It’s a 30 degree overcast Chicago day in January and I haven’t eaten a morsel since I woke up around 10:00 a.m. I’m the kind a guy who MUST eat in the morning, but by the time I actually get up and get moving it’s already noon!
Time to head on over to Cozy Corner at 2294 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Logan Square. Here’s a shot of the joint from the California Blue Line El Platform:
A view from the El. Click to enlarge image...
When I walk in the doors the place is jam packed full of hungry people; so jammed that I have to leave, stroll around Milwaukee Ave. for 10 minutes and then come back to try to get a seat!
I end up getting seated at the counter, which has its pros and cons. On the plus side the service is great because the waitresses and cooks are literally right in front of you so the food is delivered pretty quickly, however, I’m a little cramped with people on either side of me.
Look at those hash browns being cooked!
On my right sits a lady in her 70s, I’d guess. Her name is Bonnie and she seems to be a regular here. I overhear her say to Eddie, one of the Mexican bus boys, “Eddie, agua por favor!” She’s also chatting up the wait staff- in particular, Penny (or is it Jenny?). Apparently, Penny is still sick from the flu bug she caught last week. I’m sure she’s the one who will be delivering my food too! Wonderful.
“Coffee, honey?” That’s Mary the other waitress. She serves me up a cup of joe in one of those wonderful brown mugs that you only see in diners.
A strong cup of joe!
I’m taking it black today because I’m gearing up to order the “Big Man Special.” It’s two eggs, two pieces of meat (your choice), and two golden brown buttermilk pancakes. I’m also kicking it up a notch with a side of hash browns. Did I mention that I’m hungry?
Lots of food!
The crowd in here seems to be an eclectic mix. There are old-timers, Hispanic families, and a few hipsters from the neighborhood. I also see a collage of pictures above one of the corner booths. They appear to be pics of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe.
Bonnie is really killing the “gourmet burger” that she ordered! She had to haggle with Penny to get some Grey Poupon (I’m not sure why), but it all worked out.
I’m going to town on my Big Man Special. Turns out Mary brought it to me and not Penny so I’m not as worried about the possibility of getting the flu. Dear God, this is a lot of food. It’s good, though, and the coffee is nice and strong.
A good portion of the people in here appears to know some of the wait staff. There’s a great feeling of community in the room. Even if this is your first time here you’re sure to get a, “Hey there honey” or “How ya doin’, baby?”
I finally finish my Big Man Special and get the check. It’s $11 before tip. I pay in cash and when I get my change Mary says, “Here ya go, Papa Bear.” Does Mary know of my unhealthy affinity for the Chicago Bears? Oh, Mary, I’ll be sure to come back and enjoy the delicious experience of Cozy Corner! Thank you!
Here are some more pics from the Cozy Corner:
Notice the Collage of Elvis and Marilyn Pics Above the Booth
The Alley Outside the Cozy Corner