It was a cold day in Orland Park. The clouds were grey and the weather was a migraine headache waiting to happen.
I found myself at the reopening of The Original Pancake House in Orland Park. A young lady with a youthful smile greeted me. I told her I am a bachelor and I don’t want to take up a lot of room.
The counter is clean and the silverware is shiny and spotless. The menu is clean, void of fingerprints and grease. The coffee had a wonderful serving temperature, not too hot but hot enough to make it pleasurable. I ask for French vanilla creamer, they had it!
I play it safe with a vegetarian omelette. About eight minutes later my meal is served. A beautiful presentation with an omelette so yellow it reminds me of summer sunflowers in their full majesty. I sample the omelette, always reminded by my primary care physician telling me to watch my salt. No salt or pepper was needed. A confident cook prepared this breakfast.
While dining my coffee cup is never empty. I try the potatoes. They are cooked in fresh oil. I try the pancakes. They are fluffy and don’t have the consistency of rubber band. I am asked how my breakfast is. No fake smile, just genuine concern. I tell the waiter I am impressed.
My waiter says have a nice day and I truly believe he means it. I pick up my bill and rinse my hands off in a spotless restroom. As I exit I pay my bill and feel comfortable with the final price.
Nothing compares to the memories of my mother’s kitchen, but this came close. I recommend it. By the way, watching the passing traffic on LaGrange Road was oddly pleasing.
Terrence Camodeca, Orland Park