Gertrude’s (2625 West Colorado Avenue)

After driving over to Old Colorado City in the light snow storm Saturday morning, through the fat, fluffy flakes, we were looking forward to a cozy breakfast at Gertrude’s, one of this area’s premier restaurants.

And, since it was before most businesses on Old Colorado Avenue open and there was plenty of parking, we snagged a spot practically in front of the place and dashed through the wet snow, not stopping to peruse the menu posted outside, European style.

We hadn’t been to Gertrude’s in years and then only for dinner. It’s a small place, probably about 15 tables and booths. Lots of local artwork on the walls, all for sale. When we were there before, part of the décor was also some holiday greenery and without it, the place is a bit stark. Not bad – just a bit stark, even with the artwork on the walls.

But – I’ll eat in a barn if the food is good – so we got a couple of tables for our group and ordered coffee and tea. Just about then, Mike noticed the breakfast menu featured mimosas and Bloody Marys. So, when we got our hot drinks, we ordered Bloody Marys. Our Bloody Marys were really good Bloody Marys.  Spicy and peppery, not too weak or watery – yes – you guessed it –I sucked mine down and ordered a second one!

About this time, our breakfast companions showed up and between the lively and varied discussions going around the table, we managed to order breakfast.

For breakfast, Mike got the breakfast platter with Italian capicola ham. He said it was excellent – and everything was fixed exceptionally well – except the potato pancakes were kind of blah.  Not much going on there.

I had the Eggs Gertrude (their version of vegetarian eggs Benedict) with a side of bacon.  (I know, vegetarian dish with a side of bacon – hey – I’m a carnivore!)  Anyway, Eggs Gertrude has the normal eggs, muffin, and hollandaise sauce, but they add avocado and grilled tomatoes. I probably should have asked for no tomatoes – although they were good – just not my thing. The hollandaise sauce was excellent – creamy, smooth, tasty.  (I’m one who thinks that there are a couple definitive restaurant gauges and the sauces - hollandaise and Béarnaise – are definitely a couple of those gauges.)  And the eggs were poached perfectly – beautiful yellows, solid but soft whites – yum.  If you like eggs Benedict - try the Eggs Gertrude – you won’t be disappointed.

One of our group did have the steak and eggs and proclaimed it excellent – although he had the same comment about the potato pancakes – good, but not remarkable.

Service at Gertrude’s was first-rate – it appeared they just had one waiter working and he was hustling and bustling – but we had no complaints.  And, Gertrude’s must have a following - they had a lot of business in for breakfast that Saturday – regardless of the weather.  When Mike and I first got there, there were only two tables occupied, but when we left – the place was just about full up.

And – for you ladies – check out the ladies room at Gertrude’s.  Vera and I didn’t know quite what to think of it – a “buddy bathroom” perhaps? 

So – in conclusion – Gertrude’s is on the Do Again list …and as good as breakfast was – I would expect lunch and dinner to be just as good.  I'll have to find an excuse for another meal there - other than breakfast ... wait - do I really need an excuse?  Nah - I haven't needed excuses to eat out so far!