It all started with love at a fountain drugstore.
Joe and Beulah Gailey met and fell in love in one of America’s beautiful past-time establishments where patrons could get their medicine and other household items while also stopping to eat lunch or dinner.
After marrying, Joe and Beulah Gailey decided they would open their own fountain drugstore in downtown Springfield in 1942, close to Route 66. Joe was in charge of the pharmacy and Beulah would fix burgers, chili and milkshakes.
Now, long after those fountain store days, the tradition has been kept alive and expanded. Gailey’s currently inhabits its original corner location and also the next two spaces over, one being Hotel Seville, which sat beside the original Gailey’s. There are a few modern updates, but the history all stands the way it used to. The original diner stools as well as Beulah’s original burger flipping “station” remain right where they were.
Additions have been added to the expansive menu over the years including a large selection of omelets, breakfast dishes, skillets, burgers and even a large bar menu. Order the famous “Downtowner” that comes with two eggs any style, with choice of potato, pork and toast. “The Brit” is also another go-to for many locals, capturing a traditional English breakfast. It features two eggs any style, English sausage, an English muffin and your choice of potato. Or enjoy the “Drugstore Burger” featuring a third pound ground beef patty cooked to temp and served with your choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle.
There is also a selection of breakfast and brunch drinks like mimosas, bloody marys and also seasonal drink menus. For those who are looking for traditional drinks there’s also a full bar and seven taps with local and national bar selections.
Gailey’s is open 7am to 3pm Sunday to Tuesday and 7am to 10pm Wednesday to Saturday. Come experience Springfield’s rich history in one of its original burger joints!
Gailey’s is located at 220 E Walnut and can be reached by phone at 417.866.5500 and online at gaileysbreakfast.com.