Al Fresco at the Marigold Cafe

Madison's seasons tend to move rather abruptly.  Winter stretched into late March, even early April.  Spring showed up in the middle of April, and then BAM - it's summertime.

Just before it could get too hot and sticky, it was a perfect time this past weekend to dine outside.  Pinckney Street is one of four that border the State Capitol and extends toward Lake Monona to the east and Lake Mendota to the west.
It was just past 8:30 Saturday morning when we opened the door to the Cafe.  Saturday mornings the Cafe gets it's share of people either coming or going to the weekly Farmer's Market.

Lines back up to the door, but it moves quickly and soon you are staring at the blackboard and peering into the case to decide what breakfast item tickles your fancy.  The Marigold is the 10th of 13 places I've visited that made Madison Magazine's list of top Pancakes in town.

Yellow Marigolds adorned our outdoor table, where we sat while waiting for our order.  Folks walked by carrying armfuls of produce and fresh strawberries as they headed back to their cars, while others paused to smell the goodness emanating from the Marigold to decide whether to eat before shopping.

I ordered a short stack of the Blueberry pancakes and a cup of Hot Tea.

The fresh Blueberries gave out a little whine as I poked them with a fork and scooped up a little pancake before dunking in the syrup.

Mmmm,  Very, very good.

The fresh taste of the berry and the special pancake batter created a unique combination of flavors that was hearty and delicious.

The cakes were not big, but the meal was filling and a perfect way to start a Saturday.  Breakfast is served at 7 during the week, but it kicks back on weekends with brunch at 7 on Saturday and 8 on Sunday mornings.

The quiet street has only one lane of one way traffic that keeps the street mainly for walking, city buildings rise above your street side table with a view of Lake Monona and fishing boats out for an early catch.

The Marigold is a breakfast and lunch joint featuring eggs, cakes, grains, and fruit for the morning and various sandwiches and salads for lunch.

The pancakes got me to the door; the quality of the food and atmosphere will bring me back.

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