Our Story: A Legacy of Love and Food
Milton and Eva Lovick borrowed $180 in 1941 to start Lovick’s Quick Lunch in Downtown Kinston, NC, transitioning from farm to city life during the Great Depression. Located at 320 North Herritage Street, it served quick, affordable meals six days a week. Tobacco farmers often stopped by as it sat between two warehouses. During WWII, the café adapted to food rationing, making sandwiches like “the dough burger” a staple.
After the passing of Milton Lovick, the next generation to operate Lovick’s Café was son Milton “Mac” Lovick, who began working at age eleven, and later dropped out of school in the ninth grade to work full time. He owned and operated Lovick’s Café for almost sixty years until his passing in late 2009. Mac’s three children Susan, Reed, and Steve have since carried on the tradition into its third generation working in a variety of roles at different times throughout the years.
Today, Lovick’s still serves a quick breakfast or lunch for a small price. We are now serving the 3rd and 4th generation of families who continue the tradition of coming into town for a homemade meal. Serving residents all over Eastern North Carolina and beyond, Lovick’s is famously known as the "Home of the Doughburger” and the #1 Wonder of Lenoir County as voted by readers of The Kinston Free Press.
A Taste of History in Every Bite
When Lovick’s originally opened in 1941, four other businesses resided inside the current building and two large tobacco warehouses sat alongside the building on both sides. The capacity of the restaurant at that time was 17 customers. Over the years Lovick’s expanded through its walls as those other businesses closed, then the warehouses were torn down. Still today, customers can see the different flooring that distinguishes the location of the original businesses within the building.
The Lovick Legacy Continues
After my grandfather Milton passed away, my dad, Milton “Mac” Lovick, took over the café and worked here for nearly 60 years. Now, my siblings and I continue the tradition, keeping the café running and serving the same homemade meals that families have enjoyed for generations. Located at 320 N Herritage St, Kinston, NC, Lovick’s Cafe remains the heart of our community, where every visit connects you to the history and spirit of our family.v
Did You Know...?
Lovick’s Café has had one other location open outside of the 320 N. Herritage Street location in Kinston, North Carolina. From 1999 to 2000, Lovick’s Café was open in Faison, NC under the management of Greg Turner (son of Susan Lovick Turner).
Visit Lovick’s Cafe Today
If you’re in Kinston, NC, make sure to stop by Lovick’s Cafe. We’re more than just a restaurant; we’re a family tradition that’s been passed down for generations. Our food tells the story of our history, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Whether you’re here for the famous dough burger, fresh hotcakes, or just a friendly meal, we look forward to serving you!
History in Pictures
