Story and Photos by Don Neidigk
What’s the most attractive dish at Ironwood Kitchen at Unser Plaza? I’d say Rachel, the cashier and waitress. She’s the beautiful smiling daughter of owner and cook Matt Moody. It would be hard to find a better combination of everything that makes for a great T & Vittles location than the Ironwood; a homey small town café atmosphere, great food with abundant portions, reasonable prices, and walls decorated with photos, names and memorabilia that celebrate America’s veterans and first responders. And Rachel.
Eighteen members of the Tin Lizzies of Albuquerque showed up for the monthly event but no Model T’s! The writer knows of half a dozen T’s within easy driving distance. But even Arty, Don Neidigk’s ’27 coupe, didn’t feel like making the trip. Don took Arty out for a spin a few days earlier and gave him a drink of four gallons of gas, so he’d be ready. But on Saturday morning, Arty decided he was still full and just wanted to stay in his warm garage. It was still cold outside and there might be some snow and ice still hanging around from the storm.
But that was fine, because Don was then able to pick up two grandsons, Ben and James and bring them along. Ben, James and Don got to meet and chat with Tin Lizzies’ member Ken who sat at our table. He’s a busy landlord and builder with a constant smile and an easy-going personality. Don, a Lutheran pastor, discovered that Ken is sometimes a drummer in the contemporary service at Christ Lutheran Church. Who would-a thunk it?
Many thanks to Linda Riehl who got to the Ironwood early and saved us all a space where we could eat together. It was also great to see Art Gebau who came all the way from Milan to join us. (Art had a bunch of Model T goodies Don hoped to buy, but Ray Gabaldon beat him to it. But, no worries, whoever ends up with them, it’s good to keep Model T’s and parts in the family and not the landfill.)
If I were 60 years younger and single … Well, never mind.
