Long Time, No See, Queenie Bee...
Campbellsville, Ky – Home to the Last Operating Druther’s Restaurant
Unless you’re a Millennial, you probably remember Druther’s restaurants. My parents and I ate at the one in Madisonville frequently and, before it became Druther’s, we ate many a burger at Burger Queen.
I fondly remember the little plastic rings I’d collect featuring the restaurant’s Bee mascot Queenie Bee.
What I wouldn’t give to still have that massive collection!
The Burger Queen chain of fast food restaurants were based in Louisville, Kentucky and served up ridiculously delicious hamburgers from 1963 to 1981. In 1981, Burger Queen changed to Druther’s – they kept serving outrageously delicious hamburgers, as well as chicken, fries, salads, etc.
“Andy Dandytale” would become the new mascot – though he and I never really caught on. My heart belonged to Queenie Bee.
On one of our frequent Road Trips Around Kentucky, my husband and I spent some time in Campbellsville. One of the first things I noticed when we pulled into town was the image of Queenie Bee on the sign in front of Druther’s… the last operating Druther’s Restaurant. Like a kid calling out to McDonald’s, I exclaimed, “Queenie!”
I See You, Queenie Bee.
Did You Know:
- The first Burger Queen was built in Middletown, Kentucky, in 1963. The original building still stands on Shelbyville Road.
- Druther’s slogan was, “I’d Ruther Go to Druther’s.”
- The last Druther’s in operation stands at 101 N Columbia Avenue in Campbellsville, Kentucky (pictured here).
I’ll add more pictures of Central Kentucky, including Campbellsville and Greensburg over the next few days. I should have had the pictures up by now, if we’re being honest, but I’m fighting a cold and the victor has yet to be determined!
The Last Operating Druther’s Restaurant – Campbellsville, Kentucky
Next time you’re near Campbellsville, Kentucky, be sure to park your car and walk around the beautiful downtown. Just remember… whatever you do… eat lunch at the LAST operating Druther’s Restaurant.
Druther’s Restaurant on Columbia Avenue in Campbellsville, Ky.
