Nestled in Vancouver’s Westside is a popular joint that’s taking the brunch scene by storm.  Jethro’s, a small, locally owned restaurant, is gaining momentum as word spreads of their huge portions and reasonable prices.  And I mean it: there are lines as early as 10am at Jethro’s, albeit they’re manageable (unlike those at Cafe Medina).

Unless you’re a Dunbar native or UBC student, you may have to travel a bit to get to this place.  It’s easy enough to get to, but you can’t roll out of bed and expect to be there in five.  When you stroll up you may have to linger about ten minutes, but it’s worth the wait.  Last time I went there was a busker who smartly positioned himself outside the restaurant.  This was a pro or a con, depending on what he played.

The inside is minimalist, clean, and a little cramped.  You won’t smack elbows with your neighbour, but you’ll probably hear their convo if you listen closely enough.  If it seems like everyone in the place has been there before, it’s probably because they have.  I heard a number of customers greeting the staff like family, which added to the local, neighbourhood feel.

The portions are very generous.  They’re best known for their bennys and sweet stuff, and for good reason.  Pancakes are so large they fall off the sides, and hashbrowns cover half your plate.  The crab cake benedict is a steal at $11, and the chocolate banana bread French toast is as indulgent as it gets.  Portion size makes it a great place to share with friends; fielding that plate yourself may be tough for some!

If you’re in the area you have to give it a try.  It’ll become your new favourite place to rehash the previous night and grab a little something to settle the leftover beer in your stomach. 

~ Meghan Roberts