On June 16, 1928, Nat Bailey opened a restaurant that would ultimately turn into one of B.C.'s most recognizable chains.
Since then, White Spot expanded to dozens of communities, including one in Coquitlam and one in Port Coquitlam that have become the go-to spots for local families.
The company will celebrate 95 years of business with a special two-week menu for comfort foodies that includes several throwbacks.
"We are so proud of what we've built here," said White Spot president and CEO Warren Erhart in a news release, who will retire this summer after 33 years in the top chair.
"We've been operating for almost a century and, over that time, the values on which Nat Bailey founded White Spot have only grown stronger. Nat would be proud if he could see us today."
The White Spot Tri-Cities locations are as follows:
- Coquitlam (Sunwood Square)
- Port Coquitlam
In each restaurant, residents can sit down inside or outside, or order online for food delivery or pick-up.
Additionally, Coquitlam's stop has a car hop feature where, for years, patrons have been able to dine inside their vehicles.
White Spot is said to be Canada's longest-running restaurant chain, and incoming president Trent Carroll believes its popularity will keep growing even beyond 100 years in 2028.
"Our business has seen substantial growth, particularly driven by the Triple O's brand expanding into locations beyond British Columbia, including Alberta, Ontario and even internationally into markets like Hong Kong. It's remarkable to think it all started back in 1928 with that first drive-in."
Anniversary menu
The 95th anniversary celebration starts Monday (June 5) and will continue until June 16.
During that span, White Spot's special limited menu will pay homage to a time when beef was in short supply and barbecue chicken quickly became an instant hit.
Items will include crispy fried chicken, half-rack ribs and crispy chicken, a BBQ chicken sandwich, crispy fried dills and the BC Chicken Burger.
As well, there will be a birthday cake shake to mark the occasion.
For more information, you can visit White Spot's website.
