Warrens Family Restaurant
Legacy Business
Founded: 1955
Celebrating 70 Years of Community Legacy
Warrens Family Restaurants will celebrate 70 years of business in 2025, making it a staple in the Wasatch Front. Founded in the 1950s, it started as a classic burger and shake spot with a nostalgic 1950s-era drive-in feel. Since then, it has expanded its legacy with new locations, including a South Jordan location opening in 2020 and a Plain City location opening in 2025.
The Warrens family business has transcended generations. Over seventy years in operation, it has withstood the test of time, successfully passing the torch within the family and continuing to expand. With a long history of supporting families, Warrens has employed and mentored hundreds of individuals over the decades. Many staff members have remained with the company for over thirty years, a remarkable achievement in the restaurant industry.
Warrens Family Restaurants, headquartered in Ogden, Utah, includes the Warrens, Dylans Drive-Ins, and Craft Burger. Doug Warren established the first location, which was in South Ogden on what is now Riverdale Road. In the mid-1960s, Keith Combe purchased this location, followed by another at 1900 West. A significant remodel in the late 1970s transformed the South Ogden location into the iconic restaurant it is today, complete with the vintage spinning "W" sign.
Today, Leigh and Kirk Dean run the business, operating seven Warrens/Dylans locations and a single Warrens Craft Burger on Historic 25th Street in Ogden. Leigh, daughter of Keith Combe, and Kirk and her parents opened the third Dylans Drive-In in 1996. After Keith passed away, the Deans expanded with another Dylans in Kaysville. In 2003, they took over the remaining Warrens locations from Leigh’s mother, carrying on the brand’s legacy.
Leigh and Kirk are actively involved in the local community, supporting organizations like the GOAL Foundation, the Ogden Marathon, Ogden Restaurant Week, and local high schools. They are also passionate about supporting first responders, often seeing their parking lots filled with fire and police vehicles on Fridays, making Warrens a favorite social spot for these groups. The company collaborates with the Boys and Girls Club each year to support Christmas wish lists.
Warrens has weathered decades of competition and changing retail trends, remaining a steadfast presence in the area. A historic photo of the Riverdale Road location from the past shows it in the middle of a largely undeveloped area, with Washington Blvd and Riverdale Road forming the iconic "V" intersection with Ben Lomond Peak in the background. Now, surrounded by fast food chains and retail stores, Warrens continues to thrive in the exact location, showcasing its resilience and lasting appeal.
Patrons' and staff's memories over the years testify to the restaurant's enduring place in the community. Stories like Thomas Roybal’s recollection of eating at the 12th Street Dylans on his wedding night, Doug Tanner’s meeting the love of his life at Warrens in Roy, and Theresa Kunzler’s first job at the 12th Street location in 1996 highlight people's connections to the business.
Warrens Family Restaurants has built a legacy, with many staff members celebrating milestone anniversaries of over thirty years. Its ongoing success comes from a commitment to the community, preserving the restaurant's historic essence while continually adapting to changing tastes. The restaurant has supported local businesses, including Swire Coca-Cola, Farr’s Ice Cream, and the original Fry Sauce.
What sets Warrens apart is its ability to blend history with relevance. While it has a rich past, the restaurant continues evolving, ensuring its legacy remains alive and well.
