Here are examples of programmatic architecture found in Southern California.
Walk-in Beer Store (Gone)
Mexicali, B.C. Photo and info courtesy Bruce K.
This was a walk-in beer store located somewhere in the
northwest part of town, Mexicali, B.C.. Sadly, a contact down there informed
a few years ago that this structure is no more.
Oil Patch Liquor Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
Like the familiar oil derricks in and around the Signal Hill area of
Long Beach, Oil Patch Liquor boasts its own derrick on top of its
building.
The Donut Hole
La Puente, CA Photo courtesy Georg Balandran
The Donut Hole in Industry. Where else can you not only drive-up
and grab a bag of donuts, but drive through a donut to get there? Well
worth a stop, even if you don't like donuts. Besides, you can always grab
a cup of coffee!
Tail O' The Pup
Los Angeles, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
Want a hot dog from a
hot dog? Although the Tail O' the Pup ended having to move
locations due to what some call big bad "progress", this
little weenie found itself a new home. Somewhat hidden on the north
end of San Vicente, it's worth a stop once you find it.
Shrimp House
Claremont, CA Photo courtesy Adriene Biondo
Here's a shot of the Shrimp House with the restaurant
in the shape of a boat. Not sure if this place has now reopened or not.
UPDATE 08/08: The Shrimp House has recently reopened under the name of Sushi Boat. Many
thanks to Freya for update. 08-08
The Tamale Shop Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
This building in East Los Angeles used to be a tamale shop. If you look
closely, you can see the wrapper on each end. Now a beauty salon, this
building once actually sat on its own and wasn't crushed by buildings
on both sides. Unfortunately, it now looks eerily similar to a cramped
in parked car.