The Breakfast Brotherhood
by Stephen Doherty
September 1st, 2024
“It’s the little things that smooths out people’s roads the most.” -Huck Finn
The Buddhist definition of Nirvana is “a state of perfect happiness.” My ability to marry three of the things I love most in life – an amazingly spiritual trifecta, has brought me to the precipice of this divine state of mind. The three? I’m glad you asked.
1) Spending time with my “big” brother in deep discussions about – well, just about anything!
2) Exploring the historical “greasy spoon” circuit in and around Denver, that combines rich history with eclectic architecture, infinite atmospheric variety, and menus that are as wildly different as they are amazingly alike!
3) BREAKFAST! Need I say more? Nothing beats treating a hungry tummy to the culinary delights of pancakes, meats, eggs, and biscuits – scattered across a town that we’ve both spent a lifetime knowing and frequenting! Our breakfast adventures have become a cherished tradition, blending the joy of discovering new places with the pleasure of re-discovering old joints we once frequented as youngsters.
But it’s not just about the food. These breakfast adventures provide the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and shared laughter. Whether we’re debating current events, catching up on each other’s family’s activities, or reminiscing about past outings, the time spent together is as rewarding as the meals we enjoy. Breakfast is more than just the first meal of the day; it’s a window into local culture and an amazingly broad cross-section of the local citizenry.
Our adventures have taken us to places where the ambiance, menu, and even the staff tell a story. Personally, I love the old mom & pop hash slingers with their worn and dated interiors and century old griddles that were cranking out pancakes and bacon some fifty, sixty – even seventy years ago. Each venue not only filled our stomachs but also reminded us both of the rich history we share with our ever-evolving hometown. My brother and I have always shared a close bond, but these outings have brought us even closer.
When I travel the country on my motorcycle – one of my favorite parts of the journey is the small towns I pass through or stay in, that invariably have a local breakfast “joint” that so perfectly scratches that itch. For me, the quaint charm and quality of a family-owned restaurant will always be unmatched by the sterile chains and their assembly line approach to preparing our first meal of the day. Frankly, political correctness not withstanding – I love it when a charming local waitress ends each sentence with “hon” or “sweetie.” It harkens back to times gone by – and some of that lost innocence that can still be enjoyed at local cafes.
As my brother and I continue our weekend treks through Denver’s infinite array of early morning breakfast grills and coffee pots, we will also cherish the memories we’ve made and continue to make. Our life has no shortage of shared adventures and experiences – but this regular breakfast tradition has not only enriched our weekends but has also deepened our appreciation for the local eateries culture in our hometown. It’s a reminder of how simple pleasures, like sharing a meal with a loved one, can become cherished rituals that bring joy and connection and a lifetime of special memories.
So next time you find yourself craving a weekend adventure – or just some pancakes and bacon, consider exploring your local breakfast spots. Whether you’re a sibling duo like us or a group of friends, it’s a delicious way to bond, discover, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. One can only imagine how much better off the world would be if the people running it regularly shared a pot of coffee and a plate full of bacon and eggs. Throw in homemade cinnamon rolls and world peace might just be within our grasp.
“Enjoy the little things… for one day you’ll look back and realize they were the big things!”
