Goodbye Galley

Today we had breakfast for the very last time at one of our favorite places. It's called The Galley Restaurant, and after 34 years in business, it's closing its doors. Bob, the owner, is moving to Florida, for a well-deserved break. I don't think there's ever been a time we stopped in and he wasn't working behind the counter. We brought Matthew in last weekend for the first time, and when we mentioned to Bob that it was his first visit, he said "And his last....". At first, we didn't know what he meant, so we said "Nahhhh....he'll be back". As we ate our breakfast, we overheard him telling another customer about his plans to head to Florida. On the way out, we noticed a huge sign in the front window saying they'd be closing on June 30th.

It was one of those places...you know...the ones that look kinda scary from the outside.



But, oh, what a little gem. Those who saw past the outdated exterior (and interior, for that matter) were treated to a great meal, cooked fresh to order while you watched, without dropping too many pennies. You would grab a tray, cafeteria style, and slide it on down to place your order with the cook (usually Bob). Two #8's for us - two eggs (over medium), corned beef hash, toast, homefries, and tea (which you fixed for yourself as you moved down the line). Sometimes, like today, we'd add a homemade muffin - really more like a mini loaf of bread - which Bob would split in half lengthwise, butter, and slap on the grill. You'd grab some silverware, napkins off the roll, and a squeeze bottle of ketchup. You'd be handed your plates, and slide on down to the register to pay.

More often than not, Bob would be a one man show - cooking, making coffee, restocking supplies from the fridge, getting fountain drinks, and cashing you out - all the while getting caught up on how you've been and who you've seen since the last time you were in. Amazing he's lasted 34 years - he works his tail off.

Goodbye, Bob, and best of luck to you. We'll miss you and The Galley.

And now, we begin our search for a new old breakfast spot....