What better place for an enjoyable dinner out than an old fashioned drive-in restaurant? Though they may be dwindling in numbers, these classic eateries serve up tasty burgers, ice cream, and more from walk up counters or right at your car window. North Dakota has quite a few of these gems still around, some of which have been here for well over 50 years! Many of these spots are seasonal and close in or around October, so stop by one for a treat while you still can this year.
1. Scotty's Drive-In - Bismarck
Pull right up and park at Scotty's for some of the best burgers in Bismarck. This classic restaurant is exactly what you'd expect from a drive-in complete with service right to your car window. It's been around for decades and continues to be a favorite of the area, and for good reason. Catch it on one of its classic car nights and you're in for a blast from the past!
Scotty's Drive-In is located at 210 N 21st St., Bismarck, ND 58501.
2. The Kegs Drive-In - Grand Forks
This unusual drive-in restaurant will surely get your attention when you go by it. Two huge kegs flank the small eatery where you can drive up and order from your car. The restaurant is actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been in this spot since 1946. While they do have a whole menu of burgers, hot dogs, and more, you'll definitely want to try their famous sloppy joe, onion rings, and root beer.
The Kegs Drive-In is located at 901 N 5th St., Grand Forks, ND 58203.
3. Dakota Drive-In - Hankinson
Take a bite out of a delicious burger, hot dog, chicken, and so much more at the Dakota Drive-In in Hankinson. This is a seasonal restaurant so get there while you still can before they are closed until next year! They have a walk-up window service and a huge menu of mains, sides, and ice cream to enjoy.
The Dakota Drive-In is located at 211 6th St. SW, Hankinson, ND 58041.
4. Cool Stuff Drive-In - Northwood
Check out this old fashioned restaurant in the small town of Northwood and you won't regret it. They have super scrumptious sandwiches, sides, and specials that'll keep you coming back for more.
The Cool Stuff Drive-In is located at 505 Old ND-15, Northwood, ND 58267.
5. Larson's Drive Inn - Larimore
If that doesn't make you crave a good patty melt, I don't know what will! Larson's Drive Inn has mouthwateringly good food all in an old fashioned place that has kept customers coming back every year for 38 years.
Larson's Drive Inn is located at 924 Towner Ave., Larimore, ND 58251.
6. Herbel's Dario Drive-In - Bottineau
This classic drive-in claims to have the best darn burgers in town and they certainly don't lie! Herbel's Dario has not only drool worthy burgers but also many other sandwiches, salads, and more, including reoccurring specials like indian tacos and wings.
Herbel's Dario Drive In is located at 305 Main St., Bottineau, ND 58318.
7. McTwist Drive-In - Wishek
You don't have to rush over to McTwist before they close for the season because they are open all year! You'll still want to head over as quickly as you can to try their absolutely amazing burgers, ice cream, and a whole menu of those timeless American classics that everyone knows and loves.
The McTwist Drive-In is located at 2 S 7th St., Wishek, ND 58495.
Where is your favorite old fashioned drive-in? North Dakota certainly doesn't have a shortage of classic restaurants that'll take you back to the good old days. It has plenty of awesome diners, too!
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