| 17 july 2002 | where everybody knows my name and what i want for lunch
Alright, so as I depart Winston-Salem as a full-time resident (but frequent visitor), I must tip my hat to Mary. For a couple of years now, she and the crew at Mary's...of Course Cafe have made me about the happiest lunch nosher in North Carolina. I sure am going to miss seeing them each week, yes siree. Mary Haglund loves to cook. In fact, it's her motto: "the woman loves to cook!" Lucky for us she's also really good at it. Even luckier for me, because she has created a simultaneously delicious and healthful menu. From Mary's big ol' green salad, to the tempeh reuben, to the decadent homemade grilled pimiento cheese sandwich; this a lunch date that won't break your budget or your diet. Since opening her cafe' in place of one that had closed a few years ago, Mary and her staff not only feed us well, but also create a nice place to hang out. Everyone remembers my name and the sort of food that I like. I always leave with a full belly and extra iced tea. On occasion, I'll spring for one of her decadent desserts. For example, last time I had lunch there, my jo snagged some homemade peach pie, a la mode. I was pretty full, but helped out by taking a few bites. Because I'm helpful that way. If you're in Winston-Salem and you're a vegetarian (or simply someone who wants to eat homemade and healthful), Mary's has something for you. My friend Linda enjoys the curried chicken over rice, Rich has the ham and cheese every time he walks in the door, Robert likes the roast beef and the pimiento cheese, and my favorite is the tempeh reuben sandwich. Mary also features daily specials, such as decadent, creamy pasta dishes (salmon with capers, anyone?) and quiches that look darn good, too. If you're not super-hungry or just snacking, try one of her fabulous soups--there's usually a vegetarian and a meat-based one--and a half sandwich or salad. Dee-lish. Stay in downtown Winston for a few days, and you'll inevitably smell Saturday and Sunday brunch. Breakfast burrito made with sausage or tofu? Locally-ground cheese grits that make my toes wiggle? Mary's brunch is the deal, baby! Gather with friends in the lively, colorful cafe' and start your weekend off right. While you're there, peruse a different artist's works on the walls each month. Most of the art is usually for sale at reasonable prices, and is often the sort of cheery stuff that should adorn a corner of everyone's home. Added to Mary's kitschy collection of Elvis memorabilia, Tammy Faye records, and Pee Wee Herman doo-dads, it creates a most fun atmosphere. There is no reason not to eat at Mary's. It's close to I-40, budget-friendly, and locally owned and operated. Save yourself another tedious chain restaurant experience where the service is annoying, and the food mediocre. Mary's...of Course is way better. If I'm there, order some dessert. I'll be friendly and help you eat it. Mary's of Course Cafe |
