Beyond the Whopper: The Story of America’s Other Burger King

In the heart of Mattoon, Illinois, a small-town eatery is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and legal intrigue. This is not your typical fast-food joint; this is the original Burger King, a family-owned establishment that predates the national chain and has a story as flavorful as its burgers.

A Humble Beginning

The tale began in 1952 when Gene and Betty Hoots purchased an ice cream stand called Frigid Queen. They sought to expand their offerings by adding burgers and fries to the menu. In 1957, they transformed a two-car garage into a grill and counter service area, marking the birth of their burger venture. Regarding naming the new establishment, Gene proposed “The Hot Dames,” but Betty wisely countered with “Burger King,” reasoning that every queen needs a king. Thus, the original Burger King was born.

The Legal Battle of the Kings

Unbeknownst to the Hoots, a parallel story unfolded in Miami, Florida. In 1954, James McLamore and Dave Edgerton opened a restaurant known as Insta-Burger King, which later became Burger King Corporation. As the chain expanded, it set its sights on Illinois, opening its first location in Skokie in 1961. By 1967, the corporation had over 50 outlets in the state.

This expansion didn’t sit well with the Hoots, who had registered the “Burger King” name in Illinois in 1959. A legal battle ensued, culminating in the 1968 case “Burger King of Florida, Inc. v. Hoots.” The court ruled that while the national chain held federal trademark rights, the Hoots’ state trademark granted them exclusive rights within a 20-mile radius of their original location in Mattoon. This decision allowed both entities to operate under the same name, each within their designated territories.

A Unique Burger Experience

Today, Mattoon’s Burger King remains a cherished local institution, distinct from its corporate namesake. The menu features fresh, made-to-order burgers, including their signature “Hooter” burger—a nod to the founding family. Other offerings include grilled chicken sandwiches, BLTs, hot dogs, corn dogs, and pork tenderloin. The restaurant exudes 1950s nostalgia, preserving the charm envisioned by its founders.

Despite Mattoon’s modest population of around 18,000, the original Burger King thrives, drawing both loyal locals and curious visitors intrigued by its unique history and delectable fare.

Legacy and Continuity

In 2015, after decades of dedicated service, Gene and Betty Hoots decided to retire, selling the Burger King to a group of local businessmen. The restaurant continues to operate, maintaining its original recipes and community-focused atmosphere, ensuring that the legacy of Mattoon’s Burger King endures.

A Testament to Small-Town Resilience

The story of Mattoon’s Burger King is more than a legal anecdote; it’s a celebration of small-town resilience and the enduring appeal of a well-made burger. It serves as a reminder that even in the shadow of corporate giants, local establishments can carve out their legacy, one satisfying bite at a time.