Biggest Pancakes Ever

They weren’t kidding. The Pancake and Christmas House in McCall, Idaho features plate-sized pancakes. And, these plates were more like serving platters than typical dinner plates. Two pancakes, along with eggs and a choice of meat arrived piping hot. Our jaws dropped open as the server set them down. These were the largest pancakes we had ever seen. Golden brown on the outside, these buttermilk pancakes were delightfully fluffy on the inside. Even with both of us shoveling them in, we still ended up only finishing about 75% of the pancakes.

Intrigued with the Italian Cream Soda made with half & half that was offered on the menu, we opted for a raspberry one to share, leaving 9 other choices for some future visit. This pink concoction was decorated with whipped cream and sprinkles. While creamy, tangy bubbles also popped on our tongues. The hint of raspberry flavor was just enough to satisfy and not overwhelm.

In addition to these great choices, the breakfast portion of the menu features omelets, eggs benedict, and other egg dishes with a wide range of options such as waffles, ham, corned beef hash, ribeye steak, and country-fried steak. The lunch menu includes homemade soups, salads, chili, a variety of burgers, and sandwiches. These sandwiches include homemade egg salad, chicken club, and roast beef dip.

The restaurant itself feels comfortable even to newcomers. Booths are large and many of them feature stained glass partitions. We visited on the Wednesday of McCall’s Winter Carnival. Sure, we expected it might be more full than normal because of visitors to the carnival. But, it became quite obvious that many locals were also enjoying lunch there as well. The dining area was packed.
While waiting a short time for a table, we looked around at the décor. Many restaurants feature vintage tins and boxes. But, here again, many of these tins and boxes were much larger than those typically displayed. Plus, we saw several unfamiliar brands such as Popex popcorn seasoning and Humpty Dumpty potato chips.

CURIOSITY: According to their menu, the Pancake and Christmas House is the oldest restaurant in McCall operating under the same name.

As if the great food in large portions and the décor of the restaurant isn’t enough, the building also features shops that were bustling with activity. The Christmas shop is the largest of these and features hundreds of different ornaments and decorations all year long.

The small, but well-stocked Auggie’s Sheepskin Leather Goods and Gifts offers sheepskin rugs, boots, comfortable slippers, and Alpaca sweaters along with stuffed animals.

At the other end of the building, Santa’s Sweet Shoppe carries pies, cookies, and other specialty desserts. This confectionary shop is nestled inside the Heirloom Attic antique shop loaded with glassware, baskets, and collectibles to suit various budgets.

When visiting McCall, be sure to make time for The Pancake and Christmas House. Even if your visit isn’t timed quite right for breakfast or lunch, the four specialty shops and the restaurant décor will make your visit worthwhile.

http://www.mccallpancakehouse.com