Goodbye Gorilla Burgers. Longtime Mike’s Hot Dogs & Hamburgers closes in Warner Robins
After 35 years in business, Mike’s Hot Dogs & Hamburgers in Warner Robins has closed.
“Thanks everyone for your support,” owners Rita and Mike Wellons wrote on a closed notice taped to a restaurant window Thursday. “We will miss you all!!”
The popular spot at 823 Russell Parkway had expected to be open until Friday, according to a Facebook post in Robins To-Go announcing its closure.
“It saddens me to say but the day has come & we will only be open & serving you all only a few more days,” the post reads. “We would love to get as many of our regulars, families, & even the newcomers to help us celebrate Mister Mike & his many years of cooking up some delicious meals!
“We will all miss serving up our usuals, to meeting all the new faces who came in hungry & always left happy & full! Thank you guys so very much!”
The small restaurant was known for its huge Gorilla Burgers made with grilled 100% ground chuck patties and its loaded dogs. “Mike’s Dog,” also known as the Carolina Dog, was topped with homemade coleslaw and chili and choice of mustard, ketchup or onion.
The restaurant had a quirky retro decor with figurines of King Kong, Godzilla and superheroes throughout. The outside windows were painted like a jungle featuring Tarzan and Jane figures.
Over the years, Mike’s Hot Dogs & Hamburgers often made it on the Telegraph’s Best of the Best contest in which customers can vote for their favorite businesses, including best burger joint.
The restaurant’s Facebook page, which hadn’t been updated recently, has more than 2,600 followers.
The Wellons could not be reached for comment.
