Jack In The Box

2026 marks the 75th anniversary of the fast food chain Jack In The Box, and in fact one opened in my area on 78th and Cicero late last year, where an Arby's formerly stood. We never had it in Illinois, because it mainly served the West Coast--indeed, I didn't see one until our high school choir trip to Hawaii in 2003! And it was only relevant to me because an E.coli outbreak linked to the chain made the evening news in 1993. 

I have tried their food, and it's miles better and more affordable than the competition. Better portions, better value, and far better taste all around.

A cursory search reveals that JITB in fact pioneered the modern, intercom-based drive-thru, which has since become standard for most other fast food chains as well as banks and pharmacies. 

Their mascot was a stylized clown with a spherical white head and conical hat, and they used to give out antenna toppers with their meals. Antenna toppers just like this one!

This is a 2000 vintage JITB topper, complete with party hat and horn!