The first drive-in restaurant opened in Glendale, California, in 1936. The concept grew in popularity over the years that followed and became especially common throughout the United States during the 1950s. In addition to chain drive-ins like Sonic, Checkers and Rally's, a small number of independent drive-in restaurants still operate in the state of New Jersey. Specializing in American classics like burgers and french fries, these establishments offer curb-side service reminiscent of the original drive-ins.
The Chatterbox Drive-In is a family-owned and operated drive-in restaurant in Augusta, New Jersey. The menu consists of more than 15 sandwiches and entrees, such as the Kielbasa and sauerkraut, baby back ribs and the buffalo chicken sandwich. The restaurant's signature burgers is the "Chatter," an Angus patty served on a kaiser roll with lettuce and tomato. For dessert, try the cookie dough-licous supreme, oven-baked cookie dough baked, but still gooey, then topped with vanilla ice cream, hot fudge and whipped cream. The Chatterbox Drive-In served lunch and dinner daily. The restaurant operates year-round and also has a dining room. Curbside drive-in service is available only during warm weather months. The restaurant hosts car cruises and other events on a regular basis throughout the summer. A children's menu is available for children 10 and under.
The Chatterbox Drive-In
1 State Route 15
Augusta, NJ 07822
973-300-2300
chatterboxdrivein.com
Situated in Wall Township, Circus Drive-In has operated continuously since 1954. As its name indicates, the drive-in has a circus theme with its roof painted to resemble a big top circus tent. Clowns also perform regularly. The restaurant specializes in deep-fried Maryland soft shell crabs, served with its signature onion rings. Another signature dish is the lobster roll, which is available only on weekends. The menu also features steaks, salads, seafood and hot dogs. The Circus Drive-In serves lunch and dinner Wednesdays through Sundays and is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. The restaurant is open and offer curbside service year-round. A dining room with sit-down service is also available. A children's menu is offered for children under 12 years of age.
Circus Drive-In
1861 State Route 35
Wall Township, NJ 07719
732-449-2650
circusdrivein.com
Stewart's Drive-In first opened in 1924 as a diner, eventually offering curbside drive-in service as it does today. The small, New Jersey-based chain operated locations in the towns of Flanders, Old Bridge, Long Branch, Gilette and Wildwood as of August 2010. Hamburgers are the specialty of the house, such as the Frank Stewart burger, topped with barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato and an onion ring. Cheese steaks and hot dogs are also included on the menu. The restaurant makes its own root beer, which it serves plain or in sodas and floats. Hours and months of operations for Stewart's Drive-In Restaurants vary from location to location.
Stewart's Drive-In Restaurants
40 International Drive
Flanders, NJ 07836
732-721-3144
stewartsrestaurantsinc.com
