Bay Area Breakfasts

     It's hard to find time to enjoy a nice sit-down breakfast in the Bay Area, especially when the commute eats away hours from your day.  But when the opportunity arrives, you want to do it right. That's why I strongly recommend the Buttercup Grill at Jack London Square in Oakland and Ole's Waffle Shop on Park Street in Alameda.
     I go to Buttercup Grill solely for the eggs benedict.  These babies are always cooked to perfection here.  The hollandaise sauce is always the right texture and has the right buttery richness.  I've never seen more consistency and quality of service on such a difficult dish.  You can get all your other favorite breakfast items here as well, and the staff is very friendly.  If you, like me, are an eggs benedict fan and live in the Bay Area, you know that most restaurants only offer this dish on certain days and at certain times.  But at Buttercup Grill, you can get this heavenly creation daily. And Buttercup is open from 6 am to 11 pm, so you can squeeze them into your tight schedule.  Check out their website for menus and tantalizing photos, but don't do it hungry: http://buttercupgrillandbar.com/.
     If you're more of a sweet breakfast fan, then you can't find a better place than Ole's.  Ole's makes the best waffles in the whole Bay Area.  I know it's cliché, but these suckers literally melt in your mouth.  They're buttery and hearty and will leave you full and satisfied.  I usually get the pecan waffle.  The combination of nuts, maple syrup, and waffle create a level of rich perfection that borders on celestial.  You can also get fresh-squeezed orange juice and giant, juicy slabs of bacon.  Ole's is THE place to have breakfast in Alameda, so get there as early as you can, and be prepared to wait in line outside to get a table.  But trust me, this is but a small price to pay for the bliss you'll experience.  Ole's opens at 5:30 am Monday through Friday and 6 am on Saturday and Sunday, so they also accommodate a busy schedule. Just remember that you'll probably have a longer wait time.
     If you choose to enjoy either of these restaurants, don't forget to show your appreciation for your perfect breakfast by leaving a big tip for the waiter/waitress.  It's always important to pass on positive tummy vibes, for as you give, so shall you receive.

Just take it in.