Burbank has returned one of its former Alta Dena drive-thru markets to its true glory. Now dubbed the Retro Dairy Mart, the diminutive Magnolia Boulevard stop really does act like a double-sided drive-thru, where customers can pull in for a quick gallon of milk or some eggs. They even sell lotto tickets, beer, and cigarettes! But of course, there are snacks, soft drinks, and morning coffee as well, either available through the drive up window or on some picnic tables up front.
Retro Dairy Mart is a a true throwback, to a time when Alta Dena drive-thru’s populated the Southland. KCET profiled their rise and fall back in 2013, which closely mirrored the exploding car culture of the 1950’s and 1960’s that brought about the first fast food revolution. After fading largely away in the 1990’s and early 2000’s, it now it seems that Burbank wants in on some serious nostalgia.
The colorful Retro Dairy Mart is exactly that, sporting the same low-slung drive-thru you’d expect, with two lanes for cars on either side. Inside, black and white tile and an old hanging cashier sign further solidify the look. Head over to their Instagram to compare a few of the changes with the original Alta Dena Dairy drive-thru.
Retro Dairy Mart is having a grand opening party on Saturday, May 2 from noon until 4 p.m., but is currently in soft-open mode, with weekday hours from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekend hours from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Retro Dairy Mart
4420 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA