Missouri's Secret: First Fast-Food Drive-Thru

The invention of the fast-food drive-thru has changed the way Americans eat, as they are often in a hurry. But did you know it was invented in Missouri?

The Birth of the Drive-Thru in Missouri

Who would have thought that one of the biggest inventions we use daily was created right here in Missouri? The fast-food drive-thru was invented in Springfield in 1947 at a small restaurant called Red's Giant Hamburg.

Red's Giant Hamburg on Route 66

According to Love Exploring, this hometown diner was located along the famous Route 66. It first started as a gas station but quickly evolved into a fast-food drive-thru, thanks to the high volume of traffic traveling along the historic route.

What Happened to Red's Giant Hamburg?

The restaurant itself was sold back in 2019, 35 years after it had closed, and it moved to a different location. Sadly, the restaurant just closed its doors this past May, with the building being sold to a local investor.

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I don’t know if there are plans to reopen this iconic restaurant, but what a history it has, and how incredible that it all started right here in Missouri.

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