This marks the restaurant’s comeback to the Cherry Hill area after a 44-year absence, driven by overwhelming fan demand for its revival.
A triumphant return to Cherry Hill
The new Roy Rogers will be situated at 614 Haddonfield Road, a high-traffic area near Center City Philadelphia. The location replaces a former PDQ restaurant and promises a nostalgic yet updated experience for fans and newcomers alike. Cherry Hill is poised to enjoy the only burger-focused drive-thru in the area, catering to families, businesses, and schools with convenient dining options
Jim Plamondon, co-president of Roy Rogers Restaurants, expressed excitement about the return, stating:
“We could not be happier to bring our USDA choice top round roast beef, juicy burgers, and fresh, hand-breaded fried chicken back to Cherry Hill. Roy’s legacy fans will be thrilled to see the iconic Fixin’s Bar® and use our signature sauces to customize their favorite sandwiches and tenders. New guests will be pleased with our diverse menu and quality you can’t find anywhere else. This is just the beginning of our journey back into the hearts—and appetites—of this community.”
Fan demands and franchise expansion
The decision to return was strongly influenced by fan feedback. Joe Briglia, Roy Rogers’ Director of Real Estate and Franchise Development, emphasized:
“We’ve received an overwhelming number of requests from loyal Roy Rogers fans for a location in this area, and we’re delighted to make it a reality. We plan to build on this success and expand even further in the market.”
Roy Rogers, which once boasted over 600 locations nationwide, has steadily rebuilt its presence after a dramatic downsizing in the 1990s. While the chain now operates fewer than 40 locations, mostly in Maryland and Virginia, the Cherry Hill opening represents a strategic step in its broader revival plan.
Nostalgia meets modern convenience
The upcoming 3,300-square-foot location will blend Roy Rogers’ rustic charm with contemporary amenities. Signature design elements, such as wood and black iron accents, will pair with advanced technology, including digital drive-thru menu boards, self-service kiosks, and electronic in-house menu displays. Guests can look forward to both dine-in and delivery options, ensuring accessibility for all.
The iconic Fixin’s Bar®, a self-serve station featuring fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles, will also make a return. This hallmark of the Roy Rogers experience allows customers to personalize their meals and is expected to rekindle fond memories for long-time patrons.
A legacy of culinary excellence
Founded in 1968 in Falls Church, Virginia, Roy Rogers grew rapidly during the 1970s and 1980s before encountering setbacks that led to many locations being rebranded or closed. Despite these challenges, the chain retained a loyal following thanks to its commitment to quality and its distinct offerings of roast beef sandwiches, fried chicken, and “holster fries” served in a unique cardboard holster.
Since the early 2000s, Roy Rogers has embraced a revitalization strategy under new leadership. By modernizing its restaurants and partnering with food delivery platforms, the chain has steadily reestablished itself in key markets.
Cherry Hill
The Cherry Hill location is part of Roy Rogers’ effort to expand its reach in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Philadelphia area previously hosted Roy Rogers restaurants, but they have been absent for decades. Fans in New Jersey and Pennsylvania can now enjoy the convenience of a closer location, bridging the gap between nostalgia and a modern dining experience.
As Roy Rogers prepares for its Cherry Hill debut, the community eagerly awaits the return of a fast-food favorite that once defined roadside dining. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, the brand looks poised to win over both legacy fans and a new generation of diners.
