Blog Posts

Durango Diner

11/7/2018

Colorado in July

Don and I opted out of our hotel's complimentary breakfast, to have a meal at an iconic diner on Main Street. The Durango Diner no longer has its fabulous old sign, but there was a smiling plate with egg-y eyes, smiling in the window!

The Window Table

If we'd had more than 2, we would have opted for the sunny spot in the window.

We were happy just to get a seat at all. The narrow diner was pretty packed at 8 am. The window table was full, a moment after I took the photo.

Debbie

Debbie was our cheery server. She asked if we'd eaten at the diner before and then warned us about the large servings.

She was the only server on duty when we first arrived and luckily others came on duty soon after... or Debbie wouldn't have had time for this photo.

Feast

Don ordered the corned beef hash with fried eggs, hash browns and sourdough toast. My giant blueberry pancake was jammed with juicy berries. I smothered it in warm syrup and even with Don's help couldn't eat half.

Wood

I was curious about the whole diner, starting with our funny table, built right into the wooden wall.

How Many Stools?

After working on my pancakes a while, I just had to get up and have a look around. I think I counted 20 stools.

Every stool was taken, as well as a couple of small tables in the back. I wandered behind the stools and studied the wall, filled with framed photos and articles.

The Wall

I liked the vintage booster seat resting on the coat rack. A man seated at the counter, noticed me snapping a photo and we began to talk.

Griddle View

I told the man that it looked like he had the best stool in the house, with a good view of the griddle. He laughed and said he'd been eating at that counter for 40 years and was getting some good cooking lessons. He pointed to the owner on the right and made some playful remarks.

Gary

Gary, the owner heard us gabbing and turned to chime in. I asked if I could take a picture of him and he answered with a firm, "No." I played along and apologized, until he laughed and posed. "You can tell I hate pictures..." he said as he gestured towards the wall of photos. There were quite a few John Waynes on that wall!

Good Bye Diner

When I returned to the table, Don was having a conversation with Debbie and another server, about the fires and mudslides that have harmed the town's economy. We chatted a bit longer then said good-bye before hitting the road.

We headed off feeling pretty delighted with our breakfast and with the people we'd met. Not all local diners welcome travelers as openly.

We hadn't gotten out of town before I realized I'd left my sweater. We turned and headed back to the diner. Debbie had rescued my sweater and hung it on a hook, right beneath the classic booster seat. "I was hoping you'd be back." She said.

That somehow made my day!

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19 Mile House - Toutle, WA

10/28/2018

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Lunch Stop... Not Far From Mount St. Helens

In August, Don and I practically screeched on the brakes when we spotted this place on the Spirit Lake Highway. The little house had once been known as the 19 Mile House.

30 minutes before, we had visited Mount St. Helens. We were headed for Portland and we were hungry, when we spotted the cute little house. The fresh looking banner, between the dormer windows had words that welcomed us.

Riverside Dining! We saw no river, but the front porch was inviting. We headed towards the house, passing a dead tree, that looked like some we'd seen near the Mount St. Helen's.

Volcanic History

We headed up the stairs to the little cafe, with lots fresh knowledge about the volcanic eruption in 1980.

The little house-like building looked like it had its own history and stories to tell. I secretly hoped there would be a local or a server, who had some memory of the eruption.

Knotty Pine

We stepped inside and found a couple of homey rooms, with lot of knotty pine!

There were displays of before and after pictures of Mount St. Helens, along with lots of knick knacks around the fireplace. This all looked perfect, except the weather was gorgeous and everyone wanted to be outside.

The Porch View

We stepped out onto the porch and found every table full. But at least we got a quick peek of the river below.

The Toutel River

We didn't get to sit at a table with a view of the Toutel River, but we did get seated on the side porch. Our table had a decent view of an apple tree, with some pretty tempting apples.

Menu Studies

The little restaurant was too busy and the staff was way too young, for getting any information about the restaurant's history. The menu wasn't very helpful either. Evidently the little restaurant had recently changed hands and was called Fire Mountain Grill. We decided against the Big Foot Burger for $25.00.

Quick Feast

Don went for the chicken sandwich, which was decent. My dull iceberg salad was spiffed up a little, with yellow peppers and a tasty ranch dressing. The chili was tangy and hot. The food wasn't memorable, but the setting was just right.

Through the Arbor

I could have added to the dining adventure by taking the pathway down the hill to check out the restrooms. Instead, we headed for the car and ended up having a fun 20 minute conversation with a dad and his sons, who were traveling in an odd camper.

Just as we headed off, I suddenly spotted Big Foot, standing at the edge of the lawn. Or did I? I looked back, but the growth blocked my vision. I couldn't convince Don to turn around, so I'll have to wait until our next visit to see if there really was a Big Foot, lurking on the property!

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Costa Brava at Cozumel

10/25/2018

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First Meal in Cozumel

This cute little restaurant is where Don and I ate lunch after we arrived in Cozumel just a couple days ago. It wasn't our first time to eat a meal on the island. That was in 1984, before daily cruise ships began arriving with thousands of tourists.

Quiet Inside

There were no tourists when we arrived at about 2 pm. They were all a block away, wandering down along the waterfront, in their beach coverups.

Table by the Window

Don and I were pretty excited about our cozy table next to the open window.

Chips and Salsa

When our server brought a basket of chips to the table, I was reminded of our first Cozumel experience, 35 years ago. I still remember biting down on those fat chips... which tasted nothing like Doritos. Even though this was clearly a restaurant that catered to locals, we were still given 2 salsas... one for Gringos.

Open Windows and Books

By the time our food arrived, I had had plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere from my chair.

I loved the open window with warm breeze, rustling the branches. I loved keeping an eye out the open doorway to the sidewalk.

I loved the special alter, in the corner behind Don. The bible was open and inviting anyone to have a little read.

Chile Rellenos

Our server brought my plate of chile rellenos with a big smile. "Especial!" She said. I wasn't sure why she said it was special, but it was very yummy, with just enough spice. Don's chicken enchiladas were also a good pick. We dug right in!

Photo Time

Our server noticed me snapping a photo of Don and offered to take a picture of the two of us.

I wish I had had the nerve to let her know that I really wanted a photo of her and her little girl. The little girl and her grandmother had arrived on a motorbike a bit earlier. The girl who was about 4, greeted her mama, then happily wandered the restaurant in her pink helmet, while grandma chatted with other staff. Since there were no other diners, I felt like we had just walked into someone's home for a meal.

Perfecto!

Our first Cozumel meal in 2018, was a good one!

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Huen Phen in Chiang Mai, Thailand

10/21/2018

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Authentic Northern Thai Cuisine

Huen Phen is a restaurant in Chiang Mai's Old City. We dined there the day after Christmas, to sample some authentic Northern Thai cuisine.

Our "we" for this little dining adventure was a party of 9. This was just one of many adventures our 2-family group enjoyed... beginning in the wee morning hours of Christmas Eve.

Families United

Here we are with our two families on Christmas Eve, at the beautiful Thai Buddhist wedding ceremony of our son and new daughter-in-law. No one is yawning in this photo, but a few of us had flown in from the States, just hours before the morning ceremony.

Huen Phen on December 26th

The day after Christmas, we rose early and flew to Chiang Mai. We were a hungry bunch by the time we arrived at Huen Phen. The house-like restaurant was packed at lunchtime so we waited outside.

Tired, Hungry and Smiling

Luckily our group was in pretty good spirits. I believe "the Bride" took this photo.

Peek Inside

While waiting to be seated, I peeked around a little. I could tell the space was broken up with a few separate dining areas. I was amused with the odd rocking horse and thought about giving it a try.

Cooking

There was a good view of the foods and the cooking action, from the sidewalk. But honestly, I could barely recognize any of the foods.

2 Rockin' Mamas

Our table still wasn't quite ready, so it seemed time to make use of that rocking horse. My son's new mother-in-law, Linda, had great horse sharing skills... and humor!

Serious About Menus

We were finally seated, in a small room, with just a few other tables. There was lots of light and quiet, which helped give us a chance to concentrate on the menu.

Photos

There were photos, which helped a tiny bit. There were words in English and that also helped a bit. Mostly, I was happy to let Linda and her family do the ordering.

Meeting Time

Yes, we were a little tired, but I had no idea how serious we looked until I saw these photos. We look like we're gathered around a table, having a very important meeting. And I guess we were. Linda did an excellent job of telling us about our options. She busily worked with the pencil and order sheet.

A Full Table!

The food began to arrive and it was time for some serious dining.

I was pretty excited about the little things, like the woven boxes, with lids, that held rice... and the foods, displayed on large green leaves.

Khoa Soy!

Then the bowls of Khao Soy arrived, with chicken and egg noodles and curry paste! This is the dish we'd been told about. It is the food, most connected with Chiang Mai's Northern Thai cuisine!

Fixing it Up!

Linda and her family helped guide the rest of us. We garnished our soup with sprigs of cilantro, shallots and squeezes of lime. The soup-like dish really was something to savor... tangy, with just enough spice!

Other Foods?

There were many other dishes on our table, but I can no longer recall. I am glad I got one photo of an enthused diner. All of us were more than delighted with the food, but I was able to catch Heidi, grinning with her bowl!

Exploring

For a while, my daughter-in-law, Chali disappeared and came back smiling. She chuckled about an odd restroom experience and I had to go see for myself. I headed through the other eating area, where I actually spotted some tourists. I wonder how they found the place?

Mystery Area

I must have taken a different route, because I found a mysteriously festive area, that Chali hadn't mentioned. After exploring I returned to the table with my report. I had found a restroom, but it had a regular toilet, not a hole in the floor. Chali grinned with embarrassment, realizing she must have discovered the staff bathroom. However, I was pleased to announce that I had been quite impressed with the door peg that kept the bathroom door closed.

Restaurant adventures are so fun!

Off We Go!

After our feast we were energized for some touring. Our visit to Chiang Mai was pretty amazing, thanks to the best tour & food guides, ever!

Can't wait to go back!

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Hosteria del Marques - in Valladolid, MX

10/21/2018

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Courtyard Lunch

In April 2017, Don and I visited the the Old City of Valladolid, in the Yucatan. We had heard that the Hotel, el Meson del Marques, was the perfect place to sample some authentic Yucatecan dishes.

Spanish Colonial Town

We had visited the Old City area, years ago with our kids. We had good memories of chatting with children, selling embroidered handkerchiefs the near the fountain. We'd gone inside the 16th century cathedral, San Gervasio. We'd even bought leather sandals from a shoemaker.

The Pink Hotel

But we hadn't noticed the pink hotel, that was once a colonial mansion, from the beginning of the 17th century. Luckily our friends who live in Mexico, tipped us off.

Inside the Walls

Before we even tasted the food, we were in love with the setting. The courtyard was a shady oasis. The hostess, dressed in her embroidered dress, took us to our table, past the vegetables and chiles and the tortilla maker, seated on a stool.

Open Air Dining

There were indoor dining spaces, but the tables surrounding the courtyard were too lovely to pass up. The painted chairs, white cloths and fresh flowers welcomed us... not to mention the playful artwork!

Sounds Around Us

Our table was perfect. We could hear the fountain and birds. Even the soft voices at nearby tables, were pleasing. It was a treat hearing no English at all. I loved knowing we were dining in a place enjoyed by locals.

Lunch is Served

Nestor, our waiter made us feel right at home. He brought over a stand to hold our hats. He gave us some good suggestions for beer and Yucatecan dishes. And... he graciously took our photo, with the lovely courtyard as our background.

First Time Foods

My order of Papadzules is shown above. The tortillas were filled with hard boiled eggs and topped with pumpkin seed cream and fried tomato sauce. Don went for the baby shark! Both dishes were a little out of my comfort zone. I never expect to fall in love with a new cuisine on the first try. But we finished it all and were more than pleased with the whole experience!

Nestor

Nestor couldn't have been better. He let Don practice his Spanish and he helped us out with a little English. Best of all he had a good sense of humor. I can't remember what these last words were between Nestor and Don, but they had a fun time.

Yay for our first Yucatecan Dining Adventure!

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Lowell's Restaurant Seattle

10/20/2018

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Lowell's at Pike Place Market

In September, I had my first visit to Seattle, which meant I also had my first visit to Pike Place Market.

Lowell's is where we stopped to have lunch.

A Few Hours to Explore

We were with family on this trip and had just one day to explore. Poor Don was sick and couldn't join the fun. But our kiddos and their spouses were my travel companions for the day. And a beautiful day it was!

Menu Studies

We 5 were pretty hungry at lunchtime, on a busy Saturday. We made no attempts at waiting for a table, in the full service area. Instead, we got in a fast moving line to place our order.

Seafood and More

The menu and the sizzling grill, all seemed to be about seafood. But we learned that Lowell's serves more than fishy food. Diners can arrive at 7 am and get a full breakfst and a Bloody Mary.

Quick Line

We placed our orders and paid at the end of the counter, right next to a quite adorable figurine. I asked about seating and found out there were 2 more floors for tables. That was good news, since the place was swarming.

3rd Floor

I raced up 2 flights, hoping the weary tourists might be too worn out to climb that high. Sure enough there was a great window-side table, just waiting for us. There were also convenient restrooms. It was worth the price of dining, just to avoid crowds at public restrooms.

The View

The view was perfect! After all the fun, hustle and bustle at the market, we just sat and took in the view.

Bloody Mary for Mama

I held down the table, while the kids made a quick dash to the bar. They returned to the table with some drinks for celebration.

A Bloody Mary for Mama! My clam chowder in a giant bread bowl arrived shortly after.

Heaven!

A Very Happy Diner

Chali might have been the most enthused diner, with her Fresh Northwest Steamer Clams! Scott was a bit calmer, with his shrimp cocktail and Alaskan Cod Sandwich.

Soup and Crab Cakes

Jamie and Heidi were quite content with their Dungeness Crab Cakes and Clam Chowder. We were all in good spirits!

Happy Feast

After we relaxed and refueled, we were ready to hit some more of the market. I just wish we'd had more time to absorb some of Lowell's history. I appreciate any place that opened for business, the year I was born! But even before opening in 1957, the building served as a combination coffee and peanut roaster, as well as a cafeteria. I00+ years of history!

Market History

We were better able to handle the shopping crowds without growling stomachs. We wandered the historic market that's been selling flowers, produce and seafood since 1907. I was pretty excited that I got to witness a few fish being thrown. I had heard recently that the old fish handling tradition had stopped. Not on the day we visited!

Surprise Museum

Just when we'd had about all we could handle of the busy multi-storied market, I laid eyes on an odd wall-museum. No one in the packed market seemed a bit interested in this fine display, but I just had to pose next to Robert Preston, the tallest man in the world. Then, I eagerly handed out quarters for anyone interested in paying for a view of his shoes. What a silly way to end our dining adventure at Pike Place Market!

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Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar

10/19/2018

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Fairmont San Francisco

When Don and I learned about the Tonga Bar, we were so excited we switched our evening plans and had an Uber take us to The Fairmont Hotel, instead. Our driver drove us to the top of Nob Hill, but instead of taking us to the classy front entrance, he dropped us on the side.

We walked in a side door and got pretty lost. But that was no problem. It was 5pm and the popular lounge had just opened. We weren't in too big of a hurry.

The Grand Lobby

The Fairmont is a fun place to get lost in. The swirling columns in the lobby did not look very Polynesian. We moved on.

Hidden Down Below

We found the entrance to the exotic lounge in the basement. There was a crowd, even though the bar had only been open for 5 minutes. There was a line of people, hoping to dine beside the lagoon, when the food service began at 6.

The Fairmont Plunge

In Pre-Tonga Room days, things looked a little different in the lower level of the hotel. In 1929, a 75-foot swimming pool was added to the hotel. Traveling guests and movie stars, like Ronald Reagan and Helen Hayes, were lured to the new hotel pool!

Tropical Paradise

By 1945, the pool became a lagoon when MGM set designer, Mel Melvin transformed the area into a tiki themed paradise.

A Floating Boat/Bandstand

It took a while for our eyes to adjust when we first made our way inside. The blue-green water surrounding the boat, reflected the playful light display above.

The Bar

It took us a while to figure things out. The tables on both sides of the water were reserved for diners. The bar, housed inside what looked like a pirate ship, had a few available tables. We attempted to grab one, but learned there was a system for bar seating. No seats for us.

Hanging By the Lagoon

We were totally fine with standing at the railing, near the lagoon. We had a great view of the water. The diners, under their palapas and the mostly younger-than-us-crowd at the pirate bar, gave us some good people watching. And of course we had some very yummy drinks in coconut cups and tall tiki glasses, with lots of umbrellas and fruit.

Empty Boat

I was very curious about the lagoon's best feature. Back in the day, the boat acted as a floating stage, with an orchestra. The boat was empty and quiet during our visit, but I'm sure it gets put to use on weekends.

My Pirate

My very own pirate kindly posed for me, so I could capture a little of the bar area, with all its bamboo and ropes. Don was pretty delighted with the place, that he'd just read about hours before. If only we'd had more planning time, we would have dressed in our tropical best. Next time.

Rainstorm!

We hadn't been in the bar long before we experienced our first storm. There were many of them and the thunder and lightening and rainfall, made us crack up each time. It was very clear which guests were visiting for the first time. They were the ones grinning and attempting photos, like us.

Enjoying the Decor

Don and I kind of loved our little spot right on the railing, where we could take in all the carved decor and thatched roofs. We were busy taking it all in, when a young couple, asked to share a little of the railing space. They turned out to be a delightful pair and we swapped lots of stories.

Sharing the Railing

We were glad to that our new friends were just as giddy over all the tropical gimmicks, as we were. They had seen The Tonga Bar featured on Anthony Bourdain's show and were excited to finally make a visit, themselves.

They couldn't stay long, since they were going to see a friend perform Flamenco at another club. They invited us along and we were tempted to add Spain to our international evening. But we had plans for dinner in Chinatown.

Next Time

We hardly had time to scratch the surface at The Fairmont, but it was time to move on. We waited for our Uber, under the blowing flags. We will definitely come back for some Polynesian dining next time. Maybe we can stay the night... if we win the lottery.

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Thai Lounge in Cancun

10/18/2018

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Thai Adventure in Mexico!

Today I'm going back in time to remember one of the best dining surprises we had in Mexico. It was in April of 2016.

Don and I were nearing the end of a 2-week adventure, traveling in Mexico. We found ourselves wandering La Isla, a very touristy shopping center in Cancun.

We were so ready for something besides tacos and enchiladas, when we spotted Thai Lounge.

Bar in the Aquarium

We were greeted by the hostess, who walked us through the bar towards the dining huts. I caught sight of a dolphin's tail, but didn't have a chance to snap a photo. We should have started our evening there.

Tropical Oasis

We followed our hostess on the winding paths, past the lit palapas. I wanted to stop and stare into each cozy dining area. But that would have been a little rude.

Peeking Later

Later, I wandered a little and snapped a few photos. I loved the round table, surrounded with pillows.

Rows of Tables

One section held smaller tables, with glowing candles.

It was so dark, I couldn't tell where the lagoon was. But I could feel the breeze blowing over the water, rustling the palms. It was a beautiful, balmy night.

Our Palapa

My camera flash, added a harsh light to our cozy dining palapa. We were pretty giddy, to have been seated in our own dining hut!

Smiling Don

Don graciously put up with my camera. Not only did I get a photo, to help remember our evening...

...but we also got a brief moment of illumination! It had been so dark, that our sweet server had to pull out a flashlight at one point.

Our dimly lit bungalow was peaceful and exotic!

Feasting

Don and I have loved Thai food for many years, but we were also gearing our tastebuds for an upcoming trip. We were looking forward to our first visit to Thailand, 8 months off.

Our lovely server in her silk Thai attire, spoke little English or we would have asked more questions. She smiled and bowed, pointed to the menu when we asked questions... smiled some more. We hoped this was a hint of what our upcoming trip would be like.

Not Too Spicy

We were able to ask for less spice in our dishes. I had a vegetarian Pad Thai that was delicious. Don's chicken entree and our chicken saute appetizer, were both cooked perfectly, with exotic flavors... that I can no way describe!

Dramatic Restroom

A trip to the Ladies Room gave me a chance to peek around. I just had to snap a photo of the blowing curtains. Luckily this did not cause privacy issues.

Chefs at Work

I loved this dramatic wall. The opening revealed the chefs at work and I wish I could have stood there for an hour.

Over the Lagoon

I wandered a bit further and spotted some tables that might be fun for the future. Although, I really did love our jungly setting, with a breeze and gentle fan blowing from our hut's ceiling.

Last Photo

Our server told us her name. She laughed when I tried to say it. She brought our bill in a little hinged box. She had to help with her flashlight once more, when Don couldn't read it.

Before leaving, she offered to take our photo. I so love when a server makes the offer... so Don can't blame me for embarrassing him!

Thinking back on this trip, I am more than ready to return to Mexico... or Thailand!

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Stop and Eat Drive In New Mexico

10/17/2018

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Road Trip Dining in New Mexico!

Don and I were traveling through New Mexico in September.

We weren't hungry for lunch yet, but Don suddenly grew worried.

"We'll be out of New Mexico in less than 2 hours and we never tried a Frito Pie!" (Supposedly, this food delight was invented in NM) I quickly searched the internet and found the perfect place!

Since 1967

I was pretty delighted when we pulled in the lot! It looked like the iconic drive-in hadn't changed much, since it opened in 1967. Although there was no curb service, we could have eaten in the car, under any of the shady roofs. But we'd had enough car time.

Walk Up Window

We parked and headed to the walk up window. A smiling face peered out, so I asked if I could take a photo.

The cheery person answered, as she moved away from the window...

"Sure! Take as many as you like... just not of me!" The good humored woman teased another employee, to pose for my photo. I could tell we were going to have some fun.

Busy Kitchen

After snapping the window pic, Don and I headed for the door. We wanted to eat inside where all the action was. There were at least 5 people working in the tiny kitchen behind the counter.

Photos on Display

Alma, who was the first to greet me in the window, welcomed us. "Be right with you!" That gave me a minute to study the display of framed photos. When Alma turned to take the order, she pointed with enthusiasm. "Those are my parents."

Cars at the Drive-In

Jeannette, who had played along and posed in the window, was also glad to see me admiring the photos. "That's a picture of my car! Last week we had a big group of low riders that stopped here." There were a few car photos, so I'm not sure if this is her car
.

Kitchen Talk

Don and I announced that we had come, to sample a Frito Pie! The kitchen seemed eager to help us out.

Luckily there was a short lull, with no new diners arriving. While our order was prepared, we had lots of time for kitchen banter. Gerald, (who is Alma's sister) teased from the grill, when I asked to take some photos. "No!" He answered with a lame scowl. Then he smiled as big as his Dad, in the photo.

Want to Buy a Restaurant?

The activity behind the counter was loud and playful. Gerald pretended to be annoyed when I asked for another photo, since the first one was blurry. He asked more than once if we wanted to buy the restaurant. He hammed it up, as if he'd had enough of the stresses of ownership. But Gerald and the rest of the crew seemed to be having a pretty good time. I wasn't convinced they would sell.

Frito Pie Time

Suddenly our Frito Pie was handed to us in a paper bag. We chose 2 of the 10 red stools and got ready for our feast. We said hello to our fellow diners, hoping to strike up conversation and continue the fun. But they answered my question with one word, "California." Clearly they were not about the whole experience. We left them alone.

The Pie

Don and I grinned at each other as we opened the bag and pulled out a Styafoam cup and a paper bundle, secured with a toothpick.

I wondered why our feast wasn't being served in a Fritos bag.

I pulled off the lid and pushed the spoon down, past some melted slices of cheese. How curious. When I lifted the spoon, it held a soupy mixture of red chili, cheese and a few Fritos, that were just beginning to soften. Hmm? We could have added shredded lettuce and tomatoes, but we were quickly starting to enjoy the "soup" just as it was. This hardly seemed like a pie of any kind. The crazy goodie in a cup, was pretty yummy. We passed it back and forth. "I like how the Fritos are absorbing the chili!" "This tastes so much better than it looks!"

On Our Way

Before heading out, we made sure to let the whole crew know that we'd enjoyed our Frito Pie and our visit. There was a little more chatter... about the Houston Astros... about some of the favorite guests who have visited the drive-in... about the summer weather...

By the time we got in the car, a new wave of diners had arrived. Whether they were regulars or travelers, I hoped that they would appreciate the place like we did.

It's always nice to see a happy, family owned business! When Gerald and Alma's parents opened up over 50 years ago, I wonder if they guessed their kids would be running the place in 2018. I would love to have heard some stories about the siblings earliest memories at the drive-in. Maybe next time!

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Hill Country Cupboard in Texas

10/17/2018

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Signs in Johnson City

There are a couple of signs that I love, in Johnson City. The first one reminds us, when we are nearing LBJ's hometown. The second, is the sign reminds us that we are in the Texas Hill Country. The sign also brags about the World's Best Chicken Fried Steak... Nearly 3 Dozen Sold!

New Paint

The chicken fried steak sign caught our attention about 10 years ago when we were traveling with the kids. They were amused by the humor, of 3 dozen sold. They were also hungry. So we had lunch and as I recall, the chicken fried steak was decent. In April, Don and I stopped again. I noticed the sign had been painted and the words about chicken fried steak were missing. But we were hungry for something lighter.

Lunch in April

We arrived on a cool and gloomy weekday. The dining felt pretty cozy, although the area looked larger than I remembered. There were enough booths and tables to seat all of Johnson City. Well maybe not quite.

Bar

There was a bar in the other room and I didn't remember that. Our server told us it was open a couple times a week.

Regulars

We took a seat in the booth near the window. That way we got to keep an eye on all the regulars who were congregating. Don and I were beginning to feel pretty young, amongst the retirees.

Table Stuff

Each table had a curious pole and block system that I never figured out. I think when the place is busy, the blocks can signal the server in some way. But I only saw the block being used as a paper weight, for the check. I had meant to ask before we left and now I'll never know.

Menu on a Bag

Our menu was glued to a brown paper bag. That seemed a little odd. But then our server told us that when the restaurant first opened, they wrote the menu options on a paper bag and passed it around.

I liked that funny bit of restaurant history. I also liked the idea that there was a sandwich named for Lady Bird.

I was forced to order one.

Lady Bird

The Lady Bird sandwich was of course, made from a bird. The chicken, grilled with onions and mushrooms, was served with Swiss cheese on Texas toast.

I think Lady Bird would have been okay with that.

Breakfast Anytime

Neither of us had a big enough appetite for chicken fried steak, so we were happy with sandwich and breakfast options. Don went for the eggs, ham, taters and biscuit.

Wandering

Our lingering after lunch, was really what made our visit memorable. We finished eating and began looking around at some of the intriguing decor. There was a cupboard, that might have inspired the restaurant's name. There were antiques and knickknacks and a case of baked goodies. It was when I stopped to study the trio of LBJ plates, that the owner struck up a conversation.

Sandra

I believe Sandra, was the name of the owner. She was gracious and friendly as she filled us in on the restaurant's history. I wish I had taken notes, when she told a story about the day Lady Bird Johnson came to dine. A secret service agent had arrived early and asked about renting out the whole space. A bit later, Mrs. Johnson and family arrived, to enjoy a meal. Sandra said the whole group had been very relaxed and kind. Mrs. Johnson even autographed a menu.

More Chatting at The Cupboard

Sandra talked about her reaction to Johnson City, when she moved there, years ago. It was hard for me to imagine anyone thinking of Johnson City as a city. J.C. has fewer than 2,000 residents, now. Sandra's hometown of Bryce had a population of 15, the last I checked. So it's easy to see how she could have found it hard to adjust to a busier community.

Sandra told us she worked at the restaurant for 9 years, before she was approached about buying the business. I imagine she must have impressed the owners she worked for, with her commitment and hard work.

By the time we pulled off, the lot was fairly empty. We were feeling good about our nice little dining adventure. It ended up having a lot more to do with people, than food.

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