AMBIANCE: Picture a diner in the happy-space of "Mayberry R.F.D." and you'll get an idea of what it is like to go to Arthur's in Mentone. Granted you won't find Andy, Barney or Aunt Bee--but you may find Debbie (the owner), Ashley (her daughter) and a cast of other memorable characters who will make your dining experience a pleasurable one! The diner "Extras" add texture to the dining experience, proportionally high in locals (a good sign), seniors and the military.
OFFERINGS: These folks definitely know what they're doing, providing a solid selection of breakfast and lunch choices for almost any palate. And since the portions are large enough to make a trucker blush (tagline, "The Hearty Eater's Paradise..."), you may wish to share a meal with a dining companion--or be prepared for leftovers. Smaller portions of a limited menu are available for Seniors (62+) and Children (10 and under.)
MEAT-EATERS: Before delving into my personal recommendations, I'll mention two standouts according to my non-vegetarian friends: The Biscuits and Gravy and the Meatloaf. I guess it's no easy task to find good biscuits and gravy--and my Dad "takes-no-prisoners" when he dives into Debbie's meatloaf! Enough said because I don't eat those dishes--just trying to be inclusive!
VEGETARIAN BREAKFASTS: The omelettes are billed to have "at least 4 eggs and sometimes 5 depending on Debbie's mood." Vegetarians have four omelette choices straight off the menu--no modification needed: "Vegetarian" (Bell Pepper, Broccoli, Cheese, Mushrooms, Onion and Tomato...did you notice I alphabetized?), "Florentine" (Spinach, Mushrooms, Feta Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Hollandaise Sauce--topped with Diced Tomato), "Spanish" (Cheese, Ortega Chili, Onion, Tomato & Spanish Sauce) and "Mama's" (Spinach, Avocado, Green Onions, Mushrooms, Swiss & Parmesan Cheese.) I especially enjoy the "Vegetarian" (somewhat virtuous) and the "Florentine" (a few more calories...) I hear the "Mama's" omelette is good but can't wrap my head around the concept of avocado in an omelette...yet. And before we leave omelette-land...my 11 year old neighbor girl asked me why the food tastes "different." She noted an unusual (good, not unpleasant) flavor. Arthur's uses COCONUT OIL--NOT BUTTER...extra dee-li-cious!
VEG LUNCH: Now, if you are in the mood for something more along the lines of lunch, two of my favorites are the Garden Burger and Egg Salad Sandwich. Both are substantial. The egg salad heaps in the center of the sandwich to form a "football" shape. If you are like me, a good pickle really makes the burger and Arthur's has a handle on this. They must be the "just right" brand so I always ask for extras.
Both of these "sandwiches" are served with a choice of french fries, curly fries, sweet potato fries, potato salad or soup! But here's the secret NOT on the menu--they will happily substitute "Beer-battered Onion Rings" ($6.25 if ordered separately)--and there is no up-charge! I know that "fried" food is not great for health but hey--if you are going to eat these things, this is the place to do it! Seriously. Arthur's BEER-BATTERED ONION RINGS are BETTER than...gonna say it....Gordon Ramsay's BurGR!!!
PRICE? Good considering the quality, quantity and location. The crew at Arthur's understands that the little things matter; they treat you like family and don't nickle and dime you in the process.
DESSERT? Sadly, zippo...nuff said.
SPIRITS? Yup...Beer, Mimosas...Bloody Mary's...etc.
CLEANLINESS? As regular, you'll be happy to know that I've NEVER encountered questionable serve-ware and the RESTROOMS are ALWAYS WELL MAINTAINED. The staff will not allow one to take a napkin directly from the bar stack (even when busy) due to health considerations. I also checked Arthur's ratings by the San Bernardino Health Inspectors as far back as posted online (4/13) and found "A" RATINGS (90 and above) with the MOST RECENT RATING of "95" on 3/10/15.
PARKING? A very large private lot provides ample parking MOST of the time...but it does actually FILL UP. Arthur's is like the "CLOWN CAR" OF RESTAURANTS. It looks deceptively small from the street considering the sea of cars in the lot during prime time...but a nice-sized outdoor covered patio in the back seems to extend their capacity nicely.
SERVICE? Usually GREAT! There have been a few times when I've felt a bit neglected but it's NOT been because the servers were jaw-jacking or unmotivated but rather because they were slammed--understandable. Overall, they go OUT OF THEIR WAY to take good care of you, including accommodating special needs (wheel chairs, food allergies, etc.) Bring crayons and your happy face--just in case!
WAIT TIMES? Weekends are particularly busy as are peak times. But as much as I HATE lines, Arthur's is one place that is WELL WORTH THE WAIT!
See you there...I'll be the one in blue jeans! read more