When I clocked in that Arthur Treachers was open for both lunch and dinner, I was pretty amped to get down there and try out this cult classic spot.
What struck me first about Arthur Treachers as I began doing my homework on the place is the brand's long-standing history going back to 1969. The brand was founded by market.ling maestros S. Robert Davis, Dave Thomas, and L. S. Hartzog in Columbus, Ohio. Fun fact: S. Robert Davis would go on to become the founder of Wendy's. Who knew, right? The franchise stirred up quite the popularity storm back in the day, boasting a massive 800 stores at its peak in the late 1970s.
Unfortunately, almost all these stores have shuttered, leaving a solitary survivor in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. If you're keen on finding out more, you can check out Arthur Treachers' official website at https://www.officialarthurtreachers.net/.
The Arthur Treachers' Experience
You'll spot this lone Arthur Treachers at:
State Road,
1833 State Road,
Cuyahoga Falls
Ohio.
This outlet has been under the diligent management of Mr. Ben Vittoria since the 1980s, who credits the survival of the diner to his loyal customers yearning for both a tantalising flavour burst and a snip of the simpler, happier times.
To Arthur Treachers' credit, you can still enjoy their flavour-packed dishes within other restaurants and convenience stores via their operating franchises.
Let's dig into the Arthur Treachers' menu. The menu is a mosaic of fried fish, chicken, and shrimp, all served up with french fries or chips as we locals call them.
The signature Arthur Treachers' dish is the Original Fish and Chips, a batter-dipped pollock duo complemented by chips and a couple of hush puppies. The Seafood Combo caught my fancy, a smorgasbord of pollock, clams, and shrimp with - you guessed it, chips and two hush puppies.
For the hardcore meat lovers, the chicken tenders, made from 100% white meat and batter-dipped are a definite winner. Fish, chicken, and some clam dishes are also served up in sandwich form. Also, do try out the clam chowder if you get the chance.
The Arthur Treachers' Family Pack
If you're looking to host a party (read: your family of ravaging meat-lovers), the Arthur Treachers' family packs are your go-to option, with pack sizes for a family of 4, 6, and 8, each accompanied by large servings of hush puppies, chips, and coleslaw.
As part of their Mix and Match 5 for $9.95 deal, Arthur Treachers serves either 5 fish, 5 chicken or a mix of it for just $9.95, with an extra side chosen between chips, hush puppies, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, or coleslaw. Talk about a loaded meal!
What's the Arthur Treachers' Schedule?
Monday - Saturday Arthur Treachers opens its doors from 10:30 am to 9:30 pm, the sole exception being Friday, where they throw in an additional thirty minutes, closing at 10 PM.
Arthur Treachers: The Stand-Outs
Arthur Treachers makes a case for the simpler, yet delicious way of doing things, focusing solely on fried fish, chicken, shrimp, and chips. The place takes you back in time with its nostalgic ambiance and traditional dishes.
Arthur Treachers: The Actor
There's an interesting trivia tidbit I discovered about the 'Arthur Treachers' name. English character actor Arthur Treacher was known for his butler roles and movies like Mary Poppins. While he never confirmed funding the restaurant, he served as its spokesperson for some time. Speculations continue on whether the name was homage to him or a clever attempt to create an authentic British aura for the place.
Pros and Cons at Arthur Treachers
Pros:
- Authentic, old-school fish and chips
- Atmosphere full of nostalgia
- Friendly, personable service
- Offers drive-thru service
Cons:
- Limited menu for vegetarians
- No delivery service available
- Opening hours could be a bit more flexible
- No online ordering service