Arleta Library Breakfast Cafe

* Date of Last Visit: January 2010

* Address: 5513 SE 72nd, Portland, Oregon
* Phone Number 503-774-4470
* Hours:  Tues to Fri 8:30 to  2:30 and weekends 9am to 3pm

* Comments of Decor -- funky Portland, small space, not many tables, only a small amount of room inside to wait, and we had to wait on a Wednesday morning at 10am, so we would guess waiting may be common, have some nice fresh baked goods to take-out

* The Food Was -- mixed, if you like strong coffee you'll be happy here. We thought it was super (it is made with a French Press) but it did have grounds in the bottom of the cup.  If you prefer a medium roast you might not be so happy.  The Florentine Scramble (a 3-egg scramble with spicy greens, basil, ricotta, parmesan, and breadcrumbs; served with Library Fries and toast -- which is pictured here, in a half portion: We generally split dishes, so our photos are often of half servings)  was full of veggies and had just the right amount of Parmesan cheese, tasty but not overpowering.  Opinions were mixed about the potatoes--ranging from calling them "nice" to, "not my cup of tea."  They have a rather strong herb-mix-crust--and are cut large. One person in our party just does not like breakfast potatoes cut that big, another wasn't fond of the herb-mix. It was agreed they are not bad..but no one considered them exceptional. The larger disappointment was the Pane Dolce (french toast made with brioche--a full portion is pictured) --the bread was way too dry.

* You Ought to Try -- we came away with no strong recommendation--but it was certainly good enought to go back for another go-round.
* The Service Was -- pleasant
* Of special note --this restaurant does a cool thing it partners with Your Backyard Farmer--and they get fresh food, delivered daily, from local growers. They can tall you more about it, but is is a great idea, supporting local agriculture and providing the very freshest food available. Kudos to them for this.
* Will we go back? Good Chance
* Link