Pink Cadillac "Shakes Up" Natural Bridge, Virginia
VA: The pink low slung building with turquoise window frames blinking across its facade lazily .jpg)
co-exists with a horse pasture in Natural Bridge, Virginia. A King Kong gorilla statue keeps a watchful eye on the colorful outpost. And inside, you are welcomed by a bronze life-sized Elvis. You have arrived at the very original Pink Cadillac Diner.
Seasoned restauranteur Steve Russek is the owner of this 1950's-style diner (and the race horses grazing across the street). The Pink Cadillac was created a dozen years ago elsewhere in Natural Bridge. When Russek purchased the establishment in 1997, he moved it to its current, more accessible location and brought his own touches to the decor (Elvis' motorcycle) and the menu.
The "famous" Pink Cadillac chili is his sister's secret recipe. The item is a favorite of guests throughout the year (even today, on one of the hottest days thus far in 2006). Russek says that he sells 50 pounds of the spicy concoction a week. The other specialty of the house is the "Elvis Burger" which is a double-stacked sandwich with garnishes and secret sauce (made from ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise). The balance of the menu features homestyle cooking (such as meatloaf meals) and traditional staples like homemade soups and sandwiches.
Pink Cadillac's decor salutes its mid-century theme. The main dining area is chockful of movie star headshots, old-style advertisements, and authentic touches such as poodle skirts, a vintage gas pump and an old-school juke box. A second room is set up as a genuine ice cream parlor. The final room would have the King "all shook up" with Elvis memorabilia galore.
The Pink Cadillac is old-fashioned fun for families, 1950 aficionados and Elvis Presley fans.
The Pink Cadillac Diner
4347 S. Lee Highway
Highway I-81 at Exit 180
Natural Bridge, VA 24578
540.291.2378
www.pinkcadillacdiner.com
