The Hob Nob was opened on March 12, 1957
by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Sohner,
making it
Sarasota's oldest drive-in at
over 50 years
old. Back in those days, it's
present location
at 1701 N. Washington Boulevard
was nothing
more than a dirt road. Now, it
is US Highway
301 and will be six lanes very
shortly.
During the years, there have
been seven different
owners. The present owners, Cary
and Debby
Spicuzza, bought the Hob Nob
on November
7, 1991. The Hob Nob was little
more than
a wooden shack when the Spicuzza's
bought
it. They have made major renovations
while
preserving the drive-in's history
and atmosphere
as an authentic bit of Floridana.
The roller skating servers have gone by the
wayside due to the busy highway and liability
issues but the open air seating has been
preserved. Awnings now shelter customers
from sideways rain while plastic sheeting
and heaters provide relief from those rare
days when the weather turns chilly. The kitchen,
tables and counters have been updated while
preserving the casual friendly drive-in atmosphere.
The Spicuzza's have refocused the Hob Nob's
menu back to the basics - burgers and hot
dogs, the classics that make the drive-in
what it is. The hand-made milkshakes, floats
and ice cream cones have been brought back
as well. Salads and other health foods were
added to round out the menu. There are daily
specials featuring the local foods and markets
The Hob Nob's casual and friendly atmosphere
is what makes it different as a Sarasota
eating establishment. Their happy employees
make happy customers that come from all walks
of life. Working men and women can sit by
the rich and famous to get a good meal at
a moderate price. The Hob Nob draws a diverse
mix of locals and visitors that makes it
a favorite of all ages and walks of life
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