Have you ever watched your favorite show and found your stomach growling for a meal that doesn’t actually exist?
From the animated depths of the ocean to the cozy corners of sitcom New York, fictional restaurants have a way of becoming more than just backdrops.
They represent community, comfort, and sometimes a bit of culinary chaos. While we can’t hop through the screen just yet, we can certainly dream about the iconic menus and atmospheres that define our favorite media.
Join us as we explore ten legendary eateries from movies and television that deserve a spot in the real world.
1. The Krusty Krab
Located at the bottom of the sea in Bikini Bottom, The Krusty Krab is perhaps the most famous fast-food joint in animation history.
Famous for its secret formula Krabby Patty, this nautical-themed restaurant offers a dining experience that is literally “underwater,” though real-life fans would need a scuba suit to visit.
The establishment is run by the penny-pinching Mr. Krabs, while the eternally optimistic SpongeBob SquarePants serves as the talented fry cook.
Even though the service might be occasionally interrupted by a grumpy cashier, the allure of tasting that legendary burger keeps us wishing we could grab a seat at a barrel-table. It is truly a pop-culture culinary icon.
2. Central Perk
If you are looking for the ultimate neighborhood hangout, Central Perk from the hit sitcom Friends is the gold standard.
This cozy New York City coffee shop is famous for its oversized orange velvet couch and its role as the central gathering spot for the show’s six main characters.
Imagine spending your afternoons sipping lattes while listening to an acoustic performance or simply catching up with your closest friends in a warm, brick-walled environment.
While pop-up versions have appeared in reality, the true magic of the fictional version lies in its perpetual availability and the sense of belonging it provides to its quirky, loyal patrons.
3. Pizza Planet
First introduced in the beloved film Toy Story, Pizza Planet is every child’s dream destination. This space-themed family entertainment center combines a sci-fi atmosphere with arcade games and, of course, delicious pizza.
It is most famous for its “The Claw” machine, where little green aliens await their fate. A real-life version of this restaurant would offer a nostalgic trip for adults and an adventurous playground for kids.
The combination of pepperoni slices and high-energy gaming makes it a standout fictional brand that feels like it was built for the real world’s thriving family-fun center market and themed dining trends.
4. Bob’s Burgers
Bob’s Burgers is a charming, family-run establishment that represents the heart and soul of the Belcher family.
What makes this restaurant so appealing is its creative “Burger of the Day” menu, which features hilarious puns and unique ingredient combinations.
While the shop often faces financial struggles or competition from Jimmy Pesto’s across the street, the quality of the food and the authentic family dynamic make it a place where everyone would feel welcome.
For those who appreciate an artisanal burger experience without the pretension, Bob’s Burgers offers a masterclass in community-focused dining that emphasizes personality and flavor over corporate polish or flashy marketing.
5. Pop’s Chock-lit Shoppe
As a staple of the Riverdale universe, Pop’s Chock-lit Shoppe is the quintessential American diner. With its neon signs, retro booths, and classic milkshakes, it serves as a safe haven for the town’s teenagers amidst the constant drama of their lives.
This establishment captures a sense of mid-century nostalgia that many modern diners try to replicate but rarely perfect.
Bringing this shop into reality would provide a perfect late-night spot for shared fries and deep conversations.
It highlights the enduring appeal of the “third place”—a location outside of home and work where people can relax and connect over simple, comforting comfort food.
6. Big Kahuna Burger
Made famous by its appearance in Pulp Fiction, the Big Kahuna Burger is the Hawaiian-themed fast-food joint that has sparked a thousand cravings.
Known for its “tasty” burgers and distinctive branding, it has become a cult favorite among cinephiles. The fictional chain often appears in various Quentin Tarantino films, creating a shared cinematic universe through the lens of fast food.
While we only see a glimpse of the food on screen, the cultural impact is undeniable. A real-world version would likely thrive as a boutique burger chain, leaning into the tropical aesthetic and the “cool factor” associated with its legendary cinematic origins.
7. Scoops Ahoy
Tucked away in the Starcourt Mall, Scoops Ahoy from Stranger Things brings 1980s nautical vibes to the world of ice cream.
With its bright blue sailor uniforms and “USS Butterscotch” flavor, it’s a perfectly themed shop that captures the mall culture of the era.
While the employees might be busy deciphering Russian codes or fighting monsters, the ice cream looks genuinely refreshing.
A physical location would be an absolute hit for fans of the show and lovers of vintage aesthetics alike.
It demonstrates how a strong theme and a bit of character-driven storytelling can turn a simple ice cream parlor into an unforgettable destination.
8. Moe’s Tavern
For those who prefer a dive bar atmosphere, Moe’s Tavern from The Simpsons is the ultimate destination.
It is the primary watering hole for Homer Simpson and his friends, offering a no-frills environment where “everybody knows your name,” even if the hygiene is a bit questionable.
While the tavern itself is often depicted as dark and dingy, it possesses a certain gritty charm that resonates with anyone looking for an unpretentious place to grab a Duff beer.
A real Moe’s would be the perfect spot for regulars to unwind, share stories, and perhaps even engage in some classic prank calls with the bartender.
9. Vesuvio’s
Artie Bucco’s Vesuvio’s from The Sopranos represents the height of fictional Italian fine dining. It is the place where high-stakes deals are made and family tensions boil over, all over plates of exquisite pasta and wine.
The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet traditional atmosphere that emphasizes the importance of food in cultural identity.
If it were real, Vesuvio’s would be the go-to spot for special occasions or anyone seeking an authentic, old-school Italian meal prepared with passion.
It showcases the role of a restaurant as a theater for human drama, where the chef’s dedication to his craft provides a brief respite.
10. Good Burger
“Welcome to Good Burger, home of the Good Burger, can I take your order?”. This iconic greeting from the film Good Burger has cemented the restaurant’s place in the hearts of 90s kids.
The shop is famous for its “Ed’s Sauce” and its David-versus-Goliath struggle against the corporate giant Mondo Burger.
Bringing Good Burger to life would be a nostalgic win, offering a fun, high-energy environment where the staff is as colorful as the menu.
It serves as a reminder that the best dining experiences aren’t just about the food; they are about the personality, heart, and occasional absurdity of the people.
Declan Kelly