There was something special about chain restaurants in the ’60s and ’70s—whether it was their iconic decor, unique menus, or just the comforting nostalgia of a family meal out. Many of these places were more than just restaurants; they were gathering spots where families, friends, and teenagers on dates made lifelong memories. Sadly, a lot of these classic chains have disappeared, leaving behind only faded signs and fond recollections. But if we had our way, these 15 restaurants would make a grand comeback, bringing back the flavors, vibes, and charm of a bygone era.
1. Howard Johnson’s
At one point, you couldn’t take a road trip without seeing that bright orange roof inviting you to stop for fried clams and 28 flavors of ice cream. Howard Johnson’s wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a roadside institution, perfect for families looking for a reliable meal. With its distinct retro design and comforting, no-fuss American menu, it’s the kind of place that could thrive in today’s nostalgia-driven dining scene. If someone brought it back with the same old-school charm, diners would be lining up to relive the memories.
2. Chi-Chi’s
Mexican food chains have come and gone, but Chi-Chi’s was one of the first to make sit-down Tex-Mex dining a mainstream hit. It was famous for its chimichangas and massive margaritas, creating a fun, lively atmosphere. While it disappeared from the U.S., the brand still exists overseas, proving there’s still demand for Chi-Chi’s flavors. A revival would be the perfect way to bring back some classic American-Mexican food fun.
3. Burger Chef
Before McDonald’s dominated the fast-food world, Burger Chef was giving them serious competition with flame-broiled burgers and the first-ever build-your-own burger bar. Their Funmeal even predated the Happy Meal, offering kids a toy and a meal in a clever way that was ahead of its time. The concept of a fresh, customizable burger experience still holds up today, and a reboot could give modern fast-food chains a run for their money. If Burger Chef made a comeback with its original charm, nostalgia alone would make it a hit.
4. Lum’s
Where else could you get a hot dog steamed in beer alongside a big plate of spaghetti? Lum’s was a quirky, beloved chain that somehow made the combination of diner food and beer-marinated franks work. It had a casual, friendly atmosphere that made it a great place to stop in for a laid-back meal, and its Ollie Burger had a fan base all its own. A revival of Lum’s could be a fun throwback to the days when chain restaurants weren’t afraid to do things a little differently.
5. Gino’s Hamburgers
Gino’s was a fast-food spot that brought a little extra flair to its burgers, thanks to its sports-star founder, former Baltimore Colts player Gino Marchetti. It was best known for its delicious Gino Giant, a burger that predated the Big Mac but had a similar double-decker appeal. For years, fans have wished for Gino’s to make a comeback, and with the rise of retro burger joints, now might be the perfect time. A little marketing push and a return of that classic menu could bring Gino’s back in style.
6. Pup ‘N’ Taco
Long before Taco Bell took over, Pup ‘N’ Taco was serving up fast-food tacos and hot dogs in a combination that somehow made sense. The chain had a distinct, casual SoCal vibe, perfect for grabbing a quick bite without breaking the bank. The tacos were surprisingly good for a fast-food joint, and the hot dogs were even better, making it a go-to for people who couldn’t decide between Mexican or American fast food. With the love for nostalgic regional chains at an all-time high, Pup ‘N’ Taco could easily thrive today.
7. Red Barn
With its barn-shaped buildings and fun commercials, Red Barn had a charm that made it more memorable than your average burger joint. It offered something unique with its “Big Barney” burger (a Big Mac-style sandwich) and delicious fried chicken, making it a solid competitor to both McDonald’s and KFC. The quirky branding alone could bring Red Barn back in a big way—imagine a throwback restaurant with that old-school barn design and a simple, great-tasting menu. If nostalgia-driven burger chains are making a comeback, Red Barn should be next.
8. Bob’s Big Boy (Full-Scale Revival)
Technically, Bob’s Big Boy still exists in some locations, but it’s a shadow of what it once was. The iconic double-decker Big Boy burger, the classic diner decor, and those legendary hot fudge sundaes all deserve a full-scale comeback. Bob’s Big Boy was once the ultimate teen hangout spot, where carhops delivered burgers and shakes to families and couples out on dates. A revival in its original format could bring back the magic and remind people why Big Boy was a true American classic.
9. Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips
Once a fast-food powerhouse, Arthur Treacher’s served up crispy, golden fish and chips wrapped in that classic newspaper-style packaging. The brand has dwindled to just a couple of locations, but with the rise of seafood chains, a full revival could work wonders. People still crave that old-school, British-style fried fish, and no one did it quite like Arthur Treacher’s. If they brought it back with the same original recipe, it could easily make a splash in today’s fast-food market.
10. Steak and Ale
For those who remember, Steak and Ale was the place for a hearty meal in an upscale-but-affordable setting. It was one of the first chains to bring the idea of casual steakhouse dining to the masses, offering prime rib, steaks, and that legendary salad bar. With the return of nostalgic steakhouses like Sizzler, a Steak and Ale comeback seems like a no-brainer. A revived version could bring back that classic feel of an old-school night out.
11. Henry’s Hamburgers
At its peak, Henry’s Hamburgers had more locations than McDonald’s, offering delicious burgers and fries at budget-friendly prices. While the brand faded away over the years, there’s still a strong nostalgic love for Henry’s, especially among those who remember its golden days. A simple burger menu, throwback branding, and a return to its fast, no-frills service could be a major hit. Given the love for classic burger joints, Henry’s could easily make a comeback in the right market.
12. Shakey’s Pizza
Shakey’s Pizza was once the go-to place for a family pizza night, complete with live music, arcade games, and that signature thin-crust pizza. While some locations still exist, the brand isn’t what it used to be, and a full-scale revival could tap into the nostalgia people have for its lively atmosphere. With pizza chains focusing more on delivery these days, a return to Shakey’s old-school sit-down style could be a refreshing change. People don’t just want pizza—they want an experience, and Shakey’s delivered that in spades.
13. Kenny Rogers Roasters
This was the ultimate comfort food chain, specializing in slow-roasted chicken that was both delicious and slightly healthier than typical fast food. It had a cult following, and even Seinfeld immortalized it in an episode, proving just how much people loved it. The fast-casual dining market today is perfect for a revival of Kenny Rogers Roasters, especially with people craving quality chicken meals. A return of its famous rotisserie chicken would have fans running back in no time.
14. Ponderosa Steakhouse
Ponderosa was known for its affordable steaks and massive salad bar, making it a go-to spot for big family meals. While a few locations still exist, the brand has faded significantly from its peak popularity. Given the rise of buffet nostalgia, a revival could bring back the joy of a hearty, budget-friendly steakhouse experience. If done right, Ponderosa could thrive again as a throwback favorite.
These restaurants weren’t just places to eat—they were experiences, filled with nostalgia and charm that’s hard to find today. If they ever came back, they’d bring back memories along with great food. Which one would you want to see revived first?
