A Look At Loose Meat

B&G’s Tasty Foods’ houses the modern day loose meat sandwhich

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In 1953, friends Ken Bliss and Gayle Gainsforth were presented with the opportunity to buy a dilapidated Omaha drive-in, and they jumped at the chance. The two Fremont natives created the B & G Drive-In, later known as B & G Tasty Foods. Sixty-three years later, B & G Tasty Foods has one restaurant in Omaha that serves burgers, french fries, milkshakes, and most importantly, their famous loose meat sandwich. The atmosphere of the restaurant certainly contains the nostalgia of an ‘old-time’ burger joint. Entering the establishment, one is serenaded by the sweet sounds of Sam Cooke and Smokey Robinson. The walls are adorned with antique bicycles and framed advertisements from the ‘good ole’ days,’ as well as their very own B & G Tasty Foods’ T-shirts. As with the atmosphere, the menu has remained the same since 1953. Nonetheless, B & G has expanded their menu with items like the Steak or Chicken Philly, the Big Salad, and the Veggie Burger. Still, the Bee Gee (loose meat sandwich), to me, appeared to be the most intriguing food item on the menu. The sandwich is about half the size of a regular burger, so it may be necessary to order more than one to satisfy your cravings. The Bee Gee was brought out in a small plastic bag, which had the presentation of a meal from the 1950’s. As the sandwich reached the table, it was clear that the loose meat was falling out of the bun, which made it a chore to put back together. However, the taste of the loose meat sensation was irresistible. The seasoned beef was cooked to perfection and the optional onions, cheese, and pickles on the Bee Gee culminated three different flavors into one to produce a savory take on the loose meat sandwich. The Bee Gee was soon followed by a boat of french fries and a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup milkshake that complimented the sandwich nicely. The fries contained the warm, greasy goodness of that of a 1950’s diner, as did the creamy texture of the milkshake. It created a sweet and salty way to enjoy the meal after the loose meat sandwich was devoured. Though the food was outstanding, the ordering process seemed to be coming undone. It was apparent that the restaurant was short-staffed, considering that the two employees were serving as cashiers, waiters, and servers. Also, it took awhile for the employees to notice which customers were awaiting their food and which ones hadn’t ordered yet. As far as costs are concerned, most of B & G Tasty Foods’ options won’t break any budgets. With the Bee Gee priced at $3.99, to the Hickory Burger costing $6.49, a meal can be purchased easily for under $10. Overall, the idea of serving a loose meat sandwich in a nostalgic environment proves to be a successful one. B & G Tasty Foods provides a delightful way to enjoy one of America’s favorite sandwiches.