Fuddruckers may be closing in some states, but the build-your-own burger restaurants are going strong in the Bay Area.
The four franchise locations in Concord, Dublin, Union City and Fairfield remain open because they are not subject to a Sept. 8 decision by corporate parent Luby’s, reported by the Dallas Morning News, to liquidate the company.
“This doesn’t affect us,” owners George and Rebecca Almeida said in a statement. “Our four locations and Fuddruckers Catering will continue operating as normal, or however you define normal during the pandemic.”
The family has owned Fuddruckers eateries for more than 30 years. Their four remaining restaurants offer outdoor seating, takeout and delivery. In Fairfield, a “Fudds on the Fly” drive-thru has been added on select weekends.
As of a year ago, the family owned six in the Bay Area. But redevelopment plans in Walnut Creek forced the closure last summer of the Almeidas’ restaurant on North Main Street after 22 years. And last autumn, the family closed their Emeryville restaurant.
“The pandemic has been a real strain but we are hopeful for the future,” George Almeida said. “As soon as the state of California allows us to operate inside dining, we’re ready and can’t wait to get things back to normal.”
The Texas-based restaurant chain founded in 1980 is best known for its “endless toppings bar” stocked with condiments, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles and cheese sauce where diners can customize their burgers.
Details: www.fuddruckers.com; www.fuddruckerscaters.com
