The Coloradan's Lisa Friedrich Truesdale has written a captivating article about The Sink's 100th anniversary, tracing our history and some fun memories from CU alums. We want to thank Lisa for her excellent work bringing our story to life.
The Sink has served generations of CU Buffs in its 100 years in business. Here are some highlights from the insightful article:
In 1949, John and Pauli Pudlik bought the restaurant, and their daughter, Caryl Segawa (A&S'67), grew up there, earning the nickname "Sink Brat."
The restaurant opened in 1923 as Somer's Sunken Gardens and named for the sunken fountain in the middle of the dining room. The Pudliks changed the name to The Sink and began pouring 3.2 beer, making it a popular hangout for students.
The Sink's most famous employee, Robert Redford (A&S ex'58; HonDocHum'87), was a janitor in 1955.
The Kauvar family took over in 1958 and introduced the famous Sinkburger and hickory Sink Sauce. Rick Kauvar (EPOBio'75) and his brother Jim (Mktg'79) spent afternoons and evenings working at The Sink, making it an important part of their family's history.
In the late 60s, Kevin Fitzgerald (EPOBio'73; MBio'78; PhD'82) worked as a bouncer, earning $1.69 an hour and a free burger per shift while mingling with fraternity and sorority members and "long-haired hippies."
In the mid-70s, The Sink went through life as Herbies Deli. "For years, Rick and Jim urged their dad to bring it back, and much to the delight of Sink Rats everywhere (including Fitzgerald), they finally did in 1989, uncovering the artwork and adding a full bar."
The restaurant has experienced many changes but remains an institution in Boulder, attracting generations of students and visitors.
If you want to read more about these unique stories and The Sink's rich history, be sure to read the full article in the Coloradan Alumni Association Magazine. Whether you're a CU alumnus, a current student, or simply someone who loves a good story, this article is a must-read. Join us in celebrating our 100-year milestone by delving into The Sink's fascinating history!
