Quaker Steak & Lube
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Restaurant |
| Founded | 1974 |
| Founder | George "Jig" Warren III, Gary "Mo" Meszaros |
| Headquarters | Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania , United States |
| Products | Casual dining food |
| Parent | JDK Management |
Quaker Steak & Lube is a casual dining restaurant chain with its main office located in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. Established in 1974 by George "Jig" Warren III and Gary "Mo" Meszaros, the inaugural venue opened in Sharon, Pennsylvania inside a repurposed gas station, showcasing an automotive-themed atmosphere that included vintage cars and license plates as decor.
History
In response to the 1973 oil crisis and the resulting closure of numerous gas stations, founders Warren and Meszaros sought to celebrate and preserve the heritage of classic service stations and muscle cars. This mission inspired the launch of the first Quaker Steak & Lube restaurant in Sharon, PA, which prominently featured a 1936 Chevrolet mounted on a hydraulic grease rack as part of its interior design.
The company entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in 2015, after which it was purchased by TravelCenters of America. The new owner aimed to grow the brand by integrating locations within truck stops as well as standalone establishments. In early 2021, ownership changed hands again when JDK Management acquired Quaker Steak & Lube from TravelCenters for $5 million, signaling a new strategic direction.
Awards
By 2023, Quaker Steak & Lube had accumulated more than 70 accolades from both national and regional contests, underscoring its significant presence in the market and strong brand reputation.
Media
The Quaker Steak & Lube outlet at The Pointe in North Fayette, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, gained exposure through its feature on the Travel Channel program Man v. Food. The episode showcased a challenge involving six "Atomic" chicken wings—the spiciest item available at that time on their menu. Host Adam Richman successfully completed the challenge, earning a special bumper sticker and a place on the establishment’s "Atomic Wall of Flame," thereby boosting the restaurant’s public profile and appeal.