Beloved Kansas City burger joint Harold’s Drive-In will be closing its doors permanently at the end of 2024, after 66 years in business.
A KC Institution Comes to an End: Harold’s Drive-In to Close After 66 Years
Harold’s Drive-In, a beloved Kansas City burger joint, will be closing its doors permanently at the end of 2024. The news has left owner Deb Walker heartbroken, and many loyal customers are mourning the loss of this iconic eatery.
The restaurant, which has been in business since 1958, has seen better days. Walker, who purchased Harold’s from Nancy Smith just before the pandemic, has been struggling to keep it afloat. With many downtown workers now working from home, and regulars retiring or passing away, the restaurant simply doesn’t have enough customers to stay open.
“I’m going to get my CDL and drive for a while and kind of regroup,” Walker said, trying to come to terms with the closure. “Then, I don’t know what.”
Harold’s has been a staple in the neighborhood between downtown and Northeast Kansas City, serving up classic drive-in fare like burgers, sandwiches, and fries. One of its quirks is the lunch specials inspired by the letters of Harold’s name, where an “H” gets you a pork tenderloin with fries and soda, while an “A” lands you a triple cheeseburger with fries and soda.
The restaurant has also become known for its breakfast sandwiches, particularly the sausage, egg, and cheese option. “It’s regular drive-in food, but everything’s fresh and cooked right in front of you,” Walker explained. “That’s the main difference.”
Nancy Smith, who owned Harold’s from 1999 to 2020, has a deep connection to the restaurant. She grew up just a block away and worked at the old Admiral Inn next door before joining the team at Harold’s. “I’ve spent most of my life in this building,” she said. “My heart is aching a little, knowing it’s going away.”
The closure of Harold’s leaves only a few remaining 1950s-style drive-ins around the metro, including Humdinger, Paul’s Drive-In, Mugs Up, and Christy’s Tasty Queen.
Harold’s will be open for two final days of service on December 30 and 31, giving customers one last chance to say goodbye. While some have offered to try and raise money to keep the restaurant open, Walker has decided it’s time to move on. “I think it’s probably just time,” she said.
As Harold’s Drive-In closes its doors for good, it leaves behind a legacy of delicious food, loyal customers, and a piece of Kansas City history.
