Emma Remember Wimpy?
Wimpy originated from the USA and made its way across the ocean to mainly the UK and South Africa. You might remember this advert.
I think Wimpy was one of the first places to sell fast food in the UK. But this was fast food with a difference as it was table service and the food was on a plate.
Founded in Indiana in 1934, Wimpy arrived in the UK through Lyons, who signed a licence to operate Wimpy across the UK. In 1977 the company was sold to United Biscuits and then to Grand Metropolitan in 1989. Grand Metropolitan began to phase out the Wimpy brand to their more recognisable brand, Burger King.
Following buyouts and takeovers, there are now only 67 Wimpy sites in the UK, with many of them franchises. Click here to find your nearest Wimpy.
One of the sites still in operation is in Dingwall. We were so surprised to see one, we had to go in.
It was just like stepping back in time. The chairs, fixed to the floor, of course, the tables, decor and random pictures on the wall.
Menu
What we ate and drank
There was a special in the window of two Wimpy cheeseburgers and 2 regular chips for £11.95 so we picked that and splashed out on a strawberry milkshake and a Lipton’s Ice Tea.
We can’t fault the freshly made food and drink. It was just as we expected it, not the best, but there was something familiar about it and comforting. There’s still a strange feeling getting a burger and chips on a plate.
We had to buy some Wimpy special sauce to take home to remind us of the occasion. It’s a bit like seafood sauce with a dash of dill. Strange when you think of it but it seems to go with their burgers.
Verdict
Just like £5 albums in Our Price and buying clothes at C&A, this was a trip down memory lane. It wasn’t the best trip, but not the worst. It did the job after a hungry trip on the train North.
Where
Wimpy, 62 High Street, Dingwall, IV15 9RY
