The restaurant was founded by Gladys and George Stanich in 1949. Their son, Steve Stanich, became the current owner.[3]
In 2017, the restaurant's cheeseburger with grilled onions received the "best burger in America" award from Thrillist.[4][5] Stanich's closed temporarily in January 2018, and as of August, planned to reopen.[6] The restaurant's future was unclear, as of November 2018.[7][8] Local media outlets suggested Stanich's would re-open in January or February 2019.[9][10][11] Stanich's reopened in March 2019,[12][13] but had closed again by March 2020.[14] Stanich's is permanently closed due to owner Steven Stanich's illegal activity, including strangling his wife and reckless driving.[15]
Stanich's was replaced by The Mule in February 2024.[16]