I love breakfast. It's my favorite meal to cook and a favorite to eat! Growing up across the road from my grandmother, I learned everything you need to know about the first meal of the day.
My grandmother grew up on a dairy. Before milking the cows, they would sit down to coffee, a pastry and cheese. After milking, they would come in and feast on eggs, linguica, pancakes and beans. Although it has been years since my grandmother lived on a working dairy or farm, her habit of serving enormous breakfasts has not wavered.
About five years ago Paul and I went to a local restaurant for breakfast. We waited 20 minutes to be seated and another 15 minutes for our order. The meal was less than stellar and the bill was $25 . That was the last time the two of us went out to breakfast on our own.
In 15 minutes or less, I can have pancakes, home made biscuits with eggs and sausage or French toast on the table. We can't even drive to a restaurant in that time let alone be seated, order and eat. The cost for cooking at home is just a few dollars.
The one restaurant that is an exception to my breakfast rule is Pioneer Market in Chowchilla, CA. A haven for the local farmers and cowboys, the place is humble in looks, spectacular in taste. You have to walk through the actual market to get to the restaurant. There are 10-12 tables manned by just a cook and waitress.
I always order one pancake and a side of either bacon or hash browns. You only need one as the pancakes are the size of the plate. Not only are they big, they are the best tasting pancakes I have ever had. Please don't tell my grandmother.
If you're ever driving down Highway152 in California and you see the palm trees that line Robertson Boulevard, stop in for the best breakfast you'll ever have. But, you better get there before 8am. The place gets packed! And if you see a patron in a cowboy hat with no thumbs, say hi. That's my dad!
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