BY KAREN YOUNG
There’s something to be said for a good old fashioned breakfast with eggs, some sort of breakfast meat, fluffy pancakes, real shredded hash browns (or home fries) and an unfussy cup of joe in a white mug — all being consumed in a comfy booth of course. As opposed to trendy eateries with a cute or mod factor, old school places are my favorite finds on a road trip or in a small town, but what about here in the 818? Here’s some that top my list (in alphabetical order, not preference) — and they range in age from 30 to 70 years!
Bobby’s Coffee Shop
Bobby’s Coffee Shop: At over six decades old, Bobby’s is a Woodland Hills landmark that you may have missed if you don’t live in the West Valley. The most expensive breakfast is the “Special Ranch Breakfast” which includes two eggs, hash browns, three strips of bacon, toast, plus all the coffee you can drink ($7.95) —and it’s served anytime. French Toast with two eggs and bacon ($5.99); Two eggs, hash browns and toast ($3.99); Three stack buttermilk pancakes ($3.99). It’s a real no frills diner where you can watch your breakfast being made fresh on the grill. Bobby’s Coffee Shop 22821 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (818) 225-1324 (between Shoup and Fallbrook).
Du-Pars
Du-Par’s: Although Du-Pars is centrally located in prime Studio City, it still has that old school vibe with over 70 years on its griddles. It’s classic in every way — from the counter seating and booths to the menu that looks old school despite the prices. I’m a devotee of the basic breakfast with eggs and hash browns. I add the chicken apple sausage that’s from Original Farmer’s Market on Third Street. Downed with a couple cups of coffee, it hits home. Oh, and those pies at the entry….12036 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, (818) 766-4437
Good Neighbor
Good Neighbor Restaurant: This family owned restaurant in the shadow of Universal City has been around for nearly 40 years. They serve cottage fries (with peppers and onion) instead of shredded hash browns, but they’ve got eggs, pancakes and waffles every which way. And I must admit, they do serve an excellent tuna sandwich that rivals The Apple Pan in West LA. 3701 Cahuenga Pass, Studio City, (818) 457-6050
Hungry Fox
The Hungry Fox: Over in the depths of North Hollywood on Sherman Way is this restaurant that you can’t miss with its green trim and fox logo. The menu offers lots of choices, including variations of waffles, pancakes, eggs and omelettes which you can order every which way. Suprisingly, you can get a good bagel, lox, cream cheese and matzo brie too. It’s a family owned operation and they make their own jams and spread. Strawberry and peach are my favorites. As the menu states, “It’s Happiness You Can Eat.” 13359 Sherman Way North Hollywood, 1-818-765-7111
The Little Cafe
The Little Cafe: At 30 years old, this is the young one of the bunch. It’s a rather tiny eatery near Tampa in Tarzana that’s only open until 3 p.m. They’ve got all the breakfast specialties plus a cinnamon roll that’s just a perfectly doughy, gooey, sugary baked delight that is out of this world. They do have many healthy choices incorporating egg whites, veggies, and even flax seed, that’s makes for a classic breakfast with a twist. Important to note, they take checks and cash only. 19204 Ventura Boulevard Tarzana, (818) 705-8335
Nat’s Early Bite
Nat’s Early Bite: This strip mall joint has been around for over three decades and is doubly fun if you visit Big Kid vintage shop next door. If you’re waiting on a weekend, expect to do that, but it’s makes for a fun wait and there is always free popcorn. Nat’s makes their own jam, cookies, pies and muffins. Breakfast is served all day and includes some very tasty South of the Border specials and hearty scrambles, along with pancakes, waffles and all the rest. 14115 Burbank Blvd., Sherman Oaks. (818) 781-3040
Paty’s
Paty’s: This 52 year old diner in Toluca Lake has seen many actors come and go through its doors. Eat simple or go for the waffles, french toast and pancakes. The Bada Bing is loaded with chocolate chips, whipped cream and bananas. There’s some french toast combos that’ll keep you full all day. 10001 Riverside Dr., Toluca Lake, (818) 761-0041
Karen Young is the Founder/Editor My Daily Find. Got tips? News? Email: karen@mydailyfind.com
About Karen Young
