THE EGG AND I

Had to make a stopover at Kearney, Nebraska this morning. Decided to have breakfast at a popular little restaurant, called "THE EGG AND I", recommended by friends.

Lord knows I love eggs! Especially scrambled. I've sampled eggs from Paris to Pittsburgh, to Miami and Dallas. I'm always looking for that perfect scrambled egg! Can anyone cook a better scrambled egg than mine? Haven't found it yet...not even in Paris!

So the name of the restaurant itself pulled me like a magnet. Located in the middle of beautiful farm country, among rivers and ponds, and greenery sprouting up everywhere, Kearney, Nebraska is fortunate to have such a great breakfast hotspot.

Set in a small shopping center, on Second Avenue, you'll see the "Egg and I" marquee over the restaurant. They say it's almost always moderately busy at 11:00 a.m., and it was this morning, despite a decorating show going on downtown.

First, though I rarely drink coffee, I decided to give it a try. The friendly waitress, Chelsea, brought me an entire pot, with fresh cream. Though I much prefer tea, the coffee was smooth. Definitely better than Starbucks!

When I ordered the banana and strawberry Belgian waffle, she commented that the entree was her favorite. Said she even brought her twins there when they turned one year because she wanted them to taste how wonderful it was.

 Chelsea also mentioned even the waitresses like the food so much they come to eat there on their days off. That definitely says something.

I have to agree. The eggs were fluffy and wonderful. The bacon was crisp. But the Belgian waffle, with sugared walnuts, topped by fresh strawberries, bananas, and whipped cream, was a real treat. The waffle probably measured (I'm guessing) about 12" in diameter, and at least eight inches across. Served with syrup and butter on the side, it left a lasting impact on my stomach...most likely my hips too.

They even serve water without one's having to ask - a refreshing change from most restaurants nowadays. Traveling through the dry air of Nebraska, my mouth felt parched all the time.

Their Spring Specials included a healthy turkey-veggie omelet,  a mouthwatering blueberry-lemon pancake combo, and a Farmer's Hash with greens, potatoes and other vegetables, under a topping of poached egg and cheese. They all looked amazing!

The price although a little steeper than what I would normally pay for breakfast, was well worth it.

The only downside I found was that the toilet paper in the restroom, could only be pulled out of the dispenser with great difficulty.

The décor was delightful. The wait staff friendly. The clever coffee bean pencil holder at the register was consistent with the cheery atmosphere.   Overall a it was a very relaxing experience.