Pete's Eggnest

The last time I came here my fiance and I had just parted ways the day before, so I wasn't quite in a position to admire the food.  I tell you that, though, because Pete's Eggnest felt like a safe place to go when I was vulnerable and weepy.  I sat at their counter that day and read the newspaper, and no one bothered me.  I guess I think they're decent readers of body-language, because that's what I wanted. 

You should also know that I haven't been there in at least ten months.  I cycle around the diners, but that doesn't mean I don't know their value to me.

Pete's Eggnest is one of the homier diners I  frequent, and that can be good or bad, depending on if you want a friendly familiar face serving you or not.  Sometimes I'm grumpy in the morning and don't want to have to be friendly back; so it goes.  Great crowded family atmosphere, full of chattering families and hung-over friends craving grease, all in one room with steamed picture windows and a view through to the kitchen.  Customers here really do seem to be living it up and enjoying the day.

Pete's is much more a treasured neighborhood "hole-in-the-wall diner" than it is a "fine eating establishment," so you need to keep this in mind if you decide to try it out.

• Address: 7717 Greenwood Ave N (Greenwood/Phinney neighborhood)
• Parking: on the street only.  That said, I've never had to park more than a block away.
• Cost: quite reasonable.  In fact, because of the size of the portions, you could say this place is pretty cheap.  If I eat here, I can stretch my leftovers for at least another two meals.
• Quality: good, basic.  If you like Corner Diner food, you may figure they kick butt and you should definitely come here.  If you want organic, market-fresh ingredients, gourmet cookery, low fat, and special diet options, I'm not as sure it's for you.
• Wait: so-so.  They're often packed, and you generally have to wait outside.  There isn't really any shelter, so if it's windy, cold or rainy, I do a drive-by before deciding whether the line's short enough to commit to parking.  Once you're seated, though, they're quick!
• Coffee (since this is Seattle): don't remember if they do anything fancy, but their drip coffee is fine and they keep it full.
• Menu/Variety: mostly breakfasty.  They're not asking for much creativity on your part, but they're pretty creative themselves.  Lots of options, daily specials, and if you like Greek food you'll be extra pleased.
• Extras: They ask how you want your bacon (extra crispy, thank you).  I think they keep refrigerator jam at the tables, which my sister loves.  The atmosphere is bustling, neighborly, friendly, and the restaurant is family-run.  It's kind of tight space for if your kids are overly energetic, but other than that I'd say they're perfectly family-friendly.
• Payment: I believe they'll take credit cards, checks or cash.
• Website: didn't find one.