For nearly 60 years Little Chef was a familiar and friendly sight on Kent’s motorways and A-roads. The chain was founded in 1958 by Sam Alper who, inspired by American diners, created the roadside restaurants to cater for legions of travel-weary families, motorists and businessmen. It was famous for its Olympic Breakfast – its version of a full English–as well as its Early Started and Jubilee Pancakes. Kids – and adults who sheepishly asked – will also fondly recall the red lollipops handed out after a meal. In its prime the chain boasted 439 branches nationwide but by the turn of the century …
