Sonic is the epitome of traditional fast food in the US.  They advertise themselves as “America’s drive-in” and it certainly is a reputation they deserve. When you arrive at Sonic, you’ll sit in your car as you order through their infamous intercom system and then shortly after a carhop on roller-skates will roll on over with your order.

Their traditional fast-food menu includes favorites such as: hamburgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, milkshakes, soft drinks and desserts. Their super fast, super friendly service, or “service with the speed of sound” has guaranteed their place as a family favorite across the nation.

History

This chain began life as a restaurant named “The Top Hat” in Seminole, Oklahoma way back in 1953. Troy N. Smith Sr., and his business partner purchased a 5 acre plot of land that was home to a log house and walk-up root-beer stand. They initially converted the log house into a steak restaurant; however, after realizing how profitable the root-beer stand was, they abandoned the steak restaurant to focus on the stand. Shortly after this decision, Smith bought out his partner and continued with the business solo.

In these first few years Sonic developed into one of the nation’s most recognizable drive-ins. It was in 1956, after meeting Charles Woodrow Pappe, that the first franchise of the company was created in Woodward, Oklahoma. This was swiftly followed in 1958 by two more franchises; located in Enid and Stillwater.

At these early stages, the business was still named “The Top Hat”. However, after discovering this name was already trademarked, Smith and Pappe changed the name to Sonic. Over the next few years the business grew rapidly. In 1967 there were 41 stores, by 1972 there were 165 stores and by 1978 there were a whopping 1,000 stores spread all across the US.

During the 1960’s, Smith and Pappe also created ‘Sonic Supply’ a supply and distribution company that allowed some quality control over the products served in the company’s franchises. Over the years, the chain has created a reputation for itself as an icon of American drive-ins: fast service from carhops on roller skates, good old fashioned fast-food and an overall friendly and fun experience 

Review

Sonic’s menu encompasses the most traditional aspects of fast-food cuisine: hamburgers, french fries, hot dogs, chili dogs, onion rings, corn dogs, soft drinks, slushies, milkshakes, sundaes and banana splits.  They have continuously updated their menu to satisfy their customers’ needs. Nowadays you’ll find everything you could possibly want: from their SuperSonic Bacon Double Cheeseburger, to their Mozarella Sticks with Marinara, or even the delightful breakfast range that’s served all day. Their food comes in massive portions and is served directly to your car; hot and tasty.

When you arrive at the drive-in, you’ll drive directly to one of their sheltered stalls and order food through the intercom system next to your car. At some locations you also have the option to eat in the patio seating area or go through one of the drive-thru lanes. If you decide to stick to the drive-in, your food will be delivered directly to your car by their world renowned friendly carhops.

If you’re looking for somewhere fancy, then this isn’t the place for you. If you’re looking for affordable food, efficient and entertaining service and a slight quirk on the normal fast-food experience then definitely head to Sonic Drive-In. Try one of the shakes from their frozen zone; they will blow your mind. Plus, the prices at this chain are extremely reasonable, for a combo, which includes a burger/hot dog/chicken item plus a medium tots or fries and a soft drink, you’ll be charged around $5, with extra sides from as little as a $1. For even more savings you can sign up to their text message service which will send you exclusive deals every week.

Overall, Sonic Drive-In is an American institution, with a long standing reputation for speedy service with a smile, tasty traditional fast-food and all this while still in the comfort of your own car. They have dominated the drive-in industry for over 60 years and will continue to do so for years to come.