or signup to continue reading On Australia's version of the iconic Route 66, a 1950s diner is stirring old-school nostalgia for the locals and lovers of Chiltern. Lulu and Didge are the creative and charismatic duo behind the beautiful Highway 31 shop front of Lulu & Didge. From meeting in a bakery five years ago, to now bringing Didge's 50s vision to life, they're doing everything the authentic way - and their customers are loving it.
"Our furniture has mostly come from locals getting rid of things in their sheds. It's 50s diner style second-hand," says Julie, who goes by Lulu. "Think laminated tabletops, chrome, old 50s-style padded seats that you would have gone to your Nanna's house and sat at," added Didge.
"We have a lot of people coming in and saying, 'Oh I remember this from when I was growing up!'. It's kind of like stepping back in time, which is really cool." Disappointed by the prices of cafe food, Lulu and Didge wanted to create a family-friendly, community hub, where people could come for a meal that wasn't going to cost them an arm and a leg.
Their menu is reminiscent of diner food from a time gone by, and their regulars return for the warm hospitality, with a side of coffee roasted locally in Myrtleford. "It's good old-fashion homemade," Didge says, with Lulu adding, "We try and make everything in-house." With 10 different toppings to choose from, their baked potatoes have been going "gangbusters".
So too have their loaded hot dogs, which can be enjoyed with the same popular ingredients. For the sweet-tooth, there is a plethora to satisfy your cravings. Aside from the lolly shop and ice-creamery offerings, Lulu & Didge use traditional Bilson's cordial to make spiders and milkshakes, as well as old-school favourites like banana splits and sundaes.
"We also have a number of gourmet hot chocolates using Bilson's cordial and accompanying chocolates," says Lulu. And who can forget, their Elvis milkshake! During Chiltern's recent Jam Festival, Lulu & Didge provided musicians an intimate place to perform live. If you're lucky, your trip down memory lane can be enjoyed to the backdrop of local talent, as many acts hope to return to the iconic venue on weekends.
"People are really excited that we're here, and we love this town. It's gorgeous," Didge says. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team.
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