Trips to Colorado nearly always are rich in cool vintage signs. One morning we had a tasty breakfast at a little mom and pop restaurant called Mo’s Diner in Manitou Springs. That’s their sign pictured above.
From this spot, I was able to grab a snapshot of the LaFun Motel sign across the street. I thought for about two seconds that I might cross the street for a better view but it was snowing and slick and there were people waiting for me to get in the car.
Still, you get the gist.
And just down the street was the Ute Trading Post sign. It’s in pretty rough shape but it’s still a fantastic example of mid century creativity.
One spot, three signs, loads of charm. I liked it.
If you ever find yourself hankering for pancakes in Manitou Springs, Colorado, I have just the place for you. It’s called Uncle Sam’s Pancake House and they know a thing or two about serving up a hot breakfast on a cold day.
Those of you who have been around for a while should already know that I believe food tastes better when enjoyed in interesting places. The outside of Uncle Sam’s has loads of charm with an a-frame design. According to a note on their menu, the building dates to the early forties when it was first a drive-in called Michaelis. It became Uncle Sam’s sometime in the sixties.
Plus, there’s an absolutely fabulous sign.
It’s even cozy on the inside with patriotic decor.
And then there’s the food. I ordered a breakfast that came with eggs, potatoes, and THREE pancakes. This was reminiscent of my inaugural Waffle House experience when I naively believed the waffles wouldn’t be that big. After all, no one gives customers value these days. Right?
Holy Toledo. Look at this. Two big plates of food. Three giant pancakes.
Friends, I am almost permanently unimpressed with restaurant food these days but find the mom and pop shops are the best way to go. Uncle Sam’s supported this theory. These pancakes were fantastic. They have a great variety of flavors including seasonal specials but I went with good old blueberry and they were wonderful.
I’m telling you. Uncle Sam’s in Manitou Springs. Go find it!
