Southwest Cheeseburger at the New Dix Hills Diner

Wondering why the parking lot that bridges East Deer Park Road and Jericho Turnpike is so full these days? 

Look again and you'll see a big change in our neighborhood diner.  Owner Paul Tsapelis took over this past June and announced the change with big banners out front proclaiming his new ownership.  Along with giant holiday decorations that would bring cheer to anyone who passes by, he has made the biggest changes in the kitchen.

Step into the diner and the holiday spirit continues with giant candy canes, sparkling ornaments and even a sign pointing to "Mrs. Claus's Kitchen."  All fun aside, the new Dix Hills Diner is taking the diner business seriously. 

Most diner menus can be dizzying and overwhelming with their varied and endless choices, but the Dix Hills Diner's new menu is pleasing and easy to read. They also have a Lunch Specials menu, which includes soup and dessert. Diners usually make very good burgers, so I decided to choose between the 11 burgers. Mr. Tsapelis says that the Mile High Meatloaf ($10.95) and the Sky High Pot Roast ($10.95) are very popular with patrons too. 

The Dish: Southwest Cheeseburger ($9.99)

What's Inside:  Grilled beef burger with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon and plenty of jalapeno peppers piled on the bun. 

How's It Taste:  It's a solid juicy burger that really hits the spot when you have that beef craving.  The bacon gives it that rich and smoky flavor paired with the heat from the peppers and bite from the cheddar.  It's a lunchtime treat, and what a treat, especially if you can indulge in a nap afterward. 

Let's see, 11 different burgers, not including the new Salmon Burger, so if you try one a week that brings us just about halfway through winter.  Then we will have to try the paninis  and the soups, and the breakfast menu (with 10 different pancakes), and of course a whole dinner menu and don't forget dessert; by that point it will be time for New Years 2012.

Sides: It was accompanied by french fries, onion rings, lettuce and tomato.

You can view the menu and more at www.dixhillsdiner.com.