Bob’s Big Boy

Bob’s Big Boy. Grand Opening Oct. 19, 2009. , This building is a great example of the “Googie style” coffee shops and drive-in restaurants that once dotted the Southern California landscape. Googie Architecture called for buildings to read as signs to attract customers. Built in 1958 by owner Harvey Ortner, “Harvey’s Broiler” exhibited many of the design features of Googie Architecture, including exaggerated roofs, dazzling signs, bright lighting, and glass walls. In 1966 Christos Smyrniotis, a former cook at the restaurant, purchased the restaurant and operated it under the name “Johnie’s Broiler” until it closed in February 2002. , , The building was operated as a used car dealership from 2002 until 2007 when it suffered extensive damage when the tenant illegally demolished a large portion of the building. However, the City of Downey and Bob’s Big Boy, with support from concerned citizens and the Los Angeles Conservancy, devised a plan to conserve and rebuild Johnie’s Broiler. On August 12, 2008, the Downey City Council voted to provide financial assistance to resurrect this historical landmark under the name Bob’s Big Boy, another Southern California icon. , Bob’s Big Boy will continue the legacy of this great American coffee shop and drive-in restaurant for all to enjoy.