Food

How Gott's Roadside evolves the menu while honoring the restaurant's 25-year legacy

Clay Walker, president of the iconic California drive-in, shares why local flavor and hospitality creates staying power.

Gott’s Roadside got its start in California’s Napa Valley 25 years ago and has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation as an early pioneer of fast-casual dining. Through the years, the food has evolved from a limited menu of burgers, fries and shakes to a broad and varied selection that offers something for everyone, says Clay Walker, president of the iconic drive-in.

Clay Walker

Clay Walker

This year, culinary director Jennifer Rebman is introducing a commemorative 25th anniversary menu, rotating in old favorites and new LTOs during each month of 2024. Items like a soft shell crab sandwich, grilled artichokes, street corn and a lobster BLT are coming up as specials.

Listen as Walker describes how he is honoring Gott’s legacy while growing the brand, how the roadside restaurant puts hospitality front and center, and what guests can expect next from Gott’s.

Subscribe to Menu Feed on Apple Podcasts.

Subscribe on Spotify.

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Financing

Restaurants are worried about the Sysco-Restaurant Depot deal. Should they be?

Independent operators were shaken when the broadline distributor announced a $29 billion acquisition of the cash-and-carry operation. But some say the deal could have some real benefits.

Financing

How will McDonald’s affect the beverage market?

The Bottom Line: The fast-food giant begins its big push into the fast-growing drinks business starting next month. The impact may not be what you think it will be.

Marketing

Chili’s tries to catch lightning in a bottle again with chicken sandwich campaign

Marketing Bites: Like it did with its Big QP burger launch last year, the casual-dining chain is once again going after fast food’s value perception.

Trending

More from our partners