Nearly 3 years after iconic Dinkytown McDonalds closed its doors. Today, the Golden Arches are back on campus with a new McDonalds opening in November. To most, McDonalds is just a popular fast food spot. However, to University of Minnesota students it is much more. McDonalds is a place of refuge for UMN students, whether from the cold nights of Dinkytown or the brisk mornings for breakfast. The original Dinky Dons was a place where students could gather to share meals and memories. Where strangers would become friends, just because they both got a quarter-pounder with cheese, or maybe 2 people wandered back from Sally’s Saloon together and needed a late-night snack. McDonalds was a home for Gophers and the community was crushed at its closing.
The first Dinkytown McDonalds opened in 1963 on at the corner of Fourth Street Southeast and 15th Avenue Southeast and stayed open for 57 years. While I personally never got to experience the first restaurant, I have heard many stories and know the legend that it was. It came equipped with 2 levels, earning its other nickname Double-Decker Dons. This gave customers plenty of space to enjoy their meals. It had its own golden arches sign that looked over Dinkytown. It had a history that contributed to its atmosphere and increased its appeal. As pleasant as the restaurant was, it tested those who entered. The store did not have mobile orders or pick-up like it does today. No, no, Dinky Dons made you earn your food.
Of course, McDonalds was open throughout the day, but the real show did not start until after midnight. Guests had to navigate through crowds of hungry (and oftentimes drunk) peers, scream their orders to the cashier to be heard, wait amongst the masses, and then find a comfortable place to sit. This is all easier said than done, but that is why Dinky Dons was so beloved. Students did not know what to expect and every night had its own unique story. An alumnus of the University of Minnesota had this to say about the infamous fast food joint,
“It was a great late-night spot and a staple for Minnesota students until it closed down, hopefully, they will bring it back at some point,” said U of M alumnus Jack Radomski ’23.
Jack’s words reflect the feelings of many alumni and students alike. As I said, most students on campus today never got to experience Dinky Dons in its prime, and a gathering space like that would mean a lot to the students of Minnesota. Luckily we will not need to wait long as Dinky Dons 2.0 is on the way. With the inside of the restaurant finishing up and the signs being hung outside the excitement continues to build.
Student Jake Oczack exclaimed, “I can’t wait to try it out, I’m going to have at least 100 McChickens!”
While that may be an exaggeration, the growing buzz is not. Students are looking forward to a cheap, reliable, and fun option for food here on campus. It may not be the finest of dining, but it is more than enough for the late-night audience it will attract. Getting a bite may be easier, however, at Dinky Dons 2.0. A glance into the finished lobby will show plenty of electronic kiosks ready to be used by guests. I hope the staff is prepared for the onslaught of hungry students they will draw in, and I anticipate the grand opening will be busy.
I hope this McDonalds is able to create as many memories and bring the community together, just as its predecessor did. With it reopening at the same location, it should not be too hard to find. So do not worry Gophers, the wait is almost over!
