Provo, UT

Here in the Fork (the American one) we’ve been blessed lately with an abundance of new and fun places to go for eating and entertainment. With national chains like the Olive Garden and Paradise bakery opening in the last couple of months, along with several local eateries, life has been good. This past summer brought a wonderful little place along just off of State Street along 1100 East, better known as the road the American Fork hospital is on. This is definitely a place you’ll want to find yourself in and soon: Spanky’s Express.

Along with a Sub Zero ice cream shop and an upstairs game arcade, this hidden-away spot is a great one for either just a quick stop for a shake or it can take care of an entire date night, probably for $25 or less for the both of you. With a definite Fifties vibe, Spanky’s is just a fun-feeling place to enjoy yourself in. And the food…It’s easy to do a faux-nostalgic spot these days. You know, jukebox, waitresses in poodle skirts, etc. But good, hot and fresh food can’t be faked. You’ve either got it or you don’t. Spanky’s has got the food thing figured out, and how. Mostly because that’s where they started. They knew that all the décor in the world wouldn’t keep people coming back (or telling their friends about it) and you’ll taste that regardless of what you pick from the menu.

Better yet, they serve breakfast! With items like “Spanky’s Train Wreck” (you’ll have to find out for yourself), Philly Cheesesteak Omelet, and a Belgian Waffle among the many morning menu choices, you’ll have a full tank for the day. The dinner menu is when they bring out the heavy (wrong word, maybe?) artillery, however. Whether you go with Spanky’s Killer Kabobs, the California Chicken Wrap (one of my favorites!) or of course those charbroiled Angus beef burgers, you’ll be sure to leave with a smile. Most items range any where from $6-$10. And yes they do have a kid’s menu, and you could easily get full on it!

After dinner (should you still have room for it) head next door to the Sub Zero ice cream shop. This is the high-tech ice cream place everyone’s been raving about, and for good reason. Without getting too geeky, just think dry ice and nitrogen. Or mix-ins…Right upstairs is a fun little arcade, complete with a pool table and several big screen televisions.

Open Monday-Saturday from 7:30am to 9pm, they are located at 674 North 2000 West in Pleasant Grove. Best way to get there is get on State Street from either the north or south and follow the signs pointing to the hospital. Right after you turn north onto 2000 West you’ll see a little classic car dealership, followed by Spanky’s. Call ‘em at 801-701-0707 should you need help finding your way. See you over a chocolate shake!