Shoney's • 1947

Former Ohio State All-American Alex Schoenbaum launched what would become a national empire in 1947 with the Parkette Drive-In, a humble Charleston spot next to his father's bowling alley where a burger, fries, and strawberry pie cost just fifty cents. The chain took the name Shoney's in 1954 after an employee contest crowned it with Schoenbaum's own nickname. Today the Hot Fudge Cake and All You Care to Eat Fresh Food Bar draw families to tables across the South.