2008 Woodie Awards
Healthy Hangout No.3: Baba Yega's
Danny Dyer
Issue date: 1/29/08 Section: A & E
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Mon-Thu 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Fri-Sat 11 a.m.- 10:30 p.m.
Sun 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Baba Yega is the Bohemian-organic restaurant that you always knew was somewhere in Montrose but could never find. The food is inexpensive, delicious and nutritious, the environment is open and comfortable and the service is friendly and quick - Baba's seems to have almost perfected the whole 'restaurant' thing over the 30 years they have been in business.
On the menu, there are sandwiches, salads, seafood, pastas and a medley of some of the best vegetarian plates in Montrose. Nothing (except for the seafood) exceeds $10, and the value of the meals is certainly worth it in the long run. The brunch buffet is mouth-watering, especially when compared to the morning selection in Crooker's cafeteria - cereals and muffins, waffles and pancakes, a made-to-order omelette bar, and a surprising variety of fresh fruit - for about the same price. There's also a bar for those interested, and, although there are no beers on tap, there are some rare brews that are hard to find elsewhere.
The environment, both inside and out, is lovely. There is a garden surrounding the restaurant's patio, which has plenty of tables, should you want to sit outside. If the weather is too cold or hot, then there are plenty of window seats inside with great views. If you would prefer a fully-indoor experience, though, Baba Yega has a home-like comfortable interior. The wood furniture, windows and hanging lamps add a nice touch of class, and the décor is quite noteworthy.
The patrons are a varied crowd - from college students to senior citizens - but all of them looked pleased with their meals and were talking with one another over the 1960s- and 1970s-era songs that were playing in the background. The restaurant was very full, and admittedly, parking was a bit shabby next to the restaurant, but there were alternate lots open around the block.
The staff only complements this homey environment with their friendliness and attentive behavior, but they were not at all overbearing. My glass never reached halfway before being filled, I was waited on with patience and enthusiastic staff, and I truly felt like a welcome guest to their restaurant-home. This is undoubtedly going to become a recurring favorite for anyone who goes there.