While the DU masses swarm to Jelly, (which, let’s face it, is so last year) the in-the-know have discovered a far more quaint and conveniently overlooked neighborhood breakfast nook in Maddie’s Restaurant, located at 2423 S. Downing St. Just far enough from DU to remain untainted by the hungover herds, Maddie’s offers a sanctuary that is free of noise and full of personality.
The DU alum-owned hole-in-the-wall eatery offers a plentiful selection of breakfast (and lunch) originals, however, certain idiosyncratic additions set Maddie’s apart as more than just a run-of-the-mill breakfast place.
With options like the Colorado Potatocakes, which are Mediterranean inspired latkes in bacon and cheese, veggie and plain, this restaurant covers its cultural bases. Maddie’s also puts a twist on the classic breakfast sandwich by substituting smoked gouda in the place of more traditional cheddar cheese, and adding a garnish of piperade for some extra oomph. Challah french toast will satisfy even the most goyish appetite. And no breakfast place has ever gone astray by offering a classic lox and bagel.
But do not fret, as every good modster fashions himself a breakfast burrito connoisseur, Maddie’s at once adorably and cloyingly coined ‘Breakfast Burry’s’ offer the opportunity to stretch those down-south taste-testing abilities. And let’s not forget the generously portioned Huevos Rancheros plate, because who can resist bountiful beans after a night of boisterous boozing? Surely not this grinder.
Speaking of generous portions, Maddie’s offer bottomless mimosas, bellinis and Bloody Mary’s. Need I say more? And with a coffee inspired cocktail like the Colorado Coffee, which is made of Stranahan’s Whiskey, coffee, brown sugar and whipped cream, indecision is inevitable.
Overeating, too, is inevitable, if one happens to glance under the ‘Maddie’s Sweet Tweets Creations’ heading on the menu. Cinnamon sticky buns, gourmet cake pops and chocolate chip cookies may tempt even the most health-conscious hipster. Give in to the cravings and take another lap around Wash Park on that fixie of yours. Or just drink another bellini and call it good—peach puree has vital nutrients, right?
And it will be easy to stay for another round, since Maddie’s atmosphere invites lingering in the best possible way. Without the inevitable lines of places like Snooze and Jelly, there will be no palpable glares directed at your table by impatient breakfast-goers.
A charming red and white exterior definitely puts the “aw” in awning, with an overhang reminiscent of a small town locals-only hangout. The red and white motif continues inside and Maddie’s walls display music and concert posters, which are likely to go unnoticed by the ravenous breakfaster.
The small and simply furnished restaurant is not ideal for large groups, as a result of few staff and limited space. A large group of raucous trendsetters are certain to put the waitress on edge, but be sure to complement her new ink and it’s unlikely that she’ll spit in your coffee.
The small outdoor patio sports two picnic-style tables to offer space for larger groups in warmer months, but Maddie’s seems more suitable for one-on-one interactions rife with muted discussions of the sartorial aesthetic, upcoming Chillwave concerts and institution-bred ennui.
Or maybe Maddie’s authenticity will inspire a fleeting moment of unpretentiousness and whipped cream in a handlebar mustache will give way to uncontrolled laughter, ending in snorting guffaws.
If it does, you’ll be glad you chose to breakfast where your peers couldn’t witness your brief retreat from poised panache. Just don’t get sausage grease on your ascot.
