Whitey's Jolly Kone in Sacramento

Fun Food Stop & Fun Sign

I love old diners and drive-ins! I love old signs.

This pole on the corner of Jefferson and 13th, in West Sacramento, seems to have 3 signs. The Whitey's arrow at the top must be from 1963.

Emile (Whitey) Boisclair

Over 6 decades ago, a man nicknamed Whitey, bought this burger joint that was part of the Jolly Cone chain. 

This photo from their website, shows Whitey cooking in the crowded little kitchen. Eventually Whitey's daughter and son-in-law became owners.  Just 2 years ago, Whitey's grandkids took over the biz.

Weekday in May

For such a tiny "diner" there was a huge parking lot. Don and I arrived after 1:30 and there were still plenty of cars.

As we walked towards the tiny box of a building, we could hear music playing! The Monkees, Beach Boys... happy tunes from the 60s and 70s. 

From the opposite side of the parking lot, we could see tidy plant containers and lots of tables with umbrellas. The umbrellas stayed closed on that gusty afternoon. 

Continuous Line

We joined about 8 people in line and waited to place our order.

We had time to take in the festive vibe. Lots of regulars getting carryouts or just cones. Families, workmen, a mama with tiny baby, some elder folk... tourists?  I'm guessing Don and I were the only out-of-towners.

Order Time

It was too early for Happy Hour.

But we had lots of beer and wine options!

Our son and daughter-in-law weren't with us, but they are locals and had heard about the amazing peach shakes.  

I inquired, but sadly there won't be any until maybe July. They only go on the menu when peaches are in season. Whitey's is known for their fruit shakes, made with fresh fruit & no sugar!

Kone at 1:47?

It was nearly 2 when we placed our order. I was temped to order a swirly cone when I noticed the tall cowboy ahead of me, reaching for his Jolly Kone, through a tiny window.

But I was suddenly craving a shake. I failed to go the healthy route and ordered the Butterfinger Shake along with my lunch.

Waiting Time

The woman taking our order couldn't have been nicer. She got Don's first name and asked for a last name initial. She told us it would be about 10 minutes, with a "I hope that's okay?" kind of tone.

The small space behind the windows seemed to be filled with upbeat and efficient staff.

​No inside tables, but plenty outside. 

The wind was chilly so I craved a sunny picnic table. But Don found a shady spot near the pick up window. Don't want some other Don Z. to grab our order!

Meal Time!

Our 10 minutes went fast, with people watching. There were more people in line or waiting at tables than eating. So many pleasant people chatting with each other. 

Don went for a burger and was pleased!

Hot Chihuahua & Shake

I skipped the fries, since I was ordering a ridiculously unhealthy lunch!

My Butterfinger Shake was so thick I had to use my straw as a spoon!

My beef hotdog, onion & cheddar, wrapped in a grilled tortilla was pretty tasty. I asked for the house-made salsa, on the side. Can't believe it was only $5. I could have had a corndog for $3.75!

Family Owned Since '63

The best part of our little diner adventure, was the friendly, old fashioned vibe. How fun that they kept the original building and how cool that the same family has owned Whitey's for 62 years! 

We'll need to return in the summer for a Peach Shake and to see the summer vibe, I'm guessing it will be hard to find an empty table!
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