I’ve often made a mental note when traveling Mt. Hermon Road to stop at Auntie Mame’s. I’m sorry it took me so long.
It’s bright inside this corner storefront in an aging retail building, where a long, shiny wooden lunch counter was immaculate. The walls held historic photographs, one of which sparked memories of reindeer-drawn sleigh rides at Santa’s Village amusement park.
You’ll find all of your morning favorites on the extensive breakfast menu, which is served all day. Creative specials were listed on the white board, which included Huevos Potatoes ($7.50); home fries layered with eggs, cheese, salsa and green onions.
At 11 a.m., the lunch menu kicks in. Entrées are available, along with cold sandwiches ($6.95 to $9.25) and grilled sandwiches ($6.25 to $9.25), served with your choice of bread and cheese. Choose also from numerous sides, including potato salad, fruit salad, and cottage cheese.
The large, juicy, oblong hamburger with bacon ($7.95) fit perfectly inside a toasted French roll. It was accompanied by the soup of the day, Chicken Tortilla. With chicken, onion, vegetables and bits of cilantro, then topped with crisp fried strips of corn tortilla, the spicy soup tasted like a luscious liquid taco.
I was surprised to find numerous halibut dishes on the menu. The Halibut Melt ($9.25) was wonderfully unique. The sourdough bread was nicely toasted on the outside, not greasily fried. Inside, strips of flaky grilled white fish were mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, and held together with melted Swiss cheese.
The bright green salad with tomatoes, finely grated cheese and strips of carrot was served with a side of creamy blue cheese dressing. | KP
Auntie Mame’s, 3103 Scotts Valley Dr., Scotts Valley, 438-1840. Beer and wine. Serving breakfast and lunch daily 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
