The heartland charm hits differently at this vintage burger spot where carhop service meets homemade goodness.
Since 1948, R-B Drive In has mastered the art of combining nostalgia with unbeatable flavors, making hungry locals choose tradition over trends every single day.
This isn’t just another burger joint—it’s Hutchinson’s first drive-in and a living piece of Kansas history that continues serving up made-from-scratch meals with the same recipes that built its legendary reputation 🍟
How R-B Drive in Won Local’s Hearts
R-B Drive In captured Hutchinson’s heart through three generations of unwavering commitment to quality and an almost mystical dedication to their craft.
The restaurant’s founder, Lawrence Burgess, claimed an angel visited him at night to reveal the secret recipe for their now-legendary onion ring batter—a story that perfectly captures the devoted passion behind every meal served at this beloved establishment.
Strategic location played a crucial role in building their loyal following.
Positioned directly across from the oldest school in Reno County, R-B became the natural after-school destination for generations of students, creating an unbreakable cycle of memories that parents now share with their children.
The restaurant’s success stems from understanding that they’re not just serving food—they’re preserving community connections where grandparents bring grandchildren to experience the same flavors and atmosphere they enjoyed decades ago.
Food Highlights 🍔
- 1/2 Lb “R-B Special” Burger: The signature half-pound beef patty made from locally raised, freshly ground beef cooked on the original 1948 grill and served on a perfectly toasted bun—this is the burger that built their reputation
- Homemade Onion Rings: Hand-battered using the “angel-inspired” recipe that Burgess claimed came to him in a dream, these legendary rings are so famous that some customers drive over an hour just to get them
- Hand-Tenderized Pork Tenderloin: One of their two top-selling sandwiches, this hand-breaded specialty showcases the scratch-made approach that sets R-B apart from typical drive-ins
- 1 Lb “BeltBuster” Burger: For the truly hungry, this massive one-pound patty represents the ultimate challenge and has become a must-try item for first-time visitors
- BBQ Bacon Swiss Burger: A creative twist on their classic formula combining smoky barbecue flavors with crispy bacon and melted Swiss cheese
Atmosphere
R-B Drive In transports visitors back to authentic 1950s Americana with its original drive-in structure featuring 18 canopy-covered parking stalls where “Honk for Service” signs beckon hungry customers.
The interior maintains its vintage charm with a stainless-steel counter overlooking the kitchen where diners can watch their meals being prepared on the same grill that’s been serving burgers since 1948.
Carhop service delivers that nostalgic experience of having fresh, hot food brought directly to your car, while the retro atmosphere creates an environment where multiple generations gather to share meals and memories.
Bottom Line
Visit R-B Drive In for Kansas’s oldest drive-in experience, legendary angel-inspired onion rings, authentic carhop service, made-from-scratch specialties using 75-year-old recipes, and the chance to create lasting family memories in a genuine slice of Americana.
Address: 201 E Ave A, Hutchinson, KS 67501
đź“ž (620) 662-9713
🕔 Mon-Wed 10:45 AM–4:00 PM, Thu 10:45 AM–8:00 PM, Fri 10:45 AM–5:30 PM, Sat 10:45 AM–4:00 PM (Closed Sun)