Go Back To The Golden Age Of Drive-Thrus With These Vintage Fast Food Menus
By Jack Ripley | November 18, 2023
Bob's Big Boy, 1949, Has Since Become More Notable For Its Logo Than Its Food
Step into a world of delightful nostalgia as we take you on a journey through the captivating fast food menus of yesteryear. This slideshow gallery is a tribute to the iconic eateries that fueled our appetites and left a lasting imprint on our memories. Join us as we travel back to the vibrant decades of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, and relish in the golden era of fast food.
Within these menus lie the cherished flavors and beloved establishments that many of us recall with fondness. From the renowned classics of McDonald's, Burger King, and Taco Bell to the beloved favorites of Burger Chef, Sonic, and Shoney's Big Boy, these menus capture the essence of an era when fast food was gaining popularity and revolutionizing our dining experiences.
For many of our readers, these menus hold a special place in their hearts as they reminisce about the times they indulged in these mouthwatering treats. As you peruse the pages, memories of savoring a juicy burger, indulging in a frosty milkshake, or relishing a crispy taco might come rushing back, transporting you to a simpler time.
We invite you to continue scrolling through this captivating slideshow gallery, as we pay homage to the menus that once graced the counters and drive-thru windows of these beloved fast food establishments. Discover the iconic items, vibrant designs, and flavors that have become an integral part of our cultural history. So, come along and immerse yourself in a world of nostalgic fast food delights, where the memories of the past blend with the present.
(COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGELES PUBLIC LIBRARY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS)
Bob's Big Boy has been a staple of American culture since its inception in 1949. It is most famous for its iconic logo, featuring the portly boy with his hands on his hips and a broad smile. But Bob's was also known for its delicious fast food menu that included classic favorites like burgers, fries, and shakes. In addition to these staples, customers could enjoy creative dishes like their signature “Broilerburger”—a double-decker cheeseburger topped with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and pickles. The restaurant quickly became popular among families looking for an affordable meal out on the town. Today, Bob's Big Boy remains one of America's most beloved fast food restaurants, synonymous with nostalgia and good times.
Jack In The Box, 1960s, Back When The Bonus Jack Was Known As The Bonusburger
Ah, the 1960s. A simpler time when Jack In The Box was known for its Bonusburger as well as its tacos. Back then, this classic fast food restaurant served up burgers with two patties, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and Jack's Secret Sauce, - all on a sesame seed bun. You could also get an order of fries or onion rings to go along with it. If you had a sweet tooth, there were shakes and malts made from real ice cream that would hit the spot. It was a different era back then, but one thing hasn’t changed: the deliciousness of Jack In The Box!
A&W Drive In, Clarkston, WA, 1960s, The Same Decade That They Started Selling Bacon Burgers
The A&W Drive In in Clarkston, WA was the perfect spot for a summer night out during the 1960s. With its classic car-hop service and delicious menu options, it was no wonder why this fast food joint quickly became a favorite among locals. The decade of the 60s saw the introduction of the beloved bacon burger at A&W, an iconic combination of two all-American favorites that still stands today. Whether you were looking for a juicy cheeseburger or just some ice cream to cool off on a hot day, A&W had something for everyone. It's no surprise that this drive-in has become a fond memory for many people who grew up in Clarkston!
Benihana Opened In 1964 And Was Named For The Tokyo Coffee Shop Owned By Rocky Aoki's
Benihana opened its doors in 1964, and was named for the Tokyo coffee shop owned by Rocky Aoki's father. The original menu featured a variety of Japanese dishes such as tempura, sukiyaki, teriyaki steak, and sushi rolls, all cooked table side by Benihana’s expert chefs. With its unique atmosphere and interactive dining experience, it quickly became one of America's favorite fast food restaurants. Over the years, Benihana has expanded their menu to include other classic Asian-inspired dishes like hibachi shrimp, chicken fried rice, and vegetable tempura. Today, Benihana is still known for its delicious cuisine and entertaining dining experience that will take you back to the days when Rocky Aoki first opened his family restaurant in 1964.
Burger Chef Went Head To Head With McDonald's In The 1960s
In the 1960s, Burger Chef was a beloved fast food chain that went head-to-head with McDonald's. Founded in 1954 by General Foods executive Frank Thomas and Donald N. Smith of Hardee's Food Systems Inc., Burger Chef quickly rose to prominence as an impressive competitor to the iconic golden arches. With classic menu items like their Big Shef burger, Super Shef sandwich, and french fries cooked in 100% beef tallow, Burger Chef had something for everyone. By 1969, the company had grown to 1,200 locations across the United States, but eventually lost out to McDonald's in the battle for fast food supremacy. Despite its untimely demise, Burger Chef remains fondly remembered by those who grew up eating there during the '60s and '70s.
Burger King Menu Board, 1960s, Back When They Were Still An Independent Company
The Burger King Menu Board of the 1960s was a sight to behold! Back when they were still an independent company, customers could choose from a simple menu that included classic burgers and french fries. For those with a sweet tooth, there were tasty desserts like their famous milkshakes and giant thick shakes. Prices were affordable for everyone, making it easy to enjoy all that Burger King had to offer without breaking the bank. With its bright colors, nostalgic designs, and delicious food, it's no wonder why this menu board has become so iconic over the years!
A 1959 Burger King Menu Featuring The Jawbreaker, A Burger Even Larger Than The Whopper
The Jawbreaker was one of the most iconic burgers to ever grace a fast food menu. In 1959, Burger King introduced this massive burger that was even larger than their already popular Whopper. The Jawbreaker featured two juicy beef patties, topped with crunchy lettuce and tomato, smothered in special sauce, all between a sesame seed bun. It quickly became a favorite for customers looking for a huge meal, but it was only available for a short time before being replaced by other items on the menu. Even today, the memory of this legendary burger lives on in the minds of those who experienced its deliciousness firsthand.
KFC Was One Of The First Fast Food Restaurants To Expand To Canada In The 1950s
KFC was one of the first fast food restaurants to make its way into Canada in the 1950s, and it quickly became a beloved part of Canadian culture. The classic menu featured fried chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits - all cooked up fresh with Colonel Sanders' famous recipe. With its delicious southern-style cooking and reasonable prices, KFC soon had Canadians from coast-to-coast lining up for their favorite meals. In addition to this original menu, KFC also introduced some exciting new items over the years such as popcorn chicken, macaroni & cheese, and even breakfast sandwiches! To this day, KFC remains an iconic part of Canadian dining history that continues to bring families together for tasty meals.
In The 1950s Carl's Jr. Opened As A Mini Version Of The Original Carl's Drive-In Barbecue In Anaheim, California
In the 1950s, Carl's Jr. opened as a mini version of the original Carl's Drive-In Barbecue in Anaheim, California. Customers could enjoy classic fast food favorites such as burgers, fries and shakes while taking in the nostalgia of the era. The menu featured all-American classics like charbroiled hamburgers with special sauces, chili dogs, onion rings, and milkshakes made from real ice cream. It was a place where families gathered to share meals and create lasting memories over delicious food. With its unique atmosphere and tasty treats, Carl's Jr. quickly became an iconic part of American culture that overshadowed the original restaurant.
In The 1950s Dairy Queen Turned The Fast Food World Upside Down With Its Soft Serve Ice Cream
In the 1950s, Dairy Queen revolutionized the fast food world with its signature soft serve ice cream. This creamy and dreamy treat was a hit from the moment it debuted on menus across America. The iconic swirl of vanilla and chocolate flavors quickly became an American classic, bringing families together for generations to enjoy their favorite summer time treats. With its unique combination of nostalgia and deliciousness, Dairy Queen's soft serve ice cream has been a staple in our lives since the 1950s, providing us with sweet memories that will last forever.
This Early McDonald's Menu Comes From Shortly After The Company Began Franchising Across America
This is a piece of fast food history! This early McDonald's menu comes from shortly after the company began franchising across America in 1955. At the time, you could get a hamburger for just 15 cents and french fries for 10 cents - an amazing deal compared to today's prices! The original menu was simple, featuring burgers, fries, shakes, and soft drinks. If you're looking for a blast from the past, this vintage menu will take you back to simpler times when all it took to make your day was a delicious burger and fries.
F.W Woolworth Co., 1950, A Classic Diner Menu
Experience a classic 1950s diner with F.W Woolworth Co.'s menu! Enjoy all the retro favorites like American cheese sandwiches, pressed ham and chicken salad, milkshakes, and more! Take a trip down memory lane to an era of poodle skirts, jukeboxes, and greasy spoon diners. Savor the nostalgia as you dine on comfort food classics that have been around since the 50's. With F.W Woolworth Co., you can experience a piece of history every time you step into your favorite diner.
Kelbo's Hawaiian Spare Rib, Los Angeles, 1950s, A Tiki Inspired Restaurant With "Hawaiian" Food On The Menu
Kelbo's Hawaiian Spare Rib was a tiki-inspired restaurant in Los Angeles during the 1950s. With its exotic decor and unique menu, Kelbo's offered an experience like no other. The signature dish at this iconic eatery was their famous Hawaiian spare rib – tender pork ribs smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce served with sides of macaroni salad and white rice. It was a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its delicious flavor and unique atmosphere that transported them to the islands of Hawaii. For those looking for a taste of the tropics without leaving California, Kelbo's Hawaiian Spare Rib was the place to go!
By 1963, there were 600 KFC restaurants, making the company the largest fast food operation in the United States
In 1963, KFC had already become a household name and was the largest fast food operation in the United States with 600 restaurants! As one of the first major fast-food chains in America, it quickly became known for its delicious fried chicken served up with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, and gravy. The original menu also included items such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes that were sure to please any hungry customer. Eating at KFC in 1963 was an experience unlike any other - customers could enjoy a tasty meal without having to wait too long or spend too much money. It's no wonder why KFC has remained popular over the years; their classic recipes have stood the test of time!
Long John Silver's, 1970s, When Cape Cod Style Fish Came To Middle America
In the 1970s, Long John Silver's brought a taste of Cape Cod to Middle America with their classic fast food menu. It was a time when fish and chips were served up in paper-lined baskets with a side of coleslaw and tartar sauce - all for less than two dollars! The restaurant chain quickly gained popularity as people from coast to coast embraced the seafood-focused menu. Customers could order fried cod or haddock sandwiches, hush puppies, cole slaw, and even corn on the cob.With its delicious offerings and nostalgic atmosphere, it's no wonder why Long John Silver's remains an iconic part of American culture today.
A 1962 McDonald's Menu Featuring Their New Golden Arches
The 1962 McDonald's menu was a classic! It featured the chain's iconic Golden Arches logo, which had just been introduced that year. The menu included all of your favorite fast food classics like hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries, and shakes. Plus, it offered some unique items such as their special "Triple-Thick Shakes" and the beloved Full-Flavor Orange Drink. Customers could also get an extra treat with the purchase of a drink—a free ice cream cone! With its bright colors and simple design, this vintage menu is sure to bring back fond memories for anyone who remembers visiting McDonald's in the 60s.
Old Sonic Drive-Through Menu, Back When They Had A "Whopper"
Sonic Drive-Through has been a staple of American fast food since the 1950s, and their old menu was no exception. From classic burgers like the Whopper to delicious milkshakes, Sonic's original drive-through menu had something for everyone. The Whopper burger was an especially popular item—a juicy beef patty topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard all on a sesame seed bun. Of course, you couldn't forget about the famous Sonic shakes! These thick and creamy treats were available in flavors ranging from strawberry to chocolate malt. Whether it was lunchtime or late night snacking, the old Sonic Drive-Through menu provided tasty options for decades.
Pizza Hut In Kansas City, 1962, Four Years After The Restaurant Was Created In Wichita, Kansas
In 1962, four years after Pizza Hut was created in Wichita, Kansas, the restaurant opened its first location in Kansas City. It quickly became a local favorite for pizza lovers, offering a unique menu of classic Italian-American dishes like pepperoni and sausage pizzas, all made with fresh ingredients and served up fast. The atmosphere at Pizza Hut was always lively and inviting, with families gathering around tables to enjoy their meals together. Customers could also take advantage of special promotions like "Two for Tuesday," where they got two large pizzas for the price of one. With its delicious food and friendly service, it's no wonder that Pizza Hut has been an American staple for over 50 years!
Shoney's Big Boy, 1960s, Before The Big Boy Set Out On His Own
In the 1960s, Shoney's Big Boy was a staple of American fast food culture. Before the iconic Big Boy set out on his own, he made an appearance on menus at Shoney's restaurants across the country. The original double-decker burger featured two juicy all-beef patties topped with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and special sauce served up on a toasted sesame seed bun. It was a classic combination that quickly became a hit with customers who enjoyed its delicious flavor and generous portion size. For many, it evoked feelings of nostalgia for simpler times and brought back fond memories of days spent enjoying good food with family and friends.
Sonic Drive-In, 1959, When Service Moved At The Speed Of Sound
Sonic Drive-In has been a staple of American culture since 1959, when the first restaurant opened in Oklahoma. Back then, Sonic was ahead of its time, offering customers fast food service with waitresses cruising on roller skates! As one of the earliest fast food restaurants, Sonic's menu featured classic favorites like hamburgers and hot dogs, along with unique items like tater tots and onion rings. The atmosphere was fun and nostalgic, with carhops delivering orders on roller skates and playing music over the drive-in speakers. With its retro vibes and delicious eats, it's no wonder that Sonic is still going strong today!
T.G.I. Friday's was founded to recreate the comfortable cocktail party atmosphere for professionals in their 20s and 30s
T.G.I. Friday's has been a staple in the fast-food industry since 1965, when it was founded by Alan Stillman to recreate the comfortable cocktail party atmosphere for professionals in their 20s and 30s. From its signature potato skins appetizer to its famous Jack Daniel's sauce, T.G.I. Friday's menu has something for everyone. The restaurant is known for its unique combination of classic American dishes with international flavors, from Mexican fajitas to Italian pasta dishes. And don't forget about the drinks! With an extensive selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, you can always find something to sip on while enjoying your meal. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a night out with friends, T.G.I. Friday's offers the perfect atmosphere to relax and enjoy yourself.
Taco Bell In The 1960s, When You Could Still Get A Burger At The Bell
In the 1960s, Taco Bell was a lively and vibrant place to grab a bite to eat. With its bright colors and delicious Mexican-inspired fare, it quickly became an American favorite. At that time, you could still get burgers at the Bell, but they were served with a side of nacho cheese sauce for dipping! The menu also featured tacos, burritos, and tostadas - all made from freshly prepared ingredients. Of course, there were also plenty of sides like refried beans to complete your meal. In addition to great food, customers enjoyed the lively atmosphere and friendly staff who always had a smile on their faces. It's no wonder why so many people fondly remember those days spent enjoying a burger at the original Taco Bell.
Vintage A&W Drive-Through Menu, Long Before Franchised Were Streamlined
Step back in time to the 1950s and experience a vintage A&W drive-through menu. Before fast food restaurants were streamlined and franchised, this classic American chain offered an array of delicious burgers, sandwiches, fries, and shakes that could be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. This retro menu featured favorites like the Papa Burger, the Mama basket, the Chubby "Junior," Root Beer Float, and more - all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection! The atmosphere was friendly and inviting, making it a popular spot for families looking for a quick bite before heading out on their next adventure. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia and relive the golden age of fast food at A&W
Vintage Dunkin Donuts Menu With Only 12 Flavors
The vintage Dunkin' Donuts menu of the 1960s was a far cry from today's expansive list of flavors. Back then, customers were limited to just twelve classic options: vanilla, chocolate, maple, strawberry, apple and spice, pineapple, black raspberry, strawberry-filled, jelly, lemon and "kreme." Despite the small selection, this beloved fast food chain still managed to make its mark on the culinary world with these timeless favorites. With their sweet aroma wafting through the air and creamy fillings oozing out of every bite, it's no wonder that Dunkin' Donuts remains an iconic part of American culture even today.
Walgreen's, 1938, When It Was More Of A Soda Shoppe Than A Pharmacy
In the late 1930s, Walgreen's was more of a soda shoppe than a pharmacy. Customers could indulge in classic American treats like malts and shakes made with real ice cream, or enjoy a triple decker sandwich. The menu also included BLTs, grilled cheese, and tuna melts. For dessert, customers could choose from a variety of fancy sundaes and "milk drinks." Whether you were looking for something sweet or savory, Walgreens had it all!
In 1988, Wendy's expanded its bar to a full-blown buffet called the Superbar for $2.99.
In 1988, Wendy's revolutionized the fast food industry with their Superbar. For just $2.99, customers could enjoy a wide variety of delicious options from salads and fruits to hot dishes like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, chili, and more! This was an unprecedented move at the time that allowed people to customize their meals and get exactly what they wanted in one convenient location. The Superbar quickly became a hit among diners of all ages, creating fond memories for many who still reminisce about it today.
Wendy's Menu Board, Back When They Only Had A Few Options
The Wendy's menu board has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Back in 1969, when Dave Thomas opened the first location of Wendy's Old-Fashioned Hamburgers in Columbus, Ohio, they only had a few options on their menu board: hamburgers, french fries, chili, and frosties. But that didn't stop customers from coming back for more! The burgers were made with fresh beef cooked to perfection, served up hot and juicy with all your favorite toppings. The french fries were crispy and golden brown, just like the ones you'd get at home. And the frosties? Well, let's just say those creamy treats have been making mouths water ever since!
White Castle, 1952, The Last Time Hamburgers Were A Nickel
White Castle was the first fast food chain in America, and it's no surprise that their 1952 menu still stands out today. For just a nickel, customers could get two of White Castle's signature sliders: small hamburgers with onions grilled right into them. The burgers were served on a five-hole bun made from steamed dough, giving them a unique flavor and texture that kept people coming back for more. Plus, they came with pickles, mustard, or ketchup - all for only a nickel! It may have been the last time hamburgers were so cheap, but White Castle's iconic slider has remained unchanged since then - an enduring reminder of the golden age of fast food.
In-N-Out Burger, 1960s, And They Still Have The Same Menu
In-N-Out Burger has been a beloved fast food restaurant since 1948, and their menu has remained the same for over 70 years! In the 1960s, you could find classic burgers like the Double-Double and Animal Style Fries. You also had the option to get your burger “protein style” with lettuce instead of a bun. The original menu was simple yet delicious, offering customers quality ingredients that were made fresh daily. Even today, you can still enjoy these same iconic items at any In-N-Out location. So if you're looking for an old-school experience, head on down to In-N-Out for a taste of nostalgia from the past.
By The 1970s Burger Chef Offered The "Super Shef" A Quarter Pound Hamburger Unlike No Other
In the 1970s, Burger Chef offered a hamburger unlike any other - the Super Shef. This double meat quarter pound burger was made with fresh ingredients and served up in a way that could only be described as, well, "super." It featured two slices of cheese melted over two juicy beef patties, topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise all on a sesame seed bun. Not only did it taste great, but it also had an interesting backstory. The Super Shef was created by Burger Chef's head chef at the time, who wanted to create something special for his customers. He succeeded - this delicious burger quickly became one of the most popular items on the menu!
