On September 5, 1955, in the heart of Avondale Estates, Georgia, neighbors Joe Rogers Sr. and Tom Forkner opened the doors to a small 24-hour diner that would become a Southern icon: Waffle House.
Seventy years later, Waffle House has grown to more than 2,000 locations in 25 states! It has never lost its roots in warm hospitality, comfort food, and being there for customers any time of day (or night) and though COVID changed that some. Some only allow take out all day and others allow dine in until a certain time.
A Rare Chance to Step Back in Time
The original Waffle House building still stands at 2719 E. College Avenue in Decatur, lovingly restored as the Waffle House Museum. Normally open by appointment only, the museum will host a special open house on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Visitors can:
- Explore the recreated 1955 diner interior
- See vintage menus, uniforms, and memorabilia
- Learn the stories of the founders and the brand’s growth
- Enjoy free samples of the limited-edition Birthday Cake Waffle served from an on-site food truck.
No reservations are needed. Just bring your love for waffles, hashbrowns (scattered, smothered, and covered), and a healthy dose of nostalgia.
Anniversary Specials You Have To Get
To mark the milestone, Waffle House has rolled out some tasty limited-time treats and fun extras:
🎂 Birthday Cake Waffle
- Golden waffle topped with birthday cake bites, confetti crunch, and whipped cream.
- Available at participating locations for a limited time.
- About $6.50 with toppings, while supplies last.
🎁 Giveaways & Surprises
- Follow Waffle House on Instagram for anniversary giveaways, behind-the-scenes peeks, and possible celebrity cameos
☕ Cold Brew Test Run
- Select Atlanta locations are offering a Classic Blend Cold Brew in ready-to-drink cans. How cool is this for coffee drinkers?
Why This Matters
For many, Waffle House is not just a restaurant, Waffle House is a place where road trips pause, friendships form over coffee, breakfast runs are had and late-night cravings are always satisfied. Its 70th anniversary is a celebration of community, consistency, and comfort food done right.
So here’s to you, Waffle House. Happy 70th! Thank you for seven decades of hot coffee, warm waffles, and a place at the counter for everyone.
