The Original Pantry Cafe, Los Angeles

A few weekends ago, I took my youngest son to see the Space Shuttle Endeavour make its way through the streets of Los Angeles. Before we headed home, we stopped for a late lunch at a Los Angeles landmark – The Original Pantry Cafe.

My dad used to take our family to The Pantry when I was a kid, and even though I haven’t eaten here in probably over 30 years, I still remember the ham and potatoes.  For my first trip back, I ordered a ham and cheese omelette. The ham was the star… big hunks of ham. Next time I’ll order the traditional ham steak and eggs to go along with the mound of awesome potatoes and enormous sourdough toast.

My son chose the French Toast and a cup of hot chocolate, and he was a happy boy. He wants to go back. Notice the pats of butter in the background. No whipped butter here.

The Pantry is a local landmark that has been around since 1924. It has been in its present location since 1950. If you decide to give this place a try, here are a couple of tips:

• Be prepared for a line if you go during peak hours.
• Be prepared to pay for parking.
• Bring cash. The Pantry has a cash only policy.
• Order the potatoes.

I will close with a quote from the Pantry’s website:

SINCE 1924
NEVER CLOSED
NEVER WITHOUT A CUSTOMER
THE ORIGINAL PANTRY… 24-7

The Original Pantry Cafe
877 South Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA
www.pantrycafe.com