Nutritionists say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. In Chicago it is if you head to Lou Mitchell’s, a place that has been serving America’s best breakfast for over 80 years.

I’m not a morning person. My typical day starts with gallons of hot coffee to jumpstart my body in time for my first meal: lunch. But when in Chicago, I leap out of bed like a kid on the last day of school. I connot remember ever starting a Saturday in Chicago with starting with breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s.

Your meal begins with the customary large prune and wedge of orange. Juices are fresh squeezed, and the pastries are all made fresh daily. Even the marmalade is homemade, which you can spread on the Greek Toast or Raisin Toast that is almost a meal in itself. Coffee is served with pure cream. They take breakfast very seriously at Lou Mitchell’s.

The kitchen works with the efficiency of a drill team. The staff seems to have been there over 80 years as well. Pancakes and waffles are spectacular staples, but it is the roster of 20 perfectly prepared omelets that dazzle. Creativity has gone into the fluffy egg concoctions. Where else would you find an omelet with Michigan Sugar Sweet Apples and Old English Cheddar or Cottage Cheese, Bacon and Tomato?

“May I butter your toast?” the pleasant senior waitress asked with sincerity and conviction. “I would be honored” I snickered. This place isn’t your normal diner or Denny’s, where you have to duck as the bread plate is flung your way.

Lines are long but move quickly. If alone, see if you can sneak in for counter service. I also understand that they serve another meal day part called lunch, but after a Lou Mitchell’s breakfast, it will be a late dinner that will be your next meal.

As is the Lou Mitchell’s tradition, a bowl of free donut holes and Milk Duds await as you pay the cashier in cash only and exit. During one visit, the restaurant was out of Milk Duds. The employees were sad and apologetic, as if a friend of the family had just past away. Even the sign “Sorry. No Milk Duds today.” seemed to frown with disappointment.

Lou Mitchell’s has been in the same location since 1923. No doubt generations have stood in line outside enjoying beautiful summers and brutal winters. But it is worth the wait under any conditions. This is America’s best breakfast place, and in Chicago, that is important. – D.M.