Down the Rabbit Hole: Dearly Departed Restaurants, Part 1

Can you still taste the sizzle of steaks from Burbank's bygone bistros on your tongue, or hear the laughter echoing through the now-silent dining rooms? In this new podcast series, Ross Benson and Craig Sherwood stir up the dust of memory lanes paved with the ghostly aromas of Burbank's old restaurants. We embark on a sentimental journey, uncovering over 60 eateries that hold a special place in our hearts, and possibly yours too. Ross brings to the table his trove of insights and personal stories, some harking back over 60 years, painting a vivid picture of the culinary landscape that once was.As the conversation floats from the flavors of Dinah's Fried Chicken to the entertainment at Bobby McGee's, we reminisce about the personal touches that made each establishment unique, like the specific way Clint's sliced their pickles. We share laughter over stolen cocktail cherries at the China Trader and a touch of sadness as we pass by the locations that now serve a different clientele. The transformation of our beloved "Restaurant Row" and the legendary "Herpes Triangle" are just the tip of the iceberg as we navigate through the changing tides of business ownership and the impact on community-favorite spots.We wrap up this episode with a heartfelt tribute to the communal spirit of places like Foster Freeze and Frank's Restaurant, which once served as the backdrop for countless Burbank stories. These eateries weren't just food joints; they were cultural cornerstones, shaping our shared experiences and fostering a sense of historical continuity. As we sign off, we encourage you to keep the legacy alive by sharing your tales of these cherished locales. Your stories are the secret ingredients that keep the spirit of Burbank's restaurant scene simmering in the collective pot of history.This is just Part 1, and we know we have already missed a lot of restaurants. If you have one that we missed, please send us an email to [email protected] and put Closed Restaurant in the subject line. Also, tell us where it was and why it was special to you. We will mention it in an upcoming episode.Support the show