Popular Burger Drive-In Restaurant to close after 65 years of business
Lou’s Drive-in, a Sacramento County institution since 1958, is sadly saying goodbye. The iconic burger and shake joint, which has been serving the North Highlands community for decades, is closing its doors forever on October 28th.
The owners, and Robert Kitchens, have been trying to buy the building from their landlord, but negotiations have fallen through. Kitchens, as she blended a couple of milkshakes, shared the disappointing news on Instagram. It’s the end of an era for Lou’s, which has been a staple of the community for generations. The Kitchens took over the drive-in 14 years ago, after purchasing it from Robert’s grandfather, Don Roberge. What a bittersweet end to a beloved slice of Sacramento County history.
On Instagram, they wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce our closing. October 28, 2023 will be our last day of operation. We have been fighting tooth and nail to try to stay here but the owners are not willing to be reasonable.”
Kitchens, who has owned the drive-in for the past decade, wants to keep the menu affordable for her customers, but rising commercial mortgage payments have made it difficult to keep prices low. Despite the impending closure, Lou’s is still bustling with customers, with a line out the door just an hour after opening. As the final day draws near, it’s clear that Lou’s will be missed by many in the community.
