Tastes and dining habits have changed considerably since then but Warrnambool’s Mack’s Snacks still draws a big crowd for its traditional home-style food and classic “retro” look.

The Liebig Street cafe will next week celebrate its 65th anniversary.

It’s still serving some of the favourite dishes it had on the menu in 1948, including homemade vegetable soup and lamb’s fry and bacon.

The cafe, Warrnambool’s oldest, was run by three generations of the McLeod family until three years ago when long-time employee Diane Coates took it over.

Mrs Coates said she had modernised the menu “a bit” but traditional home-style cooking was still its foundation.

Vegetarian lasagne and a large open burger are among diners’ favourites.

The cafe’s old-fashioned dining booths are also popular.

“Everyone wants to sit in a booth,” Mrs Coates said.

“They give the illusion of privacy.

“Just imagine how many secrets have been told in these booths.

“People would have come in here on their first dates.’’

The cafe celebrates its heritage with a display of old menus and photographs that attract the cameras of tourists.

During its 40th anniversary celebrations in 1988,  then owners Keith and Graeme McLeod offered dishes from the 1948 menu at 1948 prices but only if customers could pay in the pre-decimal currency of 1948.

They were overwhelmed with people who had held on to shilling and pence coins. 

Pleasing customers’ palates and stomachs remains the cafe’s main goal rather than their appreciation of history. Mrs Coates has worked at the cafe since the mid-1980s.

She said she enjoyed its close-knit work atmosphere.

The McLeods developed a family atmosphere among the workforce, an ethos she has sought to continue under her ownership.

“The staff take great pride in working here,” Mrs Coates said.

Mack’s Snacks will celebrate its 65th anniversary with prizes and giveaways.

Former owners Keith and Graeme McLeod will be at the cafe on Monday to meet old and new customers.

ehimmelreich@fairfaxmedia.com.au