Stellar Stella's

On the corner of Broadway and Barry Streets in the laidback haven that is Lakeview sits a cozy diner called Stella. Well, the full name is Stella's Diner (3042 N. Broadway St.). Stella's serves delicious meals from an all-American menu that can either be eaten as a sit-down, relaxed meal or in-between a study session or lunch break.

Breakfast is served all day (Stella's is open 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. seven days a week) which is my favorite part of the menu at diners. When I ordered the chocolate chip pancakes (3 big ones for $6.25), my server--an enthusiastic, young woman named Anna--asked if I wanted whipped cream and powdered sugar on top. It's like she read my mind. And, boy, those pancakes hit the spot. I usually don't like eating 'til I'm stuffed and a food coma immediately follows, but I did not mind finishing the plate. They also have stuffed French toast, Belgian waffles, and omelets to round off the breakfast menu.

Lunch and dinner includes classics such as hearty burgers, turkey dinners, skillets, and much more. There are even salads for those who would rather not overindulge but would still like to join friends at the diner for lunch.

On a clear, nice day, you can also eat outside on the sidewalk patio, which is perfect for couples or a small group of friends (four seems like the right amount of people for brunch).

Even though it's a diner, the food is not too greasy. It's almost seems like a home-cooked meal, which is a godsend for those who don't live at home or don't have time to cook. And who can say no to a home-cooked meal?