When I moved to Longboat Key in 1984 one of the first stops that all the locals told me was a must was The Hob Nob hamburger shop in Sarasota. Opened in 1957 and still operating today, it is most definitely Sarasota’s oldest drive-in restaurant. I was immediately addicted to the greasy burgers, creamy shakes and crispy fries with all the fixings. Lunch there was an experience as bikers, people from all careers, ages and diversity of incomes sat shoulder to shoulder savoring the comfort food.
When I became a Harley Rider in 1992 I became one of the bikers who enjoyed showing off my beautiful steed as it sparkled in the sun and the owners who had purchased The Hob Nob in 1991 made wonderful renovations without changing the feel or the food. The open seating is still there but in inclement weather there are awnings, plastic sheeting and even heaters with we experience the few cold days. Please be sure to check out their website at http://www.hobnobdrivein.org/history.htm for both its menu and its old time flavor. This is another one of the small businesses that make Sarasota memorable and authentic.
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