Diner with a difference

By Alice Dell (3rd Yr LaTrobe Uni)

A pop of colour, and nostalgia, has been brought to the streets of Ballan, with a ‘step back in time’ 1950s themed diner.

Shezza’s Diner opened the doors recently and has already received reviews, with customers praising the atmosphere, friendly staff, and great food.

The menu includes various 50’s inspired items such as burgers, hotdogs, sundaes, and milkshakes.

Black and white checkered flooring, jukeboxes, neon signs, and Elvis Presley memorabilia make visitors feel they’ve travelled back in time.

On the 19th of September, the day after the diner was first opened, it was announced that the doors would be closed again until further notice.

This was due to ‘unfortunate circumstances’, according to the Shezza’s Diner official Facebook page. Luckily for us, the doors to this warm environment are open again.

Owner of Shezza’s Diner, Cheryle, says that this opening has been something she’s wanted to do since she was a kid.

“It’s been my childhood dream to open up a diner. My uncle had a diner in Bendigo and I’ve always liked old 50s rock and roll,” she says.

“I hope the diner can serve as a bit of a local attraction too, and help get customers through the doors at other local businesses.”

Cheryle’s husband, Dennis, made a big contribution to the renovation of the place, even putting together a decorative bowser for the front entrance.

She also has plans in place to introduce a 50’s-style uniform for her staff, to go along with the vintage theme of the diner.

Cheryle thanks everyone in Ballan for their support of her new business.

“I’ve had so much support from the community. They’ve been fantastic. Everyone in the town has been supporting me big time,” she says.

The Marsh Rodders, a Bacchus Marsh Hotrod and Custom Car Club, drove down Inglis Street in support of the opening, grabbing the attention of the community.

“It was an incredible turnout from the Marsh Rodders and the community, a big thank you to all who came out on such a beautiful day and all those who brought their pride and joys,” Cheryle said.