For more than 40 years, Millie’s Burgers has been a cornerstone of Sugar House, serving up juicy, no-frills burgers and classic shakes to generations of locals. 

Nestled on the corner of 1000 East and 2100 South, right smack in the middle of the current road construction project, it’s always been the kind of place that’s seen first dates, little league celebrations, and family traditions that span decades. 

All in the Family

Jarrad Neilson is the grandson of Marlene and Howard Miller, who originally purchased the Sugarhouse Arctic Circle hamburger shop in 1970. It wasn’t until 1981 that it was renamed Millie’s, Marlene’s nickname. 

Though Millie’s is a fixture of the neighborhood, it’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about family. And now, that family is stepping into a new era as Millie’s Burgers transitions into the hands of the founder’s grandsons, Jarrad and Jordan Neilson.

Millie’s Burgers evokes memories of neon signs, picnic tables, and that unmistakable sizzle coming from the kitchen. Over the years, Millie’s Burgers gained a loyal following, not only because of the food, but because of the warm, family atmosphere that has always made it feel like a second home.

Throughout the years, the menu has stayed the same. There haven’t been any major changes other than in 2001 when the Millers retired and their daughter Stacy, who had worked there for years along with her husband, Dan Neilson, took over the business. Dan’s vision for the business has remained the same to this day: “Create a menu of no-nonsense burgers and fries, served fast and fresh.” 

Now, new owners, grandsons Jarrad and Jordan, are stepping in to carry on the family legacy. The two boys who grew up watching their father flip burgers and chat with the regulars never imagined they’d one day take the reins. 

“I spent so much time here as a kid,” Jarrad recalls. “Back then, it was just where Dad worked. But over the years, I came to appreciate what Millie’s Burgers means to this community. It’s more than just a restaurant — it’s a piece of Sugarhouse history.”

Preserving Community

Under Jarrad and Jordan’s leadership, the restaurant has retained its old-school charm while embracing a few new updates. Jarrad is quick to assure everyone that the core of Millie’s Burgers remains unchanged. 

“People come here for the same reasons they’ve always come: the food, the service, and the nostalgia. I’m not interested in messing with what works,” Jarrad said. 

During our conversation, Jarrad explained that beyond the food, the two brothers are also looking forward to continuing their family legacy of community engagement. Over the years, Millie’s Burgers has supported local sports teams, school fundraisers, and neighborhood events. Jarrad is committed to not only maintaining these relationships, but deepening them. 

“Sugar House is changing, and we want to make sure we’re growing along with it,” he says. “This neighborhood has supported us for decades, and now it’s our turn to give back in a bigger way.”

As Millie’s Burgers enters this new chapter, it’s clear that Jarrad’s respect for his father’s work is guiding his decisions. There’s a balance between honoring the past and looking forward to the future. While the neon sign out front remains a beacon for burger lovers, there’s a fresh energy inside the small, family-run restaurant.

Feature Image of the iconic Millie’s Burgers sign by John Taylor.