The Almost World Famous Baring Store

Recommended.

We were looking for breakfast options near Index, and Der Baring Store came up as an option. Having been aware of this place over the years I did not expect much, but the current reviews looked promising. (We did notice their ad in the local paper, and evidently the owners/managers are relatively new.)

We came in around noon on a Sunday ad were pleasantly surprised that breakfast was still available. A small menu with largely classic American breakfast options. The cafe is a counter and a few tables near the front of the general store, with some additional seating outside. We found the staff to be remarkably friendly, as were the other customers - it was what I imagine as a "small town" feel.

The coffee is typical restaurant coffee (I didn't notice any espresso options, but the Espresso Chalet down the road can cover that) and the OJ was a prepackaged single serving bottle - not ideal, but I've had worse. The food, on the other hand, was great. Bacon, eggs, hash browns done just right. Pancakes had just a smidge of cinnamon, and were also excellent. Maple syrup was either real or a remarkable copy.

And, they have pies. Homemade pies. A number of options by the slice, and also some whole pies available. We decided to pick up a whole apple/cranberry/walnut pie. It must have weighed 5 pounds. We dug into it after we got home, and it was also excellent. Great crust, inspired filling. Evidently they sell hundreds of pies a month, and I can see why.

We went here for an early dinner really hoping to like the place...and maybe we caught them on a bad day.... the Store felt very cluttered and not very clean. The owner, Steve, was very friendly but that didn't make up for mediocre food and a very chaotic setting. We were the only customers at the time. Somebody's kids were constantly running in and out and several women seemed to be working and caring for the kids at the same time. The menu was limited and food was prepared on a residential stove -- 4 burners. My soda was served in a can retrieved from a cooler. If this is supposed to feel like "home," I would have run away a long time ago. My home is much calmer, and much cleaner.

This place is great....northern exposure meets twin peaks....the store/post office/restaurant/ice cream parlor/video rental store....and supplies.....Steve is great.....all the people who work there are great.....feels like home......like you belong the moment you walk in.....and I have yet to have a meal that wasn't GREAT.....