Breakfast Out! The Water Street Cafe

    Breakfast is a meal best done out.  Why, I don't know, but it is.  When I'm looking local and need a place to be for Sunday morning munchies, I'm eating at the Water Street Cafe in Geneva.  Located downtown, this Geneva institution has been up and running for almost twenty years, feeding everyone from college students and early morning fishermen, to guys like me.
    Inside, the cafe looks like it has for quite some time.  Although it got a new paint job last winter, and new windows this summer, the faux wood-grain service area, long row of counter stools and black vinyl booths give hungry breakfast goers that classic diner appeal, without being over-hyped.  In truth, the slightly worn tables, well loved mugs and cafeteria-style milk dispenser make the whole place feel comfortable, if not homey. 
   
    The menu is decidedly diner, with no real modern or upscale pretense.  The egg combos and other breakfast plates are unapologetic in both appearance and price.  On the other hand, the dishes are tasty, fresh and served up quickly by a waitstaff that thoroughly knows their business.  The menu is worth checking out on your first few visits, but truthfully, the special board up front and gut instict will get you a lot farther than reading through all the side orders possible.
    For my own part, a double order of their fresh baked Sourdough Toast is almost always part of my meal.  Although the owner, Anne, will tell you that I'm a sucker for the Pumpkin Pancakes and will order them whenever they're available (typically only in the fall).  They also offer a "homemade" sausage patty that has a sweet-spicy flavor which can be addictive.  For you french toast freaks out there, try the California French Toast, thick cut cinnamon raisin bread, egged and fried on the flat top, then dusted with powdered sugar.  For really classic diner eats, get the bowl of oatmeal with all the fixins'. 
   
    The Water Street is really what every town needs if it doesn't have it already.  A small place, run by folks that know you by name, of not by order (though it's better if they know both without asking.)  A place that you can go on your wedding day with friends, or in your jammies on a snow day, without fear that people will think less of you, because they won't.  Remember, most often, they're there for the same reasons you are.   

Thanks for reading...now go eat!

-E

Brass Tacks:  Whatever's in your wallet.
Address:  467 Exchange St., Geneva N.Y.
Parking:  Free on-street parking, but there's a parking lot around the corner if you get skunked on the street.
Website:  Sadly, none.