Founded in 1936, Big Boys Restaurants are in several states and Japan. Basically a hamburger joint, Big Boys does serve other standard fare.
The story of the Big Boy name and character starts with a youngster walking into the restaurant and being greeted by owner Richard Woodruff with a "Hello big boy" and that name stuck. The mascot has undergone a few changes over the years, with the burger appearing and disappearing.
The Big Burger in Cincinnati doesn't fit any of the images I found of the evolution of the character. Digging deeper, it seems there are several other versions, whether official or not. In fact, there is a Big Girl statue somewhere.
Big Boy was more a staple of travel in the upper midwest of my youth. For some, the nostalgia is better than the actual food. They do have excellent Cokes. The food is average. I don't think I would ever seek a Big Boy, but if left with minimal options, I know it will be decent food.
Big Boy and me in Cincinnati, OH-March 2024.
Not sure if I ever ate there... but I remember begging my mom to take me to the one in our town back in the 80's. Looks like there are still four in Southern California. Might have to fulfill my childhood dream the next time I'm down there.
ReplyDeleteJust for nostalgia's sake, it'd be worth it.
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