Monty’s Blue Plate Diner
2089 Atwood Ave, Madison WI
foodfightinc.com, (608) 244-8505

Monty’s Blue Plate Diner has found a way to keep the great diner tradition alive while incorporating healthier options and an adventuresome palate for today’s consumer.

The eclectic menu offers all the classics: hearty breakfasts, juicy burgers, waffle-cut fries and hand-dipped malts. But alongside this slice of Americana you’ll find some astonishing recreations of classic dishes that can have you walking out the door not only satisfied, but just a bit smug about your dining decisions.

In true diner-style, breakfast is offered all day. The time-honored Corned Beef Hash is represented in all its glory as well as a Vegetarian Hash, which incorporates the soy-based tempeh with red peppers and potatoes. Both hashes are served alongside eggs, served however you like, or may be substituted with a flavorful, cumin-scented tofu scramble.

Sandwiches include the GBLT (pun intended): a fun twist on the Bacon Lettuce and Tomato sandwich, with guacamole added to the other acronymic ingredients, enhanced by cumin-chipotle mayo and jalapeño cheddar toast. Its vegetarian equivalent, the Heathen Vegan Shoplifter’s Delight sandwich, marries portabellas and tempeh in a savory duo, served on a crusty sourdough baguette.

But can Monty’s Meatless Loaf of the Gods really hold its own against their delectable Meatloaf of the Gods? Surprisingly so! Made from onions, carrots, mushrooms, cheddar and spices, served under a ginger cashew “gravy,” this vegetarian version is perfectly textured, savory and slightly sweet.

Finish your meal with a selection from a bakery case of pies and cakes that would do Grandma proud. Once again, options range from the traditional to the nouveau. The Hummingbird cake is a delightful introduction to the traditional Southern recipe, and the carrot cake and strawberry-rhubarb pie are both among the best in Madison. Or, go avant-garde with the Fat Elvis cake: reminiscent of banana bread, with peanut-butter filling and topped by decadent fudge. Of course, any of these options can be served a la mode, with locally-made ice cream in traditional or soy flavors.

Whatever you choose, it’s a fitting ending to Monty’s marriage of the old and the new… a taste of tradition with a delicious new spin.