The Full Story
The Beginning
It all started in 1965 when two Macedonian immigrants, Ted Papatheodorou and Angelo Argiro, spotted a “For Lease” sign while fishing in Pickering’s Bay Ridge area. Inspired, they opened one of the region’s very first drive-in restaurants — The Big M. Serving handmade burgers, steaks on a kaiser, and classic fast-food favourites, The Big M quickly became a local sensation. Guests drove from as far as North York and Richmond Hill, often down dirt roads, just to get a taste of its now legendary food.
Evolution
As the years rolled on, The Big M continued to grow and soon became a community landmark, known for its nostalgic charm, generous portions, and welcoming spirit. It also became a hub for local car culture, a place where drivers gathered after races on old Liverpool Road. When The Big M moved across the street to its current location, it kept the same classic look and feel that customers had loved for decades. Even as new restaurants came and went, The Big M remained a constant, a living reminder of Pickering’s small-town roots.
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Present Day
Today, The Big M still serves the same handcrafted burgers, Steak on a Kaiser, onion rings, and fries that made it famous. The classic drive-in look remains, but the energy feels fresh, fuelled by generations of loyal customers and new visitors discovering it for the first time. It’s a timeless spot where quality, comfort, and community come together, reminding everyone why some things are best left just the way they are. From the first bite to the last, The Big M continues to serve not just great food, but a piece of Pickering’s history.