Built in the 1950s for use as a fish house, the building later became the project engineer’s field office during the construction of the state Thruway and Reed Pier at Barcelona.

Jack and Beth Reynolds opened “Jack’s” on April 1, 1963. Julie Travis, current owner, shared that the Big Best Burger, featuring grilled mushrooms, onions and cheese, was developed by Beth Reynolds and is still on the menu. Over the years several people have claimed to have given Beth the idea for the burger. One summer, after visiting this unique restaurant, Paul Harvey mentioned it in “The Rest of the Story.” According to Julie Travis, what prompted the burger was the menu board at the time which read “T-Bone….$.75 With meat….$4.75”. She said that in the early days Jack’s was open “after the bars closed” and many people would gather for an early morning breakfast.

Julie Travis has owned “Jack’s” for 27 years.

“The waterfront atmosphere doesn’t change much here,” Travis said.

Submitted Photos Pictured are the newest mug, ornament and magnet available as part of the Westfield Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s ornament fundraiser. The ornament and mug feature Jack’s Barcelona Drive-In.

Ornaments and magnets can be purchased at Peaceful Designs on Main Street, Westfield. Ornaments, magnets and mugs can be purchased at Jack’s or from Marilyn Hemmer by phoning 753-6043.