Four decades have passed since the cult classic film “Bagdad Cafe” was shot at a diner in Newberry Springs, California. The film’s story, centered around two women in the expansive Mojave Desert — a diligent café owner and a German tourist with unusual luggage — left a lasting impression, particularly in Europe and Japan.
The real Bagdad Cafe became a popular destination, with busloads of international tourists visiting the actual location on Route 66. Andrea Pruett, the cafe’s owner, welcomed visitors in multiple languages, offering buffalo burgers and omelets. Unfortunately, as Pruett’s health declined, the cafe’s operations faced uncertainty. The kitchen is now closed, and Pruett’s family is deciding the cafe’s future.
Despite this, Europeans and Route 66 enthusiasts continue to visit. According to cafe manager Mark Bradley, although they don’t serve food and receive no local visitors, the cafe remains a landmark with its unique ambiance and colorful decorations, including flags from various countries.
Pruett, an Arkansas native, embraced the movie’s themes of friendship and magic. Memorabilia from the film, signed by the director Percy Adlon, are showcased in the café. The jukebox plays “Calling You,” the theme song by Jevetta Steele, immortalizing the Bagdad Cafe.
The cafe drew diverse characters, such as General Bob, known for his extravagant claims about his life accomplishments. It has even hosted notable figures like Prince Albert II of Monaco and actress Renée Zellweger.
Life in the desert presented challenges. Pruett faced an attempted robbery but diffused the situation with kindness, offering help to the desperate family involved. Her generous spirit extended to providing opportunities for those in need, despite a troubled past.
Tragedy struck when Pruett’s son died of an accidental overdose and her husband passed soon after. Yet, she found strength in her patrons and maintained a welcoming atmosphere.
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the Bagdad Cafe significantly, cutting off European visitors and forcing Pruett to close the kitchen. Devastations like vandalism and her house burning down compounded her struggles, yet her love for the cafe persisted.
A documentary titled “The Keeper of Bagdad Cafe” captures Pruett’s later years at the diner, illustrating her commitment despite personal losses. Her grandson Greg Landers conveyed Pruett’s refusal to leave her beloved cafe, even as her health declined.
Community members rallied to support the cafe during hardships, including raising funds for roof repairs after storm damage. Pruett remained a fixture at the cafe until her passing in January 2023.
On days with multiple tour buses, Matt Parker welcomes visitors into the cafe, keeping its spirit alive. Though Andrea Pruett’s urn is still at the café, Landers hopes to eventually bury her ashes in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.