Legendary Burgers, Shakes, and the Original Fry Sauce

Arctic Circle is a nostalgic place for many. It is a popular hangout for enjoying Black Angus cheeseburgers and dipped ice cream cones while shooting the breeze with your buddies. Now, only two locations are left in Oregon, and one is alongside Pacific Highway in Woodburn. Though there’s more competition nowadays, Arctic Circle is still the best place for made-to-order burgers, deep-fried Alaskan Halibut, and a huge selection of mix-ins for ice cream and milkshakes!

The first restaurant opened in Salt Lake City, Utah, almost 75 years ago, and the company grew to over 70 locations in eight states. The founder of Arctic Circle is famous for creating the Original Fry Sauce, initially called “pink sauce” for the pink tint created when mixing the two key ingredients, mayonnaise and ketchup.

Owner John Noffz purchased the Woodburn Arctic Circle in 2020; the restaurant’s been there since the 1970s. John renovated and cleaned things up but kept the restaurant essentially the same. “The community is very attached to it,” says John, “and we have people who drive from all over to visit, so it’s not just locals.”

Arctic Circle is the perfect place to enjoy classic Americana fast food, always made to order. Sink your teeth into a thick, juicy burger with 100% Black Angus beef and all the fixings or enjoy tender and flaky real Alaskan Halibut. Combinations come with a drink, fresh fries and sauce for dipping. Other tasty menu items include chicken tenders and sandwiches, fried jumbo shrimp, corn dogs and cheese curds. A kid’s menu is available for smaller appetites.

Famous for its cold, sweet treats, Arctic Circle paved the way for super-thick milkshakes and dipped cones. Customers can choose from over 20 shake flavors, including those made with local berries from Bauman’s Farms. “We use their berries in our shakes year-round, but during the season, they’re fresh. There’s nothing like a fresh berry milkshake on a hot summer day,” John says.

Arctic Circle is proud of its commitment to building a loyal team dedicated to superior customer service. The crew are all hard workers, and longevity with the company is common. “Our manager has been here over ten years,” says John. “Even the two still in high school have been with us since they were fifteen, so they’ve got that experience. I’m lucky to have an incredible staff.”

As a fixture in Woodburn, Arctic Circle values supporting the community. “This is a hardworking, survivalist town rooted in agriculture,” explains John. “We love supporting local schools and giving out coupons.” Digital coupons are always available on the Arctic Circle website and boast great monthly deals like $1.75 for a cheeseburger or $1.50 off Halibut n’ Fries.

Next time you’re craving a good old-fashioned drive-through burger paired with a frosty shake, make a pit stop at Arctic Circle. You’re sure to leave with a full belly and a big smile!

Arctic Circle is located at 315 N. Pacific Highway, Woodburn. Please give them a call at 503-982-2486 or visit their website at www.acburger.com.