A Nostalgic Journey to the Atlantic Lunch: A 1960s Staunton Icon

Introduction

The Atlantic Lunch, a beloved Staunton institution in the 1960s, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. This historic diner was a culinary and cultural hub, serving up mouthwatering dishes and fostering a vibrant community.

The Atlantic Lunch: A Culinary Haven

Located at 127 South Augusta Street, the Atlantic Lunch was known for its classic American fare. The menu featured a wide array of comfort foods, including burgers, fries, milkshakes, and homemade pies.

The Famous Burgers

The Atlantic Lunch's burgers were legendary. Made with 100% pure beef, they were grilled to perfection and piled high with fresh toppings. According to local legend, the "Big Atlantic" burger, a towering masterpiece with three patties and a mountain of cheese, could only be conquered by the most voracious appetites.

Homemade Pies

No meal at the Atlantic Lunch was complete without a slice of their famous homemade pies. From the classic apple and cherry to more adventurous flavors like coconut cream and lemon meringue, there was a pie to satisfy every sweet tooth.

The Atlantic Lunch: A Community Gathering Place

Beyond its culinary offerings, the Atlantic Lunch was a hub for community gatherings. Students from the nearby Mary Baldwin College would flock to the diner for a quick bite or to socialize with friends. Businesspeople would conduct meetings over coffee and pie. And on weekends, families would come together for a memorable meal.

Nostalgia and the Atlantic Lunch

Today, the Atlantic Lunch building stands vacant, but the memories it holds are still cherished by those who frequented it in the 1960s. A plaque on the building commemorates the diner's history and its significance to the community.

The Legacy of the Atlantic Lunch

Impact on Staunton's Culinary Scene

The Atlantic Lunch had a profound impact on Staunton's culinary scene. It introduced new flavors and culinary trends to the community and helped to establish the city as a food destination.

Business Innovation

The Atlantic Lunch was an early adopter of innovative business practices. They were one of the first restaurants in Staunton to offer drive-thru service, making it convenient for customers to grab a quick meal on the go.

Community Involvement

The Atlantic Lunch was deeply involved in the Staunton community. They supported local charities and hosted community events, such as fundraisers and school spirit nights.

Tables

Table 1: Atlantic Lunch Menu Highlights

Table 2: Atlantic Lunch Customer Profile

Table 3: Atlantic Lunch Impact on Staunton

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Pie Thief

One afternoon, a group of college students entered the Atlantic Lunch and ordered a slice of every pie on the menu. After devouring their pies, they stealthily hid the remaining slices under their coats and made a hasty exit. The diner staff was baffled and amused by the students' pie-pilfering antics, and the incident became a local legend.

Lesson Learned: Don't try to steal pies from the Atlantic Lunch!

Story 2: The Singing Waitress

The Atlantic Lunch was known for its friendly and talented wait staff. One particular waitress was famous for her impromptu musical performances. During busy lunch rushes, she would burst into song while serving customers, belting out everything from pop hits to classic show tunes.

Lesson Learned: Good food and great entertainment go hand in hand at the Atlantic Lunch.

Story 3: The Celebrity Sighting

In the early 1960s, a rumor spread that a famous actor was staying at a nearby hotel. The rumor turned out to be true, and the actor, whose identity remains a closely guarded secret, decided to dine at the Atlantic Lunch. The staff was discreet and accommodating, treating the celebrity like any other customer.

Lesson Learned: Even celebrities enjoy the simple pleasures of a classic diner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Confusing the Atlantic Lunch with the Pacific Lunch

There was another diner in Staunton called the Pacific Lunch. While they had a similar name, the two diners were completely different entities.

Mistake 2: Expecting the Atlantic Lunch to be still in operation

The Atlantic Lunch closed its doors in the late 1970s. Today, the building stands vacant and is not open to the public.

Mistake 3: Assuming the food was the same as today's fast food

While the Atlantic Lunch served classic American fare, the quality and flavor of their food was far superior to today's fast food offerings.

FAQs

Q1. What year did the Atlantic Lunch open and close?

A. The Atlantic Lunch opened in the early 1950s and closed in the late 1970s.

Q2. Where was the Atlantic Lunch located?

A. The Atlantic Lunch was located at 127 South Augusta Street in Staunton, Virginia.

Q3. What were some of the popular dishes served at the Atlantic Lunch?

A. Some of the most popular dishes served at the Atlantic Lunch included the Big Atlantic Burger, cheeseburger, french fries, milkshakes, and homemade pies.

Q4. Was the Atlantic Lunch only popular with students?

A. While the Atlantic Lunch was popular with students, it was also frequented by businesspeople, families, and tourists.

Q5. Is the Atlantic Lunch building still standing?

A. Yes, the Atlantic Lunch building is still standing, but it is vacant and not open to the public.

Q6. Can I get a Big Atlantic Burger today?

A. Unfortunately, the Atlantic Lunch is closed, and you cannot get a Big Atlantic Burger today.