Jimmy Bean's

Jimmy Bean's, surprisingly exudes a cool and calm atmosphere but is in reality a busy breakfast and lunch spot everyday of the week. Recently this cafe, part of the Lalime family of restaurants, expanded into dinner service to keep up with its customer demand. A true Berkeley establishment by every standard, Jimmy Bean's buys from our local community of purveyors, shuns the the super store and offers special seasonal selections every night for dinner.

But, as this blog is for brunch, I digress. Jimmy Bean's has long been a favorite spot of mine to enjoy a short stack of silver dollar pancakes while working away and taking advantage of the cafes free two hours of wi-fi or getting together with friends before a hike to fuel up on fluffy omelets and scrambles served alongside a crispy serving of potatoes, choice of toast and their signature three sauces of parsley pesto, pico de gallo and a chipotle cream sauce.

Today I decided to divert from my usual herb and goat cheese scramble and try something new. While I cruised the menu looking at the options I had looked at many times before, the waffle with a side of fruit was the clear winner. When my breakfast was delivered, it was a good to look at as it tasted. With a crisp, golden exterior dusted lightly with powdered sugar and a moist chewy interior, I added a little butter and syrup and was in brunch heaven. I also had a side of bacon. The perfectly crisp salty bacon was a nice contrast to the sweet waffle. My breakfast buddy as her husband calls her had a bacon and cheese omelet that looked equally as appealing and I may try next time. Coffee of course was the beverage of choice and with unlimited refills you just can't go wrong.

Next time your in the area check out Jimmy Bean's and I promise you won't be disappointed.

Bonus: There are many pluses when visiting this great Berkeley cafe. A great service staff, breakfast served all day, kid friendly, outdoor seating (bring the pooch) and plenty of street parking for all.

1290 6th Street

(btwn Gilman & Harrison)
Berkeley, CA
www.jimmybeans.com