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Potholder Cafe
Master Critic Review
Potholder Cafe
7.9
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
No-frills neighborhood diner serving massive portions of American and Mexican breakfast classics in a homey, vintage atmosphere. Famous for the 18-inch "Mac Daddy Frankie" pancake challenge and hearty scrambles that draw weekend crowds willing to wait.
Must-Try Dishes:
18-Inch Pancake, Chilaquiles, Turbo Scramble
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Giant pancake challenge and generous portions at budget-friendly prices
Who should go: Breakfast lovers and families seeking hearty, affordable morning meals
When to visit: Weekday mornings avoid long weekend waits, closes early afternoon
What to order: Chilaquiles, carne asada scramble, banana nut pancakes
Insider tip: Finish the 18-inch pancake to win a t-shirt
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on 2nd Street and surrounding residential streets, typically easy to find even on weekends
Dress code: Come as you are - casual neighborhood spot where gym clothes and pajamas are both acceptable
Noise level: Lively diner buzz - expect clattering plates and conversation hum, but you can still chat comfortably
Weekend wait: Closed - only serves breakfast and lunch until 2pm
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, typically seated within 5-10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie omelets, pancakes, and egg scrambles with plenty of cheese and veggie options
Vegan options: Limited - can do pancakes without eggs/milk upon request, hash browns, and some fruit sides
Gluten-free options: No - this is pancake and toast territory with no dedicated GF options or prep
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're both breakfast people who value substance over ambiance - it's a no-frills diner booth situation, not romantic, but the massive portions make for fun conversation starters
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's walk-in only. Expect 20-45 minute waits on weekend mornings (peak is 9-11am), but weekdays you'll usually get seated immediately
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - high chairs available, crayons provided, and the massive pancakes are a hit with kids. The casual vibe means no one cares if your toddler makes a mess
How long does it take to eat here? Plan for 45-60 minutes total - service is friendly but not rushed, and the portions are big enough that you'll need time to make a dent
Can I actually finish that 18-inch pancake? Most can't - it's genuinely massive and very filling. Come hungry and skip breakfast the day before if you're attempting the challenge. Sharing is allowed if you're not going for the t-shirt
Best For
Better for: Massive portions at tiny prices - you'll leave stuffed for under $15. Best for no-nonsense breakfast lovers who care more about the food on their plate than Instagram-worthy presentation. The neighborhood diner vibe is authentic and unpretentious
Skip if: You want trendy brunch ambiance, need healthy/light options, require gluten-free accommodations, or prefer craft coffee - this is old-school diner coffee and hearty comfort food only. Also skip if you're impatient on weekends