Classic cars cruise into Branchville

BRANCHVILLE — Classic Car owners from Sussex County and beyond showed off their rides during cruise night at the Victoria Diner in Branchville on Monday, May 19.

Classic car enthusiasts get together every Monday night from May to October to share stories and talk shop. The parking lot is filled with old school muscle cars and trucks from yesteryear. A DJ plays music from the 1950's and 60's.

The Victoria Diner
The Victoria Diner originated as a train car in the 1920's to 30's before it was made into a diner located in Wayne. Like most diners of the day, the Victoria Diner was small consisting of only a few booths and counter seating.

The Victoria Diner was transported to Branchville in the 1940's. The diner has more or less retained it's original look but has gone through numerous name changes.

Victoria Diner owner Michael Hatzimihalis who is also a Rockaway Township police officer has operated the eatery for three years. But Hatzimihalis is no stranger to the restaurant business. Hatzimihalis' family owned and operated another diner for over 30 years in Roxbury, New Jersey. Hatzimihalis who's wife is one of the cooks takes pride in the diners folksy look and atmosphere.

"Everything here is homemade," Hatzimihalis said. "My wife's family has been in the food business for many years and she makes the sauces from scratch. We have burgers and brisket and we try to barbecue outside at least once or twice a week."

On some days, a grill is strategically placed on the front lawn of the Victoria Diner. The aroma of the smoking grill entices passersby to make a detour to get something to eat at the diner.

There is an outside eating area in the back yard of the Victoria. The eatery has won the title "Champion of the Grill" at the Sussex County Fairgrounds a few years ago.

The diner is located at 250 Route 206 North in Branchville.