On a bright Saturday morning, among the small modest businesses and the scattered housing on Fifth Avenue in Hillcrest, there is usually a crowd of chattering folks swarming around Hash House A Go Go. This farm-inspired restaurant’s enormous servings and exuberant atmosphere are well worth the usual 25- to 45- minute wait to be seated, and there are plenty of thrift stores nearby in which you can poke around and pass time by window shopping or buying things that you don’t really need.
The restaurant is cramped, but definitely stylish, boasting metallic corrugated-tin walls and framed photos of farm equipment and roosters. Outside on the shady patio are several potted plants, more metallic walls and, on sunny days, the sound of birds chirping. This slightly industrial decor paired with over-the-top homestyle breakfast food makes for an impressive experience.
A special feature of the Hash House menu is its extensive list of refreshments, including an array of freshly squeezed juices, refreshing combinations such as a tart limeade with pressed ginger or indulgent treats such as s’mores hot chocolate.
Among the usual condiments of salt, pepper and ketchup on every diner’s table are small metal containers filled with fresh homemade jam, perfect for the huge biscuits that come with several meals, and bottles of Louisiana’s pure crystal hot sauce, if you like your eggs with a bit of a kick.
The breakfast menu is simple but unique, offering conventional dishes such as scrambled eggs or flapjacks with a gourmet twist. Be sure to try one of the farm scrambles; the one served with roasted chicken, fresh corn, roasted red pepper and mozzarella is especially savory.
Don’t try to escape the generous servings of food by ordering something like French toast – Hash House A Go Go makes no exceptions to its extravagant presentations, arranging large portions of food beautifully. Its chefs make every dish fit for a monstrous appetite. Dishes usually come with a side of fruit or potatoes, so when eating on a budget, don’t be afraid to share an item – there will be more than enough for the both of you.
Hash House A Go Go
3628 Fifth Ave
San Diego, CA 92103
