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By Vanessa VanderZanden

Daily Bruin Contributor

Appropriately located next door to a strip joint and across the street from the Trashy Lingerie shop, the Cadillac Cafe wallows in campy charm.

Orange plastic Star Trek-like chevrons hang from the ceiling while green wall lights create a soothing ambiance. You get the sense that Barbarella wouldn't feel at all out of place here, as the motif conjures images of a sleek '50s lounge. With gold flecked rubber seat covers on orange fur-lined booths, it becomes apparent that you've entered the upscale vintage clothing store of restaurants. However, the prices are more Salvation Army style.

Wearing silver latex shirts and aprons cut from the upholstery, the waiters deliver the affordable, gourmet menu with charm and charisma.

Although the cafe's name implies a palate caked with diner grease, a pleasant surprise comes in the abundance of specialty appetizers and obscure entrees. In fact, only two burger plates are offered, one consisting of farm-raised ostrich meat. A large variety of well-seasoned pastas are available, along with a multitude of delicious-sounding salads. And, anyone who can't quite decide what to order will be happy picking at the Cadillac Cafe Picnic Plate, which gives you the option of nibbling on three distinct dishes out of a list of 13. Served with a side of salad and bread, tasting rich delicacies such as roasted sweet pepper with feta cheese and fresh basil has never felt more gourmet. Even the dalmas (tabouleh stuffed grape leaves) are prepared with the right amount of olive oil and Greek seasonings. Old standards, for those less willing to dine on the edge, provide a well-balanced menu. Both the Angel Hair Pasta with Shrimp and the Grilled Chicken Broccoli Checca make fine use of the kitchen's spice rack. While the former hits hard on the Asian palate, with sesame, soy and ginger sauces, the latter spices it up with mediterranean basil, tomatoes and garlic. The walnut/spinach pate with honey-raspberry aioli can't be beat, and where else can you get a good, stiff latte served with a dish of mini M & M's? Even the Cadillac American Blend provides a smooth yet solid caffeine jolt. However, if you prefer your caffeine in a more sugary form, you'll be pleased to learn that the Coca-Cola is served by the bottle.

Though the entrees may overwhelm you, it's important to leave room for dessert. The Tarte Tatin is a thick caramelized apple torte which demands a few minutes of ecstatic moaning as it glides down your thankful throat. The Chocolate Decadence, however, may just outdo the sinful apple treasure in its cakey richness. Both come with whipped cream and a side of sliced strawberries.

The trendy joint's funky appeal, with its delectable cuisine and outdoor seating comprised of '50s kitchen chairs and tables, radiates hip, L.A. vibes. Adding to its avante-garde aura is the collection of chaotic artwork screaming from the walls. Before you leave, you may want to pick up a bio on the artist and his list of work titles. A favorite of all is his piece entitled, "Hungry Platacamelpussy Sorry Ass Son of a Fuck You Then!" With an art collection as vibrant as this, the Cadillac Cafe proves itself to be one of the more interesting spots in all of L.A.

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