Big Al's Drive In
Chico, California, USA
Visit Big Al's Drive In in Chico, CA for classic burgers, shakes, and fast service. Check menu, hours, reviews, and location of this beloved hamburger restaurant.
1844 Esplanade, Chico, CA 95926, United States
Big Al's Drive In
Chico, California, USA
Overview
Big Al's Drive In is a classic hamburger restaurant located in Chico, CA, offering a nostalgic fast-food experience with window-service. Its menu features a range of comfort foods including burgers, shakes, and other quick bites that celebrate local flavors and timeless favorites.
The atmosphere exudes a casual and historic vibe, appealing to college students, tourists, and groups alike. Patrons can enjoy outdoor seating or dine in a clean, wheelchair-accessible space, perfect for a quick or casual meal priced between $10 and $20.
Gallery
Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.
Local favorites
Big Al's Drive In stands out as a favorite spot for burgers and shakes with a nostalgic, casual vibe that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
Quick counter service ensures customers get their classic comfort food promptly, perfect for lunches or takeout.
Milk shakes and soft serve ice cream, including specialties like chocolate malt, add a sweet finish that keeps guests coming back.
The old-fashioned drive-in experience serves up cherished local flavors and menu items unique to Chico’s dining scene.
A casual, historic setting attracts college students, groups, tourists, and families alike for relaxed dining.
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating make dining comfortable for all guests.
Known for hamburgers, crispy french fries, and a wide variety of shakes, the menu satisfies cravings for classic fast food.
Whether dining solo or with friends, the spot offers a perfect quick bite experience with outdoor and dine-in options.
Free parking options nearby add to the ease of stopping by for a quick and satisfying meal.
Experience
Big Al's Drive In shines as a go-to spot for quick, tasty meals that fit perfectly into busy days or casual outings.
Fast service and a welcoming environment make this spot ideal for anyone craving freshly made burgers or classic shakes in a casual, historic setting. — FoodPlacee editorial note
Stop by for a fast and satisfying lunch with popular items like the chili burger and crispy fries, complemented by a refreshing milkshake to recharge the afternoon.
Evenings are perfect for enjoying a relaxed dinner here, where diners can indulge in the double burger or fishwich, soaking up the old-school drive-in vibe.
The efficient counter service suits solo diners looking for a brief yet fulfilling visit, with a typical stay around 15 minutes.
For those on the go, Big Al’s offers swift takeout options ensuring that favorites like the pastrami sandwich or shrimp basket can be enjoyed anywhere.
Kid-friendly amenities and a comforting menu make this location a welcoming destination for families, featuring high chairs and a kids’ menu.
Guest sentiment
A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.
"Excellent burgers and shakes! Plenty of items on the menu to please the whole family. The shake options are vast and really good (probably the best around). It's a bit pricey but worth it, imo. The employees are nice and the dining area is clean."
"The good great, especially the fries. I like the crispness and the seasoning on it. I also liked the deluxe double cheeseburger which comes with fries. The service was realy good. I like how Big Al does names I stead of numbers."
"Good old school hamburger stand don't miss out!!!! The shakes are outstanding good many different types an flavors Love Big Al's"
"The chicken strip basket is excellent. I also got a regular hamburger, and it was also good. Big Al's is a drive-in with good atmosphere."
"The food menu is old school dine in driver status. The burgers and the shakes are amazing! I had the patty melt was pretty bomb! The girls are super friendly and fastest service :-)"
"Food was good. The peanut butter milkshake and Oreo shake is good. We also tried the mocha chip shake. Personally we did not like the mocha chip. Fast service."
"This was my first time eating here and it definitely won’t be my last! I ordered a pastrami sandwich and a side of fries, it surprisingly only came up to about $11! The fry sauce was unique and tasty and the sandwich - yum! The cashier had a pleasant attitude and a welcoming smile! Def will add this to my list of favs in Chico!"
"Great food with quick and friendly service. Burgers are comparable, but better, than in-n-out burgers with good ingredients and crispy fries. Chocolate malt was one of the best I've had. The only complaint is the dining area was saturated with flies. The minute we got our food they swarmed us. Made the eating experience very uncomfortable. I probably won't eat in again, but I'll definitely be going back and getting take out."
Visit info
Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.
| Monday | 10:00 AM - 09:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM - 09:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM - 09:30 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM - 09:30 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM - 09:30 PM |
Open daily from 10 AM, the drive-in is ideal for lunch, dinner, and late-afternoon snacks. Typically a quick 15-minute visit suits those on the go.
On the map
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Questions answered
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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.