OC - New breakfast spot - Kaye's Kitchen

[Joani Macaroni]

Today was the "official" Grand Opening of Kaye's Kitchen at 12939 "Historic" Main Street, Garden Grove. They opened (actually, re-opened) in the spot that was previously "Main Street Cafe" - which had been Tony's (1953), re-named Kaye's Kitchen, sold in 2004, now back in the family and re-opened again as Kaye's Kitchen. We're glad they're back!

We arrived about 8:00 a.m. (parking was easy) to find a nice crowd of friendly locals enjoying breakfast in a fresh retro to the 50's decor. Red vinyl booths, white plates with a black check border and cute logo coffee cups, plus lots of friendly service staff made for an enjoyable welcome. Service was quick and food tasty, but budget-friendly. (Note: they accept cash only).

I enjoyed a corned beef hash and eggs breakfast which came with hash browns or house fries. I chose the fries (forgot their term, may have been cottage fries) which were thin and crispy slices of fried potato with lots of fresh grilled peppers and onions over the top. Yummers! The hash was quite tasty too. The waitress made a friendly mention that the fresh green salsa provided was homemade. It was good and fairly mild, which was just right for me.

Hubby had the bacon & cheese omlette, with hash browns, which he enjoyed. (Both meals came with toast). Although the portions weren't over-sized, we were both well-filled. The one-page breakfast menu covered the basics. Not a lot of variety yet (didn't see or hear of any "specials" offered, perhaps that may come later) but everything was tasty and fresh.

After breakfast we took a brisk walk around the brick cobbled Main Street, which is perking up in occupants, probably due to the Fullerton college annex building down the street. Garden Grove has a potential gem in this street - with just a bit more paint and polish (and perhaps a few more pots of flowers or plants) this area has real potential. Just down the way is the Gem Theater, which has been putting on some lively plays, despite its smallish interior. There are several other chow-ish restaurants (some serve just lunch & dinner) and a great little market. This street is a great place for an after-or-pre-meal stroll and perhaps some exploration at the new and resale shops. Yet, within just moments are a Home Depot and other big box retailers, so it would be a great jump-off point for those week-end shopping chores. Kaye's is also the sponsor of the Friday Night car show.

The only small negative at Kaye's was the lack of any buffering (acoustic) material inside due to the "sleek" decor, creating a minor din of noise from lots of friendly chatter and kitchen clanging. The addition of just a little acoustic material (maybe some plants in dense baskets, etc.) or some textured material on the high walls would be perfect without compromising the "sleek" look. They were setting up patio tables outside as we arrived, and on a warmer morning we'll definitely consider that option. All in all, a very pleasant morning and one we plan to repeat, with friends in tow, soon and often!

Kaye's Kitchen: 12939 Historic Main Street, Garden Grove 714-636-6755
M-F: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sat - Sun 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(They are available after hours for private parties and events.)

[OCAnn]

Sounds yummy! How does KK's corned beef hash & eggs compare to OPH? Thank you for the review! =)

[Joani Macaroni]

Gosh, I don't know! I've never had corned beef hash at the Original Pancake House or been with anyone who did - just their fabulous pancakes!

I would say Kaye's hash is good both in quality and serving size, but not "outstanding." Certainly a fair deal for the price, and the eggs were fine - I like over-easy with hash and they were just the perfect stage of gooey for me, which might not appeal to others (so order accordingly). I'm going to have to start keeping a notebook with me. We recently had some really good "homemade" hash - strings of meat and bits of onion, very little potato, but I can't recall where. About 2 weeks later, I had some that appeared to be sliced right out of the can - round patties of mush - meh!

[OCAnn]

Thank you for the update; I like my eggs gooey too. It sounds like I should go, but whenever I'm in the vicinity of GG, the pull is to Thai Nakorn! What a dilemma....

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Thai Nakorn Restaurant
12532 Garden Grove Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92843

[Joani Macaroni]

Do they serve breakfast???? What would one eat there for breakfast? (Or do the Thais not distinguish breakfast from other meals?)

[OCAnn]

I don't believe they serve b'fast...it's just that if I'm in the area, I'm more likely to go for Thai....