1. Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour
Farrell’s was a nostalgic throwback even when it was open, with an old-fashioned soda fountain and huge, indulgent sundaes. Known for its party atmosphere, drums and whistles sounded whenever a big ice cream order was up, creating a scene that was part of the fun. Farrell’s offered a sugar rush and spectacle we don’t see in malls anymore.
These mall restaurants weren’t just places to grab a bite—they were part of the whole mall experience, offering everything from sugary treats to hearty meals that fueled our shopping adventures. As malls continue to evolve, these nostalgic spots remind us of simpler times when the food court was a destination all its own.
Malls were once the ultimate hangout spot, a place where you could shop, meet friends, and—of course—grab a bite at one of the unique mall restaurants that called the food court or anchor locations home. While malls have changed over the decades, so have the dining options inside them, with many beloved eateries fading into memory. Here’s a list of 12 iconic mall restaurants that once defined our shopping trips.
2. Hot Sam Pretzels
Before Auntie Anne’s reigned supreme, Hot Sam was the go-to spot for soft, buttery pretzels. Known for its classic salt-and-butter pretzels and unique varieties like cinnamon-sugar, Hot Sam was a must-stop for a quick treat while you browsed. It had an old-school charm and comfort that made it perfect for munching while window shopping.
3. Orange Julius
Few mall drinks were as legendary as an Orange Julius—a creamy, frothy blend of orange juice, milk, sugar, and a mysterious powder that made it irresistible. Orange Julius felt like a “cool” stop to refuel, and its refreshing drinks were a staple. Some Dairy Queen locations still serve it, but the mall-specific Orange Julius spots are almost all gone.
4. Chick-fil-A (before it became mainstream)
In the 80s and early 90s, Chick-fil-A was mostly found in malls, making it feel like a hidden gem. Known for their unique pressure-fried chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and Southern sweet tea, Chick-fil-A was the chicken joint you bragged about finding. Seeing one outside the mall is a big change from those early days.
5. York Steak House
York Steak House was a cafeteria-style steakhouse known for its hearty, no-frills steak dinners. With dim lighting, rustic decor, and thick, juicy cuts, it felt like a treat-yourself spot after a long day of shopping. York Steak House made you feel like you were in a fancy restaurant, even though it was nestled right in the middle of the mall.
6. The Great Hot Dog Experience
This place was all about serving hot dogs in every style you could imagine. From classic American dogs to creative, loaded variations, The Great Hot Dog Experience took hot dogs to the next level. It was fun, fast, and cheap, a perfect pit stop before running back to your favorite stores.
7. The Magic Pan
The Magic Pan brought French-inspired crepes to mall-goers across America, specializing in both savory and sweet creations. The whole experience felt high-end and sophisticated, with their crepes rolled to perfection. It was a spot where you could sit, relax, and enjoy a bit of Paris right inside your local mall.
8. Rax Roast Beef
Rax was like Arby’s but with a quirky, mall-food-court twist. Known for its roast beef sandwiches and salad bar, it was a place to get a filling meal that wasn’t just burgers and fries. Rax locations became fewer over the years, but for mall shoppers, it was a cherished place to grab something substantial.
9. Blimpie
Before Subway’s dominance, Blimpie was the mall’s best spot for a quick sub. Known for its fresh, generously-stuffed sandwiches and “Blimpie Best” specialty sub, it was a healthier option for mall-goers who didn’t want burgers or fried food. Blimpie had a comforting simplicity that we miss in today’s mall food courts.
10. Sbarro
Sbarro’s New York-style pizza slices were staples in nearly every mall. Large, cheesy slices with a crispy crust were the perfect answer to a hungry shopper’s craving. It was cheap, quick, and reliably delicious, making it a food court favorite. Some Sbarros still exist, but they’re nowhere near as ubiquitous as they once were.
11. Mrs. Fields Cookies
Mrs. Fields was the ultimate dessert stop, with giant, gooey cookies and brownies that made your mouth water as soon as you caught a whiff. Freshly baked and warm, Mrs. Fields cookies felt like a reward for a successful day of shopping. The individual stores have mostly disappeared, though you can still find the cookies in some malls.
12. China Coast
China Coast was the first major attempt by a national chain to bring sit-down Chinese-American food to malls. Known for its big portions and crowd-pleasing dishes like General Tso’s chicken and lo mein, China Coast was a chance for families to sit down and take a break with some flavorful food. It didn’t last, but it sure made an impression.
