ISSAQUAH, Wash. — At long last, a new restaurant will be taking over the space formerly occupied by an iconic Issaquah drive-in.
Triple XXX Rootbeer closed its doors for good on Nov. 29, 2023, after over 50 years. Burgermaster, which has five locations across western Washington, announced on Instagram Monday it would be taking over and opening a new restaurant at 98 E Gilman Boulevard.
Burgermaster currently operates two locations in Seattle as well as restaurants in Bellevue, Bothell, and Mount Vernon.
According to its website, Burgermaster opened in 1952 in the University District of Seattle. Founder Phil Jensen's family still owns the restaurant, the website states, with his grandson Alex serving as the current owner.
Burgermaster similarly serves customers in a 1950s-style drive-in.
Droves of people came to the restaurant after Triple XXX's last-second announcement about closing up shop.
"We thank you for the many happy years of serving you," the sign, posted by management, read. "We have retired!!!"
XXX Root Beer Drive-In opened in 1968. The restaurant was known for its comically large portions of 1950s-style diner favorites, including giant XXX burgers, "Why did the chicken cross I-90?" entrees, and, of course, root beer floats and milkshakes. XXX Root Beer also hosted several car shows.
No opening date for the new Burgermaster location was announced, with the company saying "stay tuned" in its social media announcement.
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