Author: battzenkane1980

How can I truly describe Cosmo’s? Well, for starters, it is the precise image you may already hold when you read the definition for a “greasy spoon diner” (only it’s smaller than I expected). Space is limited, yet you are, conveniently, seated on a stool,...facing the kitchen. You may see this as a good (or bad) thing since you’re within view of everything (pre-cooked bacon in a bucket). No doubt finding a stool may be difficult, but I was lucky, on this Friday morning, as there were plenty of seats available when I arrived. I am also pleased to say they have hooks to hang your jacket. I immediately loved this place, even before I ate the food. Rose offered me coffee even before I sat down. I wasn’t given a menu as she thought I was a repeat client, making me feel right at home. Cream/milk is served right out of the carton, forcing you to ask that it get passed down to you, and the peanut butter is served directly out of a Costco-sized Kraft container. The water, much like the cream/milk, sits on the counter, in a plastic pitcher (don’t ask if it’s filtered – no doubt it’s «robinet»). What I loved, though, was the ambiance. It was basic, laid-back and amusing. It was like a free entertainment show trying to catch up with the daily banter, jokes and flirting (with Rose), from the regulars. The small talk was so trivial, it made me forget my daily stress. Before I knew it, I was chatting it up with Rose and sharing jokes with the other patrons. I felt like part of the family or like I was on vacation where time had no meaning. Luckily, Rose kept refilling my coffee. I ordered 2 eggs, easy-over with bacon. Unlike most places, they were generous with their bacon (not the usual 2 slices); the eggs were not cooked to perfection but hey, this is not a fancy joint. The potatoes were the best I have had in a long time (since Picasso’s). The total price was $8.00 (tax in)!!!!! The portions were large enough, I was able to skip lunch! I was pleasantly surprised when I bumped into an old friend, whom I had not seen in 3 years! As he said: “Cosmo’s is like Times Square - hang out there long enough and you will see everyone eventually”. The general standard of cleanliness is questionable with old, broken appliances sitting by the window, (great selection of) bread stocked in a old soft drink fridge, the open sign upside-down and a giant spatula that became a reference for spanking!!!! From a distance, the place looks like it’s been abandoned (I wasn’t sure if it was open). Despite this, if you’re not into frivolous décor and beside manner; if you’re a fan of random social interactions, OK with basic, no-frills service and basic everything, this iconic place is a MUST-VISIT.