VJ's Drive Inn — Restaurant in Winnipeg

Look, VJ's Drive-In is one of those spots in Winnipeg that everyone talks about. It’s got the nostalgia, the history, the “famous” spicy Greek burgers, and the crispy fries people rave about. It’s like the place your dad would swear by, and his dad before him. You don’t just come here for the food; you come here because it’s VJ’s. It’s part of the city’s DNA. But, let me put it like this – not every city staple is Michelin-starred dining. VJ’s is more of a, "Let’s go have a greasy burger and sit on the curb" kind of vibe. And honestly? That’s its charm.

Now, the spicy burger – that’s what everyone goes nuts for. It’s this peppery, greasy, delicious mess that’s going to get all over your hands, your shirt, probably your pants, and you’re not going to care because it’s the experience, right? You can feel that 1950s drive-in nostalgia pouring out of every bite. It’s good – don’t get me wrong – but I’ve had better. The patty is solid, juicy enough, but this isn’t going to blow your mind if you’re coming from a food scene like Montreal or New York. We’re talking more about the memory than the masterpiece.

Fries? Classic. Big, hot, crispy, and perfect for dunking in the mountain of chili they throw at you. Again, nothing earth-shattering, but it checks the box for what you want alongside that burger.

Now, let’s talk atmosphere. You’ve got John Calogeris running the joint like a neighborhood legend. Dude’s always rocking his bandana, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear some of his stories. It’s this down-to-earth, almost dive-y feel that makes VJ’s something special. You come here, not just for the food but for the Winnipeg-ness of it all – the history, the grit, the “we’ve been doing this forever and we’re not changing” attitude. You can’t replicate that. You don’t come here for five-star dining – you come here because VJ’s is an institution. It's got a vibe that you just don’t get at some fancy, trendy burger spot.

But – and this is a big but – if we’re strictly talking food, there are places in the city that are going to give you a better burger. Objectively speaking, this isn’t the best burger in Winnipeg. But it is an essential stop, especially if you’re just visiting. You’re not going to regret it, you’ll just need to adjust those expectations. VJ’s is the guilty pleasure, the perfect pit stop after hitting The Forks. You’re full, you’re happy, you’re a little greasy – and in the end, that’s...

Lived in this city my whole life and driven past this place countless times. Had some time today to stop in on my way through downtown, so I thought, “Let’s do this!” Coming north bound, you can’t turn left, so you just have to compensate for the roadways. Not an issue, just an FYI. Parking was good, as it seems most people aren’t there very long - just getting their food and driving off with it. Not all pricing on the sign is accurate. They have updated pricing on the hand-written signs on the windows. Cost has gone up for everything, so not surprised. Stood in line with some regulars. They were talking about how people who have lived here forever and always drive by finally stop in for the first time. I smiled and raised my hand. I said, “That’s me, today!” The server was very helpful regarding all my questions and I got the scoop on how to order from the regulars in line. Everyone was in a great mood, talking about the delicious food and the great weather. Cash only. I ordered a ‘Special’ which is a cheeseburger with all the fixings, a fry (one size only) and a chocolate shake. I took the advice of one of the other patrons and got my fries in a box vs a bag as I planned to eat them in my car, en route to my destination and added vinegar and salt right at the counter. Fries were super crispy and tasty! Burger was flavourful, but the bun was completely coming apart in my hands. I had to eat it much faster than I would’ve liked and didn’t get to savour the experience. Maybe I’ll eat at the picnic tables next time, as my burger bun won’t have a chance to get too moist and crumbly. The chocolate shake was thick, which I love. Not easy to find those anymore, for some unknown reason. They had many flavours to choose from, so I might venture to get a peach one next time. Menu is pretty basic, which isn’t a bad thing. It allows them to process orders fairly quickly. An overall great experience. I plan on...

I am a disabled 75 yer old senior,..my Dr. tells me to walk as much as I can ,, even 75 yards at a time.I am trying to recover from a stroke from 6 weeks ago ago, spinal stenosis, heart fibrillations ,and walk with a limp. I have several appointments at the stroke clinic( HSC)..all back logged due to covd. To day I walked from 85 Garry, to VJs drive in. I had to stop and sit 4 times on the way there to rest,and again on the way back....and catch my breath/slow my heart rate. When I got there, there were only 2 customers waiting ...a man and a woman. The woman...sitting on a log/rail..the man standing. They left on a M/C.....she stood and let me sit down.as I was obviously struggling/in distress.. I told the staff and "owner' that I was disabled and HAD to sit down. I was in obvious physical distress. They could care less. I was told by 2 large staff persons and the apparent owner that I could not sit down ,and HAD to get off their property immediately, ..I sat for about another 30 or 45 seconds Trying to catch my breath.....the staff suggested that the owner call the police.. I left and limped and staggered to a bustop bench on Broadway. As I left, I old the apparent owner to F/O. (I was angry at the treatment I received) He referred to me, as an old goof and went to phone the police. I staggered to the closest bus bench on Broadway.

To all my neighbors at 55 Garry, 85 Garry and 20 Fort Street, and all seniors and disabled in the area : I ask for your support , boycott, VJs on main street for their disgusting treatment of the aged...