Baker's Dozen began in 2004 as a mom-and-pop style doughnut store, started by two former bakers for a corporate doughnut chain. As favorites like the Peanut Butter and Jelly Donut and the Chocolate and Peanut Butter Donut became well-loved in Topeka, the store quickly expanded from the original Lane Avenue location (now closed) to a sit-down style shop on S.W. 21st (now a few blocks west) and a second on S.E. 29th. You get more for your money at Baker's Dozen, which stays true to its name by adding an extra doughnut to every dozen you purchase. Diabetic? No problem! Baker's Dozen offers several doughnuts made with Splenda. (Updated 9.16.09)

The Brass Rail has been a fixture in the Oakland area since 1933. It's a friendly neighborhood bar where folks can meet with their buddies for good barbecue and the coldest beer in town. (Updated 2.23.09)

The heart of the Chatterbox Tavern is an old railway box car that arrived in 1934. First-time bar owner Jackie Coolberth acquired the Chatterbox Tavern in August 2008 and by Thanksgiving she was hosting a free community dinner, which she repeated at Christmas. Most days, however, food is a simple affair: burgers and hot dogs. The early-morning coffee crowd dines on biscuits and gravy. (Updated 2/20/09)

Chuckburger has been an East Topeka tradition since 1955 and offers some of Topeka's finest burgers. Chuckburger's cooked-to-order burgers (including the signature Chuckburger) and fries (including the fabulous sweet potato fries) are served from the drive-through or at the walk-up window. Its hand-dipped ice creams, shakes and malts are especially popular.
Husband and wife team John and Ellie Benedict own and run the business, which has a loyal following. (Updated 2.25.09)