Top 10: Small-town drive-ins worth their fare are Utah staple
By TOM WHARTON
The Salt Lake Tribune
First published May 29 2012 07:32PM
Next time you drive Utah’s highways and byways — maybe on summer vacation — don’t be in such a hurry. Just cruise past all those fast-food franchises that are built right off the exits and head into one of these small towns to experience local drive-in gems.
Nephi • Reed’s Drive Inn
The patty melt with mushrooms alone is worth the drive, while this Main Street favorite also serves a variety of other hamburgers and sandwiches. There are good French fries, tater tots and English chips, as well as both hard and soft ice cream and malts made-to-order. 626 North Main Street Nephi; 435-623-1107
Tooele • Dairy Delight
Great malts and the amazing half-pound Old-Fashioned Burger make this a must stop. 46 W. 100 South, Tooele; 435-882-6400
Blanding • Patio Drive-in
This stalwart is known for its hamburger and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. 95 N. Grayson Parkway, Blanding; 435-678-2177
Torrey • Slackers
Formerly Brink’s Burgers, this little place is a good spot for a malt or hamburger after a hike in Capitol Reef. 165 E. Main, Torrey; 435-425-3710
Garden City • Hometown Drive Inn
A trip to Bear Lake isn’t complete without stopping at this Garden City spot for a raspberry shake and a Big Bear burger. 105 N. Bear Lake Blvd., Garden City; 435-946-2727
Moab • Milt’s Stop & Eat
Located near the entrance to the Slickrock Bicycle Trail, Milt’s has been a favorite stop since 1954. It’s known for its chili cheeseburgers and fresh-cut fries. 356 Mill Creek Road, Moab; 435-259-7424
Kamas • Uinta Drive Inn
Big portions and a fairly large menu have brought many Mirror Lake Highway visitors to this establishment. 235 Center St., Kamas; 435-783-4312
Beaver • Mel’s Drive Inn
Across from Beaver High School in the center of town, this place is known for its burgers and hot dogs. 155 N. Main St., Beaver; 435-438-5600
Roy • Burger Bar
Featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," the Burger Bar draws repeat customers with its giant Big Ben burger and great shakes. 5291 S. 1900 West; Roy; 801-825-8961
Price • Big Moe’s Eatery & Bakery
This small place in Price is known for its house-made buns, burgers and fries. 61 S. 700 East, Price; 435-636-0451
