PITTSBURGH (100.1 FM and AM 1020 KDKA) What a way to begin a holiday weekend! The KDKA Radio Morning Show’s ‘Hometown Tour’ took us to the Crafton-Ingram Shopping Center and a warm welcome at Hanlon’s Cafe. Open 7a-7p Monday-Friday and 7a-3p on Saturdays & Sundays, Hanlon’s Cafe sits at the heart of not one but two communities.
The border between Crafton and Ingram sits outside their front door. The rich histories of these communities are equally represented inside the diner: Ingram on the left wall and Crafton on the right.
In fact, the owners of the cafe (and its ‘sister’ catering business in Robinson) truly represent both sides, as well. Bob Hanlon, a former firefighter-turned-entrepreneur, is from Ingram. Bob tends to prefer handling much of the prep work in the ‘back of the house.’ His lovely wife, Kim, proudly hails from Crafton. She prefers to work in the ‘front of the house’ while tending to the business end and scheduling. Both are very attentive to the needs of all of the hungry customers who steadily flow through the doors each day. It is a wonderful match.
Larry and I were honored that Hanlon’s Cafe opened an hour early for us. And, like all businesses, dedicated employees really make the difference. Don opened up the place and got all of the delicious ingredients ready. He has been with the Hanlon’s since 1999 - the same year that our on-site producer, Sam, was born. Jane and Jill were the next of several others who started their workday with us. They are a bright, fun, dynamic duo loved by the regulars. Warm smiles and conversation are just some of the reasons I say that breakfast is the happiest meal of the day. Most early mornings are viewed by many as a new beginning.
I had been craving breakfast at Hanlon’s Cafe since I peaked at their online menu on Monday morning. The ‘Irish Eyes’ was calling me all week. Two dippy eggs (over medium) served on corned beef hash with potato pancakes. It did not disappoint. As I said, what a wonderful way to begin a holiday weekend.
Larry took a leap and ordered something completely out of character (just kidding) - he went with his old tried & true: 2 eggs over easy with bacon, home fries and white toast. Ronman, engineer extraordinaire, always gets a side of waffles along with pretty much everything else on the menu. We were all very happy. I will definitely return soon for a cheeseburger. They looked fabulous.
We had a great conversation with Crafton mayor & historian Coletta Perry. She is Crafton proud! Who couldn’t or wouldn’t love to call the walkable, leafy suburb home? The pool, parks, shops, and fun are all only a few steps from any one of the lovely Victorian homes that set the area apart from so many other communities. And with a huge celebration planned for our Independence weekend Crafton and Hanlon’s Cafe were perfect places for us to begin July. Make it a point to visit.