These 11 Texas Drive-In Restaurants Are Fun For An Old Fashioned Night Out
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Between the neon signs, classic cars always parked outside, and good old fashioned American food, drive-ins take us back to some of our most cherished childhood memories. Luckily, quite a few of these vintage eateries still exist throughout the Lone Star State, and they’re perfect for times when you want a side order of nostalgia with your burger and fries.
Snapka's has been serving hungry South Texans since 1948. At one point, the restaurant was so popular that five locations had to be opened to keep up with the demand. Two drive-ins remain today, and the food is exactly as it's always been: started on when your order is placed and not a minute sooner. You'll find Snapka's at both 4760 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78408 and 4434 Weber Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411.
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This charming drive-in has been open since 1971, so it's had nearly 50 years to perfect the craft of burger-flipping. The patties are charcoal-broiled and taste better than anything you'll find in a restaurant of this era. Top Notch is located at 7525 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757.
So many childhood memories I'll cherish forever were made at the Pig Stand. It was the very first drive-in to ever exist, and this is the very last one standing. In addition to the iconic country-fried steak sandwich and scrumptious onion rings, this historic eatery serves up a hefty dose of nostalgia that everyone needs to experience at least once. The address is 1508 Broadway St, San Antonio, TX 78215.
Some say the best hamburger in Texas can be found at Keller's, and this picture makes it hard to argue with the statement. It's the oldest restaurant of its kind in Dallas, drawing in locals and travelers alike with its mouthwatering No.5 Special: two patties with cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, and special dressing all on a poppy seed bun. Simple, but absolutely perfect - the recipe hasn't been changed in over 50 years because there's no need to alter it. Friday nights are lively as can be, with motorcyclists filling the parking lot to chow down. You'll find the original restaurant at 6537 E NW Hwy, Dallas, TX 75231.
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Watson's was originally part of the Watsonburger chain established in the 1950s. This particular restaurant is the oldest and the only location still offering carhop service. All those classic cars are reason enough to pay it a visit! The address is 631 W Main St, Denison, TX 75020.
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Making things a tad confusing, this drive-in of a similar name as its predecessor is also located in Denison. As stated before, they used to be one and the same before becoming two separate entities. We certainly don't mind - that just means double the delicious food! Watsonburger is located at 1901 West Morton Street,
Denison, TX 75020.
Mr Frosty opened in 1954 as the Frosty Drive N before Its name was changed in 2010. Enjoy burgers, fries, milkshake, and even homemade root beer in an atmosphere that'll take you right back to childhood. You'll find the restaurant at 1002 Fort Worth Dr, Denton, TX 76205.
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The first El Paso drive-in with a speaker system, Charcoaler was established in 1961. Last year, it was set to close before getting bought out by new management. Not only are we happy about its rebirth because of the delicious food, but also that incredible view! It doesn't get much better than digging into a juicy burger with towering mountains surrounding you.
Marked by the signature interlocking carport that's existed since the restaurant opened in 1958, this retro drive-in has some of the best burgers you've ever eaten. With original pictures and newspaper clippings from decades ago mounted all over the walls, the vintage vibe is everywhere you look at Theo's. The address is 2626 East Main Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
This legendary eatery has been serving up BBQ, burgers, milkshakes, and more standard diner fare since 1950. It was even featured on the Food Network! Come visit at 1150 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78209 and see what all the hype is about.
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The oldest restaurant on the list, Health Camp opened its doors all the way back in 1949. Neon signage combined with out-of-this-world burgers, hot dogs, shakes, and frozen custard make this little gem an obligatory roadside stop. The address is 2601 Circle Rd, Waco, TX 76706.
Have you been to any of these drive-ins? Did we leave off any of your favorites? If so, be sure and let us know!
Texas also has plenty of drive-in movie theatres that are still alive + well! Check them out here and catch a flick after eating at one of these places for a date night straight out of the 50’s.
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