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Welcome to Big-Top Drive In

At Big-Top Drive In, a cherished local gem since the 1950s, nostalgia meets culinary delight. Nestled in Evansville, IN, this New American burger joint specializes in fresh, made-to-order dishes that keep patrons coming back for more. From crispy fries to indulgent onion rings, every bite feels like home. The burgers, particularly the big cheeseburger and breaded tenderloin, are grilled to perfection, eliciting joy from diners of all ages. The charming outdoor seating, friendly service, and irresistible ice cream make it a perfect spot for families and friends. Big-Top Drive In isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a flavorful journey through fond memories and satisfying meals.

Big-Top Drive In: Reviews & Ratings

Shayla Reed R.
Shayla Reed R.

Always fresh and friendly service, been going here my whole life (49) and never a bad experience

Virginia S.
Virginia S.

My husband and I ordered the big cheeseburger special and it was great! The service was fast and the staff was very friendly. If you want what we used to call a good ole greasy (but it wasn't greasy) burger this is your place! Oh and the ice cream is awesome too!!!!

Heather W.
Heather W.

Finally got over to check this little joint out for myself over my lunch break and I was not disappointed. This is a made to order sandwich and ice cream shop. They have a couple picnic tables outside where you can enjoy your food if it's a nice day and they even have a tiny picnic table for the kiddos. You walk inside and it's clear they are working on fixing the place up. They have a couple benches where you can sit inside while they prepare your food which is nice. They have a variety of sandwiches and sides such as fries and onion rings and then several different ways to get your ice cream fix. I ordered a loaded breaded tenderloin for a friend and got myself a BLT and fries. I was pretty impressed when the guy who took my order asked me if I was a nurse and then I realized I still had my badge on from work. Anyway I told him I was and he gave me a 15% discount on my food! It took just about 5-6 minutes for the food to be prepared and I grabbed the bag and headed back to work. It wasn't until I got back that I realized I got a cheeseburger instead of the BLT that I ordered. The breaded tenderloin was pretty big and looked and smelled amazing. My cheeseburger was actually quite good and while I really did have a hankering for a BLT I was quite thrilled with the burger. It had a really good grilled flavor to it. I may have been extra hungry but those fries were so good. Really crispy and salty and not overly greasy like some can be. I'll definitely be going back because I really do want to try the BLT and maybe get some ice cream as well. Highly recommend coming here!

Alexandra K.
Alexandra K.

I drove by this place and I was curious about it. I ordered the BLT some fries and some onion rings and even the breaded mushrooms I was so impressed with the BLT I have high standards for a simple sandwich. If any place can't make it I won't order anything else from them. They did the sandwich proud. I will be definitely returning to try more items.

Kelly H.
Kelly H.

I LOVE BIG TOP! This place was close to my grandma's house, when I was growing up, and we would walk down there to get burgers, fries, onion rings and ice cream! Oh, and the best fried mushrooms! So good! It's been there since the 1950's and has the best burgers! They roast the bun and add a bag of fries and your in heaven!

Adam F.
Adam F.

Some people say that when we die, we see a curious light. We wander toward it until we reach heaven. And all the ice cream cones we've ever eaten are there. They're unmelted. But the truth is death and heaven, while they offer rewards, cannot provide the absolute bliss of a sprinkle cone from Big Top. Excellent burgers.

Micah S.
Micah S.

Best local restaurant around! They've got amazing food for a small price, most people with extra pocket change can grab a sandwich here! I've been to this restaurant every once and a while and I'm happy to say, every time I cone here, I am pleasantly surprised! Especially with all of the options available. All in all, the Burgers are amazing, the fries are cooked PERFECTLY, and their Ice Cream and Blasters deserve a medal.

Jeanette H.
Jeanette H.

How many places can you go these days and get a jumbo cheeseburger, family size fries, and dessert for $6 and some change?! Even McDonalds aint serving up that much food for that price. I visited Big Top on Black Friday for some dinner. I normally go to Zestos which is similar, in my opinion. I ordered the special.... You know the special on the board outside, large cheeseburger and fries for $3.48 and I made the fries a large for $.35 more. Crinkle cut fries cooked to perfection. BAM! Call that a deal. My chocolate dip top was the bomb! I'm a huge fan of the hard shell chocolate. Big Top has some of the best ice cream ever. All in all this is a good local walk up eatery. It's one of few walk up fast food places in town aka no drive through. I'm a fan and each time I come home I look forward to coming here or Zesto

Location

  • Big-Top Drive In
    1213 W Maryland St Evansville, IN 47710 United States Hotline: (812) 424-7442

Welcome to the charming world of Big-Top Drive In, a delightful establishment nestled at 1213 W Maryland St, Evansville, IN. This New American burger joint is a beloved local haunt that's been serving the community since the 1950s. With a focus on quality and comfort, Big-Top has earned its place in the hearts (and stomachs) of its patrons.

At Big-Top Drive In, the menu is a celebration of classic American flavors. From the moment you step in, the aroma of freshly made sandwiches tantalizes your senses. Their signature big cheeseburger is a standout—juicy, flavorful, and, as one customer noted, a "good ole greasy burger" that somehow evades excessive grease—prime comfort food at its finest. This is a place where each dish is crafted with care and attention.

Not only do they serve delicious meals, but the friendly service enhances the overall experience. Repeat visitors, like Shayla Reed, highlight the fresh food and warm atmosphere, assuring newcomers that they'll likely leave with a smile just as she always does.

If you have a penchant for sides, their crispy fries and onion rings come highly recommended. They strike the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, without the greasy aftertaste often found in similar dishes. For those with a sweet tooth, don't skip their ice cream, a crowd favorite that rounds out any meal perfectly.

Convenience is also key at Big-Top Drive In. Offering takeout and delivery, along with a relaxing outdoor seating area, it’s an ideal spot for a casual meal or a quick bite. With accessibility features and amenities like wi-fi and a drive-thru, this little gem caters to everyone—families, groups, and even your furry friends.

  • Location: 1213 W Maryland St, Evansville, IN 47710
  • Contact: (812) 424-7442
  • Services Offered: Takeout, Reservations, Delivery, Catering
  • Family-Friendly: Good for Kids, Outdoor Seating, Dogs Allowed
  • Specials: Happy Hour Specials

In conclusion, whether you’re a lifelong local or a curious newcomer, Big-Top Drive In promises a hearty meal, a welcoming space, and an experience that will have you returning for more. Stop by, enjoy a bite, and discover why this iconic drive-in continues to shine brightly in the heart of Evansville.