The rise and fall of Southern cafeterias

"Cafeterias served affordable comfort food quickly and became community centers, with families sliding trays down the lines after church on Sundays."

"At their peak, there were thousands of cafeterias nationwide, with big chains like Morrison's and Luby's operating locations all over the South."

"The decline of cafeteria lines began in the '90s, leading to the shuttering of many chains that once thrived."

"In Georgia, efforts are underway to keep the tradition of cafeterias alive, ensuring that hot bars continue to serve communities."

In the early 1900s, cafeterias became popular in the South, serving affordable comfort food and acting as community centers. They peaked with thousands of locations, including major chains like Morrison's and Luby's. Families frequented these establishments, especially after church on Sundays. However, by the 1990s, many cafeterias began to close, leading to a significant decline in their numbers. Efforts are being made in Georgia to preserve the tradition of cafeterias and continue serving communities with hot meals.

Read at Business Insider