The site of the original McDonald's restaurant in San Bernardino, California, is no longer a McDonald's. It is now occupied by a Juan Pollo chicken restaurant, which also serves as the de facto headquarters for the Juan Pollo chain. An unofficial museum dedicated to McDonald's history is also located nearby on the site.
The Evolution of a Landmark Site
The very first McDonald's restaurant, established by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940 (and later rebranded with their Speedee Service System in 1948), marked a pivotal moment in fast-food history. Located at 1398 North E Street in San Bernardino, California, this groundbreaking eatery laid the foundation for the global empire we know today. However, the original structure and business did not remain a McDonald's indefinitely.
Over the years, the original restaurant ceased operations as a McDonald's. Today, its historic location serves a different purpose, preserving a piece of American culinary heritage while hosting a new enterprise.
Then vs. Now: The Original McDonald's Site
The transformation of this iconic site highlights how landmarks evolve over time.
| Aspect | Original McDonald's Restaurant Site (Then) | Original McDonald's Restaurant Site (Now) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | San Bernardino, California | San Bernardino, California |
| Business | McDonald's restaurant (first ever) | Juan Pollo restaurant |
| Primary Function | Revolutionary fast-food service | Chicken restaurant chain's headquarters |
| Additional Features | Pioneered the "Speedee Service System" | Unofficial McDonald's museum nearby |
The Juan Pollo Connection
The current occupant of the original McDonald's site is a Juan Pollo restaurant. This particular outlet holds significance for the Juan Pollo chain, functioning as its unofficial headquarters. The presence of a fast-food chicken chain on a site famous for launching the world's largest hamburger chain creates an interesting parallel in the landscape of American dining.
The Unofficial McDonald's Museum
While the original McDonald's restaurant no longer operates, its legacy is honored through an unofficial museum located on the same property. This museum, separate from the official McDonald's Corporation, offers visitors a nostalgic glimpse into the early days of the fast-food giant. It showcases memorabilia, historical photos, and various artifacts related to McDonald's pioneering era, providing a unique historical context to the site.
