The sign had read, “Curran’s Restaurant. An Eating Tradition Since 1948.” It sat on the corner of 42nd and Nicollet Avenue, and it was a neighborhood icon. It had originally opened as a drive-in restaurant, and then added an inside counter and stools around 1954. Sitting across the street from King Park, many times we would like to go there and get hamburgers and shakes after football practice.
I remember one time Mark, Dwight, Phillip, Jesse, and myself went over there after practice to get something to eat. Now, we played on the Light Midget Football team at King Park, and there was a weight limit of 130 pounds. Now Jesse liked to eat, which kept him hovering around the 130 pound weight limit, and our coaches, Johnny and Stan, were always telling him to make sure he watched his weight.
Well we all looked over the menus. I remember that I got a cheeseburger and chocolate shake. Mark, Dwight, and Phillip also gave the waitress their orders. Then it was Jesse’s turn. He rubbed his chin with his hand while studying the menu. “Hmmmm. I think I’ll have,” He started out. Then Mark piped in. “Remember what Johnny said about your weight.” Jesse continued. “I think I’ll have,” then he paused, still studying the menu. Then he looked up at the waitress, and continued, “a glass of water.” Needless to say, everyone fell out laughing, even the waitress. I guess you had to be there.
In 1974 Curran’s expanded with a full sized dining room, and coffee shop. Over the years the restaurant was able to maintain the quality of food, and service, and that good old neighborhood atmosphere. It was always a great gathering place. Many times, high school friends would meet there to catch up. Good food, good friends, and good atmosphere, what could be better.
Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and like with many other restaurants and businesses, it took a major toll on Curran’s. On Sunday, August 23rd, 2020 they served their final meal. Now, five years later, there is an apartment building on the site, and there is no mention of the restaurant that served the community for 72 years. That’s progress. It is, what is is, but every time I pass 42nd and Nicollet Avenue, I am reminded of days gone by.