On December 16, 2016, one of Long Beach’s historic landmarks was in trouble. A fire tore through George’s 50s Diner, leaving the interior of this Googie masterpiece completely gutted. Miraculously the exterior was virtually untouched. But it was still a long road to rebuild, and a year and a half later, this icon is open again for business.

Opening in 1952 originally as Grisinger’s Drive-In, the location changed hands a few times until 1996 when George Alvarez, a long time employee of the previous incarnations, took over, renaming it George’s 50s Diner. Long gone are  the car-hops, but the retro vibe is still here.

Designed by Wayne McAllister, also responsible for the Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank (another famed drive-in diner that has yet to appear on the blog, despite my many visits to it) the building is a glorious example of mid-century modern and Googie architecture, with its flat, but rounded, roof, and built-in signage jutting from the roof.

I had the pleasure of meeting George during our visit, and he was visibly happy to have his restaurant back in full swing, and it was hoppin’! George’s 50s Diner is a must visit for architecture lovers and foodies alike. It’s also been used as a filming location on several occasions, including a childhood favorite of mine, Corrina, Corrina.

George’s 50s Diner is located at 4390 Atlantic Avenue in the Bixby Knolls area of Long Beach. Visit their Facebook page for more info.

Outfit
Ricky Jacket: Hollywood Babylon, Portland, Oregon
Sweater: Simply Vintage, Portland, Oregon
Skirt: Dolly & Dotty
Penny Loafers: Thrifted
Purse: Lux deVille
Scarf & Earrings: ???
Record Brooch: I honestly can’t remember!!
Bangles: Here and there…