This Virginia Burger Spot Is So Popular, People Say The Line Starts Before They Open

Tucked away in Pound, Virginia, sits a burger joint that has locals and travelers alike buzzing with anticipation long before the doors swing open. Robo’s Drive-In has earned a reputation that stretches far beyond its small-town roots, with customers forming lines before the first order is even taken.

I’ve always been fascinated by places that generate this kind of devotion, and Robo’s proves that great food and genuine hospitality never go out of style.

Lines Form Before Opening Time

Customers start gathering well before Robo’s Drive-In unlocks its doors at 7 AM, creating a spectacle that speaks volumes about the food quality. This phenomenon happens most notably on weekends when the restaurant extends hours until 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

The dedication of patrons willing to wait in line before opening demonstrates the magnetic pull this establishment has on the community.

I remember my first visit when I arrived at what I thought was a reasonable time, only to find myself behind a dozen eager customers already staking their claim. The anticipation builds as opening time approaches, with conversations flowing between regulars who treat this morning ritual like a social event.

The Famous Jumbo Cheeseburger

Robo’s jumbo cheeseburger stands as the crown jewel of their menu, drawing burger enthusiasts from across the region to taste what many call perfection between buns. Reviews consistently praise this massive creation, with customers raving about the generous portions and satisfying flavors that justify every minute spent waiting.

The burger arrives hot and fresh, wrapped carefully to preserve its integrity during the short journey from window to car. Each bite delivers that classic drive-in experience people crave, combining quality ingredients with time-tested preparation methods.

The combo meal pairs this behemoth with crispy fries and a drink, offering tremendous value in the budget-friendly price range of one to ten dollars.

Regulars swear by this signature item above all others.

Walk-Up Window Ordering Experience

Robo’s maintains the authentic drive-in tradition with its walk-up ordering window, creating an experience that transports customers back to simpler times when fast food meant personal interaction. Pleasant staff members greet each customer with genuine warmth, taking orders with patience and care that makes first-timers feel immediately welcome.

This old-fashioned approach sets Robo’s apart from modern drive-throughs where speakers and screens replace human connection. The ordering process moves efficiently despite the personal touch, with employees who know the menu inside and out ready to answer questions.

Located at 9233 Orby Cantrell Highway in Pound, the setup encourages customers to stretch their legs and enjoy the roadside atmosphere.

Custard Ice Cream Creations

Few things match the pure joy of watching staff build one of Robo’s towering custard ice cream treats, spiraling upward in defying gravity with each twist of the machine. Customers rave about the rich, creamy texture that distinguishes real custard from ordinary soft serve, making it nearly impossible to drive past without stopping.

Two cones cost around five dollars and fifty cents, representing outstanding value for a quality frozen dessert that satisfies any sweet tooth. The custard has developed its own loyal following, with travelers on US-23 planning their routes specifically to include a Robo’s ice cream stop.

Summer evenings see particularly heavy custard traffic at the window.

Mom And Pop Roadside Charm

Robo’s Drive-In embodies everything wonderful about genuine mom and pop establishments, where profit takes a backseat to community connection and quality service. The restaurant operates with a personal touch that chain restaurants simply cannot replicate, treating each customer like a neighbor rather than a transaction number.

This authenticity resonates deeply with both locals who grew up visiting Robo’s and newcomers discovering it for the first time while passing through Pound. Staff members exhibit the patience and friendliness that only comes from truly caring about the customer experience, helping indecisive diners navigate the menu without rushing them.

The atmosphere reflects traditional Appalachian hospitality, where strangers become friends over shared meals and good conversation.

Exceptional Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw often plays second fiddle to main dishes, but at Robo’s this humble side dish steals the spotlight with what customers call the absolute best they’ve ever tasted. The recipe strikes that perfect balance between creamy and tangy, with fresh cabbage providing satisfying crunch in every forkful.

One enthusiastic reviewer declared it superior to any coleslaw encountered in their entire culinary journey, high praise that prompted me to order extra on my next visit. The attention to detail in preparing even simple sides reflects Robo’s commitment to quality across the entire menu.

Shrimp dinners and chicken dinners arrive accompanied by this legendary coleslaw, elevating the complete meal experience.

Impressive Menu Variety

Beyond burgers, Robo’s offers a surprisingly diverse menu that caters to various tastes and preferences, ensuring everyone in your group finds something appealing. Footlong coneys satisfy hot dog cravings while catfish sandwiches provide a seafood option for those seeking something different from typical drive-in fare.

The menu extends to shrimp dinners, chicken dinners, and specialty items like turtle brownies that add unexpected sophistication to the offerings. This variety explains why the restaurant maintains such broad appeal across different demographics and age groups throughout the week.

Prices remain remarkably affordable, with most items falling within the one to ten dollar range that keeps families returning regularly.