The Cardinal Drive-In is one of downtown Brevard’s beloved diners. Cardinal is a long-running roadside eatery with a 1950s theme.

“It was one of my favorite restaurants when I was younger,” said theater teacher Candice Burchill. “I think their milkshakes are very good, especially their peanut butter milkshakes.”

When customers walk into Cardinal, they see bright red booths where many families have enjoyed their meals. The restaurant sometimes brings nostalgic memories to customers, with the black and white checkered floors, the menu and the red ordering phone. Customers can also pull up to a space outside the restaurant to order and eat from their cars.

“My family has loved eating at this place for years. We all would eat there before going trick or treating,” said Kayson Toole. “I have so many fun memories in that place, not just with family, but with friends as well.”

Burchill also went to Cardinal Drive-In with family.

“Cardinal is a very nostalgic place for me because I used to go with my grandma when I was younger, and I’d always get the chicken tender platter. The French fries with the slaw were my favorite,” she said.

The menu also includes items such as burgers, dinner platters, onion rings and chili dogs. Only cash is accepted for payment.

Cardinal Drive-In is located at 344 South Broad St. and is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 a.m. The eatery is closed on Sundays.

By Amaree Swarn. Photo from The Cardinal Drive-In Facebook page.