Nostalgic Fast Food at Dickie Jo’s

By: Michelle Locke | June 28 2011
Posted in Eugene - Find It - Eugene

Dickie Jo's captures the fun flavor and colors of the 50s. Photos by: Michelle Locke

Dickie Jo’s, a 1950s-style fast food joint, is owned by the same company that owns Mucho Gusto, Westaurant Concepts. With two locations in Eugene, one downtown at 201 E 13th Ave, and one across the street from Valley River Center (1079-C Valley River Way), this faux-retro diner represents the move towards a more sentimental fast food experience.

The vintage aesthetic of these restaurants isn’t necessarily accurate, but it does recalls a sense of nostalgia; as well, the image plays into the public’s fascination with a retro style and a bygone era. With the popularity of films such as Grease and Hairspray, it’s obvious why Dickie Jo’s exists: consumers love to look back.

The décor is relatively typical of 50s and 60s diners and fast food restaurant styling, but the food at here is actually pretty wonderful. Their portions are large and their fries are close to perfection. However, a BLT sandwich, fries, and a drink costs $8.48. While the food is certainly delicious, it does feels like it costs more than it should.

Consider: the base price for a burger is $6.49, which includes fries. Cheese is another 49 cents, as is bacon, onions, or mushrooms. Requesting a veggie burger adds $1. Getting onion rings instead of fries adds $1.50. By the end of customizing your order, you could end up spending over $10 for a burger and fries (or onion rings)…and you haven’t even added a drink yet! The pricing is typical of a mid-level family restaurant; but this is fast food. There are no waiters or hostesses. While the food is good, is it worth it?

It's certainly worth a try. They do offer great food, and the décor is fun, even if it’s not necessarily authentic. Everything about this burger joint serves as a fun reminder to a past era. And even though the prices are a little steep, the food does arrive fresh, hot, and delicious.

When it comes down to it, it's ultimately up to you to decide if the 1950s aesthetic is just an attempt to capitalize on the popularity of retro and nostalgia, or if it is a valiant effort to bring attention to traditionally great American food. Regardless, Dickie Jo's is certainly a great place to stop for a quick, satisfying (if a bit expensive) bite between errands. 

A grilled BLT and perfectly crispy, delicious fries.

Michelle Locke lives and writes in Eugene, Oregon. She loves food, fashion, and the outdoors.