One of the area’s more popular warm weather events has been forced to cruise on down the road.
The closing of popular Kalloway’s Restaurant and Pub in Oxford in December eliminated the main hangout for classic car enthusiasts who gear up this time of year.
Now, the Model Ts and ?60s muscle cars only need to take a quick jaunt down M-24 to Culver’s, where cruisers can enjoy many of the same features Kalloway’s offered.
Starting May 5, Culver’s will begin hosting the Classic Car Night on Tuesday evenings from 5-8 p.m. throughout the summer.
Culver’s owner Joe Zimmer jumped at the chance to pick up the event after Kalloway’s closed.
‘We thought it was a perfect marriage,? he said.
Zimmer said the throwback appeal of the restaurant makes it a great place for those who are in to classic cars.
Culver’s is a Wisconsin-based fast-food chain, but with a serviced dining room. Zimmer said he’s spoken with some people who participate in the cruise who are happy the location has changed.
Kalloway’s was more expensive, causing some to just hang out in the parking lot. With cheaper prices, Culver’s appeals to a broader range of folks, Zimmer said.
While ButterBurgers and fifty cent ice cream cones may enhance the experience, what most people come for is the music–oldies, of course.
The Viceroys will perform once a month. Their show also includes some comic impersonations.
‘Cruisers are in the habit of going to see D.J. Phil. He plays good music and puts on a good show,? Zimmer said.
In addition to D.J. Phil spinning oldies, the event features a slew of other attractions.
Culver’s will offer a Cruiser Special of a burger, fries and pop for $5, all cruisers receive 15 percent off for one year at Culver’s anytime and prizes will be awarded every half hour.
The cruise also helps benefit the community, according to Zimmer. Fifty-fifty drawings pull in a couple of hundred dollars each week that go to help out the Orion Senior Center and cheerleaders at Lake Orion High School. But most of all, it gives people the chance to admire some old Motor City muscle ranging from Model Ts to Corvettes.
‘It’s an event that people look forward to. It gives people an opportunity to socialize and see some great cars,? Zimmer said.
Culver’s is located on Lapeer Road and Dutton. For more information, call 248-276-2222. A closed Kalloway’s sends classic car cruise to Culver’s