Burger Boy celebrating 50 years in business

6 years ago

CARIBOU, Maine — For half a century, the people of Caribou and beyond have been enjoying burgers, ice cream, and more at Burger Boy.

To celebrate 50 years in business, Burger Boy will host a “Sock Hop” from 6 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 8. Sock Hops were commonly held in the 50s and 60s and are closely tied into the restaurant’s classic Americana aesthetic.

Burger Boy owner Spenser Ouellette said some restaurant staff will be dressed in 50s and 60s era outfits for the event, and guests are also encouraged to wear similar clothing. Customers with the best outfits are also eligible to win prizes.

Burger Boy in Caribou has been a favorite of Mainers near and far since 1968 when the diner opened. The restaurant is celebrating 50 years in business with a “Sock Hop” from 6 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 8.
(Natalie Feulner | BDN file photo)

In keeping with the classic theme, the event will feature a menu with 1960s prices.

“It will be a huge discount,” he said, “like 60 cents per burger. The prices and menu aren’t finalized yet, but it will be something special.”

Jerry T. and the French Toast band will be playing hits from the 50s, 60s, and 70s for the full three hours, and the event is set to feature a bounce house and games, including a hula hoop contest and ring toss.

Ouellette purchased Burger Boy in 2012, and has been managing the restaurant for over half a decade.

Carrying the torch for the iconic restaurant has “been a lot of hard work,” said Ouellette, as he has not only increased business hours, but also has kept the restaurant open for a longer period of the year than ever before. He said Burger Boy had traditionally always been closed on Mondays, and closed for the season around Labor Day, whereas he keeps it open on Mondays, and from early March to October every year.

Ouellette said he “definitely” plans to keep Burger Boy going for another 50 years.

“We’re fine tuning the menu this winter,” he said, “and will be working on some interior renovations for the next couple winters. Then it will be complete and ready to rock and roll for the next 50 years.”