The Charcoal Pit, or simply "the Pit" as it's called by locals, serves all the best diner fare and more at the North Wilmington location that started in 1956. It quickly grew from a teeny-tiny burger bar and even has a second location and a hearty menu today. Whether you're golfing, tubing down the Brandywine, or going into the city of Wilmington, fuel up here first, so you'll have plenty of energy to do it.

This Wilmington institution was an instant hit when it opened in 1956. Just a short time after opening their tiny four-table restaurant, its founders had to expand to a larger space with room for 115 customers.

Later, the restaurant added a second location. The Original Charcoal Pit is in North Wilmington, while the "Big Pit" is located at Prices Corner.

The delicious burgers are what first made the Charcoal Pit famous - and what keeps hungry customers coming back again and again.

These are no fast-food patties. The award-winning burgers are made with a secret recipe that's been closely guarded for generations.

A BLT accompanied by a freshly brewed iced tea practically screams "diner food."

The Charcoal Pit has all the standard items you'd expect for an eatery started in the '50s, along with modern selections like delicious turkey burgers and quesadillas.

The Grilled Corned Beef Reuben is another customer favorite.

Tender corned beef with just the right amount of sauerkraut is what makes this sandwich so popular. Furthermore, there is so much variety on the menu that everyone at your table will find something they like.

Stop in for a drink and locals will welcome you like you're a customer at "Cheers"!

The list of drinks at the Charcoal Pit is almost as long as the list of foods, and that doesn't even include its famous shakes.

Locals visiting on Fridays often enjoy the battered fish with fresh slaw or fries.

It's the freshness and quality of diner mainstays that have kept customers coming here since the 1950s.

The ice cream parlor classics scooped here pay tribute to Delaware high schools.

Deciding which to try is hard. You can ask students from nearby Salesianum or Brandywine for a recommendation, but they may be biased! Of course, the Salesianum Sally is delectable, with marshmallows and butterscotch, and the walnut-topped Brandywine Bull Dog tastes just as good. But don't forget the seven other shakes on the menu! They are as fantastic as the schools for which they are named.

If you're up for a BIG challenge, dig into the Kitchen Sink.

This massive sundae contains 20 scoops of ice cream, banana spears, chocolate syrup, crushed pineapple, cherries, walnuts, and whipped cream. You'll want to bring a few friends to share!

A meal at the Charcoal Pit is sure to fill you with both delicious food and camaraderie. Sample all of the tried-and-true recipes at either location. You'll be planning your next visit before the first one is even over! Learn more about The Pit on its website or Facebook page.