Four Forks Up: Sam’s Morning Glory Dinner

Sam’s Morning Glory Dinner - 735 S. 10th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Take the name as is… This electric and warm dinner has been around since 1997 serving nothing but the freshest ingredients. It is located in South Philly in the Bella Vista neighborhood. If you visit on the weekend be prepared to wait at least a ½ before being seated. The waiting area has a nice patio with tables and chairs to enjoy a drink or cup of coffee. The inside is exactly what you would expect from an old dinner small with eat up counter. You can watch the cooks make your brunch right before your eyes. Nothing at this establishment is frozen.

If you are in Philly for the week then you may want to avoid the crowd and visit Monday – Friday. The atmosphere is always laid back but a little less hectic during the weekday. Sam’s Morning Glory Dinner is up 363 days a year. They only close Christmas and Thanksgiving Day. Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 4:00 pm. Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. Only open for Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch. CASH ONLY. That is what keeps the prices so low. Although there may be a wait the food is fabulous and inexpensive.

The staff is always friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have regarding the ecliptic menu.

The Monkey French Toast is a favorite in the neighborhood. It is Challah French Toast stuffed with caramelized bananas and mangoes tipped with caramel sauce and whipped cream. I was happy to say that I walked this feast off after brunch. I strongly recommend trying this dish if you are only in Philly for the day it is a once in a life time chance to indulge in sweet breakfast treat.

They also serve a mean Pecan Waffle with whipped peach butter to Challah French toast with homemade strawberry sauce.

For something lighter and healthier try Frittatas. Since they are made from scratch allow 15 minutes. The Neighborhood Frittata is made with roasted red peppers, spinach and provolone. Or try the Tofu Scrambler made with tofu, spinach, mushrooms, pepper and curry seasoning. Yes there are grits on the menu. I preferred the Tofu Scrambler over the Neighborhood Frittata only because it is not often that a restaurant knows how to serve firm tofu with vegetables without it turning to mush. You can substitute for egg whites for a minimal charge.

The Brunch menu also serves up salads and sandwiches from the Waldorf Chicken Salad to the Shrimp Salad Samwich. Yes I said “Samwich”. There is always something for everyone.

This establishment is off the beaten track. If you are walking there from downtown Philly you may think second guess yourself on the neighborhood but this place is no second guess. This area is warm and friendly and a local gem. Ask anyone for directions and they will be more than happy to help you find your way.

Sam’s Morning Glory Dinner is a straight up Four Forks Up. Warm friendly staff, fresh ingredients and inviting atmosphere makes it an experience you do not want to miss. This place holds its own against any $20 brunch.