. And cheap. Why aren't you there yet?
(5)
Ted N.
This definitely not what I expected. The atmosphere takes you back to the 50's which is awesome. The Chocolate shake was great and that is where my positive review ends. This place is totally over priced and the food is very bland. The service is slow and I was the only one in the place on Sunday around 1 pm. I agree with some of the reviews that Steak n Shake has better burgers and I can not stand Steak and Shake. I walked out the door paying 16.00 for a Shake, a bland Cheeseburger and fries. I guess I should have expected to pay this much since I was in Rochester. I will never go back again not even the shake could bring me back.
(2)
C J C.
I wasn't alive in the 50s, so take this with a grain of salt: If you want a truly 50's experience, this gets ... well ... as close as you can get with current food safety laws. I've been eating at Red Knapp's since I was about ten years old, so understand that this place has a lot of nostalgia for me, and I've seen them grow as the times (and food codes) have required them to. The burgers are unique. They're very clearly not from frozen, previously formed, patties. Someone is smashing the meat in the back into a wide, round burger then cooking it (on what, or using what, I have no idea). Said burger is then placed pleasantly on a bun with a diameter that is much larger than a typical bun. They're either making these buns or they've found some secret "weird bun making place" to purchase them. They're really not anything all that special on their own (no sesame seeds, appears to be white bread in composition). It's just one of those things: the ratio of bread to burger is somehow exactly right and despite the bun being made of white bread and the burger likely having been fried, the bun is never soaked through with grease. Get the burger deluxe. Get the Chili fries (if you like Coney style chili fries). Get a malt. I recommend a Banana/Mocha. The banana comes from a bottle (or it did the last time I was there), however, that's a plus in this case: the flavor is within that one hour period of time that a banana can be put in a malt without tasting too ripe or too green. Give it a try. Ignore the interior and the look ... It's not fancy on purpose.
(4)
Curt B.
This is a family favorite. I think we head to this old time burger joint once every two weeks. We've only ever had a few things here, there's really only one choice as far as we're concerned...the burgers. The burgers are really big on really good bread and they taste great. You can get them with chili or a whole variety of options, but the plain old simple burger with ketchup, mustard, pickle does the trick for me. We always add a side of fried pickles to that and they are very tasty as well. The milkshakes are really good too. And again it's a pretty big shake. After a full meal we share a shake between the three of us and it hits the spot. Everyone's really friendly and we love sitting at the bar. It's a little pricey for a burger, but it's a good amount of food and they often have a coupon for a buy one get free burger.
(4)
Scott V.
I work at RARA. The recreation department for Rochester and Rochester Hills. We are two blocks from Red Knapps. Okay, Okay, the burgers are not Red Coat or Miller's Bar. But for the less than $6.00 bucks your getting a big fresh burger that's better than Five Guys. In full disclosure, I live in Berkley and Bagger Dave's is my favorite burger for now. Since it is only four blocks from my home. If you order the Onion Rings and your ordering for an office of six. Order two and ask for them to be cooked a little longer until they are just a tad extra crispy. They are big and they come out tasty and there will be none left when lunch is over. The burger. Fresh. Somewhat smashed. The size of maybe two Wendy's singles. Ask for it medium. it isn't the best bun, more like a bun that is there to hold the burger together while you eat it. It's somewhat floury on the base, but holds quite well. Non toasted. It's a big spread out burger. Like I said, it's not a thick burger, but what you are paying for you have to remember to ask for it medium because it comes in the size of two patties flattened. But by golly. for the price of what you order, especially the onion rings and the burger, it's well worth it. Yeah, it's a diner. So what. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Rochester. And Red Knapps is fine with me.
(4)
Joe S.
Great malted shakes; I just wished they served their to-go shake orders in paper cups instead of styrofoam ...
(4)
Brian G.
The amount of positive reviews for this place is depressing to say the least. Red Knapp's was basically the prototype for Steak N' Shake and the food is of the same quality. Flat, unseasoned meat patties with pretty slim fixings are appetizing if you're working towards your morbidly obese status. I look forward to the day that this place goes out of business and is replaced with a restaurant that has healthier and better tasting food.
(1)
Kristina D.
Red Knapp's is '50's-style or '60's-style diner, serving classic diner food to patrons in booths or on counter stools. Old ads, such as for Nehi soda and Borax, adorn the walls. I had my very first malt there recently--malt, as the waitress explained, is the same substance in Whoppers. Blended to perfection with butterscotch syrup and milk, it was definitely quite the treat.
(3)
Hannah L.
It's true that the customer service isn't the greatest! The service I experienced was fine, but I noticed others who weren't doing so great. The food and milkshakes and overall vibe and atmosphere of the place is undeniably good though. If you enjoy real American 50s styled meals and old school atmosphere, definitely give Red Knapps a try. I don't even like meat really, but I enjoy the food here.
(4)
K Y.
Its a good place to eat, and has a nice retro look to it, but the food is a little overpriced
(3)
Tiffany D.
I love the cheeseburgers and onion rings the size of my head. They make a darn good chocolate malt too. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was slow, the server seemed annoyed to have to wait on me. They also keep weird hours; I've gone by on weekends to find it's closed. When they are open, they always seem busy but it can get a little crammed in that small 50's style diner. All in all, I like it!
(4)
Jamie F.
Food is really good- for cheap food! Definitely burgers, shakes, and fries. I've been multiple times and service is never good. Waitresses act like they are being bothered but the food is good and it's a fun environment for kids or tourists.
(3)
Jon S.
I'll keep it short. I like their burgers. The place smells aweful. In fact my last trip was for take out because I can't stand the smell. It's expensive for what you get. I guess thats because it is downtown but there are a lot of burger joints with great food for less. The wait staff is unfriendly and only pays you attention when they are not talking to themselves. In fact they offered to spit my "malt to go" into two cups for me. After giving me just one I noticed a waitress drinking a malt in the same size cup right at the counter. I'm not saying she took my other one but it definitely gave me a bad impression. Needless to say after 4 visits, trying each time to enjoy my experience, I will not be returning.
(2)
Hannah L.
It's true that the customer service isn't the greatest! The service I experienced was fine, but I noticed others who weren't doing so great. The food and milkshakes and overall vibe and atmosphere of the place is undeniably good though. If you enjoy real American 50s styled meals and old school atmosphere, definitely give Red Knapps a try. I don't even like meat really, but I enjoy the food here.
(4)
Bre K.
Great burgers. Greasy...very greasy...but yummy. The fries are so so. The onion rings are enormous, resulting in soggy, not crunchy onion rings. The waitstaff is hit or miss. Sometimes you get a great girl who keeps your coke refilled, sometimes you get ignored for 20 minutes. Or told that they "don't know how to make a cherry coke." Good for carryout, although A Burger, A Cheeseburger, and 2 fries is almost $20. =(
(3)
Eric C.
Red Knapp's is one of those strange places that inspires loyalty far beyond the quality of the food or experience. It's your basic 50s diner, with the added attraction that is the legit thing not some recreation. It's fun to sit at the counter and the shakes are truly old-style and very good. If that was the extent of what they did I would rate it higher, but the food does let you down. It is nothing, and I repeat, nothing great. "Eats" would be a better name. If you want basic, not too great food, with a great shake go here. In other words, go for the shake and the 50s experience but don't expect quality diner food here.
(3)
Stephanie C.
Yes it's been said but I have to say it again... it's like traveling back in time. It's a kitschy 50's diner where you really want a stool at the counter because you're going to forgo comfort for authenticity. There's just something about slurping up one of those giant hand-poured thick-thick malts at the counter that seems pure, innocent and just like a scene in "Back to the Future." You have to do it. And you'll be glad you did. I adore Red Knapp's. Oddly enough I grew up in Rochester and never made it there during high school. I missed out on a lot of good burgers and fries, I can tell you that. These are some of the best cheeseburgers around. The menu is clear diner food. Don't walk in thinking you're gonna get a salad. Sure, you have the option, but it would be a shame. You'd miss out on all the fun. This is a burger and a shake place. And they make the best of both. So spoil yourself and really dive into the nostalgia of it all. Sometimes I suffer from what my dad called "eyes bigger than your mouth" disease. The symptoms? I think I can eat it all but I can't. If you're familiar with this problem, you may want to split the burger (or more likely the fries) with your honey. The shakes are huge too. I always end up with a to-go shake for later. Make that a chocolate malt, extra malt. Mmmm. I'm getting thirsty.
(4)
Scott B.
A decent downtown burger shop with awesome shakes. Despite the negative comments from others, the restaurant was clean and the waitress was friendly. However, it's very noisy so it's difficult to hear someone sitting right in front of you. Enjoy the deluxe cheeseburger. It's quite big!!!
(3)
Katie C.
This little dairy bar nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester gives me a different opinion about Rochester. Typically the restaurants are upscale and more expensive, but this burger joint offers a decent piece of meat for less cash. This place has a local feel, and a place to go to catch locals and a quick bite and delicious shake. The meat is good and the shakes are better. Who can deny themselves with hand-dipped shake with malt and chocolate? Don't forget they give you the extra from the shake in the mixer cup. You might be paying $4 for a shake, but you are definitely getting enough for two! I also really enjoyed their french fries, crisp, and seasoned well with salt and pepper! Lastly, I really enjoyed the large containers they brought to your table filled with diced onions and pickles to throw on anything you are eating. I still haven't decided If I would actually make a special trip to go out there, or just wait until I am in the downtown Rochester area. This place is packed during peak eating times, so be sure to catch in between times to catch a seat at the dairy bar!
(4)
Dusty S.
Other than my malt, which was above average, this place was a disappointment. My girlfriend and I took a booth seat, and there was a serious shortage of leg room for us. The seats were too low for the table, and the whole place smelled funky. Reminded me of the distant smell of vomit from carnivals. I ordered a deluxe burger and fries, which weren't that bad, but nothing special. When I asked for onions, I was brought a large sealed tupperware container full of minced up onions. What gives, was I just passed the community onion bowl? How many other customers have dished their onions out of this same container? The service was fine, and the decoration wasn't too bad, but again nothing too special. So, unless all you want is a quick stop for dessert, I would suggest heading elsewhere.
(2)
Jordan S.
This place is awesome. it is definitely not the health, but this place is an icon. Roll with a turkey special, with bbq sauce on the side and a vanilla malt. Fried pickles make a solid sidekick.
(5)
damian a.
Ok, this is a downtown rochester staple. I can't say the burgers themselves are "great." The meat is just okay, but like a lot of burgers of this nature the bun and condiments make the burger good. I find them to be pretty tasty when i'm in the mood for them. Mostly we go here because whenever I say to my daughter "where do you want to go?" and she says "red knapp's!" I think she likes the diner atmosphere with the old advertisements on the walls. oh and also the shakes. The shakes are huge and awesome. There are something like 16 different kinds and they let you mix and match (peanut butter banana is a pretty brilliant combination i think. scientifically proven). Some of them are flavor shots (the banana is just a syrup), but some use real stuff. I like the raspberry shake because it's made with real raspberries.
(3)
Delsean L.
I have been going to Knapps for over thirty years and I will continue until I die. The burgers are nice sized and delicious. The seasoned fries are more than just fries with lawrys like most places. As everyone else has said the shakes and malts are better than most ice cream parlors I have been to in my life. It is one of the last original diners that pleases people of all types. For newbies it is worth trying. It is a family business worth supporting
(4)
Amy B.
Funny that Knapps is in the ice cream catagory. I tend to think of it as a burger place that makes great shakes. I come here for the atmosphere (I like sitting at a bar), the shakes and the onion rings. The onion rings are the best around. At about an inch and a half in height I have no idea where they get onions that big but they make awesome rings. Crunchy too. I tend to go to Knapps when I'm feeling down. Going to Knapps always picks me up.
(3)
Brian C.
Burgers. Onion rings. Shakes Malts. ALL VERY GOOD. A little pricey but worth it.
(4)
Chris M.
Red Knapps is a staple of Rochester. It is the type of place you take someone who enjoys small, 50s style diners. Its not clean, but, in my opinion, its part of the charm. This is a place is a must go whenever I go on a photography expedition in Rochester. Hell, I've taken both dates and my grandma here and its turned out great. The service is usually pretty good, I've never personally ever had any problems. However, I always sit at the dairy bar, so I imagine that helps. Food takes a surprisingly short amount of time, and the waitresses have always been nothing but great. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is 50s diner style. Dairy bar, not exactly the cleanest floors, but its god charm. The food, however, is why I keep coming back. While their burgers aren't the pinnacle of gourmet eating, like some people here apparently think diner burgers should be, they are fantastic for what they are. I always get a deluxe bacon burger, but am probably going to start trying new stuff soon. The burgers are large, even though the patty is thin. Greasy burgers, thick bacon, thin diner style fries, and, best of anything they have to offer, absolutely amazing shakes. Their shakes are to die for. Anyone who likes a shake will thank you for bringing them there. Overall, a great place for a cheap(er) eat in downtown Rochester. Great atmosphere, helpful staff, amazing burgers. I will agree with some of the other reviewers and say I just wish they'd clean up a bit more. But besides that, one of my favorite places in downtown Rochester.
(4)
Chris W.
Onion rings are massive, Shakes are Classic. Its a small diner, its not the best but its pretty dang close. I ordered a BLT and I should have gone with a burger. (Its a burger and shake place!) If you want a burger you will be pleased, but the BLT wasn't that great. Price is pretty dang reasonable for downtown Rochester
(4)
Michael C.
Whenever I'm in Red Knapp's, I half-expect Marty McFly to come through the door at any minute. Their malts are amazing. Forget about dairy queen! Forget about Coldstone! Forget every other place you've had a shake or malt at, because Knapp's has been doing it longer and better than any of them. They serve food as well. I'd rank their burger as good, but not excellent. Still, I always felt like it was Red Knapp's itself that was making the dining experience interesting, and not the food per se. That being said, it's not a bad burger - it's actually quite nice (especially coupled with the McFly anxiety above). I'd suggest coming here most especially if you have kids; the hike up to Dairy Queen on north Main street is long, and driving there is pretty impossible in the summer as well. Red Knapp's has amble parking in the FREE public lots between 2nd and 3rd, and is less than a block walk. Plus it's delicious. And cheap. Why aren't you there yet?
(5)
Ted N.
This definitely not what I expected. The atmosphere takes you back to the 50's which is awesome. The Chocolate shake was great and that is where my positive review ends. This place is totally over priced and the food is very bland. The service is slow and I was the only one in the place on Sunday around 1 pm. I agree with some of the reviews that Steak n Shake has better burgers and I can not stand Steak and Shake. I walked out the door paying 16.00 for a Shake, a bland Cheeseburger and fries. I guess I should have expected to pay this much since I was in Rochester. I will never go back again not even the shake could bring me back.
(2)
C J C.
I wasn't alive in the 50s, so take this with a grain of salt: If you want a truly 50's experience, this gets ... well ... as close as you can get with current food safety laws. I've been eating at Red Knapp's since I was about ten years old, so understand that this place has a lot of nostalgia for me, and I've seen them grow as the times (and food codes) have required them to. The burgers are unique. They're very clearly not from frozen, previously formed, patties. Someone is smashing the meat in the back into a wide, round burger then cooking it (on what, or using what, I have no idea). Said burger is then placed pleasantly on a bun with a diameter that is much larger than a typical bun. They're either making these buns or they've found some secret "weird bun making place" to purchase them. They're really not anything all that special on their own (no sesame seeds, appears to be white bread in composition). It's just one of those things: the ratio of bread to burger is somehow exactly right and despite the bun being made of white bread and the burger likely having been fried, the bun is never soaked through with grease. Get the burger deluxe. Get the Chili fries (if you like Coney style chili fries). Get a malt. I recommend a Banana/Mocha. The banana comes from a bottle (or it did the last time I was there), however, that's a plus in this case: the flavor is within that one hour period of time that a banana can be put in a malt without tasting too ripe or too green. Give it a try. Ignore the interior and the look ... It's not fancy on purpose.
(4)
P J.
burgers are awesome!!! the buns(i'm pretty sure they are made at The Home Bakery) are the best! wish i could get that recipe. i've been a regular here since i was a kid and now my kids enjoy it as much as i do.service is awesome, especially in the daytime when brittany is there. she's worked there as long as i can remember and makes the absolute best chocolate malt in the city!!! bacon burger, seasoned fries, chocolate malt. HEAVEN!!! all in all a go-to spot in downtown rochester.
(5)
Loreen G.
I have always thought Red Knapp's is an awesome lil' gem with good food. I had lunch here the other day and for the first time I found an empty booth by the window! I usually get the food to go so I was happy to eat in for once. I have sat on those dairy bar stools in the past which seems cool at first, but there's quite a gap between the stools and the counter making it uncomfortable. Anyway I finally felt like this time I got to enjoy the whole 50s diner experience rather than just the food. I ordered their distinctive tasty hamburger (no pickles) with the seasoned fries! They also had a peppermint shake on the board that sounded good but I didn't get to try it this time around.
(5)
lesley s.
I hadn't been here in awhile and was surprised when my cheeseburger deluxe arrived on a plate barely big enough to hold it. It's not that the burger was huge, but that the plate was very small. At first I thought, this is it? Then I gobbled it up and realized part of what I love about this place is there are no frills. Just a good burger (though next time I will add fries, which will likely result in a bigger plate) and great milkshakes. Don't go changin, Red Knapp's.
(4)
L. O.
Another great lunch at the Dairy Bar! Burger was good, seasoned fries-tasty as always and the best mocha malt ever! Aside from the food, the waitress was very friendly and attentive, as usual. Definitely a good place for lunch in Rochester.
(5)
Tiffany D.
Love this place! It takes me back to poodle skirts and sock hops and having a malt at the soda shoppe... or you know, the movie I saw like that. Red Knapp's is a classic diner, with burgers and fries and cokes and malts. They have your regular milkshakes, but the malts are creamier and worth the splurge. They have flavors ranging from chocolate to raspberry to lime and I haven't had a bad one yet. The fries are thinly cut and perfectly salty. The burgers are basic, but ask for the deluxe and get the chopped onions and a slice of cheese. They also have diner fare such as chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and surprisingly good chili. Very kid friendly place, but not great for groups (the tables are stationary). If you can, sit at the "dairy bar" and get the true experience.
(5)
Kit S.
The hamburgers aren't great. Yes, you get a lot of burger, but it's bland. The Milkshakes ARE huge and wonderful!
(2)
Curt B.
This is a family favorite. I think we head to this old time burger joint once every two weeks. We've only ever had a few things here, there's really only one choice as far as we're concerned...the burgers. The burgers are really big on really good bread and they taste great. You can get them with chili or a whole variety of options, but the plain old simple burger with ketchup, mustard, pickle does the trick for me. We always add a side of fried pickles to that and they are very tasty as well. The milkshakes are really good too. And again it's a pretty big shake. After a full meal we share a shake between the three of us and it hits the spot. Everyone's really friendly and we love sitting at the bar. It's a little pricey for a burger, but it's a good amount of food and they often have a coupon for a buy one get free burger.
(4)
Scott V.
I work at RARA. The recreation department for Rochester and Rochester Hills. We are two blocks from Red Knapps. Okay, Okay, the burgers are not Red Coat or Miller's Bar. But for the less than $6.00 bucks your getting a big fresh burger that's better than Five Guys. In full disclosure, I live in Berkley and Bagger Dave's is my favorite burger for now. Since it is only four blocks from my home. If you order the Onion Rings and your ordering for an office of six. Order two and ask for them to be cooked a little longer until they are just a tad extra crispy. They are big and they come out tasty and there will be none left when lunch is over. The burger. Fresh. Somewhat smashed. The size of maybe two Wendy's singles. Ask for it medium. it isn't the best bun, more like a bun that is there to hold the burger together while you eat it. It's somewhat floury on the base, but holds quite well. Non toasted. It's a big spread out burger. Like I said, it's not a thick burger, but what you are paying for you have to remember to ask for it medium because it comes in the size of two patties flattened. But by golly. for the price of what you order, especially the onion rings and the burger, it's well worth it. Yeah, it's a diner. So what. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Rochester. And Red Knapps is fine with me.
(4)
Joe S.
Great malted shakes; I just wished they served their to-go shake orders in paper cups instead of styrofoam ...
(4)
Brian G.
The amount of positive reviews for this place is depressing to say the least. Red Knapp's was basically the prototype for Steak N' Shake and the food is of the same quality. Flat, unseasoned meat patties with pretty slim fixings are appetizing if you're working towards your morbidly obese status. I look forward to the day that this place goes out of business and is replaced with a restaurant that has healthier and better tasting food.
(1)
Kristina D.
Red Knapp's is '50's-style or '60's-style diner, serving classic diner food to patrons in booths or on counter stools. Old ads, such as for Nehi soda and Borax, adorn the walls. I had my very first malt there recently--malt, as the waitress explained, is the same substance in Whoppers. Blended to perfection with butterscotch syrup and milk, it was definitely quite the treat.
(3)
Meghan R.
Hello yum fatty food best onion rings... Great malts and hell yeah a cheese burger with the works... We'll worth the calories
(5)
Brian H.
This place has great food and great ice cream but lets face it this cant be ignored. This place has been just sorta clean every time. Finally my parents were in town and asked me where we cold eat quick. Their were 4 of us so we went to the back and back their their was 100 plus fruit flys or naut bugs flying around that whole back area and this was my first tome back their. I desided to sit up front at the tables but the bar tables were mostly dirty. I told my parents lets go and we left. As much as I loved their food I will never go back. All those bugs yuck. If I worked their I would handle that bug problem even if I had to go back their 3 times a day!
(2)
doug r.
I had just departed Chateau Beaumont with a 'clean' pathology report. I wanted to celebrate. It was lunch time. I was hungry. I hadn't been to Knapp's in a very long time. Danielle was my waitress. She was prompt, attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the double cheeseburger and a bowl of chili. The chili arrived first. Hot food, served hot. This is typical Michigan chili (has beans). It was okay. I probably will not order again. I had forgotten how big the double cheeseburger would be. I arrived about the time I was finishing my chili. I immediately knew that half the burger would be going home. Hot food, served hot from the grill. The lettuce was fresh and crisp. The tomato was YADWT (yet another disappointing winter tomato). The ground beef had good beef flavor and a bit of flat top char. Yea! I had forgotten about Knapp's hamburger buns. It seems to be a bakery product, but it did not wow me. It was a tiny step up from a Wonder Bread bun. Will I return? Yea, when I'm in the area and seeking a burger. Will I drive 13 miles for a Knapp's burger? Nope. Price. $15.something, before tip. That's too much. No WiFi. CCW friendly.
(3)
Kate A.
The ambiance of the old style diner is more than enough reason to go here. But I mean it when I tell you that you will never look at milkshakes the same way once you've tried a Knapp's Malt! Seriously, I don't care how lactose intolerant you are (I am too) it worth it! I also love their season fries and cheese burger. It's not the kind of place you can eat everyday but it's worth the splurge once in a while!
(5)
Marc C.
God knows I want to love this place, really I do, but outside the malts, the food just doesn't deliver. The exterior of the place and counter seating is really incredible and very nostalgic, I mean, you's have to pay big bucks to recreate the 50's era charm that they've got going in spades. Pie in the sky, I wish new ownership would come in and turn the place into proper burger joint in the vein of a Shake Shack or something of that quality but I get that's a stretch. At this point, even a Five Guys would be an improvement. Unfortunately, a really great space is going waste in Downtown Rochester.
(2)
Lauren C.
This was delicious and fantastic. The service was great and the food was perfect. Yes, perfect. I have attached proof in the form of a photo of a Vernor's shake and a stack of giant battered onion rings... which my husband described as "oh my god" and "a savory onion pastry" respectively. He ordered a loaded bacon cheeseburger as well, that he enjoyed. I had a turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw on top. The fries (perfect) and coleslaw were a side dish. I made the executive decision to heap the coleslaw on. Now you might asking if I negated the benefits of a turkey burger by adding coleslaw to it and I would say to you GET OUT YOU ARE NO FUN. So yes. A turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw is now called an Executive Decision. Go. Enjoy it.
(5)
Bobbie E.
The Best hamburger I've had in some time. The servers are Wonderful, Quick, and Friendly. Loved the quaint atmosphere of an old soda fountain, with Oldies but Goodies piped in. I'm from California, we don't have a place like this in my area. Wish we did. Our food came out Fast & Hot ! Thanks for a great experience, it was great
(5)
Karen H.
Love the Boston Cooler. It's just a fun place to go for a burger and fries. The soups are good. It's all American.
(4)
Colin V.
Super average.. This knapp's used to be legit turn for the worse average service didn't even get waters and the burger was a joke for the price #Whatadive
(1)
Scott S.
If you like thin, overcooked, thin, tasteless patties on large good looking buns that look better than they taste then this is the place for you. If you are going to serve large buns at least make the patty large enough to fit them without having to leave so much bread on the plate. Very pricey burgers for the described quality and when you factor in the cost of (the small serving of) fries or the (rather large cut) onion rings and you've got yourself quite a tab (especially if you add a Malt or Shake).
(2)
Mary R.
Love the food but hate going here now because the waitresses are cold as ice. Couldn't be ruder.
(1)
Ashley E.
Knapps has an old school feel in the heart of Downtown Rochester. I had a cheeseburger with everything and a side of onion rings. The onion rings were HUGE! My husband and I split them and still had leftovers. The burgers were large as well (IMO) and I took home half of mine. They also have BLTs, pulled pork sandwiches, fries, seasoned fries, several different types of ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes, basically anything you would find at a diner! Seating is limited, but there was enough room for everyone while we were there. We were in and out in 30 mins. Overall, I would definitely return!
(4)
Melissa M.
Need a time machine back to 1958? Get yourself to Red Knapp's, slide into a shiny red leather booth (or hop on a metal stool at the bar!), and prepare yourself for a good, old fashioned diner meal. This is one of those places that has been around forever, and you'd expect to see on that wretched unmentionable Food Network show, but are super grateful that it hasn't. Red Knapp's is true diner food, and is the real deal when it comes to Oakland County, Michigan history. An institution as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the food. These are thin, well cooked (but not "well-done," thankfully) burgers on a soft white bun with gooey cheese, shredded lettuce, and tomatoes. They are quite large for one person, but usually one (read: I) finds themselves finishing it before they know what hit them. It's not the best burger you'll ever have, but it certainly is good, and the charm of it all makes it well worth 4 stars. I'd recommend finishing your meal with a true 50s throwback: the strawberry shake. You just can't not do it! So so so very tasty.
(4)
Regina S.
Headed into downtown Rochester Friday afternoon and was craving a burger. I remember coming here as a kid, but honestly, all I remembered was the amazing strawberry shake I had... I think I was 11. Ahhh, good times. Today we split one of those amazing shakes, had some delish bacon cheddar burgers and devoured some yummo chili cheese fries. Did you know they bake their own buns?? Some of the BEST chili cheese fries i've ever had!! I love the 1950s feel, it's actually authentic... and the prices are really really good!! It's a classic burger joint at it's BEST For sure!!! /Nostalgia!
(4)
Matt K.
I'll never set foot in this place again. My wife and I just finished our first and last visit. This place is disgusting. The employees were using nasty, dirty rags to wipe down everything, including the wands used to make shakes. They wiped down the counter, spilled ketchup, then the shake wands. The rags looked like they'd been used all day long. Filthy. As far as the food/drinks, we had a chocolate shake (ordered before we saw what they were doing with the rags) and a chocolate sundae. The sundae was made with chocolate ice cream. Inexplicably, the shake was made with vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup instead of chocolate ice cream. How does that make any sense? That's exactly what it tasted like - fake chocolate syrup.
(1)
Keilan F.
The double chocolate malt was very tasty! The portion size I quite generous as well! Sweet little diner-style place.
(4)
Rob B.
This place is a 1950's diner. It's a cute little restaurant on Main Street. The inside is small and quaint. I like the burger and ice cream smells as we entered. There are bar stools surrounding the dairy bar. It's first come first serve for these. There are also small booths for sitting too. Now that we are sitting next to the ice cream right behind the bar; it smells so good! We each had a cheeseburger with fries. It was decent. I had the chocolate malt with double malt and it was amazing! The prices here a bit on the expensive side for a diner but the ambiance and free smells a good.
(4)
Chris J.
Have been here dozens of times and have always enjoyed their burgers. The burgers are nothing fancy - but they differentiate themselves in how they spice their meat. It is very tasty. Their shakes are great too!
(4)
Brian P.
We normally come here for strawberry milkshakes and fried pickles. I know... Weird combination but the fried pickles are soooo good. The milkshakes are huge. I normally can't finish and my gf has to help me finish it.
(5)
Theresa T.
If your looking for a burger, fries and a shake for $13.00, this is your place. I must say it is totally NOT worth it. My nephew likes to go here so I put up with it. It's not the cleanest place around either. And the service is hit or miss as they have very young staff there. Sometimes they are just a little too busy talking to take care of business.
(3)
steve f.
And to all of you people raving about health food let me remind you that you are walking into a 50's diner that has been open since 1950! You are not walking into whole foods! I have been a loyal customer for about 20 years and have nothing bad to says. Oh and the chocolate peanut butter is to die for!!
(5)
Scott T.
My kids love this place. It is an old style diner for burgers, fries, and shakes. My kids like the food a lot. I find it to be just OK. I would come with the family but not without kids.
(3)
Nathasja T.
I am such a sucker for nostalgia, but I might be an even bigger sucker for chocolate malts. Knapp's may just have one of the best chocolate malts around, and that is no lie. Like some people mentioned, it is served in a metal cup and is super thick! My husband has fond memories of visting this place as a child. He remembers coming here for fries or rings and a burger, which was often a highlight for him. I love that at that point the place had been open for plenty of years, and that nowadays it is still alive and kicking. The fries are pretty good and the onion rings are hysterical, they are pretty much a quartered onion - they are huge! Like others mentioned, the service leaves something to be desired but the malt is totally worth it in the end!
(3)
Hailey D.
First of all, people who say their shakes are amazing.... You're liars. My boyfriend and I went their tonight after a dinner at Outback (which was amazing btw) ended the night with a first and last trip to this dump. All we wanted was shakes because you people claimed they were really good. Well thanks for waisting 10 minutes and $10. I figured they'd have a strawberry banana shake no. Just chocolate or vanilla. Okay well chocolate. Wrong. You get vanilla with chocolate syrup. Uh ew. The only reason I gave them two stars is cause the waiters were really nice. Another thing that doesn't really have to do with them is we sat next to some really disrespectful people who truly put the cherry on top to fully ruin the visit.
(2)
John W.
The burgers and shakes are amazing. I love the bread they use for their buns. The strawberry shakes are to die for. Love it!
(5)
Anna R.
Lunch was okay. Nothing fantastic except for the servers. Not crazy about how the seats are set up. A lot of people rave about their shakes but honestly, my husband makes shakes way better than their's.
(3)
Chris C.
People say bland and unseasoned. I say authentic, hot and flavorful. I don't want anything in my beef that would spoil the flavor. I was happy to see the Tupperware of onions and glad they served it that way. The onion rings were great too. very large. Not overcooked. Not too salty and not too much breading.
(4)
Matt R.
great spot. has not changed sense I started going with my Grandpa in the 70's thanks for keeping it alive and the same!! hamburgers great shake was the best! fries very good and my wife loved the grilled ham and cheese.
(4)
Ron C.
Well this one of my last several 'Rochester Bucket List items. As I parked I saw 3 men walking down Main St. and inquired is Red Knapps worthy of a visit, all 3 smiled & said 'Oh Yea!" and even recommended a certain burger & swore by the chocolate malt I walked in at noon Wednesday [ 10-5-11 ] and expected a wait, I was the only one in there, COOL! SO I ordered the Red Knapp Burger, loaded, a small seasoned fry & the famous chocolate malt, both gals at the counter were a hoot & very friendly The place is truly super clean! A+ The Burger was very good, cooked to perfection & the homemade bun from the bakery next door was truly a treat A Seasoned Fries ,they were okay C+ The Chocolate Malt served in a nice tall glass malt cup and all of the extra malt in the metal mixer container , brought to you!!! A++ plus it passed the straw test, where the straw could stand on its own PS: 2-3 have commented that they like the relish & onions being served in a shared Tupperware Container Me, not so much This was my only dilemma, the Burger , Fry & Malt came to a grand total of $13.67 + tip there are way to many places offering a $6 lunch for this to work for me anytime soon Plus I am still loyal to the Shamrock Irish Pub, The Redcoat Tavern & Millers Bar
(3)
K L.
This place is the real deal! Burgers were very good. Buns were delicious and they were not oversized like some places. Next time I will treat myself to a malt! Will definitely be back.
(5)
Amber T.
I love red Knapps except I ordered my blt without mayo, and they gave me mayo! I didn't eat it. Sadly.... But other then that it is family friendly, a nice milkshake shop theme, and good service! Their milkshakes are very good, they make alot, only give you a little then give you the rest to add it when you want. So, very nice pictures in the restrunt. Nice atmosphere, and good service. I rate this place 4/5 stars! Because of the mayo thing. But other than that it is family friendly, and GREAT MILKSHAKES!!!
(4)
Josh H.
Pretty good if you are looking for a quick fix of fried or unhealthy stuff and good shake. Don't over order as the portions are large. It is very cramped( not much they can do about that) and there was a lot of flies. Overall I'd recommend as a classic diner.
(3)
B T.
Wish I read the reviews before eating here. My husband grew up in Rochester Hills, and this was a favorite when they were kids. We just flew into Detroit, for our weekend getaway trip and this was our stop for lunch. I was starving, so we got the milk shakes and 2 burgers with an order of chili cheese fries. The milk shakes were delicious. The burgers and fries were not great. Our meal was about $40 bucks. There were alot of flies, which was annoying. Nonetheless - I ate what i could of the burger and fries - i wish i wouldn't have. I got so sick that afternoon. I was sick all night. It was awful. It totally ruined our little getaway.
(1)
Tiana O.
Is this a prime example of people liking a place based off of pure nostalgia? The place was cold and cramped, the waitresses weren't very pleasant, many people were complaining about their wait time, and the food wasn't anything special. The chili cheese fries were mediocre and the cheese wasn't melted, the onion rings, while enormous, were soggy and the burger was from a frozen patty. The bun was pretty good if you like that soft, stick to the roof of your mouth, white bread thing (which I do, sometimes). Also, we were not offered any refills on our soda. I regreted not ordering a shake because they did look really good, but I don't think I'll be back to get one anytime soon.
(2)
Kevin W.
on a level with burger king or mcdonalds, nothing special at all, way overpriced, fruit flies bothering us the entire time, three bugers and three pops cost almost $40.00... disappointed.... a whooper tastes better...
(1)
Erik M.
I loved this place as a kid. LOVED. I would sneak out of work to grab a burger, which at the time, seemed big. But times have changed and this place hasn't. I stopped here on a whim because I was in the area and missed the giant flat burgers and awesome seasoned fries. There was only one other person there. I sat at the bar. Everything was clean, but it did have the smell of grease. I'm cool with that, this is a dairy bar and burger joint. The waitress was very curt. Look, I know working here and listening to the American Graffiti soundtrack probably isn't the best, but try to be nice to the customers. She hurried me with my order because she was so busy. Oh, wait, she wasn't. She was talking to her co-workers about how terrible her other co-workers were. Cool. I'll just sit here then and wait. Got the burger and seasoned fries. The burger was very dry. I like that flat floury bun, that may have something to do with the dryness, but the burger really wasn't that great. Plus, it was like five bucks. You can go to Five Guys with that and literally get triple that burger, and it won't taste like Sudan. The fries were decent, but you can get the same sort of salt and pepper fries at Mr. B's across the street and they're friendlier there. I don't think I'll be back. Like all things from my childhood, this was not as good as I remembered. After coming here, I've decided that I'll not watch my old He-Man tapes and just remember it fondly, because it will probably be rude and dry.
(2)
Mark B.
Quite frankly, I'm surprised at the previous reviews. This place seems to be a local icon with great reviews. We're new to the area and wanted to try some quaint and local. Unfortunately, this is the worst customer service we've experienced in Michigan yet. The waitress was extremely curt and barely spoke to us. Our drinks were not refilled AT ALL during the entire visit. The malts were really good, which is why I'll give this place a star. However, we're suckers for good customer service and won't be back. True, the ambiance is vintage, quaint, and inviting; but there's just too many great places to eat in downtown Rochester to waist your time and money at Red Knapps. Sorry :(
(1)
Michele B.
Love knapps! My daughter thinks footling hotdogs and a chocolate shake at the counter is a treat. Burgers, seasoned fries and coleslaw are good too!
(5)
Brandi R.
Best place in Rochester for a quick burger. My kids love the real malts that they serve right in the metal container that they mix them in and it's very fun to sit at the bar. The decor is retro and it's very clean. The seasoned fries are good as well.
(4)
Tom O.
Great burgers, great onion rings, great shakes. I have never been disappointed here. Suck it Red Coat, you have nothing on Red Knapps' burgers. I only wish they had 1/2 orders of onion rings. I've never been able to finish a whole order, even with help.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Paid Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Drive-Thru : No Caters : No
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Meghan R.
Hello yum fatty food best onion rings... Great malts and hell yeah a cheese burger with the works... We'll worth the calories
(5)Brian H.
This place has great food and great ice cream but lets face it this cant be ignored. This place has been just sorta clean every time. Finally my parents were in town and asked me where we cold eat quick. Their were 4 of us so we went to the back and back their their was 100 plus fruit flys or naut bugs flying around that whole back area and this was my first tome back their. I desided to sit up front at the tables but the bar tables were mostly dirty. I told my parents lets go and we left. As much as I loved their food I will never go back. All those bugs yuck. If I worked their I would handle that bug problem even if I had to go back their 3 times a day!
(2)doug r.
I had just departed Chateau Beaumont with a 'clean' pathology report. I wanted to celebrate. It was lunch time. I was hungry. I hadn't been to Knapp's in a very long time. Danielle was my waitress. She was prompt, attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the double cheeseburger and a bowl of chili. The chili arrived first. Hot food, served hot. This is typical Michigan chili (has beans). It was okay. I probably will not order again. I had forgotten how big the double cheeseburger would be. I arrived about the time I was finishing my chili. I immediately knew that half the burger would be going home. Hot food, served hot from the grill. The lettuce was fresh and crisp. The tomato was YADWT (yet another disappointing winter tomato). The ground beef had good beef flavor and a bit of flat top char. Yea! I had forgotten about Knapp's hamburger buns. It seems to be a bakery product, but it did not wow me. It was a tiny step up from a Wonder Bread bun. Will I return? Yea, when I'm in the area and seeking a burger. Will I drive 13 miles for a Knapp's burger? Nope. Price. $15.something, before tip. That's too much. No WiFi. CCW friendly.
(3)Kate A.
The ambiance of the old style diner is more than enough reason to go here. But I mean it when I tell you that you will never look at milkshakes the same way once you've tried a Knapp's Malt! Seriously, I don't care how lactose intolerant you are (I am too) it worth it! I also love their season fries and cheese burger. It's not the kind of place you can eat everyday but it's worth the splurge once in a while!
(5)Marc C.
God knows I want to love this place, really I do, but outside the malts, the food just doesn't deliver. The exterior of the place and counter seating is really incredible and very nostalgic, I mean, you's have to pay big bucks to recreate the 50's era charm that they've got going in spades. Pie in the sky, I wish new ownership would come in and turn the place into proper burger joint in the vein of a Shake Shack or something of that quality but I get that's a stretch. At this point, even a Five Guys would be an improvement. Unfortunately, a really great space is going waste in Downtown Rochester.
(2)Lauren C.
This was delicious and fantastic. The service was great and the food was perfect. Yes, perfect. I have attached proof in the form of a photo of a Vernor's shake and a stack of giant battered onion rings... which my husband described as "oh my god" and "a savory onion pastry" respectively. He ordered a loaded bacon cheeseburger as well, that he enjoyed. I had a turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw on top. The fries (perfect) and coleslaw were a side dish. I made the executive decision to heap the coleslaw on. Now you might asking if I negated the benefits of a turkey burger by adding coleslaw to it and I would say to you GET OUT YOU ARE NO FUN. So yes. A turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw is now called an Executive Decision. Go. Enjoy it.
(5)Bobbie E.
The Best hamburger I've had in some time. The servers are Wonderful, Quick, and Friendly. Loved the quaint atmosphere of an old soda fountain, with Oldies but Goodies piped in. I'm from California, we don't have a place like this in my area. Wish we did. Our food came out Fast & Hot ! Thanks for a great experience, it was great
(5)Karen H.
Love the Boston Cooler. It's just a fun place to go for a burger and fries. The soups are good. It's all American.
(4)Colin V.
Super average.. This knapp's used to be legit turn for the worse average service didn't even get waters and the burger was a joke for the price #Whatadive
(1)Scott S.
If you like thin, overcooked, thin, tasteless patties on large good looking buns that look better than they taste then this is the place for you. If you are going to serve large buns at least make the patty large enough to fit them without having to leave so much bread on the plate. Very pricey burgers for the described quality and when you factor in the cost of (the small serving of) fries or the (rather large cut) onion rings and you've got yourself quite a tab (especially if you add a Malt or Shake).
(2)Mary R.
Love the food but hate going here now because the waitresses are cold as ice. Couldn't be ruder.
(1)Ashley E.
Knapps has an old school feel in the heart of Downtown Rochester. I had a cheeseburger with everything and a side of onion rings. The onion rings were HUGE! My husband and I split them and still had leftovers. The burgers were large as well (IMO) and I took home half of mine. They also have BLTs, pulled pork sandwiches, fries, seasoned fries, several different types of ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes, basically anything you would find at a diner! Seating is limited, but there was enough room for everyone while we were there. We were in and out in 30 mins. Overall, I would definitely return!
(4)Melissa M.
Need a time machine back to 1958? Get yourself to Red Knapp's, slide into a shiny red leather booth (or hop on a metal stool at the bar!), and prepare yourself for a good, old fashioned diner meal. This is one of those places that has been around forever, and you'd expect to see on that wretched unmentionable Food Network show, but are super grateful that it hasn't. Red Knapp's is true diner food, and is the real deal when it comes to Oakland County, Michigan history. An institution as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the food. These are thin, well cooked (but not "well-done," thankfully) burgers on a soft white bun with gooey cheese, shredded lettuce, and tomatoes. They are quite large for one person, but usually one (read: I) finds themselves finishing it before they know what hit them. It's not the best burger you'll ever have, but it certainly is good, and the charm of it all makes it well worth 4 stars. I'd recommend finishing your meal with a true 50s throwback: the strawberry shake. You just can't not do it! So so so very tasty.
(4)Regina S.
Headed into downtown Rochester Friday afternoon and was craving a burger. I remember coming here as a kid, but honestly, all I remembered was the amazing strawberry shake I had... I think I was 11. Ahhh, good times. Today we split one of those amazing shakes, had some delish bacon cheddar burgers and devoured some yummo chili cheese fries. Did you know they bake their own buns?? Some of the BEST chili cheese fries i've ever had!! I love the 1950s feel, it's actually authentic... and the prices are really really good!! It's a classic burger joint at it's BEST For sure!!! /Nostalgia!
(4)Matt K.
I'll never set foot in this place again. My wife and I just finished our first and last visit. This place is disgusting. The employees were using nasty, dirty rags to wipe down everything, including the wands used to make shakes. They wiped down the counter, spilled ketchup, then the shake wands. The rags looked like they'd been used all day long. Filthy. As far as the food/drinks, we had a chocolate shake (ordered before we saw what they were doing with the rags) and a chocolate sundae. The sundae was made with chocolate ice cream. Inexplicably, the shake was made with vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup instead of chocolate ice cream. How does that make any sense? That's exactly what it tasted like - fake chocolate syrup.
(1)Keilan F.
The double chocolate malt was very tasty! The portion size I quite generous as well! Sweet little diner-style place.
(4)Rob B.
This place is a 1950's diner. It's a cute little restaurant on Main Street. The inside is small and quaint. I like the burger and ice cream smells as we entered. There are bar stools surrounding the dairy bar. It's first come first serve for these. There are also small booths for sitting too. Now that we are sitting next to the ice cream right behind the bar; it smells so good! We each had a cheeseburger with fries. It was decent. I had the chocolate malt with double malt and it was amazing! The prices here a bit on the expensive side for a diner but the ambiance and free smells a good.
(4)Chris J.
Have been here dozens of times and have always enjoyed their burgers. The burgers are nothing fancy - but they differentiate themselves in how they spice their meat. It is very tasty. Their shakes are great too!
(4)Brian P.
We normally come here for strawberry milkshakes and fried pickles. I know... Weird combination but the fried pickles are soooo good. The milkshakes are huge. I normally can't finish and my gf has to help me finish it.
(5)Theresa T.
If your looking for a burger, fries and a shake for $13.00, this is your place. I must say it is totally NOT worth it. My nephew likes to go here so I put up with it. It's not the cleanest place around either. And the service is hit or miss as they have very young staff there. Sometimes they are just a little too busy talking to take care of business.
(3)steve f.
And to all of you people raving about health food let me remind you that you are walking into a 50's diner that has been open since 1950! You are not walking into whole foods! I have been a loyal customer for about 20 years and have nothing bad to says. Oh and the chocolate peanut butter is to die for!!
(5)Scott T.
My kids love this place. It is an old style diner for burgers, fries, and shakes. My kids like the food a lot. I find it to be just OK. I would come with the family but not without kids.
(3)Nathasja T.
I am such a sucker for nostalgia, but I might be an even bigger sucker for chocolate malts. Knapp's may just have one of the best chocolate malts around, and that is no lie. Like some people mentioned, it is served in a metal cup and is super thick! My husband has fond memories of visting this place as a child. He remembers coming here for fries or rings and a burger, which was often a highlight for him. I love that at that point the place had been open for plenty of years, and that nowadays it is still alive and kicking. The fries are pretty good and the onion rings are hysterical, they are pretty much a quartered onion - they are huge! Like others mentioned, the service leaves something to be desired but the malt is totally worth it in the end!
(3)Hailey D.
First of all, people who say their shakes are amazing.... You're liars. My boyfriend and I went their tonight after a dinner at Outback (which was amazing btw) ended the night with a first and last trip to this dump. All we wanted was shakes because you people claimed they were really good. Well thanks for waisting 10 minutes and $10. I figured they'd have a strawberry banana shake no. Just chocolate or vanilla. Okay well chocolate. Wrong. You get vanilla with chocolate syrup. Uh ew. The only reason I gave them two stars is cause the waiters were really nice. Another thing that doesn't really have to do with them is we sat next to some really disrespectful people who truly put the cherry on top to fully ruin the visit.
(2)John W.
The burgers and shakes are amazing. I love the bread they use for their buns. The strawberry shakes are to die for. Love it!
(5)Anna R.
Lunch was okay. Nothing fantastic except for the servers. Not crazy about how the seats are set up. A lot of people rave about their shakes but honestly, my husband makes shakes way better than their's.
(3)Chris C.
People say bland and unseasoned. I say authentic, hot and flavorful. I don't want anything in my beef that would spoil the flavor. I was happy to see the Tupperware of onions and glad they served it that way. The onion rings were great too. very large. Not overcooked. Not too salty and not too much breading.
(4)Matt R.
great spot. has not changed sense I started going with my Grandpa in the 70's thanks for keeping it alive and the same!! hamburgers great shake was the best! fries very good and my wife loved the grilled ham and cheese.
(4)Ron C.
Well this one of my last several 'Rochester Bucket List items. As I parked I saw 3 men walking down Main St. and inquired is Red Knapps worthy of a visit, all 3 smiled & said 'Oh Yea!" and even recommended a certain burger & swore by the chocolate malt I walked in at noon Wednesday [ 10-5-11 ] and expected a wait, I was the only one in there, COOL! SO I ordered the Red Knapp Burger, loaded, a small seasoned fry & the famous chocolate malt, both gals at the counter were a hoot & very friendly The place is truly super clean! A+ The Burger was very good, cooked to perfection & the homemade bun from the bakery next door was truly a treat A Seasoned Fries ,they were okay C+ The Chocolate Malt served in a nice tall glass malt cup and all of the extra malt in the metal mixer container , brought to you!!! A++ plus it passed the straw test, where the straw could stand on its own PS: 2-3 have commented that they like the relish & onions being served in a shared Tupperware Container Me, not so much This was my only dilemma, the Burger , Fry & Malt came to a grand total of $13.67 + tip there are way to many places offering a $6 lunch for this to work for me anytime soon Plus I am still loyal to the Shamrock Irish Pub, The Redcoat Tavern & Millers Bar
(3)K L.
This place is the real deal! Burgers were very good. Buns were delicious and they were not oversized like some places. Next time I will treat myself to a malt! Will definitely be back.
(5)Amber T.
I love red Knapps except I ordered my blt without mayo, and they gave me mayo! I didn't eat it. Sadly.... But other then that it is family friendly, a nice milkshake shop theme, and good service! Their milkshakes are very good, they make alot, only give you a little then give you the rest to add it when you want. So, very nice pictures in the restrunt. Nice atmosphere, and good service. I rate this place 4/5 stars! Because of the mayo thing. But other than that it is family friendly, and GREAT MILKSHAKES!!!
(4)Josh H.
Pretty good if you are looking for a quick fix of fried or unhealthy stuff and good shake. Don't over order as the portions are large. It is very cramped( not much they can do about that) and there was a lot of flies. Overall I'd recommend as a classic diner.
(3)B T.
Wish I read the reviews before eating here. My husband grew up in Rochester Hills, and this was a favorite when they were kids. We just flew into Detroit, for our weekend getaway trip and this was our stop for lunch. I was starving, so we got the milk shakes and 2 burgers with an order of chili cheese fries. The milk shakes were delicious. The burgers and fries were not great. Our meal was about $40 bucks. There were alot of flies, which was annoying. Nonetheless - I ate what i could of the burger and fries - i wish i wouldn't have. I got so sick that afternoon. I was sick all night. It was awful. It totally ruined our little getaway.
(1)Tiana O.
Is this a prime example of people liking a place based off of pure nostalgia? The place was cold and cramped, the waitresses weren't very pleasant, many people were complaining about their wait time, and the food wasn't anything special. The chili cheese fries were mediocre and the cheese wasn't melted, the onion rings, while enormous, were soggy and the burger was from a frozen patty. The bun was pretty good if you like that soft, stick to the roof of your mouth, white bread thing (which I do, sometimes). Also, we were not offered any refills on our soda. I regreted not ordering a shake because they did look really good, but I don't think I'll be back to get one anytime soon.
(2)Kevin W.
on a level with burger king or mcdonalds, nothing special at all, way overpriced, fruit flies bothering us the entire time, three bugers and three pops cost almost $40.00... disappointed.... a whooper tastes better...
(1)Erik M.
I loved this place as a kid. LOVED. I would sneak out of work to grab a burger, which at the time, seemed big. But times have changed and this place hasn't. I stopped here on a whim because I was in the area and missed the giant flat burgers and awesome seasoned fries. There was only one other person there. I sat at the bar. Everything was clean, but it did have the smell of grease. I'm cool with that, this is a dairy bar and burger joint. The waitress was very curt. Look, I know working here and listening to the American Graffiti soundtrack probably isn't the best, but try to be nice to the customers. She hurried me with my order because she was so busy. Oh, wait, she wasn't. She was talking to her co-workers about how terrible her other co-workers were. Cool. I'll just sit here then and wait. Got the burger and seasoned fries. The burger was very dry. I like that flat floury bun, that may have something to do with the dryness, but the burger really wasn't that great. Plus, it was like five bucks. You can go to Five Guys with that and literally get triple that burger, and it won't taste like Sudan. The fries were decent, but you can get the same sort of salt and pepper fries at Mr. B's across the street and they're friendlier there. I don't think I'll be back. Like all things from my childhood, this was not as good as I remembered. After coming here, I've decided that I'll not watch my old He-Man tapes and just remember it fondly, because it will probably be rude and dry.
(2)Mark B.
Quite frankly, I'm surprised at the previous reviews. This place seems to be a local icon with great reviews. We're new to the area and wanted to try some quaint and local. Unfortunately, this is the worst customer service we've experienced in Michigan yet. The waitress was extremely curt and barely spoke to us. Our drinks were not refilled AT ALL during the entire visit. The malts were really good, which is why I'll give this place a star. However, we're suckers for good customer service and won't be back. True, the ambiance is vintage, quaint, and inviting; but there's just too many great places to eat in downtown Rochester to waist your time and money at Red Knapps. Sorry :(
(1)Michele B.
Love knapps! My daughter thinks footling hotdogs and a chocolate shake at the counter is a treat. Burgers, seasoned fries and coleslaw are good too!
(5)Brandi R.
Best place in Rochester for a quick burger. My kids love the real malts that they serve right in the metal container that they mix them in and it's very fun to sit at the bar. The decor is retro and it's very clean. The seasoned fries are good as well.
(4)Tom O.
Great burgers, great onion rings, great shakes. I have never been disappointed here. Suck it Red Coat, you have nothing on Red Knapps' burgers. I only wish they had 1/2 orders of onion rings. I've never been able to finish a whole order, even with help.
(5)Jamie F.
Food is really good- for cheap food! Definitely burgers, shakes, and fries. I've been multiple times and service is never good. Waitresses act like they are being bothered but the food is good and it's a fun environment for kids or tourists.
(3)K Y.
Its a good place to eat, and has a nice retro look to it, but the food is a little overpriced
(3)Tiffany D.
I love the cheeseburgers and onion rings the size of my head. They make a darn good chocolate malt too. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was slow, the server seemed annoyed to have to wait on me. They also keep weird hours; I've gone by on weekends to find it's closed. When they are open, they always seem busy but it can get a little crammed in that small 50's style diner. All in all, I like it!
(4)Jon S.
I'll keep it short. I like their burgers. The place smells aweful. In fact my last trip was for take out because I can't stand the smell. It's expensive for what you get. I guess thats because it is downtown but there are a lot of burger joints with great food for less. The wait staff is unfriendly and only pays you attention when they are not talking to themselves. In fact they offered to spit my "malt to go" into two cups for me. After giving me just one I noticed a waitress drinking a malt in the same size cup right at the counter. I'm not saying she took my other one but it definitely gave me a bad impression. Needless to say after 4 visits, trying each time to enjoy my experience, I will not be returning.
(2)Hannah L.
It's true that the customer service isn't the greatest! The service I experienced was fine, but I noticed others who weren't doing so great. The food and milkshakes and overall vibe and atmosphere of the place is undeniably good though. If you enjoy real American 50s styled meals and old school atmosphere, definitely give Red Knapps a try. I don't even like meat really, but I enjoy the food here.
(4)Stephanie C.
Yes it's been said but I have to say it again... it's like traveling back in time. It's a kitschy 50's diner where you really want a stool at the counter because you're going to forgo comfort for authenticity. There's just something about slurping up one of those giant hand-poured thick-thick malts at the counter that seems pure, innocent and just like a scene in "Back to the Future." You have to do it. And you'll be glad you did. I adore Red Knapp's. Oddly enough I grew up in Rochester and never made it there during high school. I missed out on a lot of good burgers and fries, I can tell you that. These are some of the best cheeseburgers around. The menu is clear diner food. Don't walk in thinking you're gonna get a salad. Sure, you have the option, but it would be a shame. You'd miss out on all the fun. This is a burger and a shake place. And they make the best of both. So spoil yourself and really dive into the nostalgia of it all. Sometimes I suffer from what my dad called "eyes bigger than your mouth" disease. The symptoms? I think I can eat it all but I can't. If you're familiar with this problem, you may want to split the burger (or more likely the fries) with your honey. The shakes are huge too. I always end up with a to-go shake for later. Make that a chocolate malt, extra malt. Mmmm. I'm getting thirsty.
(4)Scott B.
A decent downtown burger shop with awesome shakes. Despite the negative comments from others, the restaurant was clean and the waitress was friendly. However, it's very noisy so it's difficult to hear someone sitting right in front of you. Enjoy the deluxe cheeseburger. It's quite big!!!
(3)Katie C.
This little dairy bar nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester gives me a different opinion about Rochester. Typically the restaurants are upscale and more expensive, but this burger joint offers a decent piece of meat for less cash. This place has a local feel, and a place to go to catch locals and a quick bite and delicious shake. The meat is good and the shakes are better. Who can deny themselves with hand-dipped shake with malt and chocolate? Don't forget they give you the extra from the shake in the mixer cup. You might be paying $4 for a shake, but you are definitely getting enough for two! I also really enjoyed their french fries, crisp, and seasoned well with salt and pepper! Lastly, I really enjoyed the large containers they brought to your table filled with diced onions and pickles to throw on anything you are eating. I still haven't decided If I would actually make a special trip to go out there, or just wait until I am in the downtown Rochester area. This place is packed during peak eating times, so be sure to catch in between times to catch a seat at the dairy bar!
(4)Dusty S.
Other than my malt, which was above average, this place was a disappointment. My girlfriend and I took a booth seat, and there was a serious shortage of leg room for us. The seats were too low for the table, and the whole place smelled funky. Reminded me of the distant smell of vomit from carnivals. I ordered a deluxe burger and fries, which weren't that bad, but nothing special. When I asked for onions, I was brought a large sealed tupperware container full of minced up onions. What gives, was I just passed the community onion bowl? How many other customers have dished their onions out of this same container? The service was fine, and the decoration wasn't too bad, but again nothing too special. So, unless all you want is a quick stop for dessert, I would suggest heading elsewhere.
(2)Jordan S.
This place is awesome. it is definitely not the health, but this place is an icon. Roll with a turkey special, with bbq sauce on the side and a vanilla malt. Fried pickles make a solid sidekick.
(5)damian a.
Ok, this is a downtown rochester staple. I can't say the burgers themselves are "great." The meat is just okay, but like a lot of burgers of this nature the bun and condiments make the burger good. I find them to be pretty tasty when i'm in the mood for them. Mostly we go here because whenever I say to my daughter "where do you want to go?" and she says "red knapp's!" I think she likes the diner atmosphere with the old advertisements on the walls. oh and also the shakes. The shakes are huge and awesome. There are something like 16 different kinds and they let you mix and match (peanut butter banana is a pretty brilliant combination i think. scientifically proven). Some of them are flavor shots (the banana is just a syrup), but some use real stuff. I like the raspberry shake because it's made with real raspberries.
(3)Delsean L.
I have been going to Knapps for over thirty years and I will continue until I die. The burgers are nice sized and delicious. The seasoned fries are more than just fries with lawrys like most places. As everyone else has said the shakes and malts are better than most ice cream parlors I have been to in my life. It is one of the last original diners that pleases people of all types. For newbies it is worth trying. It is a family business worth supporting
(4)Bre K.
Great burgers. Greasy...very greasy...but yummy. The fries are so so. The onion rings are enormous, resulting in soggy, not crunchy onion rings. The waitstaff is hit or miss. Sometimes you get a great girl who keeps your coke refilled, sometimes you get ignored for 20 minutes. Or told that they "don't know how to make a cherry coke." Good for carryout, although A Burger, A Cheeseburger, and 2 fries is almost $20. =(
(3)Amy B.
Funny that Knapps is in the ice cream catagory. I tend to think of it as a burger place that makes great shakes. I come here for the atmosphere (I like sitting at a bar), the shakes and the onion rings. The onion rings are the best around. At about an inch and a half in height I have no idea where they get onions that big but they make awesome rings. Crunchy too. I tend to go to Knapps when I'm feeling down. Going to Knapps always picks me up.
(3)Brian C.
Burgers. Onion rings. Shakes Malts. ALL VERY GOOD. A little pricey but worth it.
(4)Eric C.
Red Knapp's is one of those strange places that inspires loyalty far beyond the quality of the food or experience. It's your basic 50s diner, with the added attraction that is the legit thing not some recreation. It's fun to sit at the counter and the shakes are truly old-style and very good. If that was the extent of what they did I would rate it higher, but the food does let you down. It is nothing, and I repeat, nothing great. "Eats" would be a better name. If you want basic, not too great food, with a great shake go here. In other words, go for the shake and the 50s experience but don't expect quality diner food here.
(3)Chris M.
Red Knapps is a staple of Rochester. It is the type of place you take someone who enjoys small, 50s style diners. Its not clean, but, in my opinion, its part of the charm. This is a place is a must go whenever I go on a photography expedition in Rochester. Hell, I've taken both dates and my grandma here and its turned out great. The service is usually pretty good, I've never personally ever had any problems. However, I always sit at the dairy bar, so I imagine that helps. Food takes a surprisingly short amount of time, and the waitresses have always been nothing but great. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is 50s diner style. Dairy bar, not exactly the cleanest floors, but its god charm. The food, however, is why I keep coming back. While their burgers aren't the pinnacle of gourmet eating, like some people here apparently think diner burgers should be, they are fantastic for what they are. I always get a deluxe bacon burger, but am probably going to start trying new stuff soon. The burgers are large, even though the patty is thin. Greasy burgers, thick bacon, thin diner style fries, and, best of anything they have to offer, absolutely amazing shakes. Their shakes are to die for. Anyone who likes a shake will thank you for bringing them there. Overall, a great place for a cheap(er) eat in downtown Rochester. Great atmosphere, helpful staff, amazing burgers. I will agree with some of the other reviewers and say I just wish they'd clean up a bit more. But besides that, one of my favorite places in downtown Rochester.
(4)Chris W.
Onion rings are massive, Shakes are Classic. Its a small diner, its not the best but its pretty dang close. I ordered a BLT and I should have gone with a burger. (Its a burger and shake place!) If you want a burger you will be pleased, but the BLT wasn't that great. Price is pretty dang reasonable for downtown Rochester
(4)Michael C.
Whenever I'm in Red Knapp's, I half-expect Marty McFly to come through the door at any minute. Their malts are amazing. Forget about dairy queen! Forget about Coldstone! Forget every other place you've had a shake or malt at, because Knapp's has been doing it longer and better than any of them. They serve food as well. I'd rank their burger as good, but not excellent. Still, I always felt like it was Red Knapp's itself that was making the dining experience interesting, and not the food per se. That being said, it's not a bad burger - it's actually quite nice (especially coupled with the McFly anxiety above). I'd suggest coming here most especially if you have kids; the hike up to Dairy Queen on north Main street is long, and driving there is pretty impossible in the summer as well. Red Knapp's has amble parking in the FREE public lots between 2nd and 3rd, and is less than a block walk. Plus it's delicious. And cheap. Why aren't you there yet?
(5)C J C.
I wasn't alive in the 50s, so take this with a grain of salt: If you want a truly 50's experience, this gets ... well ... as close as you can get with current food safety laws. I've been eating at Red Knapp's since I was about ten years old, so understand that this place has a lot of nostalgia for me, and I've seen them grow as the times (and food codes) have required them to. The burgers are unique. They're very clearly not from frozen, previously formed, patties. Someone is smashing the meat in the back into a wide, round burger then cooking it (on what, or using what, I have no idea). Said burger is then placed pleasantly on a bun with a diameter that is much larger than a typical bun. They're either making these buns or they've found some secret "weird bun making place" to purchase them. They're really not anything all that special on their own (no sesame seeds, appears to be white bread in composition). It's just one of those things: the ratio of bread to burger is somehow exactly right and despite the bun being made of white bread and the burger likely having been fried, the bun is never soaked through with grease. Get the burger deluxe. Get the Chili fries (if you like Coney style chili fries). Get a malt. I recommend a Banana/Mocha. The banana comes from a bottle (or it did the last time I was there), however, that's a plus in this case: the flavor is within that one hour period of time that a banana can be put in a malt without tasting too ripe or too green. Give it a try. Ignore the interior and the look ... It's not fancy on purpose.
(4)P J.
burgers are awesome!!! the buns(i'm pretty sure they are made at The Home Bakery) are the best! wish i could get that recipe. i've been a regular here since i was a kid and now my kids enjoy it as much as i do.service is awesome, especially in the daytime when brittany is there. she's worked there as long as i can remember and makes the absolute best chocolate malt in the city!!! bacon burger, seasoned fries, chocolate malt. HEAVEN!!! all in all a go-to spot in downtown rochester.
(5)Loreen G.
I have always thought Red Knapp's is an awesome lil' gem with good food. I had lunch here the other day and for the first time I found an empty booth by the window! I usually get the food to go so I was happy to eat in for once. I have sat on those dairy bar stools in the past which seems cool at first, but there's quite a gap between the stools and the counter making it uncomfortable. Anyway I finally felt like this time I got to enjoy the whole 50s diner experience rather than just the food. I ordered their distinctive tasty hamburger (no pickles) with the seasoned fries! They also had a peppermint shake on the board that sounded good but I didn't get to try it this time around.
(5)lesley s.
I hadn't been here in awhile and was surprised when my cheeseburger deluxe arrived on a plate barely big enough to hold it. It's not that the burger was huge, but that the plate was very small. At first I thought, this is it? Then I gobbled it up and realized part of what I love about this place is there are no frills. Just a good burger (though next time I will add fries, which will likely result in a bigger plate) and great milkshakes. Don't go changin, Red Knapp's.
(4)Tiffany D.
Love this place! It takes me back to poodle skirts and sock hops and having a malt at the soda shoppe... or you know, the movie I saw like that. Red Knapp's is a classic diner, with burgers and fries and cokes and malts. They have your regular milkshakes, but the malts are creamier and worth the splurge. They have flavors ranging from chocolate to raspberry to lime and I haven't had a bad one yet. The fries are thinly cut and perfectly salty. The burgers are basic, but ask for the deluxe and get the chopped onions and a slice of cheese. They also have diner fare such as chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and surprisingly good chili. Very kid friendly place, but not great for groups (the tables are stationary). If you can, sit at the "dairy bar" and get the true experience.
(5)Kit S.
The hamburgers aren't great. Yes, you get a lot of burger, but it's bland. The Milkshakes ARE huge and wonderful!
(2)Curt B.
This is a family favorite. I think we head to this old time burger joint once every two weeks. We've only ever had a few things here, there's really only one choice as far as we're concerned...the burgers. The burgers are really big on really good bread and they taste great. You can get them with chili or a whole variety of options, but the plain old simple burger with ketchup, mustard, pickle does the trick for me. We always add a side of fried pickles to that and they are very tasty as well. The milkshakes are really good too. And again it's a pretty big shake. After a full meal we share a shake between the three of us and it hits the spot. Everyone's really friendly and we love sitting at the bar. It's a little pricey for a burger, but it's a good amount of food and they often have a coupon for a buy one get free burger.
(4)Scott V.
I work at RARA. The recreation department for Rochester and Rochester Hills. We are two blocks from Red Knapps. Okay, Okay, the burgers are not Red Coat or Miller's Bar. But for the less than $6.00 bucks your getting a big fresh burger that's better than Five Guys. In full disclosure, I live in Berkley and Bagger Dave's is my favorite burger for now. Since it is only four blocks from my home. If you order the Onion Rings and your ordering for an office of six. Order two and ask for them to be cooked a little longer until they are just a tad extra crispy. They are big and they come out tasty and there will be none left when lunch is over. The burger. Fresh. Somewhat smashed. The size of maybe two Wendy's singles. Ask for it medium. it isn't the best bun, more like a bun that is there to hold the burger together while you eat it. It's somewhat floury on the base, but holds quite well. Non toasted. It's a big spread out burger. Like I said, it's not a thick burger, but what you are paying for you have to remember to ask for it medium because it comes in the size of two patties flattened. But by golly. for the price of what you order, especially the onion rings and the burger, it's well worth it. Yeah, it's a diner. So what. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Rochester. And Red Knapps is fine with me.
(4)Joe S.
Great malted shakes; I just wished they served their to-go shake orders in paper cups instead of styrofoam ...
(4)Brian G.
The amount of positive reviews for this place is depressing to say the least. Red Knapp's was basically the prototype for Steak N' Shake and the food is of the same quality. Flat, unseasoned meat patties with pretty slim fixings are appetizing if you're working towards your morbidly obese status. I look forward to the day that this place goes out of business and is replaced with a restaurant that has healthier and better tasting food.
(1)Kristina D.
Red Knapp's is '50's-style or '60's-style diner, serving classic diner food to patrons in booths or on counter stools. Old ads, such as for Nehi soda and Borax, adorn the walls. I had my very first malt there recently--malt, as the waitress explained, is the same substance in Whoppers. Blended to perfection with butterscotch syrup and milk, it was definitely quite the treat.
(3)Ted N.
This definitely not what I expected. The atmosphere takes you back to the 50's which is awesome. The Chocolate shake was great and that is where my positive review ends. This place is totally over priced and the food is very bland. The service is slow and I was the only one in the place on Sunday around 1 pm. I agree with some of the reviews that Steak n Shake has better burgers and I can not stand Steak and Shake. I walked out the door paying 16.00 for a Shake, a bland Cheeseburger and fries. I guess I should have expected to pay this much since I was in Rochester. I will never go back again not even the shake could bring me back.
(2)L. O.
Another great lunch at the Dairy Bar! Burger was good, seasoned fries-tasty as always and the best mocha malt ever! Aside from the food, the waitress was very friendly and attentive, as usual. Definitely a good place for lunch in Rochester.
(5)Bre K.
Great burgers. Greasy...very greasy...but yummy. The fries are so so. The onion rings are enormous, resulting in soggy, not crunchy onion rings. The waitstaff is hit or miss. Sometimes you get a great girl who keeps your coke refilled, sometimes you get ignored for 20 minutes. Or told that they "don't know how to make a cherry coke." Good for carryout, although A Burger, A Cheeseburger, and 2 fries is almost $20. =(
(3)Eric C.
Red Knapp's is one of those strange places that inspires loyalty far beyond the quality of the food or experience. It's your basic 50s diner, with the added attraction that is the legit thing not some recreation. It's fun to sit at the counter and the shakes are truly old-style and very good. If that was the extent of what they did I would rate it higher, but the food does let you down. It is nothing, and I repeat, nothing great. "Eats" would be a better name. If you want basic, not too great food, with a great shake go here. In other words, go for the shake and the 50s experience but don't expect quality diner food here.
(3)Chris M.
Red Knapps is a staple of Rochester. It is the type of place you take someone who enjoys small, 50s style diners. Its not clean, but, in my opinion, its part of the charm. This is a place is a must go whenever I go on a photography expedition in Rochester. Hell, I've taken both dates and my grandma here and its turned out great. The service is usually pretty good, I've never personally ever had any problems. However, I always sit at the dairy bar, so I imagine that helps. Food takes a surprisingly short amount of time, and the waitresses have always been nothing but great. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is 50s diner style. Dairy bar, not exactly the cleanest floors, but its god charm. The food, however, is why I keep coming back. While their burgers aren't the pinnacle of gourmet eating, like some people here apparently think diner burgers should be, they are fantastic for what they are. I always get a deluxe bacon burger, but am probably going to start trying new stuff soon. The burgers are large, even though the patty is thin. Greasy burgers, thick bacon, thin diner style fries, and, best of anything they have to offer, absolutely amazing shakes. Their shakes are to die for. Anyone who likes a shake will thank you for bringing them there. Overall, a great place for a cheap(er) eat in downtown Rochester. Great atmosphere, helpful staff, amazing burgers. I will agree with some of the other reviewers and say I just wish they'd clean up a bit more. But besides that, one of my favorite places in downtown Rochester.
(4)Brian H.
This place has great food and great ice cream but lets face it this cant be ignored. This place has been just sorta clean every time. Finally my parents were in town and asked me where we cold eat quick. Their were 4 of us so we went to the back and back their their was 100 plus fruit flys or naut bugs flying around that whole back area and this was my first tome back their. I desided to sit up front at the tables but the bar tables were mostly dirty. I told my parents lets go and we left. As much as I loved their food I will never go back. All those bugs yuck. If I worked their I would handle that bug problem even if I had to go back their 3 times a day!
(2)doug r.
I had just departed Chateau Beaumont with a 'clean' pathology report. I wanted to celebrate. It was lunch time. I was hungry. I hadn't been to Knapp's in a very long time. Danielle was my waitress. She was prompt, attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the double cheeseburger and a bowl of chili. The chili arrived first. Hot food, served hot. This is typical Michigan chili (has beans). It was okay. I probably will not order again. I had forgotten how big the double cheeseburger would be. I arrived about the time I was finishing my chili. I immediately knew that half the burger would be going home. Hot food, served hot from the grill. The lettuce was fresh and crisp. The tomato was YADWT (yet another disappointing winter tomato). The ground beef had good beef flavor and a bit of flat top char. Yea! I had forgotten about Knapp's hamburger buns. It seems to be a bakery product, but it did not wow me. It was a tiny step up from a Wonder Bread bun. Will I return? Yea, when I'm in the area and seeking a burger. Will I drive 13 miles for a Knapp's burger? Nope. Price. $15.something, before tip. That's too much. No WiFi. CCW friendly.
(3)Kate A.
The ambiance of the old style diner is more than enough reason to go here. But I mean it when I tell you that you will never look at milkshakes the same way once you've tried a Knapp's Malt! Seriously, I don't care how lactose intolerant you are (I am too) it worth it! I also love their season fries and cheese burger. It's not the kind of place you can eat everyday but it's worth the splurge once in a while!
(5)Marc C.
God knows I want to love this place, really I do, but outside the malts, the food just doesn't deliver. The exterior of the place and counter seating is really incredible and very nostalgic, I mean, you's have to pay big bucks to recreate the 50's era charm that they've got going in spades. Pie in the sky, I wish new ownership would come in and turn the place into proper burger joint in the vein of a Shake Shack or something of that quality but I get that's a stretch. At this point, even a Five Guys would be an improvement. Unfortunately, a really great space is going waste in Downtown Rochester.
(2)Lauren C.
This was delicious and fantastic. The service was great and the food was perfect. Yes, perfect. I have attached proof in the form of a photo of a Vernor's shake and a stack of giant battered onion rings... which my husband described as "oh my god" and "a savory onion pastry" respectively. He ordered a loaded bacon cheeseburger as well, that he enjoyed. I had a turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw on top. The fries (perfect) and coleslaw were a side dish. I made the executive decision to heap the coleslaw on. Now you might asking if I negated the benefits of a turkey burger by adding coleslaw to it and I would say to you GET OUT YOU ARE NO FUN. So yes. A turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw is now called an Executive Decision. Go. Enjoy it.
(5)Bobbie E.
The Best hamburger I've had in some time. The servers are Wonderful, Quick, and Friendly. Loved the quaint atmosphere of an old soda fountain, with Oldies but Goodies piped in. I'm from California, we don't have a place like this in my area. Wish we did. Our food came out Fast & Hot ! Thanks for a great experience, it was great
(5)Karen H.
Love the Boston Cooler. It's just a fun place to go for a burger and fries. The soups are good. It's all American.
(4)Colin V.
Super average.. This knapp's used to be legit turn for the worse average service didn't even get waters and the burger was a joke for the price #Whatadive
(1)Scott S.
If you like thin, overcooked, thin, tasteless patties on large good looking buns that look better than they taste then this is the place for you. If you are going to serve large buns at least make the patty large enough to fit them without having to leave so much bread on the plate. Very pricey burgers for the described quality and when you factor in the cost of (the small serving of) fries or the (rather large cut) onion rings and you've got yourself quite a tab (especially if you add a Malt or Shake).
(2)Mary R.
Love the food but hate going here now because the waitresses are cold as ice. Couldn't be ruder.
(1)Ashley E.
Knapps has an old school feel in the heart of Downtown Rochester. I had a cheeseburger with everything and a side of onion rings. The onion rings were HUGE! My husband and I split them and still had leftovers. The burgers were large as well (IMO) and I took home half of mine. They also have BLTs, pulled pork sandwiches, fries, seasoned fries, several different types of ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes, basically anything you would find at a diner! Seating is limited, but there was enough room for everyone while we were there. We were in and out in 30 mins. Overall, I would definitely return!
(4)Melissa M.
Need a time machine back to 1958? Get yourself to Red Knapp's, slide into a shiny red leather booth (or hop on a metal stool at the bar!), and prepare yourself for a good, old fashioned diner meal. This is one of those places that has been around forever, and you'd expect to see on that wretched unmentionable Food Network show, but are super grateful that it hasn't. Red Knapp's is true diner food, and is the real deal when it comes to Oakland County, Michigan history. An institution as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the food. These are thin, well cooked (but not "well-done," thankfully) burgers on a soft white bun with gooey cheese, shredded lettuce, and tomatoes. They are quite large for one person, but usually one (read: I) finds themselves finishing it before they know what hit them. It's not the best burger you'll ever have, but it certainly is good, and the charm of it all makes it well worth 4 stars. I'd recommend finishing your meal with a true 50s throwback: the strawberry shake. You just can't not do it! So so so very tasty.
(4)steve f.
And to all of you people raving about health food let me remind you that you are walking into a 50's diner that has been open since 1950! You are not walking into whole foods! I have been a loyal customer for about 20 years and have nothing bad to says. Oh and the chocolate peanut butter is to die for!!
(5)Scott T.
My kids love this place. It is an old style diner for burgers, fries, and shakes. My kids like the food a lot. I find it to be just OK. I would come with the family but not without kids.
(3)Nathasja T.
I am such a sucker for nostalgia, but I might be an even bigger sucker for chocolate malts. Knapp's may just have one of the best chocolate malts around, and that is no lie. Like some people mentioned, it is served in a metal cup and is super thick! My husband has fond memories of visting this place as a child. He remembers coming here for fries or rings and a burger, which was often a highlight for him. I love that at that point the place had been open for plenty of years, and that nowadays it is still alive and kicking. The fries are pretty good and the onion rings are hysterical, they are pretty much a quartered onion - they are huge! Like others mentioned, the service leaves something to be desired but the malt is totally worth it in the end!
(3)Chris C.
People say bland and unseasoned. I say authentic, hot and flavorful. I don't want anything in my beef that would spoil the flavor. I was happy to see the Tupperware of onions and glad they served it that way. The onion rings were great too. very large. Not overcooked. Not too salty and not too much breading.
(4)Matt R.
great spot. has not changed sense I started going with my Grandpa in the 70's thanks for keeping it alive and the same!! hamburgers great shake was the best! fries very good and my wife loved the grilled ham and cheese.
(4)Ron C.
Well this one of my last several 'Rochester Bucket List items. As I parked I saw 3 men walking down Main St. and inquired is Red Knapps worthy of a visit, all 3 smiled & said 'Oh Yea!" and even recommended a certain burger & swore by the chocolate malt I walked in at noon Wednesday [ 10-5-11 ] and expected a wait, I was the only one in there, COOL! SO I ordered the Red Knapp Burger, loaded, a small seasoned fry & the famous chocolate malt, both gals at the counter were a hoot & very friendly The place is truly super clean! A+ The Burger was very good, cooked to perfection & the homemade bun from the bakery next door was truly a treat A Seasoned Fries ,they were okay C+ The Chocolate Malt served in a nice tall glass malt cup and all of the extra malt in the metal mixer container , brought to you!!! A++ plus it passed the straw test, where the straw could stand on its own PS: 2-3 have commented that they like the relish & onions being served in a shared Tupperware Container Me, not so much This was my only dilemma, the Burger , Fry & Malt came to a grand total of $13.67 + tip there are way to many places offering a $6 lunch for this to work for me anytime soon Plus I am still loyal to the Shamrock Irish Pub, The Redcoat Tavern & Millers Bar
(3)K L.
This place is the real deal! Burgers were very good. Buns were delicious and they were not oversized like some places. Next time I will treat myself to a malt! Will definitely be back.
(5)Erik M.
I loved this place as a kid. LOVED. I would sneak out of work to grab a burger, which at the time, seemed big. But times have changed and this place hasn't. I stopped here on a whim because I was in the area and missed the giant flat burgers and awesome seasoned fries. There was only one other person there. I sat at the bar. Everything was clean, but it did have the smell of grease. I'm cool with that, this is a dairy bar and burger joint. The waitress was very curt. Look, I know working here and listening to the American Graffiti soundtrack probably isn't the best, but try to be nice to the customers. She hurried me with my order because she was so busy. Oh, wait, she wasn't. She was talking to her co-workers about how terrible her other co-workers were. Cool. I'll just sit here then and wait. Got the burger and seasoned fries. The burger was very dry. I like that flat floury bun, that may have something to do with the dryness, but the burger really wasn't that great. Plus, it was like five bucks. You can go to Five Guys with that and literally get triple that burger, and it won't taste like Sudan. The fries were decent, but you can get the same sort of salt and pepper fries at Mr. B's across the street and they're friendlier there. I don't think I'll be back. Like all things from my childhood, this was not as good as I remembered. After coming here, I've decided that I'll not watch my old He-Man tapes and just remember it fondly, because it will probably be rude and dry.
(2)Mark B.
Quite frankly, I'm surprised at the previous reviews. This place seems to be a local icon with great reviews. We're new to the area and wanted to try some quaint and local. Unfortunately, this is the worst customer service we've experienced in Michigan yet. The waitress was extremely curt and barely spoke to us. Our drinks were not refilled AT ALL during the entire visit. The malts were really good, which is why I'll give this place a star. However, we're suckers for good customer service and won't be back. True, the ambiance is vintage, quaint, and inviting; but there's just too many great places to eat in downtown Rochester to waist your time and money at Red Knapps. Sorry :(
(1)Michele B.
Love knapps! My daughter thinks footling hotdogs and a chocolate shake at the counter is a treat. Burgers, seasoned fries and coleslaw are good too!
(5)Brandi R.
Best place in Rochester for a quick burger. My kids love the real malts that they serve right in the metal container that they mix them in and it's very fun to sit at the bar. The decor is retro and it's very clean. The seasoned fries are good as well.
(4)Tom O.
Great burgers, great onion rings, great shakes. I have never been disappointed here. Suck it Red Coat, you have nothing on Red Knapps' burgers. I only wish they had 1/2 orders of onion rings. I've never been able to finish a whole order, even with help.
(5)Regina S.
Headed into downtown Rochester Friday afternoon and was craving a burger. I remember coming here as a kid, but honestly, all I remembered was the amazing strawberry shake I had... I think I was 11. Ahhh, good times. Today we split one of those amazing shakes, had some delish bacon cheddar burgers and devoured some yummo chili cheese fries. Did you know they bake their own buns?? Some of the BEST chili cheese fries i've ever had!! I love the 1950s feel, it's actually authentic... and the prices are really really good!! It's a classic burger joint at it's BEST For sure!!! /Nostalgia!
(4)Matt K.
I'll never set foot in this place again. My wife and I just finished our first and last visit. This place is disgusting. The employees were using nasty, dirty rags to wipe down everything, including the wands used to make shakes. They wiped down the counter, spilled ketchup, then the shake wands. The rags looked like they'd been used all day long. Filthy. As far as the food/drinks, we had a chocolate shake (ordered before we saw what they were doing with the rags) and a chocolate sundae. The sundae was made with chocolate ice cream. Inexplicably, the shake was made with vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup instead of chocolate ice cream. How does that make any sense? That's exactly what it tasted like - fake chocolate syrup.
(1)Keilan F.
The double chocolate malt was very tasty! The portion size I quite generous as well! Sweet little diner-style place.
(4)Rob B.
This place is a 1950's diner. It's a cute little restaurant on Main Street. The inside is small and quaint. I like the burger and ice cream smells as we entered. There are bar stools surrounding the dairy bar. It's first come first serve for these. There are also small booths for sitting too. Now that we are sitting next to the ice cream right behind the bar; it smells so good! We each had a cheeseburger with fries. It was decent. I had the chocolate malt with double malt and it was amazing! The prices here a bit on the expensive side for a diner but the ambiance and free smells a good.
(4)Chris J.
Have been here dozens of times and have always enjoyed their burgers. The burgers are nothing fancy - but they differentiate themselves in how they spice their meat. It is very tasty. Their shakes are great too!
(4)Brian P.
We normally come here for strawberry milkshakes and fried pickles. I know... Weird combination but the fried pickles are soooo good. The milkshakes are huge. I normally can't finish and my gf has to help me finish it.
(5)Theresa T.
If your looking for a burger, fries and a shake for $13.00, this is your place. I must say it is totally NOT worth it. My nephew likes to go here so I put up with it. It's not the cleanest place around either. And the service is hit or miss as they have very young staff there. Sometimes they are just a little too busy talking to take care of business.
(3)Hailey D.
First of all, people who say their shakes are amazing.... You're liars. My boyfriend and I went their tonight after a dinner at Outback (which was amazing btw) ended the night with a first and last trip to this dump. All we wanted was shakes because you people claimed they were really good. Well thanks for waisting 10 minutes and $10. I figured they'd have a strawberry banana shake no. Just chocolate or vanilla. Okay well chocolate. Wrong. You get vanilla with chocolate syrup. Uh ew. The only reason I gave them two stars is cause the waiters were really nice. Another thing that doesn't really have to do with them is we sat next to some really disrespectful people who truly put the cherry on top to fully ruin the visit.
(2)John W.
The burgers and shakes are amazing. I love the bread they use for their buns. The strawberry shakes are to die for. Love it!
(5)Anna R.
Lunch was okay. Nothing fantastic except for the servers. Not crazy about how the seats are set up. A lot of people rave about their shakes but honestly, my husband makes shakes way better than their's.
(3)Tiana O.
Is this a prime example of people liking a place based off of pure nostalgia? The place was cold and cramped, the waitresses weren't very pleasant, many people were complaining about their wait time, and the food wasn't anything special. The chili cheese fries were mediocre and the cheese wasn't melted, the onion rings, while enormous, were soggy and the burger was from a frozen patty. The bun was pretty good if you like that soft, stick to the roof of your mouth, white bread thing (which I do, sometimes). Also, we were not offered any refills on our soda. I regreted not ordering a shake because they did look really good, but I don't think I'll be back to get one anytime soon.
(2)Kevin W.
on a level with burger king or mcdonalds, nothing special at all, way overpriced, fruit flies bothering us the entire time, three bugers and three pops cost almost $40.00... disappointed.... a whooper tastes better...
(1)Amber T.
I love red Knapps except I ordered my blt without mayo, and they gave me mayo! I didn't eat it. Sadly.... But other then that it is family friendly, a nice milkshake shop theme, and good service! Their milkshakes are very good, they make alot, only give you a little then give you the rest to add it when you want. So, very nice pictures in the restrunt. Nice atmosphere, and good service. I rate this place 4/5 stars! Because of the mayo thing. But other than that it is family friendly, and GREAT MILKSHAKES!!!
(4)Josh H.
Pretty good if you are looking for a quick fix of fried or unhealthy stuff and good shake. Don't over order as the portions are large. It is very cramped( not much they can do about that) and there was a lot of flies. Overall I'd recommend as a classic diner.
(3)B T.
Wish I read the reviews before eating here. My husband grew up in Rochester Hills, and this was a favorite when they were kids. We just flew into Detroit, for our weekend getaway trip and this was our stop for lunch. I was starving, so we got the milk shakes and 2 burgers with an order of chili cheese fries. The milk shakes were delicious. The burgers and fries were not great. Our meal was about $40 bucks. There were alot of flies, which was annoying. Nonetheless - I ate what i could of the burger and fries - i wish i wouldn't have. I got so sick that afternoon. I was sick all night. It was awful. It totally ruined our little getaway.
(1)Jamie F.
Food is really good- for cheap food! Definitely burgers, shakes, and fries. I've been multiple times and service is never good. Waitresses act like they are being bothered but the food is good and it's a fun environment for kids or tourists.
(3)K Y.
Its a good place to eat, and has a nice retro look to it, but the food is a little overpriced
(3)Tiffany D.
I love the cheeseburgers and onion rings the size of my head. They make a darn good chocolate malt too. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was slow, the server seemed annoyed to have to wait on me. They also keep weird hours; I've gone by on weekends to find it's closed. When they are open, they always seem busy but it can get a little crammed in that small 50's style diner. All in all, I like it!
(4)Meghan R.
Hello yum fatty food best onion rings... Great malts and hell yeah a cheese burger with the works... We'll worth the calories
(5)Dusty S.
Other than my malt, which was above average, this place was a disappointment. My girlfriend and I took a booth seat, and there was a serious shortage of leg room for us. The seats were too low for the table, and the whole place smelled funky. Reminded me of the distant smell of vomit from carnivals. I ordered a deluxe burger and fries, which weren't that bad, but nothing special. When I asked for onions, I was brought a large sealed tupperware container full of minced up onions. What gives, was I just passed the community onion bowl? How many other customers have dished their onions out of this same container? The service was fine, and the decoration wasn't too bad, but again nothing too special. So, unless all you want is a quick stop for dessert, I would suggest heading elsewhere.
(2)Jordan S.
This place is awesome. it is definitely not the health, but this place is an icon. Roll with a turkey special, with bbq sauce on the side and a vanilla malt. Fried pickles make a solid sidekick.
(5)Jon S.
I'll keep it short. I like their burgers. The place smells aweful. In fact my last trip was for take out because I can't stand the smell. It's expensive for what you get. I guess thats because it is downtown but there are a lot of burger joints with great food for less. The wait staff is unfriendly and only pays you attention when they are not talking to themselves. In fact they offered to spit my "malt to go" into two cups for me. After giving me just one I noticed a waitress drinking a malt in the same size cup right at the counter. I'm not saying she took my other one but it definitely gave me a bad impression. Needless to say after 4 visits, trying each time to enjoy my experience, I will not be returning.
(2)Scott B.
A decent downtown burger shop with awesome shakes. Despite the negative comments from others, the restaurant was clean and the waitress was friendly. However, it's very noisy so it's difficult to hear someone sitting right in front of you. Enjoy the deluxe cheeseburger. It's quite big!!!
(3)Stephanie C.
Yes it's been said but I have to say it again... it's like traveling back in time. It's a kitschy 50's diner where you really want a stool at the counter because you're going to forgo comfort for authenticity. There's just something about slurping up one of those giant hand-poured thick-thick malts at the counter that seems pure, innocent and just like a scene in "Back to the Future." You have to do it. And you'll be glad you did. I adore Red Knapp's. Oddly enough I grew up in Rochester and never made it there during high school. I missed out on a lot of good burgers and fries, I can tell you that. These are some of the best cheeseburgers around. The menu is clear diner food. Don't walk in thinking you're gonna get a salad. Sure, you have the option, but it would be a shame. You'd miss out on all the fun. This is a burger and a shake place. And they make the best of both. So spoil yourself and really dive into the nostalgia of it all. Sometimes I suffer from what my dad called "eyes bigger than your mouth" disease. The symptoms? I think I can eat it all but I can't. If you're familiar with this problem, you may want to split the burger (or more likely the fries) with your honey. The shakes are huge too. I always end up with a to-go shake for later. Make that a chocolate malt, extra malt. Mmmm. I'm getting thirsty.
(4)Katie C.
This little dairy bar nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester gives me a different opinion about Rochester. Typically the restaurants are upscale and more expensive, but this burger joint offers a decent piece of meat for less cash. This place has a local feel, and a place to go to catch locals and a quick bite and delicious shake. The meat is good and the shakes are better. Who can deny themselves with hand-dipped shake with malt and chocolate? Don't forget they give you the extra from the shake in the mixer cup. You might be paying $4 for a shake, but you are definitely getting enough for two! I also really enjoyed their french fries, crisp, and seasoned well with salt and pepper! Lastly, I really enjoyed the large containers they brought to your table filled with diced onions and pickles to throw on anything you are eating. I still haven't decided If I would actually make a special trip to go out there, or just wait until I am in the downtown Rochester area. This place is packed during peak eating times, so be sure to catch in between times to catch a seat at the dairy bar!
(4)Amy B.
Funny that Knapps is in the ice cream catagory. I tend to think of it as a burger place that makes great shakes. I come here for the atmosphere (I like sitting at a bar), the shakes and the onion rings. The onion rings are the best around. At about an inch and a half in height I have no idea where they get onions that big but they make awesome rings. Crunchy too. I tend to go to Knapps when I'm feeling down. Going to Knapps always picks me up.
(3)Brian C.
Burgers. Onion rings. Shakes Malts. ALL VERY GOOD. A little pricey but worth it.
(4)damian a.
Ok, this is a downtown rochester staple. I can't say the burgers themselves are "great." The meat is just okay, but like a lot of burgers of this nature the bun and condiments make the burger good. I find them to be pretty tasty when i'm in the mood for them. Mostly we go here because whenever I say to my daughter "where do you want to go?" and she says "red knapp's!" I think she likes the diner atmosphere with the old advertisements on the walls. oh and also the shakes. The shakes are huge and awesome. There are something like 16 different kinds and they let you mix and match (peanut butter banana is a pretty brilliant combination i think. scientifically proven). Some of them are flavor shots (the banana is just a syrup), but some use real stuff. I like the raspberry shake because it's made with real raspberries.
(3)Delsean L.
I have been going to Knapps for over thirty years and I will continue until I die. The burgers are nice sized and delicious. The seasoned fries are more than just fries with lawrys like most places. As everyone else has said the shakes and malts are better than most ice cream parlors I have been to in my life. It is one of the last original diners that pleases people of all types. For newbies it is worth trying. It is a family business worth supporting
(4)P J.
burgers are awesome!!! the buns(i'm pretty sure they are made at The Home Bakery) are the best! wish i could get that recipe. i've been a regular here since i was a kid and now my kids enjoy it as much as i do.service is awesome, especially in the daytime when brittany is there. she's worked there as long as i can remember and makes the absolute best chocolate malt in the city!!! bacon burger, seasoned fries, chocolate malt. HEAVEN!!! all in all a go-to spot in downtown rochester.
(5)Loreen G.
I have always thought Red Knapp's is an awesome lil' gem with good food. I had lunch here the other day and for the first time I found an empty booth by the window! I usually get the food to go so I was happy to eat in for once. I have sat on those dairy bar stools in the past which seems cool at first, but there's quite a gap between the stools and the counter making it uncomfortable. Anyway I finally felt like this time I got to enjoy the whole 50s diner experience rather than just the food. I ordered their distinctive tasty hamburger (no pickles) with the seasoned fries! They also had a peppermint shake on the board that sounded good but I didn't get to try it this time around.
(5)lesley s.
I hadn't been here in awhile and was surprised when my cheeseburger deluxe arrived on a plate barely big enough to hold it. It's not that the burger was huge, but that the plate was very small. At first I thought, this is it? Then I gobbled it up and realized part of what I love about this place is there are no frills. Just a good burger (though next time I will add fries, which will likely result in a bigger plate) and great milkshakes. Don't go changin, Red Knapp's.
(4)L. O.
Another great lunch at the Dairy Bar! Burger was good, seasoned fries-tasty as always and the best mocha malt ever! Aside from the food, the waitress was very friendly and attentive, as usual. Definitely a good place for lunch in Rochester.
(5)Tiffany D.
Love this place! It takes me back to poodle skirts and sock hops and having a malt at the soda shoppe... or you know, the movie I saw like that. Red Knapp's is a classic diner, with burgers and fries and cokes and malts. They have your regular milkshakes, but the malts are creamier and worth the splurge. They have flavors ranging from chocolate to raspberry to lime and I haven't had a bad one yet. The fries are thinly cut and perfectly salty. The burgers are basic, but ask for the deluxe and get the chopped onions and a slice of cheese. They also have diner fare such as chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and surprisingly good chili. Very kid friendly place, but not great for groups (the tables are stationary). If you can, sit at the "dairy bar" and get the true experience.
(5)Kit S.
The hamburgers aren't great. Yes, you get a lot of burger, but it's bland. The Milkshakes ARE huge and wonderful!
(2)Chris W.
Onion rings are massive, Shakes are Classic. Its a small diner, its not the best but its pretty dang close. I ordered a BLT and I should have gone with a burger. (Its a burger and shake place!) If you want a burger you will be pleased, but the BLT wasn't that great. Price is pretty dang reasonable for downtown Rochester
(4)Michael C.
Whenever I'm in Red Knapp's, I half-expect Marty McFly to come through the door at any minute. Their malts are amazing. Forget about dairy queen! Forget about Coldstone! Forget every other place you've had a shake or malt at, because Knapp's has been doing it longer and better than any of them. They serve food as well. I'd rank their burger as good, but not excellent. Still, I always felt like it was Red Knapp's itself that was making the dining experience interesting, and not the food per se. That being said, it's not a bad burger - it's actually quite nice (especially coupled with the McFly anxiety above). I'd suggest coming here most especially if you have kids; the hike up to Dairy Queen on north Main street is long, and driving there is pretty impossible in the summer as well. Red Knapp's has amble parking in the FREE public lots between 2nd and 3rd, and is less than a block walk. Plus it's delicious. And cheap. Why aren't you there yet?
(5)Ted N.
This definitely not what I expected. The atmosphere takes you back to the 50's which is awesome. The Chocolate shake was great and that is where my positive review ends. This place is totally over priced and the food is very bland. The service is slow and I was the only one in the place on Sunday around 1 pm. I agree with some of the reviews that Steak n Shake has better burgers and I can not stand Steak and Shake. I walked out the door paying 16.00 for a Shake, a bland Cheeseburger and fries. I guess I should have expected to pay this much since I was in Rochester. I will never go back again not even the shake could bring me back.
(2)C J C.
I wasn't alive in the 50s, so take this with a grain of salt: If you want a truly 50's experience, this gets ... well ... as close as you can get with current food safety laws. I've been eating at Red Knapp's since I was about ten years old, so understand that this place has a lot of nostalgia for me, and I've seen them grow as the times (and food codes) have required them to. The burgers are unique. They're very clearly not from frozen, previously formed, patties. Someone is smashing the meat in the back into a wide, round burger then cooking it (on what, or using what, I have no idea). Said burger is then placed pleasantly on a bun with a diameter that is much larger than a typical bun. They're either making these buns or they've found some secret "weird bun making place" to purchase them. They're really not anything all that special on their own (no sesame seeds, appears to be white bread in composition). It's just one of those things: the ratio of bread to burger is somehow exactly right and despite the bun being made of white bread and the burger likely having been fried, the bun is never soaked through with grease. Get the burger deluxe. Get the Chili fries (if you like Coney style chili fries). Get a malt. I recommend a Banana/Mocha. The banana comes from a bottle (or it did the last time I was there), however, that's a plus in this case: the flavor is within that one hour period of time that a banana can be put in a malt without tasting too ripe or too green. Give it a try. Ignore the interior and the look ... It's not fancy on purpose.
(4)Curt B.
This is a family favorite. I think we head to this old time burger joint once every two weeks. We've only ever had a few things here, there's really only one choice as far as we're concerned...the burgers. The burgers are really big on really good bread and they taste great. You can get them with chili or a whole variety of options, but the plain old simple burger with ketchup, mustard, pickle does the trick for me. We always add a side of fried pickles to that and they are very tasty as well. The milkshakes are really good too. And again it's a pretty big shake. After a full meal we share a shake between the three of us and it hits the spot. Everyone's really friendly and we love sitting at the bar. It's a little pricey for a burger, but it's a good amount of food and they often have a coupon for a buy one get free burger.
(4)Scott V.
I work at RARA. The recreation department for Rochester and Rochester Hills. We are two blocks from Red Knapps. Okay, Okay, the burgers are not Red Coat or Miller's Bar. But for the less than $6.00 bucks your getting a big fresh burger that's better than Five Guys. In full disclosure, I live in Berkley and Bagger Dave's is my favorite burger for now. Since it is only four blocks from my home. If you order the Onion Rings and your ordering for an office of six. Order two and ask for them to be cooked a little longer until they are just a tad extra crispy. They are big and they come out tasty and there will be none left when lunch is over. The burger. Fresh. Somewhat smashed. The size of maybe two Wendy's singles. Ask for it medium. it isn't the best bun, more like a bun that is there to hold the burger together while you eat it. It's somewhat floury on the base, but holds quite well. Non toasted. It's a big spread out burger. Like I said, it's not a thick burger, but what you are paying for you have to remember to ask for it medium because it comes in the size of two patties flattened. But by golly. for the price of what you order, especially the onion rings and the burger, it's well worth it. Yeah, it's a diner. So what. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Rochester. And Red Knapps is fine with me.
(4)Joe S.
Great malted shakes; I just wished they served their to-go shake orders in paper cups instead of styrofoam ...
(4)Brian G.
The amount of positive reviews for this place is depressing to say the least. Red Knapp's was basically the prototype for Steak N' Shake and the food is of the same quality. Flat, unseasoned meat patties with pretty slim fixings are appetizing if you're working towards your morbidly obese status. I look forward to the day that this place goes out of business and is replaced with a restaurant that has healthier and better tasting food.
(1)Kristina D.
Red Knapp's is '50's-style or '60's-style diner, serving classic diner food to patrons in booths or on counter stools. Old ads, such as for Nehi soda and Borax, adorn the walls. I had my very first malt there recently--malt, as the waitress explained, is the same substance in Whoppers. Blended to perfection with butterscotch syrup and milk, it was definitely quite the treat.
(3)Hannah L.
It's true that the customer service isn't the greatest! The service I experienced was fine, but I noticed others who weren't doing so great. The food and milkshakes and overall vibe and atmosphere of the place is undeniably good though. If you enjoy real American 50s styled meals and old school atmosphere, definitely give Red Knapps a try. I don't even like meat really, but I enjoy the food here.
(4)K Y.
Its a good place to eat, and has a nice retro look to it, but the food is a little overpriced
(3)Tiffany D.
I love the cheeseburgers and onion rings the size of my head. They make a darn good chocolate malt too. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was slow, the server seemed annoyed to have to wait on me. They also keep weird hours; I've gone by on weekends to find it's closed. When they are open, they always seem busy but it can get a little crammed in that small 50's style diner. All in all, I like it!
(4)Jamie F.
Food is really good- for cheap food! Definitely burgers, shakes, and fries. I've been multiple times and service is never good. Waitresses act like they are being bothered but the food is good and it's a fun environment for kids or tourists.
(3)Jon S.
I'll keep it short. I like their burgers. The place smells aweful. In fact my last trip was for take out because I can't stand the smell. It's expensive for what you get. I guess thats because it is downtown but there are a lot of burger joints with great food for less. The wait staff is unfriendly and only pays you attention when they are not talking to themselves. In fact they offered to spit my "malt to go" into two cups for me. After giving me just one I noticed a waitress drinking a malt in the same size cup right at the counter. I'm not saying she took my other one but it definitely gave me a bad impression. Needless to say after 4 visits, trying each time to enjoy my experience, I will not be returning.
(2)Hannah L.
It's true that the customer service isn't the greatest! The service I experienced was fine, but I noticed others who weren't doing so great. The food and milkshakes and overall vibe and atmosphere of the place is undeniably good though. If you enjoy real American 50s styled meals and old school atmosphere, definitely give Red Knapps a try. I don't even like meat really, but I enjoy the food here.
(4)Bre K.
Great burgers. Greasy...very greasy...but yummy. The fries are so so. The onion rings are enormous, resulting in soggy, not crunchy onion rings. The waitstaff is hit or miss. Sometimes you get a great girl who keeps your coke refilled, sometimes you get ignored for 20 minutes. Or told that they "don't know how to make a cherry coke." Good for carryout, although A Burger, A Cheeseburger, and 2 fries is almost $20. =(
(3)Eric C.
Red Knapp's is one of those strange places that inspires loyalty far beyond the quality of the food or experience. It's your basic 50s diner, with the added attraction that is the legit thing not some recreation. It's fun to sit at the counter and the shakes are truly old-style and very good. If that was the extent of what they did I would rate it higher, but the food does let you down. It is nothing, and I repeat, nothing great. "Eats" would be a better name. If you want basic, not too great food, with a great shake go here. In other words, go for the shake and the 50s experience but don't expect quality diner food here.
(3)Stephanie C.
Yes it's been said but I have to say it again... it's like traveling back in time. It's a kitschy 50's diner where you really want a stool at the counter because you're going to forgo comfort for authenticity. There's just something about slurping up one of those giant hand-poured thick-thick malts at the counter that seems pure, innocent and just like a scene in "Back to the Future." You have to do it. And you'll be glad you did. I adore Red Knapp's. Oddly enough I grew up in Rochester and never made it there during high school. I missed out on a lot of good burgers and fries, I can tell you that. These are some of the best cheeseburgers around. The menu is clear diner food. Don't walk in thinking you're gonna get a salad. Sure, you have the option, but it would be a shame. You'd miss out on all the fun. This is a burger and a shake place. And they make the best of both. So spoil yourself and really dive into the nostalgia of it all. Sometimes I suffer from what my dad called "eyes bigger than your mouth" disease. The symptoms? I think I can eat it all but I can't. If you're familiar with this problem, you may want to split the burger (or more likely the fries) with your honey. The shakes are huge too. I always end up with a to-go shake for later. Make that a chocolate malt, extra malt. Mmmm. I'm getting thirsty.
(4)Scott B.
A decent downtown burger shop with awesome shakes. Despite the negative comments from others, the restaurant was clean and the waitress was friendly. However, it's very noisy so it's difficult to hear someone sitting right in front of you. Enjoy the deluxe cheeseburger. It's quite big!!!
(3)Katie C.
This little dairy bar nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester gives me a different opinion about Rochester. Typically the restaurants are upscale and more expensive, but this burger joint offers a decent piece of meat for less cash. This place has a local feel, and a place to go to catch locals and a quick bite and delicious shake. The meat is good and the shakes are better. Who can deny themselves with hand-dipped shake with malt and chocolate? Don't forget they give you the extra from the shake in the mixer cup. You might be paying $4 for a shake, but you are definitely getting enough for two! I also really enjoyed their french fries, crisp, and seasoned well with salt and pepper! Lastly, I really enjoyed the large containers they brought to your table filled with diced onions and pickles to throw on anything you are eating. I still haven't decided If I would actually make a special trip to go out there, or just wait until I am in the downtown Rochester area. This place is packed during peak eating times, so be sure to catch in between times to catch a seat at the dairy bar!
(4)Dusty S.
Other than my malt, which was above average, this place was a disappointment. My girlfriend and I took a booth seat, and there was a serious shortage of leg room for us. The seats were too low for the table, and the whole place smelled funky. Reminded me of the distant smell of vomit from carnivals. I ordered a deluxe burger and fries, which weren't that bad, but nothing special. When I asked for onions, I was brought a large sealed tupperware container full of minced up onions. What gives, was I just passed the community onion bowl? How many other customers have dished their onions out of this same container? The service was fine, and the decoration wasn't too bad, but again nothing too special. So, unless all you want is a quick stop for dessert, I would suggest heading elsewhere.
(2)Jordan S.
This place is awesome. it is definitely not the health, but this place is an icon. Roll with a turkey special, with bbq sauce on the side and a vanilla malt. Fried pickles make a solid sidekick.
(5)damian a.
Ok, this is a downtown rochester staple. I can't say the burgers themselves are "great." The meat is just okay, but like a lot of burgers of this nature the bun and condiments make the burger good. I find them to be pretty tasty when i'm in the mood for them. Mostly we go here because whenever I say to my daughter "where do you want to go?" and she says "red knapp's!" I think she likes the diner atmosphere with the old advertisements on the walls. oh and also the shakes. The shakes are huge and awesome. There are something like 16 different kinds and they let you mix and match (peanut butter banana is a pretty brilliant combination i think. scientifically proven). Some of them are flavor shots (the banana is just a syrup), but some use real stuff. I like the raspberry shake because it's made with real raspberries.
(3)Delsean L.
I have been going to Knapps for over thirty years and I will continue until I die. The burgers are nice sized and delicious. The seasoned fries are more than just fries with lawrys like most places. As everyone else has said the shakes and malts are better than most ice cream parlors I have been to in my life. It is one of the last original diners that pleases people of all types. For newbies it is worth trying. It is a family business worth supporting
(4)Amy B.
Funny that Knapps is in the ice cream catagory. I tend to think of it as a burger place that makes great shakes. I come here for the atmosphere (I like sitting at a bar), the shakes and the onion rings. The onion rings are the best around. At about an inch and a half in height I have no idea where they get onions that big but they make awesome rings. Crunchy too. I tend to go to Knapps when I'm feeling down. Going to Knapps always picks me up.
(3)Brian C.
Burgers. Onion rings. Shakes Malts. ALL VERY GOOD. A little pricey but worth it.
(4)Chris M.
Red Knapps is a staple of Rochester. It is the type of place you take someone who enjoys small, 50s style diners. Its not clean, but, in my opinion, its part of the charm. This is a place is a must go whenever I go on a photography expedition in Rochester. Hell, I've taken both dates and my grandma here and its turned out great. The service is usually pretty good, I've never personally ever had any problems. However, I always sit at the dairy bar, so I imagine that helps. Food takes a surprisingly short amount of time, and the waitresses have always been nothing but great. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is 50s diner style. Dairy bar, not exactly the cleanest floors, but its god charm. The food, however, is why I keep coming back. While their burgers aren't the pinnacle of gourmet eating, like some people here apparently think diner burgers should be, they are fantastic for what they are. I always get a deluxe bacon burger, but am probably going to start trying new stuff soon. The burgers are large, even though the patty is thin. Greasy burgers, thick bacon, thin diner style fries, and, best of anything they have to offer, absolutely amazing shakes. Their shakes are to die for. Anyone who likes a shake will thank you for bringing them there. Overall, a great place for a cheap(er) eat in downtown Rochester. Great atmosphere, helpful staff, amazing burgers. I will agree with some of the other reviewers and say I just wish they'd clean up a bit more. But besides that, one of my favorite places in downtown Rochester.
(4)Chris W.
Onion rings are massive, Shakes are Classic. Its a small diner, its not the best but its pretty dang close. I ordered a BLT and I should have gone with a burger. (Its a burger and shake place!) If you want a burger you will be pleased, but the BLT wasn't that great. Price is pretty dang reasonable for downtown Rochester
(4)Michael C.
Whenever I'm in Red Knapp's, I half-expect Marty McFly to come through the door at any minute. Their malts are amazing. Forget about dairy queen! Forget about Coldstone! Forget every other place you've had a shake or malt at, because Knapp's has been doing it longer and better than any of them. They serve food as well. I'd rank their burger as good, but not excellent. Still, I always felt like it was Red Knapp's itself that was making the dining experience interesting, and not the food per se. That being said, it's not a bad burger - it's actually quite nice (especially coupled with the McFly anxiety above). I'd suggest coming here most especially if you have kids; the hike up to Dairy Queen on north Main street is long, and driving there is pretty impossible in the summer as well. Red Knapp's has amble parking in the FREE public lots between 2nd and 3rd, and is less than a block walk. Plus it's delicious. And cheap. Why aren't you there yet?
(5)Ted N.
This definitely not what I expected. The atmosphere takes you back to the 50's which is awesome. The Chocolate shake was great and that is where my positive review ends. This place is totally over priced and the food is very bland. The service is slow and I was the only one in the place on Sunday around 1 pm. I agree with some of the reviews that Steak n Shake has better burgers and I can not stand Steak and Shake. I walked out the door paying 16.00 for a Shake, a bland Cheeseburger and fries. I guess I should have expected to pay this much since I was in Rochester. I will never go back again not even the shake could bring me back.
(2)C J C.
I wasn't alive in the 50s, so take this with a grain of salt: If you want a truly 50's experience, this gets ... well ... as close as you can get with current food safety laws. I've been eating at Red Knapp's since I was about ten years old, so understand that this place has a lot of nostalgia for me, and I've seen them grow as the times (and food codes) have required them to. The burgers are unique. They're very clearly not from frozen, previously formed, patties. Someone is smashing the meat in the back into a wide, round burger then cooking it (on what, or using what, I have no idea). Said burger is then placed pleasantly on a bun with a diameter that is much larger than a typical bun. They're either making these buns or they've found some secret "weird bun making place" to purchase them. They're really not anything all that special on their own (no sesame seeds, appears to be white bread in composition). It's just one of those things: the ratio of bread to burger is somehow exactly right and despite the bun being made of white bread and the burger likely having been fried, the bun is never soaked through with grease. Get the burger deluxe. Get the Chili fries (if you like Coney style chili fries). Get a malt. I recommend a Banana/Mocha. The banana comes from a bottle (or it did the last time I was there), however, that's a plus in this case: the flavor is within that one hour period of time that a banana can be put in a malt without tasting too ripe or too green. Give it a try. Ignore the interior and the look ... It's not fancy on purpose.
(4)P J.
burgers are awesome!!! the buns(i'm pretty sure they are made at The Home Bakery) are the best! wish i could get that recipe. i've been a regular here since i was a kid and now my kids enjoy it as much as i do.service is awesome, especially in the daytime when brittany is there. she's worked there as long as i can remember and makes the absolute best chocolate malt in the city!!! bacon burger, seasoned fries, chocolate malt. HEAVEN!!! all in all a go-to spot in downtown rochester.
(5)Loreen G.
I have always thought Red Knapp's is an awesome lil' gem with good food. I had lunch here the other day and for the first time I found an empty booth by the window! I usually get the food to go so I was happy to eat in for once. I have sat on those dairy bar stools in the past which seems cool at first, but there's quite a gap between the stools and the counter making it uncomfortable. Anyway I finally felt like this time I got to enjoy the whole 50s diner experience rather than just the food. I ordered their distinctive tasty hamburger (no pickles) with the seasoned fries! They also had a peppermint shake on the board that sounded good but I didn't get to try it this time around.
(5)lesley s.
I hadn't been here in awhile and was surprised when my cheeseburger deluxe arrived on a plate barely big enough to hold it. It's not that the burger was huge, but that the plate was very small. At first I thought, this is it? Then I gobbled it up and realized part of what I love about this place is there are no frills. Just a good burger (though next time I will add fries, which will likely result in a bigger plate) and great milkshakes. Don't go changin, Red Knapp's.
(4)L. O.
Another great lunch at the Dairy Bar! Burger was good, seasoned fries-tasty as always and the best mocha malt ever! Aside from the food, the waitress was very friendly and attentive, as usual. Definitely a good place for lunch in Rochester.
(5)Tiffany D.
Love this place! It takes me back to poodle skirts and sock hops and having a malt at the soda shoppe... or you know, the movie I saw like that. Red Knapp's is a classic diner, with burgers and fries and cokes and malts. They have your regular milkshakes, but the malts are creamier and worth the splurge. They have flavors ranging from chocolate to raspberry to lime and I haven't had a bad one yet. The fries are thinly cut and perfectly salty. The burgers are basic, but ask for the deluxe and get the chopped onions and a slice of cheese. They also have diner fare such as chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and surprisingly good chili. Very kid friendly place, but not great for groups (the tables are stationary). If you can, sit at the "dairy bar" and get the true experience.
(5)Kit S.
The hamburgers aren't great. Yes, you get a lot of burger, but it's bland. The Milkshakes ARE huge and wonderful!
(2)Curt B.
This is a family favorite. I think we head to this old time burger joint once every two weeks. We've only ever had a few things here, there's really only one choice as far as we're concerned...the burgers. The burgers are really big on really good bread and they taste great. You can get them with chili or a whole variety of options, but the plain old simple burger with ketchup, mustard, pickle does the trick for me. We always add a side of fried pickles to that and they are very tasty as well. The milkshakes are really good too. And again it's a pretty big shake. After a full meal we share a shake between the three of us and it hits the spot. Everyone's really friendly and we love sitting at the bar. It's a little pricey for a burger, but it's a good amount of food and they often have a coupon for a buy one get free burger.
(4)Scott V.
I work at RARA. The recreation department for Rochester and Rochester Hills. We are two blocks from Red Knapps. Okay, Okay, the burgers are not Red Coat or Miller's Bar. But for the less than $6.00 bucks your getting a big fresh burger that's better than Five Guys. In full disclosure, I live in Berkley and Bagger Dave's is my favorite burger for now. Since it is only four blocks from my home. If you order the Onion Rings and your ordering for an office of six. Order two and ask for them to be cooked a little longer until they are just a tad extra crispy. They are big and they come out tasty and there will be none left when lunch is over. The burger. Fresh. Somewhat smashed. The size of maybe two Wendy's singles. Ask for it medium. it isn't the best bun, more like a bun that is there to hold the burger together while you eat it. It's somewhat floury on the base, but holds quite well. Non toasted. It's a big spread out burger. Like I said, it's not a thick burger, but what you are paying for you have to remember to ask for it medium because it comes in the size of two patties flattened. But by golly. for the price of what you order, especially the onion rings and the burger, it's well worth it. Yeah, it's a diner. So what. There are plenty of upscale restaurants in Rochester. And Red Knapps is fine with me.
(4)Joe S.
Great malted shakes; I just wished they served their to-go shake orders in paper cups instead of styrofoam ...
(4)Brian G.
The amount of positive reviews for this place is depressing to say the least. Red Knapp's was basically the prototype for Steak N' Shake and the food is of the same quality. Flat, unseasoned meat patties with pretty slim fixings are appetizing if you're working towards your morbidly obese status. I look forward to the day that this place goes out of business and is replaced with a restaurant that has healthier and better tasting food.
(1)Kristina D.
Red Knapp's is '50's-style or '60's-style diner, serving classic diner food to patrons in booths or on counter stools. Old ads, such as for Nehi soda and Borax, adorn the walls. I had my very first malt there recently--malt, as the waitress explained, is the same substance in Whoppers. Blended to perfection with butterscotch syrup and milk, it was definitely quite the treat.
(3)Meghan R.
Hello yum fatty food best onion rings... Great malts and hell yeah a cheese burger with the works... We'll worth the calories
(5)Brian H.
This place has great food and great ice cream but lets face it this cant be ignored. This place has been just sorta clean every time. Finally my parents were in town and asked me where we cold eat quick. Their were 4 of us so we went to the back and back their their was 100 plus fruit flys or naut bugs flying around that whole back area and this was my first tome back their. I desided to sit up front at the tables but the bar tables were mostly dirty. I told my parents lets go and we left. As much as I loved their food I will never go back. All those bugs yuck. If I worked their I would handle that bug problem even if I had to go back their 3 times a day!
(2)doug r.
I had just departed Chateau Beaumont with a 'clean' pathology report. I wanted to celebrate. It was lunch time. I was hungry. I hadn't been to Knapp's in a very long time. Danielle was my waitress. She was prompt, attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the double cheeseburger and a bowl of chili. The chili arrived first. Hot food, served hot. This is typical Michigan chili (has beans). It was okay. I probably will not order again. I had forgotten how big the double cheeseburger would be. I arrived about the time I was finishing my chili. I immediately knew that half the burger would be going home. Hot food, served hot from the grill. The lettuce was fresh and crisp. The tomato was YADWT (yet another disappointing winter tomato). The ground beef had good beef flavor and a bit of flat top char. Yea! I had forgotten about Knapp's hamburger buns. It seems to be a bakery product, but it did not wow me. It was a tiny step up from a Wonder Bread bun. Will I return? Yea, when I'm in the area and seeking a burger. Will I drive 13 miles for a Knapp's burger? Nope. Price. $15.something, before tip. That's too much. No WiFi. CCW friendly.
(3)Kate A.
The ambiance of the old style diner is more than enough reason to go here. But I mean it when I tell you that you will never look at milkshakes the same way once you've tried a Knapp's Malt! Seriously, I don't care how lactose intolerant you are (I am too) it worth it! I also love their season fries and cheese burger. It's not the kind of place you can eat everyday but it's worth the splurge once in a while!
(5)Marc C.
God knows I want to love this place, really I do, but outside the malts, the food just doesn't deliver. The exterior of the place and counter seating is really incredible and very nostalgic, I mean, you's have to pay big bucks to recreate the 50's era charm that they've got going in spades. Pie in the sky, I wish new ownership would come in and turn the place into proper burger joint in the vein of a Shake Shack or something of that quality but I get that's a stretch. At this point, even a Five Guys would be an improvement. Unfortunately, a really great space is going waste in Downtown Rochester.
(2)Lauren C.
This was delicious and fantastic. The service was great and the food was perfect. Yes, perfect. I have attached proof in the form of a photo of a Vernor's shake and a stack of giant battered onion rings... which my husband described as "oh my god" and "a savory onion pastry" respectively. He ordered a loaded bacon cheeseburger as well, that he enjoyed. I had a turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw on top. The fries (perfect) and coleslaw were a side dish. I made the executive decision to heap the coleslaw on. Now you might asking if I negated the benefits of a turkey burger by adding coleslaw to it and I would say to you GET OUT YOU ARE NO FUN. So yes. A turkey burger with grilled onions, tomato, and a pile of coleslaw is now called an Executive Decision. Go. Enjoy it.
(5)Bobbie E.
The Best hamburger I've had in some time. The servers are Wonderful, Quick, and Friendly. Loved the quaint atmosphere of an old soda fountain, with Oldies but Goodies piped in. I'm from California, we don't have a place like this in my area. Wish we did. Our food came out Fast & Hot ! Thanks for a great experience, it was great
(5)Karen H.
Love the Boston Cooler. It's just a fun place to go for a burger and fries. The soups are good. It's all American.
(4)Colin V.
Super average.. This knapp's used to be legit turn for the worse average service didn't even get waters and the burger was a joke for the price #Whatadive
(1)Scott S.
If you like thin, overcooked, thin, tasteless patties on large good looking buns that look better than they taste then this is the place for you. If you are going to serve large buns at least make the patty large enough to fit them without having to leave so much bread on the plate. Very pricey burgers for the described quality and when you factor in the cost of (the small serving of) fries or the (rather large cut) onion rings and you've got yourself quite a tab (especially if you add a Malt or Shake).
(2)Mary R.
Love the food but hate going here now because the waitresses are cold as ice. Couldn't be ruder.
(1)Ashley E.
Knapps has an old school feel in the heart of Downtown Rochester. I had a cheeseburger with everything and a side of onion rings. The onion rings were HUGE! My husband and I split them and still had leftovers. The burgers were large as well (IMO) and I took home half of mine. They also have BLTs, pulled pork sandwiches, fries, seasoned fries, several different types of ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes, basically anything you would find at a diner! Seating is limited, but there was enough room for everyone while we were there. We were in and out in 30 mins. Overall, I would definitely return!
(4)Melissa M.
Need a time machine back to 1958? Get yourself to Red Knapp's, slide into a shiny red leather booth (or hop on a metal stool at the bar!), and prepare yourself for a good, old fashioned diner meal. This is one of those places that has been around forever, and you'd expect to see on that wretched unmentionable Food Network show, but are super grateful that it hasn't. Red Knapp's is true diner food, and is the real deal when it comes to Oakland County, Michigan history. An institution as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the food. These are thin, well cooked (but not "well-done," thankfully) burgers on a soft white bun with gooey cheese, shredded lettuce, and tomatoes. They are quite large for one person, but usually one (read: I) finds themselves finishing it before they know what hit them. It's not the best burger you'll ever have, but it certainly is good, and the charm of it all makes it well worth 4 stars. I'd recommend finishing your meal with a true 50s throwback: the strawberry shake. You just can't not do it! So so so very tasty.
(4)Regina S.
Headed into downtown Rochester Friday afternoon and was craving a burger. I remember coming here as a kid, but honestly, all I remembered was the amazing strawberry shake I had... I think I was 11. Ahhh, good times. Today we split one of those amazing shakes, had some delish bacon cheddar burgers and devoured some yummo chili cheese fries. Did you know they bake their own buns?? Some of the BEST chili cheese fries i've ever had!! I love the 1950s feel, it's actually authentic... and the prices are really really good!! It's a classic burger joint at it's BEST For sure!!! /Nostalgia!
(4)Matt K.
I'll never set foot in this place again. My wife and I just finished our first and last visit. This place is disgusting. The employees were using nasty, dirty rags to wipe down everything, including the wands used to make shakes. They wiped down the counter, spilled ketchup, then the shake wands. The rags looked like they'd been used all day long. Filthy. As far as the food/drinks, we had a chocolate shake (ordered before we saw what they were doing with the rags) and a chocolate sundae. The sundae was made with chocolate ice cream. Inexplicably, the shake was made with vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate syrup instead of chocolate ice cream. How does that make any sense? That's exactly what it tasted like - fake chocolate syrup.
(1)Keilan F.
The double chocolate malt was very tasty! The portion size I quite generous as well! Sweet little diner-style place.
(4)Rob B.
This place is a 1950's diner. It's a cute little restaurant on Main Street. The inside is small and quaint. I like the burger and ice cream smells as we entered. There are bar stools surrounding the dairy bar. It's first come first serve for these. There are also small booths for sitting too. Now that we are sitting next to the ice cream right behind the bar; it smells so good! We each had a cheeseburger with fries. It was decent. I had the chocolate malt with double malt and it was amazing! The prices here a bit on the expensive side for a diner but the ambiance and free smells a good.
(4)Chris J.
Have been here dozens of times and have always enjoyed their burgers. The burgers are nothing fancy - but they differentiate themselves in how they spice their meat. It is very tasty. Their shakes are great too!
(4)Brian P.
We normally come here for strawberry milkshakes and fried pickles. I know... Weird combination but the fried pickles are soooo good. The milkshakes are huge. I normally can't finish and my gf has to help me finish it.
(5)Theresa T.
If your looking for a burger, fries and a shake for $13.00, this is your place. I must say it is totally NOT worth it. My nephew likes to go here so I put up with it. It's not the cleanest place around either. And the service is hit or miss as they have very young staff there. Sometimes they are just a little too busy talking to take care of business.
(3)steve f.
And to all of you people raving about health food let me remind you that you are walking into a 50's diner that has been open since 1950! You are not walking into whole foods! I have been a loyal customer for about 20 years and have nothing bad to says. Oh and the chocolate peanut butter is to die for!!
(5)Scott T.
My kids love this place. It is an old style diner for burgers, fries, and shakes. My kids like the food a lot. I find it to be just OK. I would come with the family but not without kids.
(3)Nathasja T.
I am such a sucker for nostalgia, but I might be an even bigger sucker for chocolate malts. Knapp's may just have one of the best chocolate malts around, and that is no lie. Like some people mentioned, it is served in a metal cup and is super thick! My husband has fond memories of visting this place as a child. He remembers coming here for fries or rings and a burger, which was often a highlight for him. I love that at that point the place had been open for plenty of years, and that nowadays it is still alive and kicking. The fries are pretty good and the onion rings are hysterical, they are pretty much a quartered onion - they are huge! Like others mentioned, the service leaves something to be desired but the malt is totally worth it in the end!
(3)Hailey D.
First of all, people who say their shakes are amazing.... You're liars. My boyfriend and I went their tonight after a dinner at Outback (which was amazing btw) ended the night with a first and last trip to this dump. All we wanted was shakes because you people claimed they were really good. Well thanks for waisting 10 minutes and $10. I figured they'd have a strawberry banana shake no. Just chocolate or vanilla. Okay well chocolate. Wrong. You get vanilla with chocolate syrup. Uh ew. The only reason I gave them two stars is cause the waiters were really nice. Another thing that doesn't really have to do with them is we sat next to some really disrespectful people who truly put the cherry on top to fully ruin the visit.
(2)John W.
The burgers and shakes are amazing. I love the bread they use for their buns. The strawberry shakes are to die for. Love it!
(5)Anna R.
Lunch was okay. Nothing fantastic except for the servers. Not crazy about how the seats are set up. A lot of people rave about their shakes but honestly, my husband makes shakes way better than their's.
(3)Chris C.
People say bland and unseasoned. I say authentic, hot and flavorful. I don't want anything in my beef that would spoil the flavor. I was happy to see the Tupperware of onions and glad they served it that way. The onion rings were great too. very large. Not overcooked. Not too salty and not too much breading.
(4)Matt R.
great spot. has not changed sense I started going with my Grandpa in the 70's thanks for keeping it alive and the same!! hamburgers great shake was the best! fries very good and my wife loved the grilled ham and cheese.
(4)Ron C.
Well this one of my last several 'Rochester Bucket List items. As I parked I saw 3 men walking down Main St. and inquired is Red Knapps worthy of a visit, all 3 smiled & said 'Oh Yea!" and even recommended a certain burger & swore by the chocolate malt I walked in at noon Wednesday [ 10-5-11 ] and expected a wait, I was the only one in there, COOL! SO I ordered the Red Knapp Burger, loaded, a small seasoned fry & the famous chocolate malt, both gals at the counter were a hoot & very friendly The place is truly super clean! A+ The Burger was very good, cooked to perfection & the homemade bun from the bakery next door was truly a treat A Seasoned Fries ,they were okay C+ The Chocolate Malt served in a nice tall glass malt cup and all of the extra malt in the metal mixer container , brought to you!!! A++ plus it passed the straw test, where the straw could stand on its own PS: 2-3 have commented that they like the relish & onions being served in a shared Tupperware Container Me, not so much This was my only dilemma, the Burger , Fry & Malt came to a grand total of $13.67 + tip there are way to many places offering a $6 lunch for this to work for me anytime soon Plus I am still loyal to the Shamrock Irish Pub, The Redcoat Tavern & Millers Bar
(3)K L.
This place is the real deal! Burgers were very good. Buns were delicious and they were not oversized like some places. Next time I will treat myself to a malt! Will definitely be back.
(5)Amber T.
I love red Knapps except I ordered my blt without mayo, and they gave me mayo! I didn't eat it. Sadly.... But other then that it is family friendly, a nice milkshake shop theme, and good service! Their milkshakes are very good, they make alot, only give you a little then give you the rest to add it when you want. So, very nice pictures in the restrunt. Nice atmosphere, and good service. I rate this place 4/5 stars! Because of the mayo thing. But other than that it is family friendly, and GREAT MILKSHAKES!!!
(4)Josh H.
Pretty good if you are looking for a quick fix of fried or unhealthy stuff and good shake. Don't over order as the portions are large. It is very cramped( not much they can do about that) and there was a lot of flies. Overall I'd recommend as a classic diner.
(3)B T.
Wish I read the reviews before eating here. My husband grew up in Rochester Hills, and this was a favorite when they were kids. We just flew into Detroit, for our weekend getaway trip and this was our stop for lunch. I was starving, so we got the milk shakes and 2 burgers with an order of chili cheese fries. The milk shakes were delicious. The burgers and fries were not great. Our meal was about $40 bucks. There were alot of flies, which was annoying. Nonetheless - I ate what i could of the burger and fries - i wish i wouldn't have. I got so sick that afternoon. I was sick all night. It was awful. It totally ruined our little getaway.
(1)Tiana O.
Is this a prime example of people liking a place based off of pure nostalgia? The place was cold and cramped, the waitresses weren't very pleasant, many people were complaining about their wait time, and the food wasn't anything special. The chili cheese fries were mediocre and the cheese wasn't melted, the onion rings, while enormous, were soggy and the burger was from a frozen patty. The bun was pretty good if you like that soft, stick to the roof of your mouth, white bread thing (which I do, sometimes). Also, we were not offered any refills on our soda. I regreted not ordering a shake because they did look really good, but I don't think I'll be back to get one anytime soon.
(2)Kevin W.
on a level with burger king or mcdonalds, nothing special at all, way overpriced, fruit flies bothering us the entire time, three bugers and three pops cost almost $40.00... disappointed.... a whooper tastes better...
(1)Erik M.
I loved this place as a kid. LOVED. I would sneak out of work to grab a burger, which at the time, seemed big. But times have changed and this place hasn't. I stopped here on a whim because I was in the area and missed the giant flat burgers and awesome seasoned fries. There was only one other person there. I sat at the bar. Everything was clean, but it did have the smell of grease. I'm cool with that, this is a dairy bar and burger joint. The waitress was very curt. Look, I know working here and listening to the American Graffiti soundtrack probably isn't the best, but try to be nice to the customers. She hurried me with my order because she was so busy. Oh, wait, she wasn't. She was talking to her co-workers about how terrible her other co-workers were. Cool. I'll just sit here then and wait. Got the burger and seasoned fries. The burger was very dry. I like that flat floury bun, that may have something to do with the dryness, but the burger really wasn't that great. Plus, it was like five bucks. You can go to Five Guys with that and literally get triple that burger, and it won't taste like Sudan. The fries were decent, but you can get the same sort of salt and pepper fries at Mr. B's across the street and they're friendlier there. I don't think I'll be back. Like all things from my childhood, this was not as good as I remembered. After coming here, I've decided that I'll not watch my old He-Man tapes and just remember it fondly, because it will probably be rude and dry.
(2)Mark B.
Quite frankly, I'm surprised at the previous reviews. This place seems to be a local icon with great reviews. We're new to the area and wanted to try some quaint and local. Unfortunately, this is the worst customer service we've experienced in Michigan yet. The waitress was extremely curt and barely spoke to us. Our drinks were not refilled AT ALL during the entire visit. The malts were really good, which is why I'll give this place a star. However, we're suckers for good customer service and won't be back. True, the ambiance is vintage, quaint, and inviting; but there's just too many great places to eat in downtown Rochester to waist your time and money at Red Knapps. Sorry :(
(1)Michele B.
Love knapps! My daughter thinks footling hotdogs and a chocolate shake at the counter is a treat. Burgers, seasoned fries and coleslaw are good too!
(5)Brandi R.
Best place in Rochester for a quick burger. My kids love the real malts that they serve right in the metal container that they mix them in and it's very fun to sit at the bar. The decor is retro and it's very clean. The seasoned fries are good as well.
(4)Tom O.
Great burgers, great onion rings, great shakes. I have never been disappointed here. Suck it Red Coat, you have nothing on Red Knapps' burgers. I only wish they had 1/2 orders of onion rings. I've never been able to finish a whole order, even with help.
(5)