Note: This article has been updated on October 31, 2005. At this time, we are unable to reach this business (or homeowner) after Hurricane Katrina. Please contact us if you have any information regarding its status.
Café Du Monde
New Orleans, Louisiana
Yes, it's touristy and predictable, but it's still good. I love that it began in
1862 and is still here. For me, their new locations lack the history and magic
of the French Quarter spot, a quintessential Big Easy landmark. It's open 24
hours daily, and you'll be amused here by street musicians and entertainers.
Less than $3 gets you a comforting mug of rich, steamy café au lait
(half milk, half coffee) and a trio of hot, light, fried rectangular doughnuts
buried in pristine powdered sugar. 800 Decatur Street; (504) 525-4544.
Beignets and café au lait: $2.75. Note: If you prefer adventure, head out of the Quarter to Elizabeth's.
Get directions; it's off the tourist path. Go for the huge Loula May Breakfast
Po boy: crusty, chewy French bread cradling andouille sausage, scrambled eggs,
and cheese--all dressed with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. If you don't polish it
off, young, spunky Elizabeth will chastise you with a smile. 601 Gallier
Street; (504) 944-9272. Loula May Breakfast Po boy: $4. Closed Sunday
and Monday.
Paloma Blanca
San Antonio, Texas
While many restaurants on the River Walk beckon, this true Mexican spot in Alamo
Heights rewards the detour. We first recommended it as a lunch or dinner spot, but on Saturday mornings only, they
serve a worthy breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Don't let the mundane shopping center
location dissuade you; it's colorful and cozy inside. Here, scrambled eggs come
with satiating combos of fried corn tortilla strips, fresh tomatoes and peppers,
salsa, cheese, and dried beef. Oatmeal gets a lift from vanilla and cinnamon and
a side of grilled toast. 5148 Broadway in Stewart Center; (210) 822-6151.
Breakfast plates: $3.25-$5.25.
