How many McDonald's have a live music stage?
shareWell, teen culture was developing in 1950's/60's to cater to what was then the 'baby boom'. They were experimenting with ways to keep them entertained--and make money
In this sense, the show is very realistic. It shows what owners do/try to do in order to appeal to the people most likely to eat their food.
Lots of things from the 50s (or even the 70s when this was filmed), don't look at all 'fancy' today, but were quite extravagant in their time.
shareIt's as upscale as it's going to get in 1950s Milwaukee.
I don't think they intended on Arnold's being exquisite. The kids hang out there, order burgers and fries, and chat with one another. Not exactly McDonald's per se, but they're one up on it with having live bands and hosting events every so often.
Basically a diner.
Arnolds was supposed to be a local hangout.
shareIt had a weird layout too. Just boothes, big empty center section where Arnold could have put some 4 tops and increased sales. The floor was dark as I recall which gave it a dark neglected look.
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