92-year-old drive-in recommits to the classic and nostalgic burgers that shaped its legacy
AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Swensons, the iconic Akron-based drive-in known for its mouthwatering burgers and sprinting Curb Servers™, announced the company-wide return of its original locally baked buns, buttered to perfection, and prepared in Swensons’ classic toasters. The move signals a recommitment to doing what Swensons does best: listening to Guest feedback, focusing on core classics, and delivering the nostalgic taste profile that Swensons’ Guests have loved for generations.
“At Swensons, our Akron roots made us who we are, and our Guests consistently make us better, telling us when things are working and when they are not,” said Jeff Flowers, Swensons Drive-In CEO. “We recently tested some new buns and toasters, and the Swensons community made it clear that the change was not their favorite. The true magic of Swensons is rooted in the timeless flavors of our original products, starting with the flaky, fresh, hand-buttered, and toasted bun that is a cornerstone of our award-winning burgers.”
To complement the fresh buns delivered from Akron multiple times a week, Swensons has also restored its original buttering method and classic vertical toasters. Together, these elements guarantee that signature fresh, toasted foundation for a Galley Boy, Double Cheeseburger, Fried Bologna, or any go-to Swensons favorite.
In addition to the buns, Guests delivered another message loud and clear: while they enjoyed recent menu collaborations, they want to see more of Swensons’ original items, prepared to perfection. Moving forward, Swensons is dialing back its expansive list of monthly specials in favor of staying focused on the classics, while still making room to serve up longtime Guest-favorite seasonal treats, like the annual fall Pumpkin Pie Shake. Above all, the drive-in is doubling down on its single most important collaboration of the last 92 years—the one with its trusted Guests.
“We’ve had some amazing collaborations over the past two years, but when our Guests send us a message like this, we owe it to them to listen and take action,” said Flowers.
Swensons’ goal is to provide Guests the exact same signature experience every single time—from freshly baked Italian buns and perfectly made-to-order classics to sprinting Curb Server hospitality—regardless of the time or location.
For 92 years, Swensons burgers have reflected a commitment to sweating the small stuff: from using fresh, never frozen, beef to hand-slicing cheese and chopping fresh, whole produce on site. The drive-in is even particular about how toppings are placed, like building a Galley Boy with its special sauces in the exact places, and a signature pimento-stuffed green olive on top.
“Getting those little details right is the Swensons way,” Flowers added.
As the drive-in continues its legacy across Ohio, it has not only recommitted to its classic menu, but it has also reinforced its defining drive-in service model. Where traditional drive-throughs rely on speakers and drive-through windows, Swensons Curb Servers sprint directly to cars, delivering genuine human connection, personal hospitality, and hot food served on car-side window trays.
For more information on Swensons ingredients, menu, or even how to share your own feedback, visit www.SwensonsDriveIns.com or connect on social media @SwensonsDriveIn.
About Swensons Drive-Ins
Founded in Akron, Ohio, in 1934, Swensons Drive-Ins has been bringing it for 92 years! We serve fresh-grilled burgers, handspun milkshakes, and crispy sides right to your car by an energetic team of smiling Curb Servers™ who literally sprint across our parking lots. This personal interaction between guests and Curb Servers has brought generations of “Swenatics” flocking to Swensons. We have 20 stand locations throughout Ohio and two food trucks. Swensons is a multi-year recipient of the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Regional Fast-Food Chain and Signal Akron’s Best Chain Dining in its Best of the City Award.
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