Bob's Big Boy Broiler, Downey, California. Opened 2009. Architect: Chattell Architecture

Much has been written of the miraculous resurrection of architect Paul B. Clayton's 1958 original Harvey's, then Johnie's, and now Chattell Architecture's 2009 restoration Bob's Big Boy Broiler.  One has only to look through the pages of the marvelous book Googie Redux at the laundry list of buildings that have been bulldozed into history during the past few decades, to recognize what an amazing feat has been accomplished.


Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Friends of Johnie's, the Coalition to Save Harvey's Broiler, the City of Downey, Bob's Big Boy proprietor Jim Louder, Adriene Biondo, and the Los Angeles Conservancy, the newly reborn Broiler is once again serving malts for all!  For detailed accounts of the history, illegal demolition and rebirth of the Broiler, as well as plenty of wonderful photographs be sure to check out these sites:
Roadside Peek  Los Angeles Conservancy  Coalition to Save Harvey's Broiler  Bob's Big Boy Broiler


John Apodaca and I were lucky enough to be the first to dance inside the vacant restaurant during it's reconstruction, and then during the first car show in the parking lot.  These photos were taken during that car show in October 2009.

Bob's Big Boy Broiler, exterior facing west (2009)

Bob's Big Boy Broiler, exterior facing east (2009).  Detail of the imaginatively recreated sign overlooking Firestone Blvd.

Bob's Big Boy Broiler, exterior signage (2009)

Swing dancers with proprietor Jim Louder (second from left) at entrance, Bob's Big Boy Broiler (2009)

Swing dancers Teresa London and John Apodaca pose in front of Bob, Bob's Big Boy Broiler (2009)

Swing dancing in the carhop area, Bob's Big Boy Broiler (2009)

Dancer John Apodaca posing with a Bob's Big Boy carhop, Bob's Big Boy Broiler (2009)

Carhop service menu, Bob's Big Boy Broiler (2009)

Interior booths with vintage photo enlargements in background, Bob Big Boy Broiler (2009)

Bob's Big Boy Broiler, ceiling detail (2009)