Most who grew up in the Montclair District of Oakland have fond memories of Mort’s Drive-in on the corner of Moraga and Medau. My memories of Mort’s are from when it was on Thornhill Drive next to the 7-11. The smell of french fries (the best!)wafting through the air into our classrooms would make our mouths water. I can still remember how good they smelled and tasted. Yum!
Before Mort’s opened at the corner of Moraga Avenue and Medau Place, the land was part of the Medau Dairy.
FYI – I don’t know why McKeen’s was sold. I think the owner’s political life took up much of his time. But that is just my opinion.
The Corner of Moraga and Medau – 6420 Moraga
Here is what the corner looked like in 1954.
Public Works Photos, Oakland Cultural Heritage Survey
McKeen’s Charcoal Broiler
Montclarion
On a shakedown run, they sold three hundred “Big Mac’s” in four hours.
“Big Mac” & “Little Mac”
In 1958, Robert “Bob” Mckeen, a local realtor, opened a delightful contemporary-style barbecue restaurant. The ex-Cal basketball star planned on eventually having a chain of them, and Montclair was the first one. It offered both take-home and on-site dining.
“Montclair claims Big Bob and his natty new spot.”
Mort’s Drive-In
Morton “Mort” and Gertrude Saunders bought McKeen’s in 1961 and reopened it as Mort’s Drive-In.
Arson Suspected!
In April of 1966, fire swept through Mort’s Drive-In, causing several thousand dollars in damage.
The building was broken into through a rear window. Police believe the intruders were disappointed that they did not find cash on the premises. Papers and rubbish were piled in the middle of the room and set on fire.
Mort Sauders, the owner, offered a reward of $100 for information.
Going, going gone!
Crown Liquors and Cleaners
In 1967, a new building replaced the Drive-In. Crown has been there ever since.
More Info:
A special thanks to Chris Treadway for the clippings from the Montclarion.
- Bob McKeen – Star Athlete at Cal – SF Gate – Jan 2000
Thank you! I am lucky to have frquented both Mort’s locations in my younger years. Our homemade burgers come close, but there will never be another Mort’s burger 🍔!