Harleton Cafe

Today's Special:

Large Serving of Attitude with Extra Spit

Some of the best things about cycling are the little discoveries you make along the way. Maybe it is some chi-chi new component. Maybe you've uncovered some new training technique that allows you to rip the legs off your mates. Heck, maybe you've simply discovered the peace of a really nice ride on a sunny day.

Yeah, yeah. Whatever. The really important discoveries are about food.

Mark tried to get some food in December, but the cook told him, "Too bad, Harleton's got a playoff game and we're on our way."

Recently, several LBC members have discovered a little cafe in Harleton that is worth a visit. This ain't no Chili's or Applebee's sort of place.

They ain't got no herb-encrusted filet of exotica served with a side of lightly sauteed froo-froo. You won't find no lemon-grass, balsamico, or any organic free-range chickens on these premises.

This is a cafe. The owner is the guy doing the cooking and the waitresses are probably all related to him somehow. You can sit at the counter and watch while your food cooks, or grab a table and watch the locals -- because they are definitely watching you. Don't get in a hurry. You'll get your food when it's ready.

You know what I mean. This is a simple, little, small-town cafe. You half expect to hear someone say, "Kiss my grits."

The food is pretty simple and straight forward. You got your burgers and fries. You got your club sandwiches, your BLT's, your chicken sandwiches . . . You got your pork chops, pot roast, and even a chopped steak. You probably know the menu already.

Speaking of menus, they don't even give them out after you've been in there a time or two. They figure you should already know what you want to eat.

They also got pie. I love pie. I really liked their coconut cream pie, but their chocolate was pretty darn good, too. If you go, make sure and get some pie.

They tell us that they make some pretty good cinnamon rolls, but they are always out by the time we get there. Have to beat the dang locals.

You also get a pretty good serving of attitude with every meal. Not the "Like-fer-sure-I-can't-believe-I-have-to-you-know-like-work-for-a-living" attitude. More of the "Why you wear them funny clothes and ride bikes? Ain't you got a car?" A lot more of, "You want extra spit on your sandwich or the regular amount?"

You know the attitude I'm talking about. The kind where they make fun of you AND make you feel welcome at the same time. That's some pretty good stuff.

Sort of makes me hungry just thinking about it.

Hold the Mayo, Extra Spit: Your waitress may choose to add a little extra something if you bother her too much.