Eastside Big Tom’s in Olympia is not just your typical drive-thru burger joint. Home of the “goop,” a delicious blend of mayo, mustard, pickle relish and secret salad dressing sauce, Eastside Big Tom’s is an Olympian favorite.

Eastside Big Tom’s and its goop are even featured in George Motz’s book, Hamburger America.

Besides the goop and friendly service, what sets this place apart is that it can be somewhat of a roadside attraction. There is a wood cut-out where patrons can stick their face through and take pictures of themselves as “Big Tom.”

Right now, there are campaign signs around town stating “Big Tom for President - Goop 2012,” as they are participating in a competition with LimeBerry to be the best in the land. This campaign is to raise funds and awareness for the Crisis Clinic of Thurston & Mason Counties.

And during Halloween, the parking lot always has a spooky feel, as the owner sets up creepy and cool decorations.

On Facebook, there are pictures of employees dressed in laboratory coats pretending to bring hamburgers to life and wielding chainsaws with captions saying they’d be happy to cut your burger in half.

Eastside Big Tom’s also offers outside seating and have been known to make custom shakes. According to Facebook, just recently, Olympia resident Jusby the Clown brought in an avocado, which employees happily blended up.

Boiled down, Eastside Big Tom’s has great food and great personality. They have my vote. www.eastsidebigtom.com.

Open 10:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 2023 4th Ave., Olympia, 360.357.4852.