Blue Elephant:  This is a great little bistro on the Eastside (Wickenden St. to be exact) with an eclectic and inspired menu to suit your every whim.  I had trouble wrapping my head around the specials, the various maple syrup options (green apple anyone?), and the insane array of eggs benedict concoctions.  There is not much in the culinary cannon of classic Americana that can top eggs benedict.   After staring blankly at the menu for what seemed like eternity we finally got our order together.  2 orders of bacon pancake skewers, which are pure genius, with green apple and ginger maple syrup for the table and a round of sweet Mexican sodas (jarrito’s toronja is one of my world over favorites) kicked the game off.  I went with an eggs benedict on a sesame bagel with bacon and bleu cheese crumbled on top for my main.  Throw some smoked chipotle tabasco on this and you will never want to eat at home again.  Did I mention this place has a deal where you get free coffee for life if you get the Blue Elephant logo tattooed anywhere on your body?  Truly an epic eatery.

Value: 15$ easily gets you a nice benedict and a coffee or soda pre tip

Originality: Lots of really clever hot dog assemblages, burger concepts, and breakfast fusions.  I liked the peanut butter burger option although I did not vet it.  I have had one of these before at Bukowski’s in Boston and it was far better than it sounds.

Hygiene:  Clean and chaotic like your spinster aunt’s apartment.  The outdoor seating is refreshing but feels like your sitting in a crummy backyard.  Stick to the decoupaged tables inside for a funkier feel.