I guess its time to check out this place in HLP. I didn’t really want to come here but when I found out they had HR’s I felt obligated. It’s probably gonna be one of those places where the newbies like to hang out to be seen, for a cup of what they call “community.” Ugh, here goes.
Yup, it was one of those places, full of people seeking local identity. Whatever, that’s just life in modern Capitalism, I can’t blame them for their alienation. But the place looks nice inside and you order up front and sit down, easy enough. Sure, it took about half an hour to get my $9 Huevos Rancheros, but I expected something along those lines. Nobody else seems to mind the delays as they appear content to sit and talk loudly about whatever it is.
On to the HR review! The tardy dish eventually showed up, just a tad on the cold side. I was impressed with the crispy tortillas underneath, proper! That was the highlight, by the way. The overcooked eggs were covered with their “housemade salsa”, a goopey mixture of blended raw tomatoes and some chiles. This might be acceptable as a complimentary side with some chips, but it’s no salsa ranchera. There is something unsettling about a place that needs to announce they make their own simple-to-blend basic salsa that isn’t even cooked, might as well advertise housemade ice cubes. The black beans (haha!) were super bland and boring (probably from a can) that I had to add salt which I rarely do. No rice included. No chips and salsa. No tortillas.
I cook at home regularly and can make decent meals but it’s a lot of work so I enjoy taking a break from the chore, paying someone at a restaurant for the cooking and cleanup service. But it gets increasingly difficult to justify the time and money spent on going somewhere just to end up with a mediocre meal. Maybe if I had a need to bond with members of HLP’s new community or if I was desperate for social interaction then this place might fill my needs.
I prefer a decent meal.
The Highland Cafe 323.259.1000
5010 York Blvd.
Highland Park, CA 90042
www.thehighlandcafela.com
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