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I pulled into Longview, Washington late in the afternoon, as it's a 620-mile drive from my place to Longview.  I already knew that I was going to enjoy a Mexican dinner at nearby El Ranchero Restaurant, but I had no idea of what was going to happen for breakfast the next morning.  This was my first visit to Longview, so I simply asked the friendly desk clerk at the motel where was a good, non-chain, nearby breakfast diner in the general area.  Without hesitation, he recommended Pancake House, located a short three blocks from my motel.

As with all of reviews that I publish, I have no affiliation with the restaurant reviewed, and there is no monetary gain on my part, as I am simply a person who likes to eat, and I love to write-up, and publish my dining experiences.

Photo:  It's just before 7 in the morning, on an overcast Thursday morning, August 17, 2017, and I'm ready to enjoy breakfast at Pancake House, as recommended by the desk clerk at the nearby motel where I was staying.  I suppose it's normal for the morning to start out overcast, as Longview is a inland seaport, located on the Columbia River, that ocean-going ships call on, to mostly take on lumber and forest products.

Photo:  As you walk in the front door, you're greeted by a friendly hostess, and a sign hat reads, "Welcome to Chaos," which seems to describe this busy early Thursday morning.  I noted today's staff consisted of two hostesses, two chefs and one other person, who seemed to be mostly bussing tables.  The restaurant decor is quite unique, as it's decorated with lots of crazy signs, which give it character.

Photo:  The decor is definitely "old school" diner, complete with crazy decorations and a good-size counter.  I love the Christmas lights!  I sat at the counter, at the end, and noted my seat had a bit of "sag" in it, and I also noticed the floor isn't completely level in places.  I love it, as all of that just adds to the "uniqueness" of this fine restaurant!

Photo:  A portion of the breakfast menu, which offers something for every taste.  The menu definitely caters to the taste of the Longview locals.  Unlike in California, I didn't see anything on the menu that even remotely spoke Spanish, but that's okay with me, as I love everything when it comes to breakfast.  Pancake House is open for breakfast and lunch only, and breakfast is available any time the restaurant is open.  I adore a restaurant that's serious about breakfast.

Photo:  Another view of the counter, and the dining room.  I noted that all of the customers seemed to be locals, and mostly blue collar longshoremen, loggers or truck drivers, as Longview, Washington is a "blue collar" town.  At a little past seven on this Thursday morning, the restaurant was very busy.  Pancake House is "the" breakfast in Longview.

Photo:  Meet Cheyenne, my friendly server who delivered my breakfast to me with a smile.  This fine diner must use plenty of eggs every morning, as note the two flats that are on-deck, ready to be used.

Photo:  Thanks, Cheyenne, for taking my photo, as I prepare to enjoy my "Traditional" breakfast.

Photo:  I was still full from the amazing Mexican dinner I enjoyed the evening before, so I went a little on the "light" side, and ordered the "Traditional Breakfast," with ice water to drink.  The "Traditional" includes two eggs, cooked to order, hash brown potatoes, and two pieces of toast.  This is my "de facto" standard breakfast, and I wasn't disappointed, as it was cooked perfectly, and was delicious in every way.

Pancake House serves a delicious breakfast that definitely caters to the taste of the Longview locals.  The service is fast, friendly, and the prices are right. I absolutely love the Longview one-of-a-kind "folksy" atmosphere.  When you're in downtown Longview, Washington and you're looking for a great breakfast, pay a visit to Pancake House.

Pancake House
1425 California Way
Longview, WA 98632
360 577-9966


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