With signs above of past businesses and tucked between a woman’s strengthening gym and a spa, one could easily and tragically miss a window sign reading, Meander’s Kitchen. Seating roughly 20-25, Meanders Kitchen’s looks like a typical hole-in-the-wall diner, however the food they serve is anything but. Cherry and I came on a Saturday afternoon and immediately saw a packed house with already two parties waiting ahead and two more parties arriving after us – further confirming we made the right choice. After about a 30-minute wait, we were seated at the best spot in the house – the counter. When we were done giving our order, we were able to watch the woman behind the grill do her thing. I was able to deduce that this woman’s name is Miranda and I’m assuming she is also the owner. Watching this half-woman, half-machine work was like poetry in motion. I have never worked in a kitchen, but that’s not to say I don’t know how busy, stressful and hectic it can get. The pace, efficiency and grace at which she maintained was something to be admired. I jokingly asked, “When do you come up for air?!” She laughed and said, “Every couple of hours… but there’s a lot of teamwork behind the scenes that make this possible.” Nevertheless, I have a new profound respect and appreciation for those working in the kitchen.
The Food:
kimber’s corned beef hash $10.75
new york style corned beef, onion & potato hash, two eggs any style, biscuit & sausage gravy (because arteries are for sissies)
Plentifully added and sautéed with the hashbrowns, the corned beef brought a rich and savory flavor that shined brightly, but was balanced enough to not overpower the rest of the plate. They used a special seasoning here for the hasbrowns, and if my taste buds serve me right, it is a mix of salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and cumin. Needless to say, the hashbrowns are definitely bringing some big flavors. I ordered my eggs over easy, but you can order any style. They were cooked well and biscuit was generously sized but served at room temperature – I would have liked to have had it warmed. I always love making my own “breakfast sandwich” and scooped some corned beef hash, and eggs between my sliced biscuit – heavenly!
triple decker ham, turkey, swiss & cheddar sandwich dunked in bourbon vanilla French toast batter & grilled, marionberry jam & hashbrowns
Cherry always enjoys a well made sandwich, but she stepped outside her box in ordering a sandwich dipped in French toast batter and grilled. This creation is another marrying of sweet and savory flavors, which really work! You can really taste the vanilla in the batter and there is a nice subtle undertone of the bourbon as well. The swiss and cheddar cheese were perfectly melted between layers of meat and thick cut bread. The hashbrowns are seasoned and cooked with the same special seasoning I listed earlier and really add good depth to the dish. Meander’s Kitchen definitely has a creatively successful creation in this.
My Conclusion
I really enjoy the ability to watch your food being prepared, it really adds a genuine dining experience. Furthermore, watching teamwork and camaraderie in Meander’s Kitchen, is also truly wonderful. It doesn’t hurt that all the staff are equally spunky and rad! The only unfortunate part of my meal was becoming too stuffed to try their belgian style waffles! Their waffle menu alone is a testament of what unique creations you can find here! Two things to note, that the food does take a little while to get served – mainly because there in only one cook putting the plates out (while the team helps put the finishing touches on each plate and re-supplies the ingredients.) Credit and debit cards are also not accepted, so bring cash. While finishing up my meal and, I had an epiphany… I need to create a new category for my Toppings, best breakfast spots! I am officially placing Meander’s Kitchen as my #2 Top Spot for Breakfasts and deservingly so! The portions are huge and the oil is in abundance, so if reading this blog is making you crave some greasy but delicious breakfast foods, then come through and dig in!
so what is the address?
Hi Dianne,
6032 California Ave SW
Seattle, Wa 98136
I have known Miranda for over 20 years now and I can tell you with no hesitation that every meal she serves comes from a deep love. Love of what she is doing with her restaurant, love for life, and love for people in general. I am really very proud of what she is doing in that kitchen and it makes me smile every time I see a review like this from someone that gets to experience that love first hand 🙂
Thank you Bizket for your awesome words and insight! I could definitely tell that she loves what she does and she’s awesome at it! You can’t hide passion 😉