Snapshot of Ole's Waffle Shop:
Ole's Waffle Shop in Alameda simply can't hide. On weekends and weekdays, people queue outside, making it a curiosity stop for anyone driving for the first time on that stretch of Park Street.
Diners flock to Ole's as much for the hometown feel as they do for the waffles and eggs. On our first visit to Ole's, a local in line told us that Ole's is like family to him -- that after just a few visits, everyone knows your name. "Ninety-nine percent of our customers we see everyday," said the cashier when we paid our bill.
Why Go?:
Well, for the spirit of the Ole's Waffle Shop, of course. It's homey and friendly and traditional in a way that a diner founded in 1927 tends to be. It's an Alameda institution, and a convenient breakfast stop if you're touring any of Alameda's site and attractions. (See profiles on Crown Memorial Beach and on the USS Hornet Museum for two popular Alameda destination.)
What's on the Ole's Breakfast Menu?:
Dare I say, waffles? Waffles come in a variety of iterations, from a single, plain, plate-sized waffle (with butter and maple syrup) -- to a more elaborate presentation of waffles with fresh blueberries and whipped cream (pictured above). The menu also has traditional breakfast fare like omelettes, eggs and sausage.
The Ole's Waffle Shop Visual:
I lean toward tucked-away, back booths. Although Ole's does offer two prime back booths, the moving queue pretty much determines where you'll end up. The two choices diners can make on crowded days is between seating at a table and counter.
The space is longer than it is wide, stretching back farther than the front facade would suggest. There's an open kitchen area and fountain-style counter, with orange and yellow checkerboard motif and overhead fluorescence. The place is in a constant morning buzz, owing to the overflow traffic. And, the staff will get you in and out in a hurry if short-order is your style.
Ole's Waffle Shop Location:
1507 Park Street (at Santa Clara Ave)
Alameda, CA
Tel: (510) 522-8108
Open at 5:30a on weekdays and at 6:00a on weekends. Hours may change without notice. Please call the restaurant directly for current information.
Directions:
From San Francisco:
Cross the Bay Bridge to Oakland, and merge onto the 880 freeway south. Take the 23rd Avenue exit toward Alameda, which will ultimately merge with 29th and then become Park Street. Ole's will be on the right side of Park, shortly after you cross Lincoln.