The Palace Café is a hidden gem of the Hillsdale community. Quietly tucked in the downtown cornucopia of shops and restaurants, the Palace is known best for its delicious breakfast foods and college-friendly weekend hours. Yet few are aware of its crowning glory, the as-of-yet unsung hero that should be recognized throughout the entirety of Michigan and, perhaps one day, the world. Of course, as those several acolytes of the morning meal reading this may know, I am speaking of the breakfast burrito.
Before I sing praises to the breakfast burrito, please understand that I do not want to disparage the satisfaction that comes from the Palace’s many other offerings. Our country would certainly be less without the hearty vigor that comes from simple bacon and eggs, and we relish the lazy afternoons that follow some good biscuits and gravy. And we should not forget the menu’s back page, filled with sandwiches and the like for those less inclined to indulge the universal love of breakfast fare.
Yet one item stands alone, remarkable for its utility, presentation, and indescribable goodness: It is the breakfast burrito. And it is my belief that the only way to honor this prince of the early-morning palate properly is to give it a name that people will come to recognize near and far.
First, the breakfast burrito is the ideal choice for its nutritious utility. It is composed of the four major breakfast food groups: Meat, potatoes, bread, and vegetables (for taste; never for its own sake). The delightful medley of green pepper and onion is mixed with a seasoned layer of steaming hash browns. Sausage is artfully interspersed, and a comforting layer of scrambled eggs envelops it all. Finally, a rich tortilla protects this extravagant combination of starch, veggies, and protein, with a tantalizing drizzle of salsa and shredded cheese on top. Those lucky enough to enjoy this bounty of the gods have the optional choices of sour cream and hot sauce to compliment. The health benefits are obvious.
Second, the provocative presentation of the breakfast burrito gives its beholder pause. Read the above description, and imagine this ever-exceeding gift. What must I do? How should I begin? Do I dare disturb the universe? These are but a few of the questions rushing through the mind of those in the burrito’s presence. The shape of the burrito might inspire one to grasp it in one’s hands, yet the delicate nature of that perfect parcel begs a more careful treatment. Each end of the tortilla remains untucked, as if to demonstrate the limitlessness of the human spirit. We are confronted with a decision, one regarding which end with which to begin. The lesser among us might relegate this choice to chance. The truly great could never ignore such a consequential moment.
Third, and most important, we must consider the indescribable goodness of the breakfast burrito. From beginning to end, the experience of this divine prize never fails to please. One trembles in nervous excitement in the moments prior to ordering, and grins with childlike glee at the prospect of its immediate arrival. The skeptical among us need only see the eyes of the devotee about to devour to appreciate the true joy of final satisfaction. And there are few moments of sheer bliss to rival the ecstasy felt in the last bite of those heavenly victuals.
In many ways, the breakfast burrito may be the perfect food. Versatile and universally appealing, it could appear at something as humble as a common breakfast date to an evening business meeting. People of all walks of life can recognize its appeal, both nutritionally and aesthetically. And its potential for repetitious production and consumption is unlike most any other dish. Many culinary experts (probably) acknowledge this comprehensive virtue, and we should too.
Why then should we find a name? I believe the Palace Café should name this maestro of the menu in order to give focus to its fame. By providing an iconic title to this iconic dish, we adoring admirers will have a clear, helpful means by which to share its renown.
As for those of you who may be reading this with a doubt left in your mind, I ask only that you indulge, if for just one bite. It will change your life forever, and most certainly for the better.
