The place: The Winds Café and Bakery, Yellow Springs. Because the restaurant specializes in fresh, seasonal produce, the menu changes regularly. And the changing menu encourages foodies to return often for new adventures. We recommend that you check The Winds' website or Facebook page to see the latest items. And if you've never visited The Winds, Sunday brunch is a great time to go. There's a little bit of everything on the menu — breakfast, lunch and in between — as well as a wine list. And the coffee. It's good. They serve Intelligensia's house blend, which is available for purchase next door at The Winds Wine Cellar. Reservations are accepted.
Menu highlights:
In June, we had the Greek Lamb Burger, slathered with sun-dried tomato paste and feta mayonnaise. We also tried the Asparagus Omelet, with crisp-yet-tender bright green spears spiced with horseradish and cooked in a French iron pan. Both items were delish, and we hope they make a return on the menu in the future. That said, we were excited to try something on the current menu, which lasts through August.
What we had:
- Eggs Messina, $11: Kissing the tip of the "boot" of Italy is the Sicilian province of Messina, known for its rich history and rich food. Inspired by Messina, this dish is opulent in flavor. Resting on an inch-thick slice of sourdough bread are two gently poached eggs blanketed with a citrusy tomato sauce. To top it all off: fresh Parmesan, a little basil sauce and fresh herbs. It's served with a small bowl of seasonal fruit and organic Yukon gold home fries cooked with butter, onion and red bell pepper and seasoned with fennel.
- Buttermilk pancakes, short stack, $5.50: Cooked to perfection. Two plate-size hot and fluffy pancakes served with warmed maple syrup. Enough for two, but they're so good, you may not want to share. Affordable enough to order a second stack.
Extras: The restaurant seats 90, and the expanded, covered patio, 40. For those who have previously visited The Winds, the recently renovated patio is a treat. Shaded in decorative Kookaburra brand canvas, it makes the outdoors feel funky and creative. Also, the servers are attentive and quick so you, on the other hand, can slow down and relax.
Information: The Winds Café and Bakery, 215 Xenia Ave., Yellow Springs; (937) 767-1144; www.windscafe.com or check Facebook page.
Hours: Sunday brunch, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch, Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner, Tuesday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Closed Monday.
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