Oldest Remaining Bob’s Big Boy

The oldest remaining Bob’s Big Boy in the United States is located at 4211 Riverside Drive in Burbank. Maybe you spent the afternoon puttering about on the Warner Brother’s VIP tour, or being accosted by Jaws at nearby Universal Studios, or pursuing the wealth of horror books at Dark Delicacies, whatever the case, take a lunch at this beacon of Goggie SoCal Geekery. Built in 1949 by Scott MacDonald and Ward Albert, it was designed by noted Los Angeles architect Wayne McAllister, who was a leader in the Googie style of architecture that embraced the automobile and the Space Age. I think the Jetsons would be right at home at this restaurant.

The restaurant was designated a California Point of Historical Interest in 1993. The MacDonald family acquired the restaurant in the 90s and reintroduced the carhop service on weekends. Interestingly, Philip MacDonald, son of Scott MacDonald, wanted to level it and fought against the historic designation.

The Beatles dined here during their 1965 tour. Look for the plaque, unless someone has swiped it again.

Sit at the counter (or find that Beatle’s booth), and dive into the classic, fries, and a shake.