For many residents in downtown Los Angeles the coffee shop to trek off to for a hearty breakfast at the crack-of-dawn is the Original Pantry at 9th and Figueroa Streets.
Until July 1st of this year, a free cup of java has also been a time-honored tradition since the original owner (Dewey Logan) first swung open the doors of the eight-four seat eatery in 1924.
But, escalating costs (coffee has risen more than 40% over the past few decades) forced former Mayor Riordan (the current proprietor) to hike the price of a cup of Joe to 50 cents during the bustling breakfast rush (between 4 a.m. and 11 a.m).
Throughout the day, though, a regular cup will put a dent in a customer's wallet to the tune of $1.95.
Gosh, that's as bad as Denny's, eh?
In spite of the surprise boost in price in recent weeks, the regulars at the Pantry haven't been complaining.
"Am I outraged?" one patron pointedly quizzed a roving reporter from the local daily.
"No. For years this has been an awesome place. If they need the extra 50 cents to help keep the doors open, that's OK with me," he beamed.
Riordan noted there were two advantages to the hike once the nominal charge was instituted.
"We didn't have to charge more for breakfast, and we no longer automatically pour coffee for everyone in the morning."
And, their tasty brew still sells below the cost of a Seniors Coffee at McDonalds.
The brass at the giant fast-food take-out must be pulling their hair out!
I was first introduced to the Original Pantry years ago when my Theatrical Agent treated me for breakfast there one fine morning.
Talk about a tasty mouth-watering breakfast with all the trimmings!
The cast of intriguing characters - who saunter in daily are a sight for the eyes - too!
See 'ya there!
http://www.thetattler.biz
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