Growing up in Los Angeles, the towering 10-gallon Arby’s hat on Sunset Boulevard was a constant presence in my life. The fast-food chain, renowned for its delicious roast beef and cheddar sandwiches, intrigued me, yet I never found the motivation to step inside. This curiosity lingered in my mind for years, especially during conversations with my friend Jo Stougaard, who fondly recalled her teenage job at an Arby’s in West Covina.
Jo would often express disbelief that I had never dined at Arby’s, especially considering my Los Angeles roots. We frequently spoke about visiting the iconic location together, but time slipped away, and before we knew it, the restaurant closed its doors after 55 years, citing rising food costs and minimum wage laws as contributing factors to its demise. This landmark, with its familiar hat, represented a nostalgic slice of Americana, and many in the community mourned its loss amidst a sea of modern salad and sushi restaurants taking over the neighborhood.
As I reflected on the closure, I felt an urgent desire to finally experience what I had missed. With the Hollywood location gone, I ventured to the remaining Arby’s in Huntington Beach, a nostalgic wagon-style building that still boasts its neon hat sign. I hoped to discover the magic behind the sandwiches that had eluded me for so long, eager to connect with the memories Jo had shared of her time behind the counter.
Table of Contents
The Closure of a Landmark
As I drove past the familiar streets of Hollywood, the reality of Arby’s closure weighed heavily on my heart. The restaurant had been a staple in the community, a gathering place for friends and families. Many locals had fond memories tied to the eatery, from late-night snacks to first dates.
The closing of this iconic location was not just about losing a restaurant; it felt like losing a piece of history. The towering hat, a beacon for many, often appeared in photographs and social media posts, a symbol of a bygone era. Its absence marked another step toward a hyper-modern landscape, leaving behind a void that would be challenging to fill.
A Trip to Huntington Beach
Determined to experience Arby’s for myself, I made my way to the Huntington Beach location. This particular restaurant was not just a fast-food joint; it was a piece of architectural nostalgia. As I entered, I was greeted by the familiar sight of the cow-patterned tile floors and vibrant decor that transported me back to the spirit of the original chain.
Despite its age, the location buzzed with energy, though it wasn't as crowded as the nearby In-N-Out. I chose to explore the classic menu items, steering clear of the newer options. With anticipation building, I placed my order for a classic roast beef and cheddar, curly fries, and a Jamocha shake, hoping to finally understand the charm that had captured Jo's heart all those years ago.
The Culinary Experience
As I sat down with my meal, the neon glow of the sign cast a warm light over my table. Although the classic roast beef was supposed to be served on a sesame seed bun, I noticed they were all on an onion roll. The buns featured a delightful combination of tough toasted areas and soft, steamed patches, creating a unique texture.
The roast beef was sliced thinly, almost translucent, and while the texture was slightly rubbery, it was surprisingly flavorful. Each bite released a burst of salty juice that made me rethink my previous perceptions of fast food. The beef and natural cheddar was accompanied by a sweet Red Ranch sauce, reminiscent of honey barbecue, which added another layer of flavor to the experience.
A Nostalgic Reflection
After my meal, I took a moment to reflect on the evening. The curly fries were a pleasant surprise, with their tight rings of potato making them a delightful side dish. I even savored the Jamocha shake, though I found it lacked the coffee flavor I expected. Despite some shortcomings, I realized that I had not been sleeping on Arby’s all those years.
This experience was not just about the food; it was about reconnecting with a piece of my past and the stories shared with friends over the years. As I left the restaurant, I felt a sense of fulfillment, knowing I had finally embraced a part of my Los Angeles upbringing that I had previously overlooked. The next time I crave curly fries or a creamy horseradish sauce, I know exactly where to go!
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