Sonic was founded in 1953, by Troy Smith in Shawnee.
The original restaurant was called “Top Hat.” In 1959, Smith rebranded the restaurant as Sonic, inspired by the “sonic speed” of the service.
Sonic introduced a unique drive-in experience where customers could eat food brought directly to their cars by carhops. This innovative service quickly gained popularity and became a signature feature of the brand.
Sonic’s menu, originally only having hot dogs and sodas, started to include burgers, fries, tater tots and breakfast items. Its distinctive offering of ice cream treats, milkshakes and slushes became fan favorites, creating a path for Sonic in the competitive fast-food market.
In the 1980s, the chain grew quickly, expanding across the United States.
Throughout the years, Sonic has continued to innovate, introducing limited-time items, drink combinations and customizable menu options that keep customers engaged. Known for its retro, carhop-based service, Sonic brings a nostalgic experience for many people.
Today, with over 3,500 locations, Sonic remains a significant place in the fast-food industry, blending classic American foods with modern-day convenience.
Sonic is still a main restaurant in Oklahoma, being a lot of people’s favorite today for their ice and drinks.
William Stump • Feb 11, 2025 at 10:39 am
My family would visit much more often if the soft drinks were priced realistically. Lower the drink prices and gain more foot traffic.