CONNEAUT — The red and white stripes that surround the drive-in eatery act as a beacon to those traveling down Route 20: The White Turkey Drive-In is open for the season.
The drive-in, located at 388 E. Main St. and owned by Peggy and Gary Tuttle, got its start in 1952 with Gary’s father, Ed.
“My father-in-law worked for the railroad and raised turkeys on the side. During a trip to New York, he saw one of these drive-ins, so he bought one and was able to feature his own turkeys into the signature sandwiches,” said Peggy about how the White Turkey Drive-in got its start.
“We took over the business in 1981 — 28 years already. It sure has gone by fast,” Gary said.
The years have flown by fast, but they have been fun and productive. In fact, the Tuttles’ daughter Kelly and her husband, Bradd Nito, have in recent years joined the family business.
“Kelly is our personnel manager, and Bradd cooks and manages the kitchen,” Peggy said. “We are very pleased that they have chosen to live here and work with us.”
The drive-in seats 22 people around the counter and approximately 130 people in the gorgeous backyard setting.
“In inclement weather, the awnings roll down to protect the people sitting around the counter, and we also have heaters, so it stays very comfortable,” Peggy said. “In the back all the tables have umbrellas.”
White Turkey Drive-In is famous for its — well — turkey sandwiches, which are made with hot shredded turkey prepared with the original family recipe, and at only $3.59, they are a good value.
Other specialties include root-beer floats served in a frosted mug, homemade milkshakes, homemade coleslaw, sizzle dogs (a deep fried hot dog with a toasted bun), hot bowls of chili, the Big Ed (a hearty double cheeseburger named after the founder, Eddie Tuttle), vanilla and chocolate ice cream cones, and much more.
Another claim to fame is the drive-in’s fantastic staff.
“We employ 26 area youth, and we couldn’t ask for better kids. Most of them have been with us an average of five to seven years,” Peggy said.
Twenty-one-year-old Nikki Teed is beginning her sixth season at the White Turkey Drive-In.
“I love working for Peg and Gary, and the atmosphere is fun all the time,” she said.
Peggy said her family is reaping the benefits of all of the young employees they’ve had over the years.
“Now, when they come back to visit, they bring their children, and we have hired many of our former employees’ children,” she said.
Amanda Takach, 19, is starting her fourth season at the drive-in.
“It is fun and different working here,” she said. “People are always so happy to be here.”
The White Turkey Drive-In will be open through Labor Day. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Starting June 5, after school is out for the summer, the drive-in will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For further information, call 440-593-2209 or look online (www.whiteturkey.com).
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May 11, 2009
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