The popular drive-in restaurant on Limestone Street in Gaffney has been serving customers for 55 years. Sticking to a formula produced decades ago, local restaurant owner Jay Harvey continues to find success in a tough economy by relying on those close to him.

After all, he sees most of them on a regular basis — at work.

It is a family affair when it comes to running Harvey's Drive-In restaurant, which provides local customers with fresh hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream and other food items.

Originally intended to be an ice cream parlor when given the name Tastee Freez by Jay and Kat Greene, the small eatery on Limestone Street has evolved during its 55 years in Gaffney, leaving an impression on those who visit the eatery.

"Customers are always our top priority," Harvey said. "If you were to eat a 'Big J' hamburger from 50 years ago you'd believe it was the same thing you're eating now. A product that gets better over time is what we look for, and they have come to appreciate that from us."

Harvey's father bought the hamburger joint in 1968 from the Greenes, who oversaw everyday operations for more than a decade. Each member of the family played their part to ensure the success of the business during those days, whether it was making drinks or creating the perfect handmade beef patty.

"We all enjoy the business," Harvey said. "It's just something we like doing."

Little has changed as Harvey's sister, Cindy Greene, presently manages the hamburger joint, while his wife, Kathy, and mother, Montez, are often seen working at the eatery.

Many of Harvey's other relatives can also be seen helping out on a regular basis, though he believes their current enthusiasm for the family business will wane over time.

"At this moment, I don't think they will have an interest in this business," Harvey said. "But who knows? I didn't see myself coming back, but I ended up doing just that... and now I'm loving it."

In an uncertain economic climate, Harvey said his business is staying competitive. He attributes the success of Harvey's to the business staying true to its principles, which he believes is key to how it will fare in the future.

"We have been blessed that through the good and bad (economy), that Harvey's has remained strong and been able to serve the best food possible," Harvey said. "I have seen a lot of business, big and small come and go in this area. But it feels great to be here and to keep serving the community."