The smell of classic American food, the chatter of customers, and an old model car with slowly turning wheels greets every guest of Ford’s Garage, the new addition to Short Pump’s wide variety of restaurants. Ford’s Garage combines everything American, with classic food with special twists and a facility completely themed after America’s largest car company.
“We are a 1920’s Service station-themed restaurant, that is a licensee of Ford Motor Company,” Ford’s Garage manager, Katie Hassel, wrote in an email. “Making us the only restaurant Licensee of an Auto Manufacturer in the world.”
The restaurant tells the story of Ford’s history through employees dressed in uniforms based on classic mechanic outfits, photos of the early days of the Ford company on the walls, and engines on display in the dining room. It has been open since mid-November 2024 and has attracted much attention around the Virginia area. TikTok influencers have reviewed the themed eatery, and the parking lot proves difficult to find a spot, showcasing its popularity.
“I would absolutely go again,” freshman Maylin Keefe said. “It was themed amazingly. It’s like stepping into the olden days and getting a chance to really see in-depth Ford’s history and development over the years.”
Ford’s Garage takes on the role of a unique dining experience. Unlike chain restaurants with thousands of locations, Ford’s Garage only has 31. The Short Pump location takes a personal touch to the community around it. Their burger menu includes burgers dedicated to people in the Virginia community, creating a connection with the area in which they are located.
“Menu details that make us unique would include dedicating burgers on the menu to people or groups in our area that support the community,” Hassel wrote. “Like the High Octane burger being dedicated to the forechief. We have plenty of Signature items as well.”
Ford’s Garage is more than just a restaurant. It’s an attraction. The restaurant is widely known online for its interesting bathroom design and details throughout the building. From gas pump door handles to road signs and old photos of Ford’s history on the walls, everything fits the 1920s service station theme, creating a unique experience that few other restaurants are able to offer. This unique experience is something that draws more and more people in.
“My favorite detail of the restaurant was the bathroom,” sophomore Abigail Dean said. “The sinks were like real tires, which was an interesting addition to something like the bathroom. There was also this small gift shop area where you could buy shirts, t-shirts and other things about Ford and the restaurant.”
Themed restaurants run slim, and Ford’s goal is to change that and take it to the next level, striving for excellence in customer service and creating a connection with customers off the bat.
“I don’t see many themed places anymore, and none cooler than ours, but we really want our people and our customer service to attract the most customers.” Hassle wrote. “You remember how a place makes you feel first and that starts as soon as your feet hit the door.”
