Summer Kitchen Cafe — Restaurant in Omaha

Yeah, I'm going to have to ruffle a few feathers here. I do NOT agree with the "coffee shop first, restaurant second" business model. My family and I decided to visit this location due to being able to meet for brunch halfway between Elkhorn and Papillion. Usually we just go to the La Vista location off I-80. There were about ten of us, and we had to combine four smaller tables and take up approximately half the dining space. Our family "ordering representatives" then proceeded to wait in line while hastily scanning the wall menu and placing our individual orders. There was some yelling back and forth as we confirmed such details as egg styles and toast options with the "seat saving and childcare representatives." Apparently tips were appreciated due to the large jar at the counter. Whatevs, restaurant service is tough, and it's Christmastime. We were then given the privilege of obtaining our drinks and silverware. Everyone's orders came out at different times, which made for many awkward, "no, just eat, I'm sure our food will be here soon" exchanges. The food was of consistent quality with other locations, which is large portions and generally tasty. When we were finished eating, we looked around for trash receptacles because nobody was sure if there was bussing service. Someone in our party inquired about to go boxes and was directed back to the silverware location. While I'm sure this business model suits the more modern and convenience-oriented jet set, it's not a good location if you want a family-style brunch outing. But hey, at least no one had to...

I remember as a kid after church going to summer kitchen and having a great brunch with the pastor from our church. We were dressed up, looking nice and about to have a great meal at a nice but not fancy restaurant. Now this place is a freaking fast did restaurant with a drive thru all they can sell coffee. What the dang heck is going on here?? I remember having to wait close to an hour to get a seat because the food was so good, now you order and pay for your food before you even know if you've got a table. Feel free to get your own beverage while you're looking for a table or sitting by the door waiting for it to come out because there are only about a dozen small tables in this tiny corner of a restaurant. But the food, that's why people really go here isn't it?? To sit and talk about the week and things to come?? Well I hope that conversation is really good and can distract you from the food because it's become bland and lost most of it's great flavor. What the heck happened?? This was the best biscuits and gravy in town, now I'm willing to bet me l my sister who doesn't even know how to cook could make something better. This place has gone down hill, and they're going to keep going down until they turn it around and get back to their roots. Please change what you're doing Summer Kitchen, I want your...

It was a bit of a learning curve. They told us we could find our own table where we sat with menus til everyone decided. Ordering is at the counter so I went up with the whole fams specifics...

My husband went with the 3 Eggs (over easy), Hashbrowns, and Toast meal add Bacon. Perfect eggs, crispy bacon, crispy hashbrowns, only compliments to be had. I am on a French Toast kick and the Sampler was calling my name! One slice each of Authentic, Raisin, and Cinnamon. Although each was amazing in their own right the Cinnamon bread was easily the highlight for me. Ridiculous. The 2 scrambled eggs add on was very generous, or they are hiding industrial sized chickens in the back... Sooooo fluffy and yummy.

Kids wanted one of everything. Little one got the Cowpoke which included 2 mini Pancakes, Scrambled Egg, Sausage, and Bacon. He ate every bit. So Happy! My daughter chose the Ham Scram which was a bit off script for her. I'm pretty sure the inclusion of a fresh baked muffin was what swayed her. Again, generous portions and the Raspberry Muffin was delicious!

Also noted he loved his Fresh Brewed Coffee and added an Espresso Shot. If you are an Iced Tea Drinker this was definitely the "Good Tea". One of the best breakfasts we've had. All of us are more than eager...