The Very First Drive-Thru Restaurant In Washington Has Been Serving Burgers For 75 Years
Drive-thru restaurants are a fast and convenient way to enjoy a quick meal on the road and the Evergreen State has no shortage of these popular grab-and-go eateries. One such place is legendary among Olympia locals. Eastside Big Tom has been serving epic burgers and fries for 75 years and bears the distinction as the very first drive-thru restaurant in Washington. Although the original building and name have changed over the years, Eastside Big Tom continues to be a delicious must-stop in Olympia.
Eastside Big Tom's humble beginnings date back to 1948 when it opened as In and Out Hamburgers in Olympia, Washington.
The Eastside In and Out soon became the go-to spot in Olympia for a quick and affordable meal. Menu staples included hot dogs, fries, shakes, and the iconic Big Tom Burger. Eventually, the restaurant was renamed after the restaurant's signature burger.
You can't miss Eastside Big Tom with its brightly-colored building and whimsical décor.
Rest assured the food is delicious! Eastside Big Tom features a simple menu including juicy burgers, crisp fries, and frosty shakes. The shake menu is updated with fun, seasonal flavors so you'll want to stop by often.
What is Goop, you might ask? We can't tell you. It's a closely guarded secret recipe. Suffice it to say, Goop is a mouth-wateringly tasty dipping sauce, the likes of which you've never tried.
Do you have a sweet tooth? Try the lactose-free soft serve.
Regular flavors include chocolate, vanilla, and swirl. Additionally, Big Tom's adds featured flavors like salted caramel for a unique and creamy treat.
If you’ve never tried Eastside Big Tom, you’re missing out. Nostalgia abounds at the oldest drive-thru restaurant in Washington. Have ever eaten here? What are your recommendations? We’d love to hear from you in the comments. Visit this restaurant’s website and Facebook page for more information.
Sherri Adams is a writer, photographer, and travel enthusiast from the Pacific Northwest. She has always been passionate about writing and the opportunities for connection through the written word. When she’s not writing, you can often find her at the seashore with her toes in the sand and her nose in a book.
