Great Escape: Go Out for a Root Beer Float in Issaquah

If root beer is one of your weaknesses, you will love visiting XXX Rootbeer Drive-in in Issaquah. If it's not for the root beer, it might be for a juicy burger, a big helping of fries or a frothy shake that she might enjoy.

All of these items and more can be ordered in the circa 1950s restaurant that has been a landmark off Front Street since it opened in 1968. (XXX Rootbeer actually was built in the 1930s or 1940s. No one knows for sureand was originally in downtown Issaquah). It is one of only two XXX Rootbeer 'Drive-ins' left in the country. The other one, for you trivia buffs, is in Lafayette, Ind.

XXX Rootbeer will give a taste of what it was like to go to a burger joint during the 1950s. Small jukeboxes adorn each booth and a gigantic working jukebox sits in the center of the room. The walls are covered with 1950s memorabilia, which owner Jose Enciso has collected. 

The restaurant buzzes with families and people out for special occasions. The root beer floats come in big, frosted glasses and the meals will fill up even the most hungry with their big portions. A huge variety of shake flavors and a kid's menu makes sure every patron can find something he or she likes on the menu.

If the weather cooperates, sit outside to enjoy the patio seating. On many weekends XXX Rootbeer hosts large and diverse car shows. The cars often fill the parking lot and are fun to view. It might be convertibles, Chevys or vintage cars, just to name a few. Check out the restaurant's website for the schedule of car shows. Enjoy reading the entire history of this special Issaquah landmark, which also is posted on the website.

Go back to the 1950s and indulge in some fun at Triple X.

XXX Rootbeer is located at 98 NE Gilman Blvd. in Issaquah. Phone: 425-392-1266.