The ‘80s was a glorious time for music, arcades, slap bracelets, and chain restaurants. If you were born then, you probably remember going to one of these places for cozy family dinners. If you want to relive those happy times once again, get ready for a trip down memory lane.
G.D. Ritzy’s
Christine/Flickr: G.D. Ritzy's was famous in the 80s
This classic restaurant was founded in Ohio in 1980 and was known for its cheeseburgers, milkshakes, hot dogs, and ice creams. It quickly became popular, growing to over 100 locations, but the company liquidated in 1991.
You can still visit one of the few Ritzy’s diners in Indiana or Ohio if you’re craving their specials.
Bennigan’s
Founded in 1976, Bennigan’s is an Irish-themed bar known for its great food and innovative drinks. You could simply kick back and chill with friends here, and that’s why people loved it.
In its heyday, this chain was the epitome of Irish hospitality. While the company went bankrupt in 2008, you can still enjoy its famous happy hour in one of the 18 international and 15 US locations.
Naugles
Sheila Fitzgerald/Shutterstock: Naugles came back into business in 2015
This Mexican fast-food chain always believed in serving fresh, delicious food fast! It was known for simple but satisfying fare like tacos, burritos, and burgers.
Naugles had over 225 locations at one point, but after they merged with Del Taco, these places slowly shut down. In 2015, this ‘80s hot spot was revived and now has three branches.
Roy Rogers
Roy Rogers/Facebook: Roy Rogers with its famous roast beef
Originally called RoBee’s House of Beef, Roy Rogers became well-known for its heavenly roast beef sandwiches, burgers, fried chicken, and milkshakes. The chain had its share of ups and downs over the years.
The 648 Roy Rogers’ restaurants were sold to Hardee’s in the ‘90s. They rebooted in 2003 and now have a spots in New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.
Pancho’s Mexican Buffet
LM Photos/Shutterstock: Pancho's Mexican Buffet - a tex-mex chain
Pancho’s Mexican Buffet was a famous Tex-Mex chain that started in El Paso, Texas, in 1958. They were known for their tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and flautas. Each table had a flag with the colors of Mexico that customers would have to raise when they wanted more food.
Affordable, homely, and delicious, Pancho’s became quite the hotspot during the ‘80s in and around Texas. Unfortunately, the crowd favorite was bought out in 2001. There are still a handful of places in Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisana, as well as a concept store called ‘Cuban Cafe.’
The feel-good factor about these vintage restaurants cannot be replicated by fine dining places, no matter how hard we try. Maybe it’s because of the wholesome food or the nostalgic memories or maybe both!