What Sets Iceberg Drive Inn Apart from Other Diners?

Diners are a nostalgic and iconic part of American history. They offer a wide variety of delicious American cuisine and transport you to a different, comfortable time in the past. There are thousands and thousands of diners all across the United States, but one diner seems to stand out more than the rest: Iceberg Drive Inn.

But what sets Iceberg Drive Inn apart? Continue reading to find out more.

The History of Iceberg Drive Inn

Back in 1960, a local ice cream machine salesman, Hap Vitale, had an idea for a building with a distinctive roof that served everybody’s favorites: milkshakes, burgers, and fries. He convinced Lamar Sorensen to open this concept, and soon, Iceberg Drive Inn was born. On April 12, 1960, Lamar Sorensen opened the first Iceberg Drive Inn in Salt Lake City, Utah, located on the corner of 900 East and 3900 South.

The building was initially designed to be movable after the first few years since, at the time, Sorensen was only renting the land. Many people report that Iceberg Drive Inn was the first drive-thru in the Salt Lake City area. Sorensen insisted that “Drive Inn” be spelled with two “N’s” because he believed that it felt more friendly to invite people to an “inn” rather than to a “drive-in.”  

From the beginning, Iceberg Drive Inn was a huge success and immediately brought smiles and warm memories to every family that visited. It earned the reputation for having delicious and innovative shake flavors that could not be found anywhere but Iceberg Drive Inn.

Sorensen served “regular” shakes that used straws until a group of “regulars” asked for a thicker shake that didn’t have as much milk. At first, these over-the-top milkshakes were only available to those that asked for them. But when many other customers caught on and began requesting them, Sorensen and his staff abandoned their original formula and replaced them for the over-the-top Famous Thick Shakes you know and love.

For 36 years, Sorensen ran the business. In 1996, he sold it to a new owner. The new owner’s original intention was to knock down the building. However, after hearing the customers’ love of the diner, its history, and realizing its potential, they decided to keep it, that it’d be a smart business move to keep the original Iceberg Drive Inn. To keep the tradition of friendly service, the owners decided it should be operated by a family member.

Due to its colossal success, Iceberg Drive Inn wanted to share the Iceberg Experience with others outside the Salt Lake Valley. In 1999, Iceberg Drive Inn began franchising and launched its first franchised unit in 2001.

Stop By Iceberg Drive Inn Today

Iceberg Drive Inn continues to follow in Sorensen’s footsteps with the same tried-and-true recipes from 1960 of our Famous Thick Shakes, great food, and friendly service. There are over 17 Iceberg locations in California, Arizona, and Utah, including Salt Lake City, Fillmore, Sandy, Syracuse, St. George, Riverton, and Pleasant Grove. Take a look at our menu and stop by today! One taste, and it’s a tradition!