The Burger Barn has been a staple eating establishment in Olla for many years, with several generations enjoying the community hangout’s delicious food. Though the Dairy Queen turned Burger Barn has always been a favorite among locals, it is recently being recognized as a top spot for travelers passing through.
The Burger Barn has been a staple eating establishment in Olla for many years, with several generations enjoying the community hangout’s delicious food. Though the Dairy Queen turned Burger Barn has always been a favorite among locals, it is recently being recognized as a top spot for travelers passing through.
Last month, photographer and journalist Ken Hulsey included the Olla Burger Barn in his blog, “Best Restaurants in California, New Mexico, Louisiana, Texas & Across America – Ken’s Top Picks.”
Hulsey, who frequently travels with his wife Terri, seeks out local establishments and a good “hole-inthe- wall” rather than eating at well-known chain restaurants. One of his regular roadside favorites is the Burger Barn of Olla, LA.
In late 2023, Hulsey and his wife stopped at the Burger Barn for lunch to enjoy the community favorite and reported his experience in a special review “Always Worth the Stop – The Burger Barn in Olla, Louisiana.”
“We try to make this stop every time we head north because over the years, we have never had a bad meal there…” Hulsey wrote in a blog post. “What really stood out this time for me were the French fries. I honestly can’t remember when I had fries so good.”
Hulsey is such a fan of the local joint that he included it among his top 50 favorite restaurants, which included burger joints, pizza places, hidden gems and more in states from California to New Jersey.
“Whenever my wife and I travel to Monroe, we always make a stop at the Burger Barn. This small-town burger joint serves up some of the most delicious hamburgers you’ll ever taste,” Hulsey wrote.
Soon after publishing the list, Hulsey reached out to Burger Barn owner Thad Ivy, letting him know that the establishment had made the list.
“I am very proud of our employees. They are the ones who work hard every day,” Ivy shared. “We all take pride in cooking and serving the community. I was honored that we had been chosen as a top destination.”
Thad and Krissie Ivy took ownership of the historical establishment in March of 2023 extending their more than 25 years in the restaurant business.
“There are so many people in this area that know about the Burger Barn or have memories there,” Ivy said. “It has so much history for this town, and we love that we have the opportunity to keep this place open for the community.”
This well-loved establishment offers a variety of delicious options from burgers, chicken fingers and fries to soft serve ice cream, malts and milkshakes, with specialty items offered each month. Not only does the Olla Burger Barn offer great eats, but a quaint and inviting atmosphere to enjoy it in.
“There’s just something special about soaking in that authentic American vibe,” Hulsey wrote. “You will find the place filled with locals chatting about the high school game or area gossip. I like to be reminded of the quaintness of small-town life here in America.”
The Olla Burger Barn is located at 4308 Main Street in Olla, LA and more information can be found on their website at www.ollaburgerbarn. com. To read more of Ken Hulsey’s works, visit his blog at www. narrowpathsfollowed. blogspot.com.