Takeout · Outdoor seating
Community-minded neighborhood diner with excellent vegan-friendly breakfasts and hearty plates; expect possible long waits and occasional service slowdowns, but strong flavors and values keep regulars returning.
Modern Times delivers excellent food quality with thoughtful vegan-forward cooking and hearty portions that justify its strong local following. However, inconsistent execution during peak hours—including occasional burnt hashbrowns and missing items—combined with frequent 45–60 minute waits prevent a higher grade. The charming vintage setting and community spirit are genuine strengths, but operational reliability falls short of grade A standards.
Modern Times reads as a neighborhood original: cozy room, local art, and a line that signals brunch is serious here. Guests describe warm, community-minded service when things click, and plates that feel crafted with care. One diner put it simply: "Amazing place, amazing food, amazing spirit." Expect bustle, conversation, and a vibe that feels comfortably lived-in rather than polished. The cooking leans hearty and inclusive over fancy—classic breakfasts, bowls, and burgers with thoughtful vegan swaps across the board. Dishes like the vegan breakfast burrito, Southside Hash, and polenta rancheros win frequent praise, while coffee and house pastries sweeten the deal. It is more elevated diner than experimental; flavors pop through fresh salsas, tamari-bright veggies, and well-seasoned plates, with occasional inconsistency on hashbrowns when slammed. Families do fine here thanks to kid-pleasing staples like pancakes, hashbrowns, toast, and simple eggs, plus easy-going burgers and bowls. If your crew includes picky eaters, stick to pancakes, basic breakfasts, and plain sides; the extensive vegan options help accommodate dietary needs, though waits during peak hours can test patience with little ones in tow.
Area: Eclectic, community-focused neighborhood with artsy, progressive vibe; attracts locals and destination brunch crowds.
Safety: Generally active with steady foot traffic; normal urban precautions advised.
Nearby: Near residential streets, community organizations, and small shops; weekend brunch draws lines.
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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