I've always believed that the messiest burger was the best burger.

You know the kind - where everything on the patty ends up on your hands when you're done. If you're looking for a messy one, look no further than Squeaky's Tip Top on Central Avenue. They flame broil their burgers so that each one has that fresh-off-the-grill taste.

A couple of days ago, I made my way to the restaurant with a co-worker. I ordered a regular, old fashioned cheeseburger with all the fixings.

After the first bite, ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise began dripping down my fingers. Between bites, I munched on Lay's Original potato chips. My meal complete, I began to pile dirty napkins upon napkins upon napkins onto my plate.

My meal cost $5. My co-worker, who ordered a turkey sandwich with chips, spent $4. The prices alone are worth a visit.

If you're not in the mood for a messy burger, the Tip Top menu also features pizza, grilled chicken sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, barbecue sandwiches, and ham and turkey sandwiches. The establishment also serves hot dogs, chili, salads, hot wings, fried mushrooms and pickles.

The Tip Top is known as one of Augusta's oldest dives so don't go looking for linen table cloths and flower vases. But atmosphere isn't everything.

Besides, where else can you play a game of foosball or a round of pool after finishing off your tasty treats?

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MESSY DELIGHTS

The Eatery: Squeaky's Tip Top, 2596 Central Ave. (map)

Phone: 738-8886

Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch; reopens at 6 p.m. Monday-Saturdays; opens 4 p.m. Sundays

Cost: 95 cents to $10.99

The Verdict: Casual, laid back, no fuss, no frills; four stars out of five

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