[Photographs: Damon Gambuto]

A couple of weeks back, I was lucky enough to be invited to the opening of the newest location of Ruby's Diner here in Southern California. Now, the ribbon cutting on a new restaurant is certainly fun, but not necessarily national burger news. In this case, the location boasts something special. Teaming up with the City of Anaheim and an owner of one of its historic buildings, Ruby's has opened one of the few restaurants in the nation that offers roller skate, carhop service.

Carhops first appeared in the 1930s and got their name from the waiters' habit of jumping up on the running boards of the patrons' cars while taking an order. For me (and, I'm guessing, for you), they seem a quintessential part of the Post-War American experience. Movies like American Graffiti and a childhood staple of mine: the television show Happy Days made the drive-in burger joint the centerpiece of the era's youth movement.

These days the carhop service offered most frequently is simply a server walking up to your window and taking an order. Ruby's in Anaheim made the decision to deliver the full retro experience by putting their severs on roller skates. The job interview was held at a roller rink and consisted of a slalom course that applicants had to navigate with a tray of food.

The CEO and Founder of Ruby's, Doug Cavanaugh, said. "Carhops and drive-ins were a part of my mother, Ruby Cavanaugh's, favorite memories, so this drive-in concept is something I've wanted to do for a long time." Doug actually brought his mom to the ribbon cutting. Anaheim's Mayor, Curt Pringle, also came out for the ceremony.

I made my way inside for a little burger breakfast. While my first experience at Ruby's wasn't all I'd hoped, I ordered their Kobe Burger this time and really enjoyed it. Along with some nicely cooked fries, I think I may have cracked the code of the Ruby's menu. Next time I'll have to get the full carhop experience.

Ruby's Diner

1128 W. Lincoln Ave, Anaheim CA 92805 (map)
Multiple non-carhop service locations listed at rubys.com
714-635-7829