Though founded in California, Big Boy has become a Michigan icon. The restaurant is celebrating its 90th anniversary with special deals, memories, and more.

The Enduring Legacy of Big Boy Restaurants

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Photo by Marc Snailum on Unsplash
Photo by Marc Snailum on Unsplash

The first Big Boy restaurant, originally known as Bob's Big Boy, opened in Glendale, California, in 1936. California remains home to the chain's original surviving locations.

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Photo by Roger Starnes Sr on Unsplash
Photo by Roger Starnes Sr on Unsplash

Frisch's Big Boy is a separate franchise with dozens of locations across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.

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Photo by Ruth Bourke on Unsplash
Photo by Ruth Bourke on Unsplash

Big Boy’s popularity took off in Michigan in 1952. Today the state is home to about 85% of the chain’s U.S. locations. The company's headquarters is in Southfield, while a handful of restaurants also operate in Ohio and Nevada.

Read More: Discover the Other Grand Rapids Beyond Michigan

Big Boy turns 90 on June 15, 2026, and plans to celebrate.

 

Big Boy Marks 90 Years With a Throwback Special

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Photo by Marc Snailum on Unsplash
Photo by Marc Snailum on Unsplash
According to FOX 17, Monday is National Big Boy Day. To mark the chain’s 90th anniversary, the original Big Boy double-decker sandwich, featuring two beef patties, lettuce, cheese, and its signature sauce, will be offered for $1.90 with the purchase of a Pepsi product.
Getty Images
Getty Images
Getty Images
For the rest of the month, the Big Boy chain will offer throwback pricing, giveaways for guests, and other promotions. To celebrate Big Boy’s 90th birthday, here are four West Michigan locations:
  • Wyoming - 4950 Wilson Ave SW
  • Cedar Springs - 13961 White Creek Ave NE
  • Muskegon - 1720 E. Sternberg Rd
  • Greenville - 1500 W Washington St
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If you are heading north of Cedar Springs, there are Big Boy locations in Cadillac and Traverse City.

👇BELOW: 45 Big Boy Locations Still Open in Michigan👇

45 Big Boy Locations Still Open in Michigan

Of the 51 remaining Big Boy restaurants open in the U.S., 45 are located here in Michigan. Here's where you can find them:

Gallery Credit: Lauren Gordon

First Big Boy Restaurant in Micjhigan

First Big Boy Restaurant in Micjhigan

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