Seattle couple shares 'heartfelt' connection to flagship Burgermaster
SEATTLE - After 73 years of serving up burgers and nostalgia, Seattle's beloved Burgermaster is preparing to close its flagship location near the University of Washington at the end of February.
Known for its retro charm and unique drive-in experience, the fast-food institution has become a cherished part of the city's history, holding a special place in the hearts of generations of loyal customers.
The announcement of the closure has left many feeling sentimental, especially given the restaurant’s status as a long-standing post-game spot for Husky fans and a go-to stop for families visiting Seattle Children's Hospital.
Featured
Seattle's first Burgermaster to close its doors after 73 iconic years
After seven decades, the burger joint is calling it quits.
What they're saying:
On social media, longtime patrons have flooded the platform with fond memories, sharing stories of their first visits, favorite meals and the sense of community that Burgermaster fostered.
For FOX 13 Seattle reporter Lauren Donovan, the flagship location is more than just a favorite hangout; it’s deeply intertwined with her own family’s history.
Her grandparents, Gary and Kathy Hall, first met at the restaurant in the early 1960s while on a double date with other people.
"He was from Ingraham, and I was from Shoreline," Kathy recalled. "We were both on double dates, but we ended up meeting at ‘The Burg.’ That was the first time I met him."
Gary, reflecting on that night, remembers Kathy sitting in the backseat of the car with someone else, yet thinking to himself, "What a neat gal she is."
"I met my incredible wife that night," Gary told FOX 13 Seattle. "It’s funny how something as simple as a burger can change your life."
Local perspective:
Now, more than 60 years later, Gary and Kathy Hall are still regulars at Burgermaster, although their orders have evolved over time.

Gary and Kathy Hall met at Seattle's flagship Burgermaster in the 1960s and later married. From there, the rest is history. (Lauren Donovan)
"You can’t take away those fantastic memories," Kathy said. "There’s never been anywhere quite like the 'Burg.' It holds a special place in my heart, and it always will."
As the countdown to the final days of the flagship location begins, the lasting impact of Burgermaster on Seattle’s culture and personal history remains undeniable.
Its closing marks the end of an era for many, but its legacy — as a culinary landmark and a place where memories were made — will live on in the hearts of all who passed through its iconic drive-in.
The Source: Information for this story came from FOX 13 Seattle Reporter Lauren Donovan and her grandparents.
BEST OF FOX 13 SEATTLE
Washington sees record eviction filings in 2024: ‘Not just an isolated incident’
New 2025 laws that are now in effect in WA
Good Samaritan saves mom from road rage incident in WA
Here's when you'll need REAL ID to go through US airport security
REI exits 'Experiences' businesses, laying off hundreds of employees
To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter.
Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national coverage, plus 24/7 streaming coverage from across the nation.