A roadside business model, typically a restaurant, offering curbside service and/or parking spaces where patrons remain in their vehicles to consume purchased food and beverages. These establishments often feature outdoor movie screens, providing a combined dining and entertainment experience. A classic example is a restaurant with carhops delivering orders, allowing customers to enjoy a meal without leaving their cars.
This type of establishment provided convenient and affordable entertainment, particularly during the mid-20th century. Offering a family-friendly environment and adapting to the burgeoning car culture, such businesses became synonymous with Americana. The affordability and accessibility contributed to their popularity, making them a cultural touchstone for generations. Preserving these venues often means safeguarding a piece of local history and community identity.