Something for everyone Review by Michael Kirk and Michelle Chan This is truly a place for everyone. When we first arrived at Marie Callender’s across from Valley River Center, I have to admit that I had some doubt that the dinner would not be up to my expectations, but I was definitely proven wrong. The wait staff was very professional and nice, and we were seated in a timely fashion. As we made our way through the restaurant to our table, I noticed that the overall atmosphere was very warm and “homey.” The wood and brick interior gave it a very secluded feeling, while the antique artifacts that decorated the walls created a very artistic feel. The booth that we were seated at ringed one of the main rooms and allowed us to hear the banter of other customers, while at the same time, allowed us a good deal of privacy. While we chatted over the menu and ordered some beverages, we noticed that the management seemed to take a particular interest in all of the guests. The manager made close to four rounds by the time we left, greet ing all the customers and checking to make sure that every thing was running smoothly. The warm feeling was conveyed in the amazing restaurant atmosphere but also came across strongly in the variety of food that was offered. The menu featured anything from pot pies to steak dinners and everything in between. Along with the full entree menu, there was a buffet that offered different selections depending on what time of day you were there. My date sampled the Atlantic Salmon and Fried Shrimp while I had the modest, yet filling, pot pie. All the prices were com parable, the most expensive being in the high teens. The dessert selection, however, is what Marie Callender’s is known for, and the cheesecake as well as the pumpkin pie that we sampled demonstrated that. If there were anything that sets Marie Callender’s apart from the rest, it would have to be their ability to cater to any occasion. Around the room, we saw the largest variety of fel low diners; there were friends, dates, families, grandparents and grandchildren, all eating in the same area. Everyone seemed to be having a great time and could find something that suited them on the menu. This is by far one of the best places in Eugene to take par ents or visiting relatives when they are in town, as well as a great place to grab a bite to eat on a casual date. The food is excellent, the staff is friendly and speedy, and for those of you who like to bring something home with you after meals, Marie Callender’s offers a wide assortment of freshly baked pies to snack on later. We offer American Breakfast • Lunch Ask about our daily specials! We serve breakfast anytime! Best Breakfast in Town! Daily Breakfast Specials $3.95 (7-11am) Homemade Biscuits & Gravy $2.00 (7-11am) Weekly Omelette Specials $5.95 Try our biggest & best Pancakes and Omelettes! ^cce & ^Tlaociite Socufo Chicken, Beef % & Tofu also featuring Korean style ribs and spicy pork 625 014882 Under new management Catering for parties/receptions • Delivery available for orders over fifty dollars . Conference Rooms Available • UO Student Discount • Senior Menus Open Daily 7am-3pm • 7 days a week We take reservations for parties up to 25 343-1542* 1689 Willamette D161S4 burger with fries and a pint of Budweiser or other domestic beer wmmtMkr / add cheese for 500 Monday - Friday 5 pm to 9 pm notu i&uAuuj, l^tcakf^U, lunch aud darned M-F: 6:30am -11:00 pm 3445 Hiiyard St. Sat: 7:30 am -11:00 pm 342-4552 Sun: 8:00 am -10:00 pm OREGON DAILY EMERALD • SPRING 2003 DINING GUIDE PAGE 11