carhop

A carhop is a service model where food and beverages are delivered directly to customers in their vehicles, typically at drive-through windows or designated parking areas. This concept originated in the United States during the mid-20th century as a convenient alternative to traditional dine-in or takeout options. The term "carhop" is most closely associated with the fast-food industry, particularly during its peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s.

Carhop services were most commonly found at drive-in restaurants, where patrons could order food while seated in their cars, and servers would bring the meals directly to their vehicles. This setup allowed for a more relaxed dining experience, as customers could enjoy their meals without leaving their cars. The service was particularly popular in suburban and rural areas where walk-up windows were less practical.

The decline of the carhop model began in the late 20th century as drive-in restaurants faded in popularity due to changing consumer preferences, urbanization, and the rise of fast-food drive-throughs. Drive-through windows became the dominant method for ordering and receiving food quickly without the need for carhop service. However, some nostalgic or themed restaurants occasionally reintroduce carhop elements as a novelty or retro experience.

Today, carhop services are rare but can still be found in certain settings, such as food festivals, pop-up events, or specialized restaurants catering to vintage or retro dining themes. The concept remains a nostalgic reminder of an era when drive-in culture was a staple of American leisure.