I’ve driven by Joe’s Pancake House countless times without really taking much notice of it. I mean, with a name that nondescript, it doesn’t really jump out at you. But each time I went by, something whispered to me. So recently, I decided it was time to check it out.
The building itself is about as generic as you can get — both inside and outside. [Editor’s note: Joe’s Pancake House has moved locations since this was written.] But it was fairly busy on a Saturday afternoon, so clearly there’s more to a restaurant. My sister and I got there right around noon, and it was busy, but we didn’t have to wait to be seated. Our server was quick to come to the table, and very attentive throughout our visit. My coffee cup was never empty, which is always a key measure of a diner.
I was hungry and indecisive, so I ordered quite a spread. I got a half order of biscuits and gravy, along with the country fried steak, which came with eggs, toast, and hash browns. The first thing I said when my food arrived was “that’s a legitimate amount of gravy.” And it was. I take biscuits and gravy seriously, and an unhealthy amount of gravy is critical. I was not disappointed here. The gravy, apart from being voluminous, was delicious. The sausage had just the right amount of spice. My only complaint was that the biscuits — fluffy as they were — were a little on the salty side.
The country fried steak had the same gravy atop it, and a lot of it. The steak had a good breading and was perfectly fried. The eggs were good and runny (I ordered them over easy). The hash browns were made of potatoes. They were a little bland, I suppose, but mixing them with some gravy and egg yolk made them a delight anyway.
My sister ordered French toast with banana topping, eggs, and sausage. The syrup was brought to the table warm, which is always a bonus. The French toast itself was pretty average. The scrambled eggs were light, and the sausage juicy and flavorful.
Lafayette is not hurting for places to get a hearty breakfast, but Joe’s Pancake House holds its own. If you’re cruising down Sagamore ParkwayEarl Avenue and feeling hungry, it’s a good place to stop.
Kid friendly: yes
Location: 11 N Earl Ave (map it)
Phone: (765) 447-5416
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