Red Barn (restaurant)

Mr Sub in Barn on Dundas East, Mississauga

Hamburger Hungry

Chicken hungry

Big Fish Hungry

Red Barn was a fast-food restaurant chain founded in the United States in 1961. The chain was known for its barn-shaped restaurants, with the slogan "When the hungries hit, hit the Red Barn." It specialized in offering hamburgers, fried chicken, and french fries. At its peak, Red Barn operated in various locations across the United States, as well as in Canada and Australia. However, by the late 1980s, the chain had largely disappeared.

History

Red Barn was established in 1961, aiming to capitalize on the growing fast-food market in the United States. The distinctive barn-shaped design of its restaurants, complete with a bright red exterior, was intended to make the outlets stand out to potential customers. This architectural choice was not only a branding tool but also a nod to the country's rural heritage, suggesting a sense of home-cooked meals and community.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Red Barn expanded rapidly, opening locations in several states, as well as international outlets in Canada and Australia. The menu at Red Barn was typical of fast-food establishments of the time, focusing on hamburgers, fried chicken, and french fries, but it also featured unique items like the "Big Barney" and "Barnbuster" hamburgers, which were designed to compete with similar offerings from more prominent chains.

Decline

The decline of Red Barn began in the early 1980s, attributed to several factors including increased competition from larger fast-food chains, changes in consumer preferences, and challenges in maintaining franchisee relationships. As a result, many Red Barn restaurants closed or were converted into other fast-food outlets. By the late 1980s, the Red Barn brand had largely disappeared, leaving behind a legacy of nostalgic memories for those who had visited the restaurants during their childhood.

Legacy

Today, Red Barn is remembered fondly by those who grew up eating at the chain. Online communities and fan pages have emerged, sharing photos, memories, and merchandise related to Red Barn. These digital spaces serve as a testament to the lasting impact that the chain had on its customers, despite its relatively short lifespan in the fast-food industry.

Menu

The menu at Red Barn was known for its simplicity and focus on traditional fast-food fare. Key items included:

• Hamburgers: The "Big Barney" and "Barnbuster" were among the most popular choices, offering larger portions and unique toppings.
• Fried Chicken: Served in buckets or individual pieces, Red Barn's fried chicken was a staple of its menu.
• French Fries: A classic side option, often accompanying burgers and chicken.
• Salad Bar: Some locations featured a salad bar, which was a novel concept for fast-food restaurants at the time.

See Also

• Fast food restaurant
• List of defunct fast-food restaurant chains
• History of fast food