This Drive-In Restaurant in Southern California Is A Hidden Gem

Turn the clock back, well, a few decades and much of the dining scene in Southern California consisted of the drive-in restaurant – not to be confused with the drive-through restaurant. The fries were hot, the shakes were cold, the service was friendly, and your favorite table was your own front seat. Picture the lot full of classic cars, windows down, music turned up, and everyone in a social mood. Fast-forward to today and the drive-in restaurant has gone the way of the drive-in theater. Your car may still be how you pick up your fast food, but it is not necessarily your favorite Saturday night hangout. That being said, for those craving a bit of old-school dining, this tiny restaurant in Ventura really hits the spot.

B & J Drive-In has gone through a few owners through the years, but very little has changed about the building that is still a favorite among locals.

This restaurant has approximately 70 years of history serving the neighborhood American favorites like burgers and shakes, originally under the Carnation brand.

The drive-in is not just for burgers and fries, although they do both quite well. Mexican staples, like tacos and burritos, are made fresh and raved about. Frequent diners also love the asada fries.

The owner of B & J has brought back some indulgent favorites that had gone by the wayside under previous ownership, including corn burritos. Corn tortillas are filled with refried beans, rolled tightly, and deep fried. What takes these taquito-like goodies over the top is that they are stacked and covered with special sauce and cheese - a lot of gooey, melting cheese!

Not only does this hotspot have daily specials like bacon-wrapped hot dogs and buy-one-get-one-free milkshakes, but they like to add a little excitement to the options. Are you brave enough to take a dare?

While B & J makes a fantastic classic cheeseburger, it is hard to resist a pizza burger. Who wouldn't want two of America's favorite comfort foods in one bite?

Aguas Frescas, including traditional jamaica and horchata, are hand-made daily on-site. The cucumber lemonade is especially popular.

True to its roots, B & J Drive-In is still a popular gathering place for classic cars. Bring your car or come admire someone else's during one of the restaurant's "Park and Chill" evenings or "Cruise-In" events.

Driving through the town of Saticoy in Ventura, California, it would be easy to pass this little place by, but why not drive in for a bite? You will be glad you did.

Have you been to this hidden gem in Ventura, California? Let us know your favorite thing on the menu in the comments. Follow B & J Drive-In on Facebook to keep up with events and specials. Interested in more unique eateries in Southern California? Check out a few other Southern California restaurants worth a visit.

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1323 Los Angeles Ave, Ventura, CA 93004, USA

B & J Drive-In Is A Tiny, Old-School Drive-In That Might Be One Of The Best Kept Secrets In Southern California

Natasha Kayes

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