This Week's Counter: Steve's Family Restaurant

Steve's is in Old Brooklyn, just South of downtown. We weren't sure what to expect as we drove up, as the neighborhood looked a little sketchy -- some boarded-up houses, run down storefronts, etc.  But the fact that we couldn't find a place to park on the street in front or anywhere around the block should have been a clearly positive sign -- the place was really busy with large groups and families.

Steve's seems to be in parts of an old house -- weird jumble of doors and stairs and multiple rooms give it a really interesting atmosphere. The tiny counter (only 3 seats) was empty, so we quickly grabbed a spot.  All the women working there were extremely welcoming and friendly -- we had menus and drinks quickly.  

Really extensive menu for breakfast (and lunch), with all different kinds of pancakes and waffles, omelets, skillets and combinations of all the above. Cam had a waffle and a side of bacon.  Ted varied from his usual a bit had a eggs, chopped steak (sort of a cross between a burger and a minute steak, for those who remember what that is!), potatoes and toast. The food took awhile to come out, but it was well worth the wait -- big portions and cooked really nicely.  The potatoes could have been a little more crisp, but overall great!

We'd for sure go back -- strongly recommend it.  Don't be put off by the location.  It's worth going, and try to get there early, as it's really popular!

    

Cam says: "Food was fair, service was great. Strange atmosphere but an overall good experience. I'll give it 7 frying pans."

Ted says: "Really good!  Great selections, interesting place, very friendly.  And the food was excellent!  One of my favorites so far -- 9 frying pans!"

This Week's Counter: Sammy's Grill

We ran across Sammy's in our recent hunt for more counters to fill the pipeline, which was running low.  It's located in the lobby area of the Holiday Inn Express downtown, which used to be the old National City Bank offices -- beautiful old building, lots of stone and marble. 

We dropped in for a late breakfast on a Saturday morning -- the place was about half-full, and there was no problem getting seats at the very long counter.  It looks like the main breakfast rush had just ended, as there were a lot of tables yet to be cleared, and the one waitress (seemed to be the daughter of the guy cooking) was rushing around frantically.

They were friendly enough, and we quickly had drinks and ordered.  Cam made an unusual selection -- bacon grilled cheese with fries. He thought it was really good. Ted had his usual (eggs, potatoes, toast and coffee) -- all pretty average.  We were sitting right in front of the grill, so could see everything being made. Classic greasy spoon place -- not the cleanest or most organized kitchen.

The food was all OK, nothing special and a bit too much butter being used -- the grilled stuff definitely had a bit of grease to it!  OK for a quick breakfast, and at very low prices.  But not one of our favorites for sure.

    

Cam says: "Decent food with a decent counter. Not enough staff and not too clean. I'll give this one 5 frying pans."

Ted says: "Pretty much (below) average all around, and not great on atmosphere.  Lots of better choices around, so I doubt we will be rushing to go back.  3 frying pans from me."

This Week's Counter: Johnny's Diner

We were searching for new counters around town because our list of remaining ones was running low, and we ran across Johnny's on Yelp.  Reviews were good and it wasn't too far away, in Hudson at the Hudson Plaza shopping center.  It was a beautiful morning for a drive, so we headed down there mid-morning.  

Johnny's is the typical kind of place that tries to be a 1950's/60's-era diner -- pictures of old cars, a jukebox, lots of chrome inside, and a classic diner menu (burgers, shakes, fries, etc). On this Saturday morning it wasn't too busy -- a few tables occupied, but the large counter totally empty.

We were welcomed nicely by the staff and had drinks within minutes.  Excellent coffee in a nice heavy mug!  Ted had the usual eggs, potatoes and toast, with fruit.  Cam felt compelled to try to the chicken tenders and fries.  Everything came out hot and perfectly cooked -- good quality all around.  

While we were eating, the owner (John) came out of the back and was talking to some of the regulars and to us -- very friendly guy, seemed to know everybody.  He had some good stories and road trips and food, fun to listen to.  

Combination of a beautiful day, great meal and friendly service made the a memorable counter.  Only negative was that the counter stools were not too comfortable -- so unless you like the counter too, go with a table.  Other than that, we highly recommend!

 


Cam says: "Good service with great food! Not a very comfortable counter, though. I'll give it 8 frying pans."

Ted says: "Solid menu, good service and great quality food.  Fake 50's decor is not my thing. Definitely worth the visit.  A very strong 8 pans!"