For more than 60 years, Wally's Burgers (or Wally's Drive-In) has been a part of Vancouver's food scene.
But that's come to an end.
"After so many great years, it’s time to say goodbye to our Vancouver location," reads a post on Wally's Burgers' social media accounts.
Wally's Burgers' story starts more than 60 years ago when Wally Stritzel opened a drive-in at 2703 Kingsway. It became a popular spot for the booming 1960s car culture.
It was there for more than 45 years, remaining a popular destination for classic burgers with Wally's special sauce.
In 2008, it closed down, but two more opened. One was in Vancouver (in a mini-mall at 2661 E 49th Ave. near the intersection with Elliott Street) and the other in North Vancouver at Cates Park (which is only open seasonally).
Throughout its history, the burgers have remained very similar.
"Using only fresh local ingredients in the preparation of our burgers, we strive to deliver the same delicious burgers Wally’s has served for over 50 years. Unheard of today, we have a local butcher who prepares our patties along with a local baker who bakes our buns fresh every day," reads the restaurant's website.
It also has remained an independent, family-run business (though ownership has changed over the years).
Now, after almost two decades in its new location, the 49th Avenue location has closed permanently.
"This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s time for some of our senior crew to retire and the younger crew to reset," reads the post. "We’re not gone — you can still find us at our Cates Park location in North Vancouver."
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