l, not -l wrote:
> On 22-Jun-2010, Kalmia > wrote:
>
>> Five and dime counters were strictly for a real quick burger -- 30
>> cents, IIRC.
>
> Drugstores too. Back in the day (late '50s, early '60s) the major drug
> stores all had lunch counters too. Here (STL) the major drugstores were
> Rexall and Katz; Rexall had great burgers, fountain drinks and ice cream
> cones and sundaes. Katz had a wider variety of food, the standard fountain
> items; but, my favorite was limeade, made fresh all summer long and served
> in a tall glass you could keep for a small additional charge (5-10
> cents???). To this day, I still drink limeade in the hotest, muggiest part
> of summer (like now).
>
> Sadly, Rexall was run into the ground by a CEO who rapidly expanded the
> company until it imploded. Katz was bought out by Skaggs which was bought
> out by Walgreens.
>
> Fortunately, we still have a lunch counter in my community; it's a stand
> alone, maybe 20 seats (roughly half booth, half stools at the counter) and
> been in business since the 40s. You can get a plate lunch (open-face roast
> beef with mashed potatoes, gravy and green beans is a good choice) or
> sandwiches (good burgers, I like 'em with grilled onions). Breakfast on the
> cheap, the blueberry pancakes are locally renowned. Heck, there's even
> scrapple for the geezers who seem to love it.

Drugstores... The only root beer (or soft drink) I have ever
enjoyed was from a long-defunct drugstore. It had only 5 or so
seats at the counter.

--
Jean B.