Eating with The Avengers

The Avengers made shawarma a household name. After they've risked their lives in a huge battle in/over New York City, they take a break with some shawarma. Tony Stark insisted. They almost look too exhausted to eat:

The scene was a last minute addition. Literally. Last second even. The cast was together for a press junket in Los Angeles less than a month before the The Avengers opening date of May 4th. Robert Downey, Jr. teased at the press conference that they were filming one last scene - except he wasn't teasing. I remember seeing journalists at the conference tweeting speculations that day. Someone even reported seeing Chris Hemsworth exiting an elevator in full Thor costume and battle-worn makeup.

It was all for the sake of shawarma.

When I realized the location of the infamous scene wasn't too far away, I made it a point to go. Elat Burger is tucked into a tiny strip mall in West LA. If you know the film, it's instantly recognizable as soon as you step inside. They made a few modifications for filming but not many. Mostly, the movie has a couple more signs than the actual diner.

I am incapable of hiding my enthusiasm, and the guy working the counter looked at me and my friend and instantly pegged us as fans of The Avengers. I practically squee'd all over the place. I did something sacrilegious and didn't order shawarma (I know) and while I was taking a seat, I overheard the employee talking to my pal about sometimes people show up dressed as Thor or Captain America. He laughed, but he thought it was a bit too much.

He indulged our flailing and gave us some cool pictures that he signed - I think as the "Avengers Chef." It's hard to make out. It now has a prime spot on my fridge.

Here's the address in case you want to check it out (the food was freaking delicious):
Elat Burger
9340 W Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90035