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What if you could travel back in time while savoring the best burger you’ve ever tasted? In Spruce Pine, North Carolina, that dream becomes a reality at City Drive-In, a culinary time capsule nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As you drive down Oak Avenue, the aroma of sizzling burgers fills the air, classic car engines purr, and families gather around picnic tables, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests.
Key Takeaways
– City Drive-In in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, offers a nostalgic dining experience with a 1950s theme.
– The drive-in is known for its signature Carolina-style burger and Sidewinder fries.
– It serves as a community hub, hosting biweekly classic car shows from April to September.
– Mike and Janeen Long have preserved the drive-in’s traditions while adding modern touches like 670 on Oak, a dine-in section with live music.
– The staff’s dedication, including long-time employees like Christine Blevins, enhances the welcoming atmosphere.
– City Drive-In is a cultural landmark, providing a connection to the past and supporting the local economy.
– Located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, it offers scenic views and a taste of authentic North Carolina cuisine.
A Journey Through Time
Step into City Drive-In, and you’ll find yourself transported back to 1950, when this beloved eatery first opened its doors. For more than 70 years, it has stood as a testament to the enduring charm of small-town America, serving up hearty meals and warm smiles to generations of patrons. Mike and Janeen Long have been running the place since 2008, carefully preserving the traditions and recipes that have made City Drive-In a local institution. Just a short drive away, visitors can find another local gem, Spacious Skies Bear Den, a comprehensive camping and recreational destination that offers a perfect complement to the nostalgic dining experience at City Drive-In.
A Blend of Old and New
The Longs’ dedication to maintaining the drive-in’s legacy is clear in every part of the business. From the classic menu items to the retro decor, they’ve made sure that stepping into City Drive-In feels like a journey back in time. Yet, they’ve also added their own personal touch, striking a perfect balance between honoring the past and embracing the present.
Culinary Delights
At the heart of City Drive-In’s lasting popularity is its mouthwatering menu. The star of the show is the signature Carolina-style burger, a juicy patty topped with homemade chili, creamy slaw, and tangy mustard, all nestled within a hand-steamed bun. It’s a flavor explosion that captures the essence of North Carolina cuisine in every bite.
But the tasty treats don’t stop there. City Drive-In is also famous for its Sidewinder fries, a crispy, curly alternative to regular french fries that goes perfectly with their burgers. On Sundays, early birds flock to the drive-in for their scratch-made buttermilk biscuits and gravy, a Southern comfort food staple that’s been perfected over decades. And for those craving some smoky goodness, Saturdays are barbecue days, often happening at the same time as the classic car shows that have become a beloved tradition.
The Heart of the Community
City Drive-In is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a community hub where locals and visitors come together to share stories, laughs, and great food. One of the most exciting events are the biweekly classic car shows, held from April to September. The Rhododendron Cruisers organize these events, which bring car lovers from all over the Southeast, turning the drive-in’s parking lot into a shining showcase of automotive history.
The car shows have become a big part of Spruce Pine’s culture, attracting tourists and helping the local economy. For many visitors, these events are a chance to step back in time, admiring carefully restored vehicles while enjoying the timeless flavors of City Drive-In’s menu. It’s a perfect mix of nostalgia and community spirit, showing the very heart of small-town America.
While City Drive-In has always been rooted in tradition, the Longs have also embraced new ideas to keep the place fresh and relevant. In recent years, they opened 670 on Oak, a new dine-in section that offers a more modern dining experience without losing the drive-in’s nostalgic charm. This addition has a full bar and live music every weekend, bringing a touch of modern entertainment to the historic venue.
The live music performances at 670 on Oak have quickly become a local favorite, featuring talented artists like Jeff Honeycutt, Andy Buckner, and Eddie Finn & The Shark. These events not only provide entertainment for diners but also support the local music scene, further cementing City Drive-In’s role as a cultural cornerstone in Spruce Pine.
The People Behind the Counter
No talk about City Drive-In would be complete without mentioning the dedicated staff who bring the place to life day after day. Many employees have been with the drive-in for years, becoming as much a part of its identity as the food itself. Take Christine Blevins, for example, who has been serving customers with a smile for over 27 years. Her presence, along with other long-time staff members, adds a personal touch to the dining experience that keeps customers coming back.
The Longs themselves are always around the drive-in, often seen chatting with customers, flipping burgers, or overseeing the classic car shows. Their hands-on approach and genuine love for the business shine through in every part of City Drive-In’s operations, from the quality of the food to the warmth of the customer service.
A Feast for the Senses
Eating at City Drive-In is an experience that goes beyond just filling your belly. Inside, the retro decor and busy atmosphere take you back to a simpler time, while the outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you choose to eat in your car, at a picnic table, or in the new 670 on Oak section, you’re in for a treat.
The sound of burgers sizzling on the grill, happy diners chatting, and the occasional rumble of a classic car engine create a symphony that perfectly captures the spirit of City Drive-In. And let’s not forget the smells – the tempting scent of grilled meat, fresh-baked biscuits, and homemade chili that float through the air, making passersby hungry and exciting those lucky enough to be dining there.
More Than Just a Meal
City Drive-In’s importance goes far beyond its menu. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, it serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the area, welcoming tired travelers and giving them a taste of local culture and food. For many, a stop at City Drive-In is as much a part of the Blue Ridge Parkway experience as the scenic lookouts and hiking trails.
Moreover, the drive-in plays a crucial role in preserving local history. It has been featured in projects recreating the 1950s era of Spruce Pine, using old props and cars to highlight the town’s historic treasures. In this way, City Drive-In serves as a living museum, offering visitors a real connection to the past while continuing to create new memories for future generations.
In a world where fast food chains dominate, City Drive-In stands as a beacon of authenticity. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a journey through time, a celebration of community, and a taste of true Americana. So, why settle for ordinary when you can experience the extraordinary? Your next great adventure awaits at City Drive-In, where every bite tells a story and every visit creates a memory. And for those looking to extend their stay in this beautiful area, consider booking a spot at Spacious Skies Bear Den, where you can continue your journey through the natural wonders of Spruce Pine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is City Drive-In located?
A: City Drive-In is located on Oak Avenue in Spruce Pine, North Carolina.
Q: What makes City Drive-In special?
A: City Drive-In is special because it offers a journey back in time with its retro decor, classic car shows, and delicious Carolina-style burgers.
Q: Who runs City Drive-In?
A: Mike and Janeen Long have been running City Drive-In since 2008.
Q: What is the signature dish at City Drive-In?
A: The signature dish is the Carolina-style burger, which includes a juicy patty topped with homemade chili, creamy slaw, and tangy mustard.
Q: What are the Sidewinder fries?
A: Sidewinder fries are a crispy, curly alternative to regular french fries, popular at City Drive-In.
Q: What happens on Saturdays at City Drive-In?
A: On Saturdays, City Drive-In serves barbecue and hosts classic car shows.
Q: What is 670 on Oak?
A: 670 on Oak is a new dine-in section at City Drive-In with a full bar and live music every weekend.
Q: Why is City Drive-In important to the community?
A: City Drive-In is a community hub where people gather for food, events, and to celebrate local culture and history.