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Great Sign & Great Ice Cream! The sign is hard to beat! This soda jerk mascot is known as Jugglin' Joe!  I'm glad I can now say, the ice cream is hard to beat also. Iconic Ice Cream Shop I've wanted to have a Gunther's Adventure for a long time. Don and I have visited Sacramento about a dozen times, since our son and daughter-in-law moved here.  We're always searching for iconic landmarks like this one. It's been on the corner here, since 1949. Started in 1940 But the business is even older. "Pop" and Iva Gunther founded the ice cream shop in 1940. They moved to this location on Franklin, in 1949.  I first drove by Gunther's last May, when we were in town visiting the new grand baby. They had just opened and there were no lines. I pulled over and parked. No time for ice cream, but I wanted to peek. Mint Green I stepped inside and smelled flavors that took me back to childhood.  The mint green tile and shiny chrome was refreshing. The displayed photos were so high it was hard to study them.   Was that Mr. Gunther in the middle? I'm glad they've kept these old treasures. The Gunther family sold the biz to Carl Buchell in 1968.  The building hasn't changed much, since this old photo. August 2025 Don and I spent all of May in Sacramento focussing on the new baby. We somehow didn't have time for an ice cream adventure.  But we returned in August and it felt much more like ice cream weather! Flavors! Scott suggested a visit to Gunther's! He packed up Baby Nora and drove us to the ice cream shop on Franklin. Once inside, it was time to make a decision.  There were so many choices! I did not pick Vietnamese Coffee.  Scott stepped up to the counter. Poor Baby Nora didn't get to order any ice cream.  As we waited for our order, I wondered about the tall counters. Too tall for the poor little boy, trying to peek at the action.  Our ice cream server on the other side looked like she might be standing on her toes too... reaching up to put our cones in the holder! It made it feel like we were all little kids. Gunther's at Last! I couldn't have been happier with my rich, high-fat ice cream! Gunther's is known for their traditional methods of manufacturing ice-cream. Made on sight daily.  My Butter Brickle choice took me back in time, once again. When my son questioned me about the flavor, I suddenly realized my childhood favorite isn't common anymore. What do you know? I feel a little sad that Nora will have to wait a long while to have her first ice cream.
But I'm pretty sure we'll be back many times. Hopefully at night, so I can see Juggling Joe in action!
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Chicken in the Rough It was the chicken image on the sign, that caught my eye!  Then it was the word Palms, surrounded in lightbulbs. And the slogan! Where You See This Sign It's Genuine!  But it was the neon letters that said "Take Home a Box" that really excited me. Picnic It was a Sunday morning and Don and I were traveling through Port Huron, Michigan.  We had planned to grab food and have a picnic on Lake Huron. But the neon sign wasn't lit when we drove by. As we continued down the road I looked on the internet. The curious place had great reviews. Which Name? Then I read the hours and learned The Palms was going to be open in 5 minutes! We drove back to pick up a box of chicken.  The building was bigger than I'd noticed before. I could see another chicken sign on the side. And palm decorations. I was confused. Was this Chicken in the Rough or Palms Krystal Bar & Restaurant? Noon Maybe we'd soon find out. We parked in a side lot and waited until the clock said 12.  As we headed towards the door, the sign reminded us of Today's Special. Chicken! Great Doors! We opened the glass door and found an entryway with some glass block and a great metal door. It looked like it should be on a ship.   Once inside, I looked back and was equally delighted by the other side. I love a vintage padded vinyl door. Cozy Interior Once we stepped inside the dimly lit space, we were met with a bright voice. "Hi! How are we doing today?"  We followed the young woman and passed a long bar with comfy swivel chairs and glowing pastel lights. We were taken to a booth in an area that felt a little more like an old soda fountain.  Another, equally pleasant woman arrived with menus. "How's your day going?"  On the menu we had a better look at the cigar-smoking chicken, with golf club! Chicken in the Rough was one of the earliest restaurant franchises in the US. Founded by Beverly & Rubye Osborne in 1936, the successful business eventually had over 300 franchised outlets. Specialty Meal Don and I placed our order way too fast. If I'd seen this old photo earlier, I would have ordered this meal, that the restaurant was known for.  The dish was once referred to as "Chicken in the Rough". It consisted of half a fried chicken, shoestring potatoes and a biscuit with honey. The Port Huron location is one of 3, that still serves it. Glowing Colors While waiting for food to arrive, I took a few photos of the colorful restaurant.  The Chicken in the Rough Clock was glowing yellow, behind the bar. We should have tried the drink, advertised in bold letters.  The green neon near the restrooms was also pretty fun. Next Room Then I peeked into an additional dining room that wasn't in use. The walls were covered with framed photos and memorabilia.  I studied the list of locations, from I believe the 1940s. I love the reminder... "1/2 Fried Chicken Served Unjointed Without Silverware" Special Photo I crawled into one booth to get close enough to see this old photograph.  I heard a chuckle and turned to see the owner Jim, smiling. "Caught you!" Jim He introduced himself and seemed delighted that I was curious about the history. He explained that he'd only owned the business for 8 years, but he'd collected a lot of stories and friends over that time.  Jim pointed to the picture I'd been focussing on. He told me that he'd met the granddaughter of the man in the photo. She stepped into the restaurant, one day and asked some questions. She said her grandfather had built the current bar. When Jim pointed out this photo that included her grandfather, she was moved to tears. Beverly and Rubye Osborne Jim filled me in on the husband & wife team that got this successful chicken business started, nearly a century ago. I tried to find a photo of both, but only found this one with husband, Beverly... and his Western Girls.  Jim shared the story of when the Osbornes fled Oklahoma during the dustbowl. While headed to California, they hit a bump in road, sending the picnic lunch of fried chicken flying. Mrs. Osborne proclaimed something about "Chicken in the rough..." and next thing you know, they turned and headed back to OK City. Mr. Osborne pawned his wife's wedding ring and they started up the biz!  Whether those words were really uttered... who knows. But success did follow. The odd name and logo certainly helped them gain attention. In the 1970s after selling the biz, the Osbornes ended up in California. I'm guessing retirement might have offered some time for golf and cigars... But Jim told me that Beverly was killed in a tragic accident, during the building of their new home. Surely there's a book or movie out there about this couple. Or should be. The Building I didn't get a chance to ask Jim about the building, but it was clearly older than the neon sign.  This photo shows the interior of the building, when it operated as a pharmacy. Between 1914 and 1935. In 1936, the chicken business moved in. This photo from 1941, shows Crystal Bar with 2 buildings, as well as a Chicken in the Rough sign.  I put a red arrow on the corner of the building, where we dined. The building to the left is a parking lot now.  This photo is from the opposite corner of the building. I wish I'd asked Jim about the building's history. I'm so glad we spotted it, while driving through town. Time to Eat I'm embarrased to show my lunch choice. I would have chosen differently if I'd know about the restaurant's history, when I ordered.  But my chicken noodle soup was delish. Big chunks of chicken and fat noodles and carrots. My half of corned beef sandwich on marbled bread was just perfect. At least I did have a little chicken in my meal! Don's chicken sandwich with fries was closer to the traditional Chicken in the Rough experience.  The chicken really was amazing. The fries were a treat as well. I believe in 1949, some kind of tricky grill was designed that simultaneously fried and steamed chicken. Friendly Vibe Before taking off, we had a little more time to chat with Jim. He laughed about how he'd actually been headed towards a real retirement, when he bought the place. He said it didn't look like that was going to happen soon.  You could tell that he clearly enjoyed the staff and the customers. I hope he sticks around a while. I want to go back for the Chicken in the Rough Special!
First Meal in Strasbourg, France In 2023, Don and I spent 2 days in Strasbourg's historic Old Town.  We knew close to nothing about the historic area. We had no clue about where to dine. But we lucked out with a traditional Alsatian meal, at Caveau Gurtlerhoft. Christmas Markets We had been in Paris for Thanksgiving and added a side trip to Strasbourg, after learning about the annual Christmas Markets. After checking into our hotel, we walked less than a minute, to Place de la Cathédrale.
It was the first weekend of the monthlong celebration and things were hopping in the main square. Right across from Notre Dame Cathedral, we spotted the restaurant's red awning. Quite the Entrance Around the side of the building we found this rather whimsical entrance!  The storks caught my eye. So did the odd little red figures, with wings and tails. I guess those are gremlins. Stairs A set of stairs (below the dining room photo) took us to the entrance. However, I took this photo much later. When we arrived around 1:30, there was a crowd of hopeful diners waiting on every step.  That was enough to make us curious about the popular looking place. We decided to see about reservations for dinner. We joined the line and read the displayed menu.  We weren't sure if needed to stay in line just to make a reservation, but the line was moving and the crowded stairway was a warm. A nice break from the damp and chilly air, out near the square. Let's Stay! Suddenly there were only a few in front of us and we were standing inside. It felt cozy in the cave-like setting.  The warmth and good smells made us hungry. We asked about a table for lunch, instead of dinner. From the 14th Century Luckily we needed no reservation. I was happy to wait a little longer, gazing into the intriguing multi-level interior. I studied all the nooks and crannies. Every table looked appealing,
And so many little sets of stairs! It looked pretty tricky for the staff, carrying wine and hot soups and stews. Home to Priests and Wine Originally the building housed priests, in the 1300s. That was convenient, with the Cathedral right across.
The rustic cellar also housed wine. I guess it still does. And maybe it did when the priests were here too.
The rock walls and ceilings should have made it feel like chilly cave. But the lively dining cellar felt warm and welcoming. Perfect After a few minutes, we were given a tidy little table for 2, on one of the small landings.  I was pretty delighted with the whole set up! The wooden "headboard" had a shelf that held our wooden lamp nicely. The ladder back chairs with woven rush seats were comfy and fitting for a fairytale meal. Cellar... Cave... Church! We ordered wine and our glasses were delivered with a decorated crock of pretzels. Decorated with storks of course. The symbol for Strasbourg.  The setting conjured up memories.  I've been in lot of basements and quite a few caves in my time. This felt like a dining adventure in a cavern-cellar! The vaulted ceilings also made me feel like I was dining in a church! Alsatian Feast Luckily the menu had a little English.  Don ordered Flammekuech, an Alsatian favorite. The thin-crust flatbread was covered with cheese, cream, bacon and onion. Baked in a wood-fired oven.
Don was amused with his handy rolling tool. The board reminded me so much of one that hung on the kitchen wall, in my childhood home. I ordered Poelees de Roesti Bucheronne. Grated potato, fried with bacon, egg and cream, topped with cheese, tomato and egg.  My hearty browned pancake was the perfect dish for a misty winter day. I loved the iron serving dish and the weathered board it was served on. Quick Explore Shortly after being seated, the restaurant began turning guests away. I felt extra lucky that we'd just stumbled across this sweet place and were able to be seated.  Before leaving I made a quick trip to the restroom, which gave me an excuse to snoop around a little more. I wish I knew the stories behind all the framed photos. On my journey, I spotted yet another little stairway.  This one had red metalwork, that matched nicely with the red gremlins in the curious bathroom hallway.
I've searched the internet for the story behind this little mascot. No luck. Happy Heading Out It was late afternoon by the time we headed up the empty staircase.  We couldn't have been happier with our very first meal in Strasbourg. Traditional Alsatian food, served by gracious and efficient staff, in a storybook setting!
Detroit Supper Club in 2024 This is it! This is the 75-year-old supper club where Don and I shared a memorable meal.  It was Don's first visit, but he'd heard me (often) reminiscing about dining at Mario's when I was a teen.  Long before our trip to Lake Michigan last summer, I got curious about Mario's. I Googled to see if the iconic supper club was still in business, 50 years after I visited? Yes! Still serving guests since its opening, in 1948! I made reservations and we added a 1-night detour to Detroit. Cheers in 2024! Don and I had a memorable evening at Mario's.  I'll share more about our meal later, but first the focus will be on my memories of Mario's from a half century before. Scroll way down to avoid my indulgent tangent down memory lane. This is an insanely long post. Stories From 1974 I fell in love with Detroit's popular Midtown restaurant, when I dined with my mom in 1974. I was 17 and Mom was a whole lot younger than I am now. Owner Mario Lelli was probably there greeting guests that evening. I don't recall. But he'd been running his supper club for 26 years at that point.  I have another 1974 memory, that involves Mario's. Both recollections are pretty silly and the restaurant actually plays only a small part in them. But I dug out my 50-year-old diary and these are the details. #1 Dinner After the Opera in 1974 On May 4, 1974, I dined at Mario's with my mom, after attending an opera. I wasn't a big opera fan like mom, but she talked it up big. "This is The Metropolitan! They're on a special tour from New York!" Mom had purchased tickets for not one opera, but two. Dad had a conflict, (Really?) so Mom persuaded me with her enthusiasm and a promise of dining at Mario's between shows. We drove from Ann Arbor to Detroit's gorgeous Masonic Temple Auditorium. Even the matinee performance was a grand event, with VIPS arriving in limousines. I recall watching women in stoles and pearls, strutting up the red carpet. I have no memory of what I wore. But my diary described a young woman in a pink and yellow hoop skirt. The Scarlet O'Hara look-alike was a member of the audience, not the cast. Odd.  For 3.5 hours I tried my best to appreciate Madam Butterfly the way Mom did. I didn't worry about understanding the Italian lyrics, but I did worry about nodding off. Luckily there was a surprise that pulled me out of my sleepy state. At one point, a voice suddenly called out from high above the stage. "Peace Baby! Peace!" An usher's flashlight aimed towards a naked man standing in an alcove near the balcony. (green arrow) These were the days of streaking, so the shock was minimal. The serious Opera Buffs in the audience were not a bit amused. Attention returned to the stage and the man disappeared with little fanfare. Magical Mario's Dinner The opera ended and the packed house exited the beautiful building. Many rushed, as if on our same schedule. Cars and shuttles headed to Mario's, for a multi-course dinner. Most like us would be returning for an evening opera performance. Mario's was known for catering to the theatre crowd.  The people-watching was as entertaining at Mario's, as the Opera. The entire restaurant was full of operagoers, dressed to the nines. (Except for one large party, that seemed to be celebrating a little girl's first communion) The waiters in their jackets and bowties moved through the space like choreographed dancers, carrying trays of antipasto, minestrone, bread, wine, pastas... desserts. I was in heaven enjoying every course. I was famished and this drawn-out meal felt like a proper reward for sitting through the opera. Suddenly the restaurant emptied as quickly as the auditorium had and we were back at the Masonic Auditorium, for 3.5 more hours of opera. This time we watched Joan Sutherland, in Tales of Hoffman and the language was French. There was no streaker to amuse me. I had no food reward after this opera, but I remember the 30-minute drive home with Mom. She was on a post opera high and had also been amused by the curious people details, on and off the stage. We swapped stories about all we'd experienced in our 7 hours of opera and also our 7 course dinner. I have other fond memories of little adventures with Mom. but this one ranks high. Our dinner felt so special. Even in 1974, it felt like we'd stepped back in time, to a fabulous supper club that my mom might have enjoyed in her youth! #2 Train Trip to Mario's, With Ginnie About a half year later, my friend Ginnie came to visit from Florida. I wanted to show her the big city of Detroit, so I thought of Mario's. I had no car to drive to the Motor City, but Amtrak was an easy option back in those days.  I have no pictures of us on that day, but this '73 photo-booth snapshot gives a hint about the glam high school gals who headed off on a dining adventure that day. I'm teasing of course. But this photo shows just how young and innocent we must have looked, as we boarded the train. From a university town, to 1970s Motown City. Michigan Depot This internet photo looks pretty close to how I remember the station looking, on the day we arrived. We were already a little jolted by the city views from our train windows. My diary describes factories and junkyards, demolished structures. This was a period when Detroit was dealing with population decline and economic shifts, including the "white flight" to suburbs. Just as well that we didn't know Detroit's special claim to fame at the time. "Murder Capital of the World".  (photo credit to Keith Jolly 1973) I was surprised to step into the dimly lit station interior. The depot was empty and echo-y and eerie. The only others in the hollow space, were cab drivers, who didn't look all that friendly. We asked one if he knew of Mario's and he seemed annoyed with the question. As we followed his quick steps to the cab, I asked if it was very far. "It's close, Lady!" He snapped back. As soon as we stepped into the backseat the driver tore off, swerving between cars and screeching to halts at the stoplights. (details from the old diary!) There was a bullet proof shield between us and the driver, but Ginnie and I were too terrified to speak behind his back. We'd already seen some bad parts of Detroit from the train window and suddenly the views from the cab were getting even more desolate. I hadn't recalled that Mario's was in a sketchy part of town. Could he be taking us somewhere else? Then, suddenly the driver yanked the cab to the curb, and I recognized the sweet tudor-style restaurant in broad daylight. Mario's looked like a little Italian oasis, in rundown part of Detroit.  We fumbled our payment before escaping the taxi, then discovered a locked door, just as the driver sped off. Mario's was closed. Dark on Mondays, just like the nearby theatres. I shoulda known. Two Stranded Maidens Again, I have no photos of that day. However, this blurry Polaroid, (taken when Ginnie and I were dressed for a different adventure) helps to imagine just how ridiculously innocent and vulnerable we must have looked as we stood on that street... figuring out Plan B.  Second Avenue didn't look promising in either direction. Deserted buildings, empty sidewalks, trash. We began to walk, feeling awkwardly out of place in our prim dresses. We switched directions to avoid 3 bums lurking, waiting and staring. No cabs to flag down, just a car cruising by now and then. One passed slowly and a man grinned out the open window and kissed the air. Another car holding at least 4 men followed nearby. We heard a couple whistles and a voice hollering, "How much?" We cringed. Eventually we found our way to a service station. Who knows what the mechanics thought when we suddenly appeared off the street and asked for a phone book. They seemed only slightly less scary than the men on the street. I could feel their eyes watching as we thumbed through the restaurant section of the Yellow Pages, hoping to be inspired by a promising ad. "The Money Tree!" I pointed, "That sounds classy!" We called for a cab on the payphone. The driver that arrived was just as cranky as the first. Instead of calling me Lady, this one snapped back with another title I'd never been called. "Madam! If I knew where this place was I wouldn't be asking!" Communication was frustrating, but at least we had the address. Before long the taxi had driven into a decent area, with the tall buildings, banks, restaurants and people dressed in business clothes. We were in Detroit's Financial District and what a relief. The Money Tree turned out to be a delightful choice. Modern and airy. We dined in the bar... for some reason and I think I remember quiche! Back to the Train Ginnie and I were relaxed, by our third taxi of the day. We sat in the back, amusing ourselves on the drive back to the station.  For 20 minutes the backseat became our stage. We talked in character, playing 2 girls who'd come from a stressful audition of some kind. I'm sure the cab driver wasn't bit amused, watching our comical soap opera in his rearview mirror. Arguments and tears one minute. Harmonizing show tunes the next. Eventually the ride ended. We gave a slightly better tip and laughed our way into the depot. The space no longer felt intimidating. We explored the dark and spacious Ladies Room. The marble stalls and make up tables hinted at past elegance. We made our way to the raised shoeshine chairs and waited patiently to have shoes spiffed up, but no one came. The train ride back to Ann Arbor gave us time to laugh and recall all the odd moments of our day. It reminded me of driving back from Mario's with Mom, months before. Third Stop at Mario's (2024) There were no trains or operas before Don and I dined on a Sunday evening in 2024. Our Uber driver from the hotel was young and friendly. He didn't call me Lady or Madam. He chuckled when I told him a brief version of my stories.  As we headed down Second Avenue, I recalled the taxi ride from years before. The street still seemed oddly wide and quiet, but there were no boarded up buildings. No trash or creepy people. The 75-year-old restaurant looked as quaint and corny as I remembered. Brick and stone below, Tudor-style and neon above. Neighborhood History Looking the other direction I tried to recall how Second Avenue looked in 1974. I don't remember any pretty buildings like The Charles building that sits next to Mario's.  The 3-story building looked pretty enough to snap a photo. It was built in 1908, when Detroit was booming. It seems to be one of the few lovely buildings left from when Second Avenue was a grand, tree-lined street with Victorian homes.
Most of the grand homes were torn down. Apartments went up and crime moved in. In this old (internet) photo, it looks like some folks were waiting at a bus stop in front of Mario's... more sitting outside of The Charles. There were no people out the day Ginnie and I were dropped off. Dinner at 7:00 Second Avenue was calm on a Sunday evening. There were no crowds arriving when we headed for the door. The valet parking guy looked a little disappointed that we had no car to park.  We greeted and headed under the intriguing flower arch, towards the entrance. I reached for the door handle with no worries about a locked door this time.  We had reservations and the neon sign was lit and welcoming. Celebs of the Past We stepped inside and took in some of the wall displays. Photos, show posters and framed articles put a spotlight on the restaurant's connection with theatre.  Paul Newman, Andy Williams, Jerry Lewis, Frank Sinatra and Robin Williams were all fans of Mario's, back in the day. Over the years, Mario's has handled large groups of theatergoers. They've also hosted lots of entertainers. There have been cast parties for Broadway shows that come through Detroit. The restaurant even packed up food for the Rolling Stones once. They ate on the plane after a show. On the evening we arrived, there were no shuttles or limos delivering crowds from the theatre.
Mario Lelli was obviously not there either. He sold the restaurant in 1980 to the Passalacqua family. Vince Passalacqua runs the restaurant today. He spent many years learning the ropes under his parents' guidance. He took over operations in 1994.  We spotted possibly youngest member of the Passalacqua family in this fine photo. Quiet Lounge After being welcomed by the host, we passed through a dimly lit lounge. Cozy cocktail tables were empty. Just one man sat alone at the bar, sipping a beer.  TVs above the bar reminded me that it was no longer 1974... or 1948.  This vintage postcard image shows no TVs, but there are ashtrays! Dining Room Don and I were guided to a corner table in the spacious dining room, where we had a great view of the room and diners. Twinkle lights, tablecloths, gold frames on paneled walls. Corny in the best of ways.  Except for a large birthday celebration seated around a few tables, most of the tables were vacant. A bit sad, since I remembered the lively vibe of diners and staff in '74. But once our server arrived, I was glad to be dining on a quieter and less rushed evening.  Our server (with a pink bowtie) was professional and gracious. His formal approach matched the nicely made table. He warmed up quickly, telling us how to remember his name. "Gino. Just remember, Gino brings the vino." We laughed, but also appreciated that tip! Then and Now Gino handed us menus with some written words of wisdom... probably passed down from 1948.  "Eat thy bread with joy... Drink thy wine with a merry heart" The prices from 1948 were not passed down. In 1948 a whole dinner with antipasto, salad, soup, spaghetti and entree could be enjoyed for $2.50!  Our entrees in 2024 ($48. & $55.) also came with many courses. Pretty reasonable, considering the service and extras! Starting with Antipasto Today's prices weren't actually too bad, considering the amount of food we were served.  We began with a platter of antipasto treats and a basket of bread. Then came a plate of meats and then a house salad, with Mario's special cream Italian/Caesar dressing.
Then soup! I adore Minestrone, but usually I'm disappointed. None have the flavor I remember from Italy in 1969. Mario's came close! I have no idea what combo of flavors I tasted. But the thick soup tasted like Italy to me!
By the time our pasta dish arrived, we'd gotten to know quite a bit about Gino. He'd been an opera singer for 25 years, in Italy and other European countries. Originally from (hope I got this right) Albania, he ended up in The States and worked in Vegas for some time. Gino began working at Mario's 8 years ago. He seemed appreciative of steady work that could help his daughter with nursing school. Entrees By the time our entrees arrived, a few more tables had filled. The birthday crowd had a flaming dessert and a young romantic couple nearby looked like they were about to have a proposal.
Don's sizzling Filet Mignon came with beans, potato and best of all Mario's Zip Sauce! Mario Lelli's butter-based steak sauce creation can be found at other restaurants in Detroit. I ordered Veal Mario, which was a scallopini of veal with green onions, sauteed mushrooms and Mario sauce.  I knew I was in trouble when that huge plate was set before me. Why did I fill up on all the extras? But I made a good effort with my heavenly feast. Tender veal and rich sauce! Decadent! Chatting with Gino Once again, I felt grateful that we'd dined on a quiet evening, where we didn't feel rushed. I was able to tell Gino about my memory of dining a half century before.  We were able to ask about recent years at Mario's. What had it been like with the pandemic? Gino was honest about the stress of reopening and serving guests while wearing a mask. He added that his accent plus a mask, made communication difficult. Opera in 2024 Before heading out, we got a sweet surprise, when Gino asked if he could sing a little something for us. Standing near our corner table, Gino began to sing the traditional Neapolitan song, "Santa Lucia". I grinned the whole way through. Gino ended with a quick smile and bow. We and others applauded. Gino responded, "Prego!"  My first visit to Mario's is tied to memories of the opera, before and after dining. My recent memory will always include hearing the beautiful tenor voice of Gino, standing beside our dining table. What a perfect ending. Cheers to a Mario's Adventure! I had kept expectations low. Times change. Places change. Reviewers on the internet can confuse matters.  Don and I both left in great spirits. We were well fed and well taken care of.
We Ubered back to our hotel feeling like we were headed home after a little trip. Not exactly to Italy, but to a different time. Thanks Gino for making our evening extra special! May's in May... 2012 I recently ran across these photos of May's Cafe, from 13 years ago.  I wasn't blogging about road trip dining back then, so I never wrote this up. I don't think I even realized the restaurant was named May's. But I see it written on the roof. Earlier that Morning We were famished when we found the cafe. We'd had a busy morning after leaving Fort Davis Lodge in West Texas. There had been an exiting moment with some wildlife on the highway...
Then we made a stop at the curious and amusing Prada Marfa... which is an art installation, not a store. Then we hiked at Guadalupe National Park. Gas and Lunch? It was after 1 pm when we found ourselves in Hudspeth County, about halfway between El Paso and Carlsbad, NM.  I spotted what appeared to be the ruins of an old gas station. A faded sign said Cornudas, Texas 1929. We didn't need gas, but we were hoping the little cafe was open. There was one parked car.  We headed for the vine covered building and stepped inside. We spotted only 1 table in use. The 2 women seated, popped up and greeted us warmly. They left their bowls of brussel sprouts on the table and got ready to take care of us.  We were invited to take a seat anywhere. I was tempted to go for the barrel seats. We chose a table with decorated legs. Bluejeans and cowboy boots!  I studied the walls, filled with maps and photos. There were messages from past guests.  There were more messages and photos (and money) displayed on our table, beneath plastic. I learned late that these displayed gifts and photos and messages were from travelers, passing through.  Our piping hot meals arrived shortly and covered a few photo faces. The travel notes ( I found along with these photos) said that my oozing grilled cheese was a hit. Don's burger was tasty with big chiles. We left happy. Who is May? Since finding these photos, I looked on the internet and learned more about the woman whose name was written on the roof. May Carson had originally been a truck driver who often stopped at the little Cornudas cafe. In 1982, she was persuaded by the owner to buy the business, along with the 28-acre unincorporated town. (which means she became mayor)  May spent many years cooking and serving truckers and travelers. Her mother (who was in her nineties) often helped. She was known for her hospitality and warmth. Oh how I wish I'd struck up a conversation with the 2 women that day. Back in 2012 I hadn't yet learned that road travel dining adventures are all about the people encounters!
I learned that May passed away in 2018. The business and "town" was bought by a guy named Jon, who I believe has spiffed the place up. We'll have to head out that way and check it out. |
The Dining Blog
This is a blog about Dining Adventures. Sometimes, I talk about food. Below, you can read how this started. On July 4th 2011, I set a goal to try 50 culturally diverse restaurants in one year! (I knew that was possible, living in the Houston area) I spent the year pulling in friends and family to join me, on some unusual dining adventures. I met some curious people, tried some scary foods and explored places and cultures I never would have otherwise. Even though I met my goal, I learned too much to end my adventures in dining. I have continued blogging about memorable dining adventures of all kinds, near and far... and all the discoveries and funny things I've learned along the way! Locations and types of dining adventures, are listed further down. Archives
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