I really can’t remember the first time I visited a Black Bear Diner. But I’m sure it was in a small town on vacation.
When the chain first started the only places they built restaurants were in rural areas. That has all changed as the list of locations continues to grow with many being constructed in metropolitan spots.
Henderson’s entry is on Sunset in a busy area of commerce. As always visitors are greeted with a family of wood-carved bears that are right by the front door. Once you sit down you are given a newspaper menu that not only lists the plethora of comfort food options but also includes fun news about the chain and the growing number of cities that Black Bear is now operating in.
This is the place for American comfort food and breakfast is the best way to experience it. There is a big slate of egg dishes like the Grizz for $15.69.
Two sweet cream pancakes are accompanied by three eggs, two slices of thick-cut smoked bacon, two sausage links and a smoked ham steak. A choice of strip-cut hash browns, red potatoes or grits will really fill you up.
There is a trio of scrambles including a vegan option that I enjoyed. Now I’m an all American meat eater but once in a while I want something a little lighter and the Shasta Veggie Scramble fits the bill.
Avocado, spinach, tomato, onion and bell peppers are mixed into the creation with grated jack cheese on top. I ordered the eggs soft and that is exactly what I received.
Five three egg omelets are also available ranging from the Denver to a Meat Lover’s pick with smoked ham, bacon, sausage and cheese. Many enjoy a good Benedict and Black Bear delivers with a Classic featuring smoked ham plus a chicken fried option that is filled with deep-fried meat.
Evening is a good time to visit. Full course homestyle dinners pack the place. Roasted turkey breast is served with turkey gravy and cranberry sauce plus a choice of soup or salad and a cornbread muffin.
You can also get a 10-ounce New York steak delivered with golden onion rings and a choice of two sides that you would expect to find in a comfort food place. Leading the list are baked potatoes, coleslaw, parmesan toast and seasonal veggies.
On Fridays enjoy an all-you-can eat fish fry while on both Friday and Saturday prime rib is featured.
Lunch is the time for a long slate of burgers that includes parmesan sourdough, patty melty, chili cheddar and a veggie option with carrots, peas, broccoli and spinach. Other sandwiches are enticing like the Reuben with carved corn beef on grilled rye. A tuna melt is made with albacore tuna salad with cheddar cheese.
Don’t forget dessert. How about chocolate cream pie, a brownie sundae or a five layer chocolate cake layered with dark chocolate ganache? Be sure to take home one of their gigantic bear claws for breakfast the next day.
You won’t go hungry after a trip to Black Bear Diner.
Black Bear Diner, 2751 N. Green Valley Pkwy., Henderson (725) 333-6805. www.blackbeardiner.com. Other locations throughout the valley.
