Chapter 17 – Star Wars Episode Four

Restaurant Y Taqueria La Esperanza – 2028 W. Mitchell St., Milwaukee

The unseasonably warm weather has me feeling out of sorts, so when I was up early and unable to concentrate on work, I asked the internet who was open for breakfast. A map showed this place I'd never heard of, and when I looked at the “street view,” it appeared to be a George Webb! But I figured things might have changed, as they often do, and sometimes even for the better. I rushed out to catch a bus before the dreaded sun showed itself and in no time was over on Mitchell Street, west of the Historic, until I came to the “Open” sign of Restaurant Y Taqueria La Esperanza—possibly the first breakfast customer of the day. I sat in a corner booth and looked around. Definitely a former George Webb, which brought back a memory. On my saddest Christmas ever, I found myself at a particular franchise of that Milwaukee open 24 hour institution—and I know they're beloved by some, but if I was going to write a review of George Webb it would be titled, “Two Clocks, Both of Them Wrong.” Have you been to one lately? They're not cheap; there's no excuse for the food not being better. I have to say, this neighborhood corner, adjacent to a beer store and a large church, has got to be much happier now. Out the window the sun still wasn't over the short buildings to the east. A regular stopped by for something take-out, and then a couple came in for breakfast. I had huevos a la Mexicana, my latest favorite breakfast, and though this wasn't the best version I've encountered, the little, stainless, four condiment Lazy Susan would cheer anyone up, with three varieties of salsa and pickled vegetables. Was this the quickest ever between “look for a place to eat” and “finishing my food?” I wrote in my notebook for about an hour—was unable to eat all of the food (it was a lot). Then I was on my way again, on foot, heading west, until the sidewalk ended, and I had to walk on grass in a park, which wasn't bad, as the ground was frozen, but not exactly where I thought I'd find myself on this morning. It occurred to me that a park is like a visit to another planet—but then it's not a stretch for me to see automobiles as hostile robotic aliens. Relieved to be able to conceal myself in the branches of a large pine tree, which I call God's public restroom, I relieved myself and reflected on my good fortune.