If you’ve ever watched a television show or movie that shows bygone days of small-town America, you’ve most certainly seen the cafe bar counter scenes where locals frequent for their morning coffee or teens for their after-school milkshakes. Maybe you’ve even at one time cozied up to a cafe bar counter to nurse a cup of coffee or quick order something to go. Sadly, those places are all but gone. But one luncheonette still thrives today, hiding in Bakersfield, California, and why you’ll want to visit the last of its kind:
The first F.W. Woolworth "five-and-dime" store opened in 1878 in New York.
While the first venture failed, the model changed and different locations began springing up across the country. This 1961 photo was taken in San Francisco.
Woolworth's debuted in the California town of Bakersfield in 1911.
The chain store spread and flourished. This modernly-equipped and air-conditioned store shown here opened in 1950. The four-story Woolworth building thrived for many years, before closing in 1994.
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The original Woolworth's Luncheonette is still here, however, but is now operating under the name of Woolworth Diner.
In addition to its 22 counter seats, it has Formica tables off to the side. All seats typically fill with hungry diners on most days. Diner employees retain the old-fashioned feel of uniforms, food, and friendly service.
The classic burger and shake remains the best seller!
While the Woolworth model is gone, it will forever be known as the first modern retail big box store model.
Do you remember Woolworth’s and did you ever venture inside one? If so, where and what were your memories of this now gone store that once reigned supreme across America? For related content, consider this 1950s-style diner in Colorado.
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