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Lunch Stop on Route 66 Don and I made a u-turn when we spotted this red carport, with neon accents. It at least looked the part, for our road trip lunch stop, on Route 66. New or Old? It was hard to tell the age of the building. It didn't look as worn as some of the motels and gas stations on the Route, in Santa Rosa. The brown stucco was smooth and the the retro, painted mural wasn't peeling. But the spirit of the place, felt old. Best Mexican Food in Town Then I spotted this odd little building in back. I loved the rough stone and painted cinderblock, the weathered door and the accent of live cactus! Could this have been the original building? Feels Like a Diner We headed in and were invited to sit anywhere. We chose a booth near the counter, where I sat facing a large framed photo of a cowgirl. Main Dining Area Don's seat faced out towards the main dining room. There was a good crowd of locals seated in the blue vinyl chairs when we first arrived. By the time I snapped this photo, most of the men in cowboy and trucker hats, had already departed. Since 1927 The menu told us the Martinez Family had owned the restaurant since 1927. I was curious about the restaurant's name and asked our server. She said the original Comet Diner had burned down in the 1990's. That explained the "II". But, Comet still sounded pretty modern for 1927 and the Comet II felt and looked older than the 1990's. Pie for Lunch? Before ordering, I saw an order of pies come out of the kitchen to cool. I popped up to take a photo and that seemed to amuse the old couple sitting nearby. I told the woman we were from Houston, when she asked. She seemed concerned, since she'd heard there'd been a recent tornado... maybe she meant hurricane. I asked where they were from and the woman waved towards the window. "Oh, I'm from the apartments." Then she gestured towards the elderly man. "He lives in the motel." I asked what was good on the menu and was told I needed to order the Baby Back Ribs. "They are the best!" Northern New Mexico Cuisine We didn't order ribs and Don was craving a burger, but I went for the Mexican Special of the day. What a mix of flavors! I was told the restaurant made 5 different homemade chiles a day! I loved reading the menu description of all the people who have influenced the local cuisine... "Native American, Mexican, Spanish immigrants, sheep herders, trappers, Jewish merchants, Eastern carpet baggers..." Johnny Martinez I was pretty excited when I saw a man with a white apron and flashy bolo-tie, making the rounds. He was welcoming all the locals and he sat down to chat with a few, at their tables. He stopped to greet us and we raved about the food and complimented his bolo tie. "Oh, this was my grandfather's badge!" He seemed delighted we had noticed. He said it was from 1916, when his grandfather was a New Mexico Ranger. I wish we could have heard more stories! Old Pics When we checked out at the front desk, I studied some old photo. I wondered more about this man who must have taken over the business from his parents. I recognized Johnny, with his dark hair and mustache in this photo. Don paid up and I looked for more clues about the restaurant's history. If Mr. Martinez had not disappeared into the kitchen, I would have asked a lot more questions. Sheepherder? I noticed this little statue holding a sign as we headed out. "The Best Sheepherding Camp Cook to Ever Come Out of Pintada Canyon!" What did that mean? I had spotted something in the menu about this. Had Johnny been a sheepherder's cook before he took over his parent's restaurant? I looked Johnny up on the internet and learned little. One write up said restaurant owner was part Native American and part Mexican... nothing about sheepherder cook. I had missed my chance to ask Johnny my own questions. Next Time We headed out of town on Route 66, thinking about our yummy-curious lunch. I spotted the Sun 'n Sand Motel and decided we might just have to return to Santa Rosa some day. A night at this fine Route 66 motel would give us an addition to the Notable Night List... and we could have another meal at Comet II!
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Lunch at the Cranky Diner Don and I were excited when we read some reviews for Harold's Diner.
Road Side Diner I liked the looks of the place when we pulled up. It shared a parking lot with the gas station next door. It had a big old shade tree. It also had a welcoming OPEN sign. Just above the 4, orange letters, I read the words, Sorry We're, in small print. So sassy. Like a Train Car We made sure to arrive early, while things were still calm. We entered one of the 2 doors and found ourselves in a space, that felt like a cozy train car. There were 13 counter stools and 4 tiny tables beneath the windows. Later when it got crowded, there wasn't much room to walk between. Behind the counter there were 3 people, swiftly gearing up for the expected lunch crowd. The woman with the ponytail, greeted us. She was all business, but she wasn't scary. Stools and Rules We bravely chose 2 stools at the counter, instead of a "safer" window-facing table. As soon as we were seated, the woman reminded Don to grab two order forms from the holder, near the door. Don grabbed 2 sheets and I hopped up to take a couple quick cell phone pics... while the place was mostly empty. I made sure to photograph the Diner Rules, but didn't study them until later. The rules reminded us, that No Sissies were allowed... and to Leave when we were done! Order Sheet It was very clear that Harold's had a system for everything. I felt like I was taking a test when I checked the box for Grilled Cheese. I was afraid I might get reprimanded for ordering less than $5. worth of food. So I added bacon for $2.25. Don whispered to me. "Don't forget to write your name at the bottom." Whew. I almost missed that. I am not the best test taker. Guy at the Grill The youngish guy at the griddle seemed focused on his cooking. Surely he wasn't one of the rude people mentioned in reviews. I liked his efficient technique, tossing the round balls of beef onto the griddle and flattening them. But when he suddenly turned and faced me spoke, I gulped. Was he the mean guy? He spoke fast and I couldn't hear over all the sizzling. I didn't want to risk it by asking, "What did you say?" So I just said, "I'll have some water please." He said nothing, but promptly brought me my drink. "Eat Here or We Both Starve" It was clear very quickly, which of the 3 was the grumpy owner that I'd read about. I didn't get a photo of him, because his constant frown was intimidating. However, he probably saw me in the mirror when I took this photo of the important words, "Eat Here or we both starve." Luckily I think he was in an extra bad mood and couldn't be bothered by acknowledging diners. We had read that "hurling insults" is his claim to fame... but he wasn't in a good enough mood for that. Harold ... Chuck Harold Smalls opened the diner in 1974. I have no idea a bout his character or how he ran the place, but Chuck is the owner, now. Chuck is the one with the reputation. He wasn't exactly pleasant during our visit, but at least he had a efficient system. The 3 seemed to have their moves choreographed behind the counter. There was a lot of tossing, reaching, lifting, bending and dodging going on back there. At one moment Chuck darted over and dropped the cage of raw potatoes into the bubbling vat. Suddenly the diner was filled with smoke and sizzle and a high pitched sound came from somewhere. Don and I looked at each other, but everyone else ignored the screeching alarm. The sound disappeared, after the air cleared. "Beth!" Since I was seated right next to the line up of baskets, I should have been prepared to have my name shouted. But I was caught off guard and about fell off my stool when my name was hollered. I raised my hand like I was in school and I remembered to say thank you. My grilled cheese with bacon was decent, but it did have the taste of a million foods cooked on the griddle. Don's burger was good, but the fries looked like they'd been heavily peppered. Maybe it was time for some fresh oil in the vat. Lots to Read Don and I ate our meal quietly. That seemed to be what everyone else was doing, since most were single workmen eating lunch. Chuck and his workers didn't converse either. It was odd. But there was lots to read. The snarky bumper stickers plastered all over the mirror, were pretty lame and dated. I didn't dare roll my eyes. Cheap Fun I'm sure I could provoke a reaction, though. "Hey Chuck, would you mind posing in a photo with me?" Yikes. That's a scary thought.
Fast Food in Colorado It's a chilly February day today and I'm dreaming of that yummy summertime lunch. Since 1955 This cute little roadside joint has been sitting here, since before I was born. (barely) Originally it was named Goldbrick and Jerry's Fountain Goodies. A woman named Kay, bought the place in 1968. New owners in 2000, kept the name. Windows We placed our order at the walk up window. They didn't ask for a name. They just gave us a name and that amused me very much. Next, we walked past the decorated windows, to the side door. Inside, I looked around while waiting to hear my new name being announced. Tiny Space There was a tiny eating area, with some wall amusements. There were colorful shapes on the wall, with words of wisdom. "One who runs behind a car gets exhausted." There was also a "Dot Your Spot" map. Shadow Boxes A few displays on the wall needed a little help. This one included some buttons, a building block and an empty bottle of garlic seasoning... carefully displayed behind a sheet of plastic. I could have made a few display contributions, if I'd cleaned a drawer or two before our trip. "Meryl Streep!" I heard them call her name! It was exciting for a split second to think my favorite actress was waiting on her order. But when Meryl Streep was called to pick up her order, she was a man. While I waited on our order, I made a quick dash to the teeny tiny restroom, between the half-door and the kitchen. Not only was the cute little room, the size of an airplane restroom... it even had the handy little "occupied/vacant" announcement above the doorknob! Order Ready For Ariel The Mermaid!
There was no time for questions. We just grabbed our bag and lots of napkins and headed to one of the picnic tables at the nearby park. Yum Don's sloppy cheeseburger was yummy enough to remind us of Steak-N-Shake burgers back home. My chili cheese dog was equally messy and unhealthy and tasty. The huge cup of fries was piping hot and enough to share. All good and worth waiting for. Between Mountains and River We will remember our K's lunch for a few reasons. Our fast food feast was yummy. The little building with neon sign, was fun. We had a mountain view from our table. We ate our K's food, in a park with a river and "snowing" cottonwood trees. Memorable!
Route 66 Breakfast... A Year Ago On a cold February morning, we had breakfast at a 72-year-old restaurant. Well, actually it was 71-years-old... when we ate at Earl's, a year ago. Warming Up & Waking Up Don and I stopped at Earl's, while on a road trip last February. It was 14 degrees that morning, when we pulled into the parking lot off Historic Route 66. We were given a booth in the back corner and a carafe of hot coffee for our table. In moments we were warm and awake and ready to read up on a little history. I love a paper placemat with local history. Family Owned Since 1947 We read up on the "Land of Enchantment" and studied the menu. The Fried Egg & Bologna Sandwich was tempting... The Richards Family has owned Earl's for many years. I'm not sure if the original owner was named Earl, but if so he must have been a decent guy. They kept his name after all. The Richards must also be pretty decent, since they have worked closely with the Native American community. Local artisans are invited to sell their Native American jewelry and art at the restaurant. Mid Sixties Earl's opened as a hamburger place, probably a couple decades before this postcard was sold. Origianlly there were only 4 stools and 2 booths. The restaurant was larger, by the time Earl's was selling pancakes and Mexican food, along with burgers. In the 1940's Sharon Richards started as a waitress at Earl's and eventually worked her way up. She bought the restaurant on a handshake. Her son Ralph still run the restaurant, today. Back in the Corner I was glad for our corner booth in the back, where I could take in the whole place. Over the years the space has grown and today there is seating for 382 customers. Most of them were locals, on the morning when we dined. A Happy Diner Don was pretty pleased with his Spinach and Monterey Jack Omelet. I didn't go for the bologna, but I did have Earl's Famous Biscuits & Gravy, with my scrambled eggs. Vendors Part of the Earl's Experience is being open to the vendors who wander through the restaurant. We never felt any kind of intrusion. We always took a quick look and offered a compliment, with our "No thank you." It was interesting to see the artisans, graciously and quietly strolling through the large space.The majority of diners were Native American locals, who seemed to know one another. None seemed to be buying, but they were all pleasant to those selling. Long Counter On the way to checking out, I walked by the dining counter. A large window opening gave a peek into the kitchen and the short order cooks. Near the Counter We paid our check at the counter, near the exit. I read a sign announcing the next breakfast meeting for the the Kiwanis Club. Then I noticed a few more similar signs. Don and I didn't do our homework, or this could have been an even more exciting dining adventure. If we had played this right, we would have arrived hours earlier, for the weekly Toastmaster Breakfast at 6:30 am. The sign said, "Visitors Welcome!" Now that would have been interesting. Shopping Before we stepped out, I paused to look at a few earring displays. I was more than happy to buy 2 pairs for $5. each. Pretty earrings and such a bargain! Selling in the Cold There were just a few vendors set up outside on that frigid morning. I hoped they had a good system for rotating with the inside vendors. Hopefully the sun came through at some point! Good-Bye Earl's Our quick breakfast stop on Rt 66, was memorable. The place may have changed a bit since travelers first stopped for burgers 70+ years ago, but our visit was still a step back in time!
Breakfast on a Rainy Morning Last July, Don and I met up with my brother and his wife for a cozy breakfast on Main Street. Vermont to New Hampshire We'd been staying just minutes away in the sweet Vermont town of Norwich. I was excited to know we could add another state to our road trip, with just a 3-minute drive. After we checked out of Norwich Inn, we headed over and took a quick peek of the Dartmouth campus. Then, I got to add New Hampshire as a new category on the blog list! Bakery Smells We dashed down Main street in the rain, towards the brick building with green awning and flower boxes. When we stepped inside, we were met with sweet smells of cinnamon rolls and scones, cakes, pies, cookies and of course coffee! 16 Stools The counter looked like the place to be for serious eaters. But there weren't enough seats. Booths The booths looked cozy with their retro seats and swirly-formica tabletops. Coffee and Menu Tables were just beginning to clear and we got seated quickly. In moments our steaming coffee arrived. The menu cover looked welcoming and the inside looked mouthwatering. Sneaking a Pic I had Don snap a quick pic of our cozy table, near the wall of photos. Our server teased that he'd ruined the photo by walking into the scene... He insisted on taking a better photo of our hungry bunch. This one looks better, since it has Don in it. But I look pretty sleepy... like I need about 3 more cups of coffee. Breakfast is Served! I went for the Rhubarb Pancakes! Two buttermilk pancakes stuffed with fresh rhubarb and strawberries and topped with strawberry sauce. I skipped the whipped cream and indulged in lots of butter and Lou's Maple Syrup... served in a cute little bottle! Don had "Doc's Favorite" of two poached eggs on corned beef, (not canned!) served with baked beans and a muffin! We were both in heaven! Lou's History I love a diner with history and Lou's definitely has some. In 1947, when Lou Bressert was a recently discharged marine, he opened the bakery and restaurant. The cafe quickly became a popular meeting place for Dartmouth students, professors and staff. The crowd that gathered at Lous' was very different than the illustration on the menu cover. The large photo image on the back wall, was a big reminder that the Ivy Leagues didn't accept women until the 1970's. I don't think many women felt comfortable hanging out in Lou's, back in the day. Lou's Gallery The walls in the restaurant were covered with black and white photographs, showing many of the regulars who gathered at the cafe over the years. I didn't want to interrupt diners by leaning over their tables to look. I wondered if there were any famous people in those photographs. I read that Gloria Steinem made quite an impact when she visited Hanover in 1968. Evidently she came to Lou's and she spoke her mind quite well!
Yay for a restaurant with good food and history! Yay for all the good changes that have made it possible for all to enjoy Lou's! |
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
April 2024
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