By Mandy Boyle
Advertising Sales Manager/Entertainment Editor
When it comes to finding places that are like special gems, look to Ernest Hemmingway for some inspiration. In his short story, “A Clean Well Lighted Place,” Hemmingway describes a small café that shone in a seemingly dark world. While Scranton may not be able to procure such a poetic interpretation of Hemmingway’s café, it does come close.
The Corner Café, located on the corner of Boulevard Ave. and Electric St. in the Greenridge section of Scranton, is one of my favorite “clean, well-lighted” places in the region. On the outside, it may not look like much, but on the inside, it’s a gem that’s open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM weekly.
The owners know me quite well, as I’ve become a weekend regular.
My order: their yummy French toast with bacon and a side of their hash brown casserole. The casserole, dear readers, is worth its weight in breakfasts. The last time I was in, I asked my server what was in the hash brown casserole to make it so delicious. It turns out, cream of chicken soup gives the casserole its deliciously savory flavor without being too overpowering. I highly recommend trying some the next time you’re looking for a good bite.
As for the atmosphere, it’s simply charming. Well-lit and often spotless, the dining area is small, but not uncomfortably so. Tables set for two and four line the long, rectangular space. The staff is friendly, the food comes out quick and you can always find the paper nearby if you’re looking for something to read. The menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner are extensive and feature many favorite comfort foods including pizza, ice cream, meatloaf and Texas wieners. Their daily specials are also great for those looking for an easily takeout solution (call 570-347-5555 for more info). Not to mention, all of their dishes are incredibly affordable.
So if you’re looking for a cozy place to grab some breakfast the next time you’re in Greenridge, I’d highly recommend making a stop at a clean, well lit café where you may find me sitting at a table nearby, chatting with a friend and enjoying some hash brown casserole.