Burgers of the Past: Owensboro Chains We Wish Were Still Around

There’s something special about the burger joints of the past, like Burger Chef, Sambo's, Druther's, and DDI. During Owensboro Burger Week, let's look back at some of the most iconic burger restaurants that have sadly closed. Which do you miss the most?

Do you ever think about those burgers we loved the most from the past? So, let's have some fun and reminisce. Most of these were open before I moved here, but my friends and family always talk about them. Some of the burger chains listed were regional, and some were local, but all served great burgers that we miss. Take the poll below and vote for the burger joint you miss the most!

BURGER CHEF

Who could forget "Burger Chef" and "Jeff"? They were a fun part of the brand’s identity and a big reason it stood out. The "Funburger" and "Funmeals" were ahead of their time, offering kids something similar to what McDonald's later made famous with their "Happy Meals." I mean, those colorful boxes and the little toy inside made every trip to Burger Chef feel like an adventure!

And, the flame-broiled burger concept was groundbreaking when Burger Chef introduced it in the early '50s. It set them apart from so many others and gave their burgers that distinct, smoky flavor people loved. Do you have a favorite memory or burger from Burger Chef that stands out?

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"Remember Burger Chef? It was always a treat to go in there. Their burgers came in a cellophane wrapper, and it seemed geared towards kids, Mike Chaney reminisced.

This was my first burger joint as a kid. Always had to convince my parents that I could eat a "Big Chef".", Jim Gasparovic added.

Keith Lawrence remembers Burger Chef, "When I was in the Army in 1970-71, the Burger Chef near our house had five burgers for $1 on Tuesdays."

Larry Myles added, "Burger Chef was just around the corner from us too, a true staple in my childhood."

DRUTHER'S  RESTAURANT

"I'd Ruther Go to Druther's Restaurant"

Druther's located on New Hartford Road was a family staple in Owensboro. It's a place that brings back fond memories for many people. Do you remember "Queenie Bee" and "Andy Dandytale"? Those fun iconic characters were a big part of the charm.

Fun Fact! Burger Queen transformed into Druther's Restaurant in the early '80s. The burgers and the atmosphere were one of a kind, offering delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. It was a go-to for families wanting an inexpensive delicious meal!

Todd Humphreys was a fan, "Burger Queen had good double cheeseburgers, but Blandford's had the BEST cheeseburgers in town."

At Druther's it wasn't only about the burgers, Sheila Sheeva Sisk shares, "I miss Druthers. They had the best fish."

RED BARN

"When the hungries hit / When the hungries hit / Hit the Red Barn."

How could anyone forget the classic burger spot at the corner of Parrish & Frederica with massive, delicious burgers that had a way of making every meal feel like an event? The "Big Barney" and "Barnbuster" were legendary! Those big, juicy patties with all the fixings were a favorite for so many. Is it a top contender in that nostalgic burger race? Vote below!

Red Barn had Popeye cartoon-themed collectible glasses and my Dad had the entire set. He lived close to the restaurant, Jeff Rumage reminisced.

SAMBO'S

Sonic now sits where Sambo's used to be on Frederica Street, but back in the day they were not only known for a wide variety of food, but their burgers had a loyal following. Maybe it was the unique seasoning or the way they were cooked to burger perfection. Plus, the diner-style atmosphere made every visit feel like an experience. Do you remember the taste of their burgers?

JERRY'S

Jerry's was another local favorite! It was located on Frederica Street before Franey's took its place. Jerry's had a big, diverse menu, but it was their burgers that stole the show. Those hearty, flavorful burgers made them stand out, right? Whether it was the seasoning or the way they were cooked, it was a local go-to burger joint! Most of the restaurant locations became Denny's but one still stands in Paris, Kentucky. Do you miss hanging out at Jerry's? You're not alone!

Jennifer Atherton shared this amazing memory!

Location: Back dining room of Jerry's Restaurant, any given night from 1984-1988, way before the internet became what it is today.

Scene: Multiple students surround the table, leaning over textbooks & papers. The tabletop is littered with juice, tea, water, soda glasses & the occasional steaming coffee cup. Empty plates bear evidence the students shared the day's events over supper before digging into their homework.

Interesting what memories pop up. So thankful to live in a town where local businesses were NOT afraid to let teenagers hang out all night. Even if we did have to pool our money to eat & to leave a tip for the servers. #livinginasmalltown

Cindy Sowders shared, "I miss 8 Ball the most because they were cheap, and the burgers were huge!"

Kenny Roberts added, "I always liked Dennis and Akers and Blandford’s."

"Locally owned Little T’s had the biggest hamburgers in Owensboro. They were located where Madewell's is now, Mike Chaney shared.

Chris Arnold agrees, " Little T Diner had frypan-size burgers!"

Those are just a few that you may miss the most. Now, it's time to vote in our poll.

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