At Only in Oregon, we don't often write about chain restaurants; we prefer to highlight small, local businesses. Today, we just can't help ourselves. While the Beaver State certainly has plenty of trendy, hip spots for breakfast and brunch, sometimes you just want tasty food in a no-fuss setting.
Here's a restaurant that got its start right here in Oregon, and now it has 29 locations across the Pacific Northwest. Don't be too quick to dismiss this chain restaurant - the specialty item on the breakfast menu is well worth your time.
Elmer's Restaurant got its start back in 1960 when Walt and Dorothy Elmer opened their first restaurant in Portland. Over the years, the restaurant has added multiple locations across several states. While other places may also enjoy Elmer's, it's a tried-and-true Oregon tradition.
With 18 locations in Oregon, you're sure to find an Elmer's Restaurant near you.
Pictured above is the Springfield location at 3350 Gateway St., Springfield, OR 97477.
While every location is a little different, they're all pretty no-fuss places. You'll find clean, comfortable dining rooms with plenty of seating. If you're looking for a hip brunch spot to see and be seen, move along.
But, if you're looking for a hot, delicious breakfast, you've come to the right place.
The signature item here is the German pancake - a puffy pancake that's made with eggs, milk, and flour and baked in the oven. The classic German pancake is served with powdered sugar and lemon wedges...
...or you can add a fruit topping. Choose from Northwest triple-berry, strawberry, cinnamon apple or lingonberry butter.
Walt Elmer's buttermilk pancake recipe was so secret that he kept it locked in a safe. It's still the recipe for the fluffy pancakes you'll find here today.
Other hearty breakfast items include Cascade Skillets...
...Mountain Lodge Omelets...
...and hearty Country Biscuit Breakfasts. You're certain to find something that tempts your tastebuds on the menu.
Visit the Elmer's Restaurant website for a complete list of locations, a full menu, and more information.
For more down-home comfort food, head to Troutdale, where you'll find this historic roadhouse that serves amazing chicken and dumplings.
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