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FEATURED

JUN
19
2011

A South Bay Classic

A cup of joe at Eat at Joe's

Eat at Joe's is a bonafide landmark diner in the LA region generally known as the South Bay. Not only has it catered to generations of folks living in the area, but Eat at Joe's also famously served up the hash to one of the biggest icons of American culture and cinema - John Wayne.

In 1969, the restaurant - then a burger stand - had already been in existence when Joe Filkosky came along. It was under Joe's ownership that Eat at Joe's became the place to go for classic

American diner food in the neighborhood.

One morning after Joe took over, in strode the Duke. It must've been quite a sensation to see the six foot, four inch embodiment of American machismo sit down and order breakfast made his way - fried eggs and sausage served atop potatoes and a tortilla with everything doused in Spanish sauce. Of course, Joe had to add this brawny creation to the permanent menu. He appropriately called it the John Wayne Special.

Today, Eat at Joe's is a busy local restaurant with a variety of groups and families dominating the breakfast scene. The current owners are Alex and Michele Jordan; Joe passed away in 1994. The dining room is divided in two. One section of the dining room contains picnic tables and the other has formica tops and a small counter. Daily specials appear on marker boards posted around the dining room.

What I ate: 1) John Wayne Special (7.95 USD): Two eggs cooked to order and American cheese placed on top of home fries and a tortilla, a smother of Spanish sauce, and sausage patties. Diner's choice of toast or tortillas served on the side. 2) Coffee (1.95 USD).

The John Wayne was like an amplified huevos rancheros. You had the basic eggs and tomato-based sauce but added to that was everything else. The Spanish sauce, after mixing in some yolk, was warm, flavorful, and full of

John Wayne Special

diced onion and bell pepper. With my plateful of tortillas, I sopped up every savory remainder of it. Unfortunately, the potatoes were the polar opposite of golden brown; further, they were unforgivably underdone. The incredibly simple preparation of the home fries - just sliced potato - demanded that they be perfectly cooked. Altogether, I thought my breakfast was okay.

The service here was friendly, familiar, and neighborly, which is typical of longstanding diners. The wait staff showed real enthusiasm for their jobs and the owner circulated around the premises, obviously enjoying spending the day with his clientele.

There is a nice parking lot behind the restaurant. I imagine it must fill up quickly on weekends and other times when business is booming. Street parking is also available, just pay attention to the signs.

The Bill: 10.87 USD.

My Rating:

out of four stars (satisfactory to good). Joe's loses half a star for the poor job on the potatoes. Open Monday through Friday 5:30 AM to 9 PM, Saturday 5:30 AM to 2 PM, and Sunday 6 AM to 2 PM. Credit cards accepted. Free Wi-Fi available. www.originaleatatjoes.com

Last Word: Next time I visit, I think I'll have Joe's Special. J'adore biscuits and gravy!

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