Very few restaurants make a mark beyond their local community. There are, of course, some tourist attraction spots that gain a national following.
A small handful of places nationwide also slowly build a reputation and become a destination by word of mouth. That’s something that takes time, and it’s not something you can force.
Tommy’s Famous Burgers has been one of those places. It was a company that rose from modest beginnings, and even after 47 years, its bare-bones website focuses on a very simple menu.
Calling the menu simple would almost be an understatement. Its classic menu offered a choice of hamburger, cheeseburger, chiliburger, chili cheeseburger, and an option for extra meat. You can also make it a combo meal with fries or tots and a small drink.
“Hamburgers and cheeseburgers are served with mustard or mayonnaise, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and pickles,” the company shared on its website.
Tommy’s Famous Burgers has closed
Over the years, Tommy’s Famous Burgers evolved its menu to include Mexican items, a chicken-fried steak sandwich, and a selection of hot dogs. The restaurant, however, has remained as if it existed outside the normal timeline.
It was an unassuming building that was well-kept, but certainly not flashy.
Fans of the brand were surprised on Sept. 29 when they pulled up to the Lubbock, Texas, mainstay only to see the lights off on its sign.
“A paper taped on the door stated the restaurant was closing due to retirement, with a billboard in front of the restaurant reading ‘Now RVING.’ It also directed vendors to call 806-893-1404 to schedule pick up for equipment or products,” the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal reported.
It was a quiet ending to a restaurant that had been part of the community for 47 years.
The restaurant has no affiliation with a similarly named chain that’s located in California.
Image source: Tommy's Famous Burgers
Tommy’s Famous Burgers: Lubbock, Texas, timeline
- 1978: Tommy’s Famous Burgers opens at 117 University Ave in Lubbock, Texas, becoming a beloved local institution known for its hearty, made-to-order burgers and nostalgic diner atmosphere.
- 1980s-2010s: The restaurant gains a loyal following, with patrons praising its generous portions, including the famed Super Burger and chili cheese fries.
- 2025: After nearly 50 years of operation, Tommy’s Famous Burgers closes its doors in September. A sign on the restaurant’s marquee simply reads, “Thank you Lubbock for 47 years. Now RVing.”
Source: Tommy’s Famous Burgers
Tommy’s fans are upset, share memories
Fans of Tommy’s Famous were surprised and upset at the abrupt shutdown. They shared comments and memories on Facebook.
“Oh no! I liked their club sandwich, hamburgers and Cherry limeade. Tommy’s was (is) near my sister’s house. We go there every time we’re in Lubbock,” Linda Cisneros wrote.
Betty Moreno Longoria was also upset that the restaurant had closed so abruptly.
“Besides the awesome food they served my favorite was the banana split,” she added.
Richard Rodriguez backed her up on that.
“I haven’t been there in years I remember going there all the time when I lived in Lubbock they had the best banana splits,” he posted.
Ismael Gonzalez was sad that he was denied one last chance to eat at Tommy’s Famous.
“If you have something to do, do it as soon as possible I kept saying I got to go to Tommy’s I want one of their burgers. Sorry to say I waited too long,” he shared.
Jose Ramirez summed up the restaurant’s multi-generational appeal.
“My parents loved their burgers. Good place to eat. Great customer service. Thank you,” he wrote.
Lubbock restaurants older than 47 years
Tommy’s Famous Burgers was part of a small but notable group of Lubbock restaurants with decades of history. Other establishments older than 47 years include Orlando’s Italian Restaurant (est. 1965), Gardski’s (built in the 1920s), and the University Avenue IHOP, operating since the late 1960s.
- Orlando’s Italian Restaurant (established 1965): Lubbock’s oldest full-service restaurant, known for its family recipes and cozy atmosphere.
- Gardski’s (built in the 1920s, reopened after 1970 tornado): The oldest restaurant structure in Lubbock, offering a unique dining experience.
- IHOP (University Avenue) (operating since the late 1960s): An iconic spot for pancakes and breakfast dishes.
Source: Lubbock Online
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