Mitchell's

We stopped in here on a road trip in the middle of a storm. It's a small, unassuming place. Everyone enjoyed breakfast. Large portion sizes. Pancakes smelled amazing. They accommodated my allergies, though they don't have separate cooktops or toasters for gluten-free. I got the house special, shredded potato with onion pepper and ham, no cheese. And oatmeal, which is dairy-free. Excellent service. Food came out fast and hot.

Very friendly staff. I go there 20 to 25 minutes before closing, not planned, and expected to hear the grill was off and the soup was gone. Neither happened. I tried a cup of gluten free Cream of Broccoli soup and 2 eggs scrambled with one slice of cheddar cheese and a slice of bacon and extra crispy spuds. Lately I've been craving a crispy piece of bacon with my eggs and it wasn't greasy. It was just right. I wasn't the only late comer to the party. Someone else came in for some cran-apple pancakes, as another for half a grilled ham and cheese. Then I think at least three others as well if not more. I wasn't there to review and observe. But here I am, because unlike the last place I went they didn't turn anyone away or tell them the grill was off. They also offer gluten free bread, rolls, and pancakes for people like me for whom gluten-free is not a choice, it's a life saving necessity. I have been eating at Mitchell's on the Silas Deane off and on since 1988. It's always been reliably good food and friendly people. Now with additional locations in Vernon and Cromwell, and maybe Ferry Park in the warm weather? I must find out more about Ferry Park and report back.