Brad Collard
Hamlin's Gifts and Fountain has a history of 62 years in Corpus Christi.
I saw this fountain shop on YouTube from the Texas Bucket List when we were thinking heading to the Texas Coast.
What a gem! It's changed a little. Back when TTBL did the review it was the traditional pharmacy and fountain shop. Today it's known as Hamlin's Fountain and Gifts.
Jesse was the cook for over 50 years. He passed away in 2020, like many others to Covid. The place still honors him with a life size cutout and they've kept Jesse's Chili on the menu.
The same seasoned grill is there. The food is still great. As a chili purest, I appreciate places that don't try to pass off beans mixed with chile con carne as Texas Chili. They still do Jesse proud with his signature chili.
My wife opted for the meatloaf. I'm saddened to say she liked it better than my homemade meatloaf. I must tip my hat to the chef and the grill master.
If you want a smooth chocolate milkshake, Hamlin's is still the best.
While there I engaged in conversation with a local that's been going there with his wife since 1980 when he graduated High School. He told me I could try anything on the menu and you would not be disappointed.
Hamlin's Fountain and Gift continues to build on their legacy.
I'm sure Jesse and Karl Arnold are smiling on Kate and the rest of the crew working to keep the legendary fountain open.
The menu appears to offer the same food that made this shop a landmark off Staples in Corpus Christi.
Put it on your bucket list, you won't be disappointed.
Jeremy Pierce
Delicious diner style food. Burgers, chili cheese fries, shakes. The food was great and the staff were super friendly. The cook made his way around to the tables to tell jokes and make paper animals. It was a fun time with good food. Will definitely return!
Meg Streich
My 3 year old son and I had a wonderful experience here. Their delicious chili cheese dog and banana split did not disappoint but the warm, welcoming staff (cooks, waiters, managers) were what made the difference! Thank you for making our mommy-son lunch date so special.
Bill Keenen
I found this place by accident. I had gone to McDonald's across the street but they did not have dine in available. Stumbled in Hamlin's Fountain and googled them to see if they served food. Yes they do but it was almost 3pm which was when they close. I walked in and asked if they could still serve even though it was 2:55. Young lady said yes. I ordered a regular hamburger. It was served piping hot and fresh off the grill. Great flavor and the cook came by to check on me. Great customer service in this hidden gem.
Lisa
I’ve lived in Corpus for a while, and I remember coming to Hamlin Pharmacy when I was about six. Now that I’m eighteen, I decided to come back and see what it was like.
It wasn’t busy when I got there, and almost as soon as I walked in I was greeted by kind staff members, who asked if they could help me find anything. It was soon after this that I saw the place’s two main problems: The high prices in the gift portion, and the feeling that you’re constantly being watched while you’re shopping. Because you are being watched.
However, this place is still great. The food is delicious and well priced, even if the item section isn’t. Back when I was a child, they didn’t have the bakery (where I saw fresh baked bread being taken) that they do now. I’m pleased to say that this place is definitely good to go to if you want an old school diner experience, and it’s good if you want polite and attentive staff.
I plan to drop by more often, when I can.
Ed Bach
The bakery did an absolutely amazing job on a Vegan cake! The first Vegan cake I have ever had and was blown away by the quality and taste! I was amazed by all the compliments on the cake as well as how everyone wanted to take some home.
The staff was very helpful in getting the order placed from out of town and making sure I got exactly what we needed. Everyone was very friendly when we picked it up. I look forward to the next time I'm in town to stop by and get something else.
Paul Creel
Want a taste of the early 1960's? Original pharmacy grill and soda fountain the way it was back in the "old days". Great burgers, malts, shakes, ice cream. Best of all is Jesse's chili. Home made fresh every day! Limited seating, price $. Service is good.
L R
This place is a must in Corpus with the family! Old fashioned Mom & Pops type of place. I felt like I was at Woolworth’s!! The burgers were great, milkshakes were delish and the cute bakery items were a total surprise!! Macaroons were good and the key lime bars hit the spot! The store itself is broken down into different Sections with no precise flow but I am happy we went!!!
Rhonda Ann
You always find what you need. Needed a birthday and shower gift, I found it here. My tummy growled, and guess what? I found food here to. It truly is a one stop shop. Greeted with a smile and hello, and a thank you and hope to see you again; upon my exit. I will be back...
DeAnn Ruiz
This a great little gift shop and soda fountain. Amazing shakes! I lover to shop here when I need a gift or just want to browse. The ladies who work here are really nice. Was sad to see the old pharmacy go but I'm sure they will make good use of the space.
Duane Jones
Been going here for many years. Great place to grab a good burger, sandwich, chili, etc. Its all good. Jesse is the man that runs the kitchen and does an outstanding job. Good stuff, cant go wrong
Carlos Juan Solá Santiago
I really miss the breakfast in this wonderful place but I understand the reason why. Nevertheless, I will pay them a visit for lunch and see what these burgers are made of.
Becky Bartel
Everyone should go there at xmas if at no other time just to by an ornament. Its a really great xmas time place to visit. I love the malts etc. We have never had bad service there but ate their only once.
Morgan Rios
Awesome food! Brings me back memories of going to Woolworth and eating at the fountain with my grandma! Thank you!
Pat Ramirez
I loved the theme and the service was amazing. The burgers, fries, and beverages were delicious. I recommend this place to anyone. FIVE STARS
Karolina Ramirez
I’ve never been to this place before and walked in and the dinner/fountain inside is so cute and I order a banana split the lady made is so pretty and it wa super yummy
Tamara Tucker
The food at the fountain is delicious. You have to try Jesse's chili. I love all the other stuff in the shop. You can find unusual gifts at reasonable prices. The sale items are worth browsing through.
Darlene Campos
Holy crap, this place makes the BEST brownies in the world! Cute place, pay a visit!
Mindy Ramos
Love the Great Food and the staff! Then after u get food u can shop around for great gifts
Patrick Lewis
Small burger is my favorite, really good patty melt and Jesse's chili is the best!
Amanda Wiesen
Super cute shop and they make the best macarons! A must try!
David Schroll
Awesome place, great burgers, and wonderful people.
Griffith Egan
I've been coming here for years! They are super military friendly and as a former service member that's important to me. I love the old fountain feel. Hamlin is truly an American treasure. I would recommend this place to anyone who loves a good burger and a awesome float!
Cristina De Luna-Lopez
Visiting from out town yesterday and stopped by for lunch. It was 10:55am and the waitress said she was NOT able to take our lunch order because it was not 11:00am. We waited, in the meantime she got our drinks and took my father in laws order since he was ordering breakfast. After 11:00am she came back and took our lunch order. The burgers were good and so was the milkshake, disappointed in customer service that she was unable to take a lunch order because it was 10:55am and not 11:00am. There was no explanation given only that it was not 11:00 o’clock yet 🤷🏼♀️. I guess rules are rules.
Marti Mora
The burgers and milkshakes were great and my sons loved the atmosphere! We'll definitely be back!
Christina O'Donnell
I love the diner atmosphere. The food is so awesome. Burgers, great fountain drinks and the milk shakes, total indulgence.
Marilyn Ellison
Our cheeseburgers and chocolate milk shakes were delicious!! The people are so friendly here. We were waited on promptly and our experience was excellent!! Definitely going back soon!
Raquel Longoria-Barker
Love this place! Food is delicious , staff is great and so many items to choose from.
Ruth Meza
Gotta love that diner. No bells and whistles, just really good and simple food. Also the scratch made macaroons are my guilty pleasure! The boutique is filled with lovely and unique gifts for all occasions. Really one of Corpus Christi's gems.
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