Sam’s Cafe in Stockton is reminiscent of one of those greasy spoons in a television sitcom.
Think the fictional Monk’s Restaurant on Seinfeld — that’s where Jerry, George, Kramer and Elaine can be seen in syndication hanging out and talking about nothing.
Sam’s Cafe at 2328 Pacific Ave is a long-time fixture on the Miracle Mile.
Owners Sam and Mei Owyang know every familiar face who has frequented their place.
On this day, I’m there with my son Josh for a late breakfast/early lunch. We sit at our usual bar stools at the front counter where we’re quickly greeted by Sam.
He’s hanging out at the front counter, drying and organizing the utensils while chitchatting it up with the patrons. Mei is behind the service window, working the grill.
I see a few familiar faces — Bernie’s son and racquetball player Michelle from the gym, for example.
Good luck with seating on the weekends — Sam’s Cafe isn’t very big and gets packed in a hurry. This place does have outdoor dining that’s ideal for nice days.
Sam’s Cafe not only serves up a breakfast done the right way but also lunch and an early dinner.
Along with American foods, Sam’s Cafe doubles as a Chinese cuisine. This part of the menu includes sweet and sour pork or chicken served over rice and combination plates in the $6 and $7 price range.
Of course, there’s the house specialties of fried wieners on rice and gravy or ham & eggs.
Sam’s Cafe may seem like some place out of a sitcom, but the food here is hardly a laughing matter.
This place whips up a seriously good breakfast.
To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com