The Best Drive-In Restaurant In Every State

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In today's world, efficiency has become synonymous with food prep and service, leading to how drive-ins have not only stayed in business but also thrived. The first drive-in restaurants in the U.S. began as ways to serve customers delicious food efficiently. As Dwayne Jones notes in an article about the first drive-in restaurant, The Pig Stand in Dallas, Texas, the combination of a pork sandwich served with a cold drink in a carside fashion was simple, yet successful. Even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurants began offering carhop services in order to actually maintain business, according to Smithsonian Magazine. As architect and author Alan Hess noted, "I think the thing that's most important is the realization that the drive-in is a significant example of modern architecture. It had a purpose, and still has a purpose."

These restaurants have proven time and time again to be successful for reasons of convenience. So much so that there are over 30 seasons of the series "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." As host Guy Fieri tells Deadline, "[The mom-and-pop restaurant business] is, I think, one of the toughest businesses in the world, especially in today's climate," a main reason why his show focuses on small businesses and restaurants of every variety, even the simple drive-in. From the first pig stand in Dallas to iconic brand names like Sonic, drive-in restaurants started a trajectory that not only propelled small-town restaurants toward serving a new customer base but also changed how travelers experienced different cities and states. Below we've listed the best drive-ins in each state and what makes them the best of their kind.

Across the country in Fairbanks, Alaska sits a drive-in restaurant that is far more than meets the eye. The look of C&J's Drive-In, from its exterior, its menu, even its social media profiles, give the impression that this is a classic '50s-style restaurant. Many popular menu items are classic Americana food fare, including signature burgers, malts, and fried starters, according to Yelp. The restaurant's surprise special menu, however, often surprises visitors with delicious Filipino dishes, noted by the restaurant's Facebook posts, from Lechon Kawali (pork rinds) and lumpia to beautiful little sapin-sapin desserts. Definitely worth exploring to get a taste of two different worlds of flavor.

Currently known as Garry's Slingblade Drive-In, this Benton restaurant has been an Arkansas staple for years under a few different years. The eatery began as a dairy bar and burger joint in 1961 as Leon's Whopper Burger, according to Arkansas PBS. Though the name has changed over the years between owners, the restaurant celebrates its history in its entirety, showcasing dairy bar memorabilia on the walls and serving a menu that reflects community by sourcing food from local farms and businesses in the area. Its fried menu items are hits amongst Yelp reviewers, as well as the swirl ice cream cone.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado has been the home base of Vicco's Charcoalburger Drive-In since 1953, where burger reigns in a variety of ways. Whether you crave a classic Angus beef patty, a healthier chicken or turkey burger alternative, or the earthier taste of a buffalo or elk burger, all Vicco's options are served fresh. Yelp reviews also note the great taste of the restaurant's sides, including onion rings and crinkle-cut fries, adding that this place is a great option nearby notable places in Glenwood, including Adventure Park and South Canyon.

First established in 1952, The Dog House has been a great roadside stop in New Castle for those looking for a satisfying, cheap bite. Hot dogs are no doubt the star item on the menu, with options to custom-make your dog to your liking. While the chili dog is a crowd favorite, some reviews note you can't beat getting a dog with "everything" and a side of deliciously seasoned fries.

Designated on two entire city blocks in Atlanta, The Varsity has existed for over 90 years and has earned the name of the world's biggest drive-in. Originally beginning as a hangout spot for Georgia Tech students, the original hot dog shop has since evolved and upgraded to more than just a simple drive-in. The restaurant serves on average 15,000 people a day and can hold up to 600 cars for carhops to service its casual American dining menu. The restaurant was also noted to have once been the largest single-restaurant consumer of Coca-Cola in the world, according to "The Varsity" author Janice McDonald.

Showcased on an episode of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" in 2009, the Westside Drive-In was featured as part of a batch of "unexpected joints the locals love." This love continues today in both Park Center and State Street locations of Westside Drive In, with restaurants that think outside the proverbial box. From hand-cut fish sandwiches to the beloved-by-many Chef Lou's World Famous Idaho Ice Cream Potato, there is much to see and explore by visiting this Boise establishment.

Also known by customers for their stellar homemade root beer, Gene's Root Beer and Hot Dogs is a go-to spot during the warm season months. Founded in 1964, Gene's has a classic drive-in look with classic drive-in food, hot dogs with Coney Island sauce, chicken, and ice cream. No fuss, just simply good food. The nod to classics also doesn't stop at the look and feel, as the Indiana staple's Instagram notes that you can often find authentic vintage cars featured at Gene's. A fun way to appreciate that iconic '50s glamor.

Folks have only great things to say about Lomar Drive In, with travelers from all over the country harking stellar remarks on this simple family-owned restaurant in Eureka, Kansas. One reviewer from Texas notes that the chocolate malt is the best "from here to the west coast," while another traveler from Tennessee named their meal as the "best burger ever," and they're willing to come back for more. With cheap burgers and a fun atmosphere, there's not much else you could ask for.

Buddy's Drive Inn – located in Pierre-Part, Louisiana — functions as both a drive-in and diner, with takeout options available to allow any customer to enjoy food at their own pace. While their food ranges from classic American fare, including salads, burgers, and ice cream, look out for Southern flavors on their menu as well. Fried chicken, okra, boiled shrimp, and more are all available and enhance the culinary experience of a small-town Southern restaurant. As one customer notes, "no frills, just all the awesome you would want."

The only entry like it of its kind on this list, Maryland's best drive-in option ranges between several popular chain restaurants, Sonic being the most common and highly rated across several locations throughout the state. Many independently owned drive-ins have since closed or are no longer in business. Twin Kiss, for example, was a popular drive-thru restaurant in Sykesville that originally opened in the 1960s but has since closed. However, for another restaurant in Maryland worth visiting, Chaps in Baltimore is an award-winning restaurant that offers delicious barbecue and sandwiches (though unfortunately, you cannot drive-in).

Short's Drive-In is a staple in Coldwater, Michigan that satisfies any taste and any craving. From handmade patties and breaded chicken to house-smoked pork and tenderloin sandwiches, all with housemade ranch — attention to detail is everything here. The chicken wings are some of the more popular dishes, but nothing beats a root beer float which is "A-Mazing!!!" (via Yelp). Seasons usually run from early spring to late fall with room for about 20 cars under the canopy.

In 1948 a Dairy Queen opened in Laurel and attracted large crowds. Large crowds still gather at the now Phillip's Drive-In, affectionately known as PDI, to take in the sites and attractions of the town while enjoying delicious American fare dishes, served ready to order at affordable prices. A regular or jumbo hamburger is around $5 or less. PDI is rated as a great stopover joint both for its food and drive-in setup. One reviewer even notes this place as both delicious and nostalgic: "You could go several times and try something different each visit."

Open seasonally from April to October, Mark's In & Out in Livingston, Montana serves fresh 100% beef burgers that are fully customizable. Apart from fresh beef, the ice cream is also made locally within Livingston, with interesting flavors such as huckleberry and wild cherry. You'll instantly be charmed by the neon signs and nostalgic style and decor. Locals love the place, and visitors are advised to not be afraid of long lines — they move fast, according to reviews on Yelp.

Snappy's in Las Vegas has the dual honor of being a drive-in restaurant and movie theater, catering to those looking to enjoy a fun night out at the movies. With each theater built into modern shipping containers, all with vintage 1950s-style decor and detailing, the quirky atmosphere of Snappy's is intoxicating and certainly memorable, with good classic food like burgers and popcorn to satisfy any hunger you have. Online reviews note the top quality of their simple burgers, some even rivaling big brand names like In-N-Out.

Weber's Drive In sits along the edge of Pennsauken and Cherry Hill, NJ with classic drive-in dishes. Open seasonally, the drive-in features New Jersey classics as well, namely pork roll sandwiches, with mugs of frosted root beer served on tap, as seen on the restaurant's Instagram page. As of this year, the carhop services are still running, and tips are sent via Venmo or cash. For a fun, easy spot for lunch or a nighttime snack, this is hard to beat, easy to eat.

Rated the No. 3 restaurant in Scotia, Jumpin' Jack's Drive-In is more than just a simple drive-in restaurant. Situated along the Mohawk River, JJ's showcases events during the U.S. Water Ski Show, which occurs right next to the restaurant. The classic drive-in food fare enhances the experience, from tasty milkshakes to fried fish sandwiches. From the shows to the restaurant itself, JJ's is a Capitol Region staple.

One of Bismark's iconic drive-ins, Scotty's opened as the city's second drive-in restaurant initially and is now one of four separate locations throughout North Dakota, according to Hoffman Creations. The menu highlights typical American fare, with some unique local favorites, including fleischkuechle and knoephla soup, and the famous Rebel Burger. Though the Rebel burger is famous, several online reviews note the delicious shrimp burger and fries as solid options as well.

Another long-time business that has garnered local support is Tim's Drive-In, an American fare restaurant whose specialty is the Indian Taco. Served on Native American-style fry bread, the taco comes with standard taco toppings that delight and satiate hungry customers. It's a popular pick, according to reviews on Yelp, as well as the corndogs, hot dogs, and burgers, all at reasonable prices. However it is wise to bring cash to pay.

Crabb's Tropical Treat might have "tropical" in the name, but the vibe is very much set in the 1950s. This atmosphere has in fact prevailed since it first opened in 1953 and continues to enchant diners from all walks of life. Burgers and fries, shakes and sandwiches, the classics are here and ready to order. With every serving, customers feel a sense of community here, as one reviewer comments, "The moment you pull in to the time you leave ... you feel home. This is what makes Hanover a great place."

Bustling city Augusta, SC, has been host to the Sno-Cap Drive-In since 1964, an out-of-the-way destination that draws in people from all around. One customer noted they traveled as far as 150 miles to enjoy a meal at Sno-Cap, and found the experience worthwhile. While the burgers and sandwiches tend to bring the crowds, many find the root beer floats to be irresistible.

Another classic, vintage drive-in is The Hop 50's Drive-In, located in Maryville, Tennessee. Where some restaurants use this era as a fun niche decor style, this drive-in showcases a passion for the vintage within each aspect of the business. This includes the menu, which is filled with fun treats, both savory and sweet, that exude nostalgia and simplicity. Customers know this place to be the "best bang for your buck," with delicious ice cream/frozen treats, as well as a great experience with the staff.

An ideal route to take if you're trying to get across state lines, crossing the town of Fillmore will lead you to Cluff's Carhop Cafe. Since the 1950s this drive-in has been serving up burgers, patty melts and delicious pies for decades, all while staying within the founding family. Cluff's specializes in classic American diner fare, with their onion rings a particularly hot commodity, which one reviewer attributes to its hand-battering instead of breading. Whatever the reason, if you find yourself in Fillmore, this vintage-style cafe is worth stopping along the highway for a quick bite.

Though small in stature, Dude's Drive In makes up for what it lacks in size in its ability to serve any order, big or small. Claiming to be "available for cars and trucks of all sizes," its large menu offers a wide array of fast-food-style items crafted to please the palate. Along with satisfying savory eats, the staff and atmosphere of the joint are helpful and welcoming. Along with its affordable prices, all of this makes a trip out to Dude's worth the drive through Christiansburg.

If there is anything that the kitchen staff and professionals at King Tut Drive-In care about, it's keeping things homemade. According to the staff, its crew makes everything from scratch for customers daily, from rolls and pies to real homemade ice cream used in their milkshakes — they "do not take shortcuts with our preparations or ingredients." This need to remain homemade began at the start of the restaurant, which in the 1930s began as a way to survive during the Great Depression with not a lot of ingredients. Today guests have come to notice the freshness of the food and its overall taste, as well as the fun drive to get to the restaurant.

In a small town like Casper, surrounded by chains and name brands, the Hamburger Stand has been serving great American food since 1982. Featuring classic menu items such as hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, and corn dogs — not to mention breakfast — all at affordable prices. While the cuisine isn't haute and the dishes are usually a bit messy to eat, online reviews on sites like Yelp note how the attentive staff and enjoyable, interesting menu items help sell the experience of stopping at the Hamburger Stand.