Great Comfort food at Marty’s Cafe in Historic Downtown Truckee.
Marty’s Café is located in the heart of historic Truckee. In just one year, the intimate, 10-table eatery has captured the attention and frequent business of long-time locals and Lake Tahoe visitors.
Marty Carlton has been visiting the area for more than 30 years. When he saw a for lease sign in the quaint space that now houses Marty’s Café, he knew it was time to do something good for Truckee. The restaurant opened for breakfast and lunch in December 2012 and has since added dinner service. The menus are complete with comfort food without sacrificing creativity.
“Fresh, recognizable, correct and fast … something for everyone,” Carlton says.
Breakfast favorites include Huevos Rancheros prepared with black beans, a delicious tomatillos sauce, green chilies and feta (eggs prepared to your liking). I found myself dipping into the sauce and gingerly working to the center so that I could savor each and every bite. The following week I returned for another serving.
People also are returning for the French Toast with chocolate fondue, Daily Eggs Benedict, Fried Egg Sandwiches with bacon, Gruyere and lemon aioli, and Mustard Glazed Ham with biscuits, gravy and eggs. Bagel Cheese and Egg Sandwiches, Marty’s house-made granola, and Israeli couscous with coconut milk, dried mango, raisins and almonds also are on the breakfast menu.
What’s not to love about the sandwiches, burgers and daily gourmet salads that can easily satiate two appetites over lunch? The Philly Steak and Cheese rivals diners’ experiences in Philly, Lisa’s Vegetarian includes peppers, Portobello and squash with dill Havarti cheese and pesto, and the Chicken Breast with melted Brie, caramelized onions and basil honey mustard has earned a following. Burgers include Humboldt Fog with Cajon Bacon and Jalapeno relish served with onion straws, the 50/50 with bacon, cheddar and chipotle ketchup, and another tasty option for vegetarians, the Portobello. And, ask a local. Many come in weekly for a Char-Dog offered naked, Chicago style and with BLT Guacamole.
Carlton has reunited with Chef Dana, a friend and veteran chef, to offer creative twists on classic dishes and fusion cuisine influenced by Dana’s work in Guam and Tokyo. Expect Osso Buco, Coq au Vin and other braised meats, innovative risottos, pastas and sushi. The dinner menu is intimate and welcoming – just like the space.
Accolades for Carlton are vast. He’s been the go-to chef for former U.S. President George Bush, recognized by Wine Spectator’s Award for Excellence (not once, but six times), awarded The Place to Be by the LA Times, and the list goes on. In addition to the consistently fabulous meals by this professional and his team, Carlton’s humility and authenticity (it’s common for him to personally greet diners) contribute to Marty’s Café being such a good fit for Truckee.
Marty’s Café is open daily at 8 a.m. with dinner served from Thursday to Saturday. Marty’s is located at 10115 Donner Pass Road, Truckee. For more information, visit martyscafetruckee.com or call (530) 550-8208.
By Nicole Cheslock
On December 25, 2013
Read the great reviews for yourself at Yelp: http://www.yelp.com/biz/martys-cafe-truckee – Downtown Truckee Restaurant Serving Really Good Comfort Food
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