The old place on Bascom Avenue is shuttered, its vintage sign nearly obscured by an overgrown tree.
But there’s welcome news for fans of Kirk’s Steakburgers posted out front: This classic burger joint, established 75 years ago, will be back in business soon — across the street at the Grill’em location. That restaurant is closing Nov. 15.
The Kirk’s building is being torn down to accommodate a housing project.
“Thank you all for your support and patience as we navigate our move! We have been hard at work packing, cleaning and organizing for our move, to our new location,” the Kirk’s owners posted on Facebook. “Rest assured we are doing everything in our power in order to reopen as quickly as possible. We are hoping to be in and ready to serve by the end of November. We will do our best and will keep you updated along the way.”
In the meantime, Kirk’s fans who need a fix can head to Palo Alto, where there’s a location at Town & Country Village. Over the years, that restaurant had been located on El Camino Real and then California Avenue.
Kirk’s founder Bill Sincere Sr. opened his first burger stand in the Bay Area in 1948, char-grilling burgers and hot dogs and serving them with potato chips and soft drinks, according to Mercury News archives, Years later, the menu was expanded to include fries, shakes and more.
Customers jumped on social media to share memories and thank the owners for staying in business.
Tony Sousa posted, “I remember the old days before the remodel when you would walk in the door and line up in front of the grill to your right. Order your burger as you moved down the line, then grab a bag of chips and pay. Going to miss that ole building. Will be sad to see it come down. Thanks for all the years of great food there. Hope the new grill has the same great taste!”
Janice Cook waxed nostalgic about the original Peninsula Kirk’s. “They’ve been my favorite burgers since on the El Camino and pony rides with a little train you could ride on,”
And customer Mike Gerstley wrote: “Wishing you all the best and a very speedy reopening. PLEASE.”
Details: The new address will be 2509 S. Bascom Ave., Campbell; www.facebook.com/Kirksburgers/
Source: www.mercurynews.com