The Scarlet Tree

 

 

 

 

Several years ago there was a fire at The Scarlet Tree restaurant and it seemed we’d seen the last of it.  It was a favorite breakfast place of mine and they were also  a great venue for music in the evenings, especially for jazz bands.  Their closing left a hole in the surrounding community. 

 

A few weeks ago I noticed that after a four year break they had suddenly reopened!  Not in the exact same location but just a few blocks away at the corner of 8th and 65th in Ravenna.  This weekend I met a couple friends there for breakfast.  The new location is much brighter and more light-filled than the old.  It has two levels with the bar taking up most of the first floor.  The second level is built as a balcony overlooking the main level. 

 

We arrived at 10:30 and were immediately seated – this would not have been the case at the old location.  I’m guessing most people are not aware of this new incarnation. From our treehouse perch on the second level we could see out to the surrounding neighborhood. 

 

 

 

 

 

A couple of us started our meal with their Bloody Marys, which are a traditional and spicy rendition of this breakfast favorite.  We all ordered from the specials menu.  T had the biscuits with gravy and substituted fruit for the potatoes.  A and I both ordered the Southwestern Benedict, a deliciously messy and spicy version of the traditional dish.  Instead of an English muffin base there was moist cornbread anchoring the dish.  Black beans topped the cornbread and then perfectly poached eggs covered with a chipotle Hollandaise sauce finished it off. 

 

 

 

 

 

My only disappointment was that these dishes didn’t come with a scone – in the past one of my favorite parts of breakfast at The Scarlet Tree.  Although I would not have had room for a scone anyway. 

 

I wouldn’t say the food here is something that "can’t be missed" but instead that it is good, solid, tasty food at a decent price.  A place you can go back to time and time again for the comfort you’ll find served on every plate. 

 

206.523.8888