Florida is full of shiny new restaurants, but some of the best stops on the road still look a lot like they did decades ago. Think frosty mugs, car-side trays, picnic tables, and root beer floats piled with vanilla ice cream.
This list covers six old-school spots across the state where the burgers are simple, the service is quick, and root beer is still a big part of the menu. Some have jukeboxes, some bring food right to your car window, and one even makes its root beer on location.
Whether you grew up on drive-ins or just want a fun family outing, these places keep the classic roadside meal alive. Save this one for your next road trip, lazy weekend, or anytime a cold mug sounds better than a fancy dinner.
1. Tony’s Chicago Beef Co. Southside (aka Frosted Mug), Venice, FL
A place nicknamed the Frosted Mug had better take its root beer seriously, and this Venice stop does. The drinks come ice cold, and the lineup includes a good selection of root beers, with IBC among the favorites…