Pappy’s, The Original Sweet Shop, has been one of Purdue’s favorite food stop and study destinations for the past 90 years. To pay tribute to its near-century of burgers, shakes and study-dates, Pappy’s hosted a series of events in March.
Free Cake Fridays, held on the afternoons of Feb 24th and March 3rd, featured free birthday cake and party games for patrons. Shannon Jordan, Operations Manager for Pappy’s, commented, “ We were so happy to have so many students who cared about Pappy’s. The cake went fast and we celebrated in style!”
The annual Pappy’s Throwback Event took on an extra-special flair in honor of the anniversary. Held on March 2nd, this year’s Throwback featured a Roaring 20’s theme with flappers and gents, a photo-booth, and demonstrations by the Purdue Swing Dance Club, who played Sinatra and spun around the Union. Patrons enjoyed games, music, and a trivia contest with prizes as well as the 1920’s pricing offered on select menu items. No one could resist the “Pin the Cherry on the Milkshake Game” or sharing a banana split with a friend.
Named for the first manager, Frank “Pappy” Fox, the operation has evolved over the years to keep up with changing student preferences. The original soda fountain opened in 1927 but was not officially renamed “Pappy’s” until Fox’s retirement in 1959. Over the years, Pappy’s has undergone several renovations with the most recent in 2003-2004. The $1.9M project transformed the restaurant into the modern retro-diner style of today. A re-branding in 2008 brought a fresh look to the menu and décor.
These successful events leave little doubt that Pappy’s, The Original Sweet Shop, will continue to be a beloved institution on the Purdue campus. Like the Bell Tower or the Boilermaker Special, it is a place where past, current, and future Boilers connect…and enjoy a milkshake.
Purdue Dining & Culinary 