Dear Dining Detective,
Like so many folks in our area, I've consistently had a soft spot for the classic, retro charm of the Pink Cadillac Diner in Natural Bridge. I've always thought it's fun to see an actual pink Cadillac parked outside and hints of old fashioned '50s nostalgia inside. However, it has been a while since I've had the opportunity to visit.
With the diner going through a remodel earlier this year, I'm curious to know if it still holds on to that classic feel. I'm crossing my fingers that they maintained the awesome rock-and-roll vibe and kept the great memorabilia intact.
I hope you will be able to share if the upgrade is an improvement and if the menu has been revamped. Also, is the famous Elvis Burger still everything people hype it up to be? Are there any other goodies on the menu that you'd highly recommend? Any misses that we should steer clear of?
I look forward to getting your thoughts and opinions on this local diner.
Thank you so much
The Dining Detective is on the case!
I can remember the first time I ate at The Pink Cadillac Diner. I remember loving the classic 50s diner theme from the outside to the inside. I’ll admit, some things have changed, but I still enjoy eating there.
Since the remodel, there are fewer decorations on the walls. There are still remnants of local history and nostalgia, but the interior could be described as “uncluttered.” My favorite piece of decoration will always be the jukebox in the larger dining area. I grew up using jukeboxes. I’ve always enjoyed searching through the music catalog, inserting a couple of coins, and hearing a song I picked myself. The selection of music is dated, but more contemporary than in the jukebox’s heyday. On my most recent visit, music from the 50s was playing on the restaurant speakers.
The menu has changed a bit but I don’t see anything wrong with adding more choices to try.
You asked about the Elvis Burger being “everything people hype it up to be?” Personally, I don’t feel the hype is warranted. Aside from the size, I felt there was nothing much to write home about. It’s good, but I prefer the Cowboy Burger in terms of flavor and eating experience.
I can’t stop myself from ordering the classics, like the club sandwich or the country fried steak. My favorite side is their mashed potatoes and gravy. I love my comfort foods. The Pit Fries starter is also a favorite and the yogurt parfait was big enough to share!
There have been a few menu items that I haven’t gone back to, but I mostly chock that up to personal preference. The one food that has stuck out in my mind, though, was the chicken and biscuits. I’ve found them to be a bit dry. My advice to you is to enjoy their biscuits smothered in country gravy, maybe with a couple of eggs.
My final word is that you should definitely try to make the trip back to The Pink Cadillac Diner. The decor has changed a bit but the atmosphere is the same. I see people from out of town and local families enjoying the large selection of menu options, and their ice cream! You may not feel like you’ve been transported back in time when you’re there, but drinking a chocolate malt while listening to “Earth Angel” by The Penguins is the next best thing.
