My sisters both went home to Rhode Island this weekend, visiting from NYC and DC, and I was stuck in Boston with work and too much homework. They posted silly pictures to my facebook to let me know they were thinking of me. One was from our favorite coffee shop, The Coffee Depot. I worked there for eight years, and my mom runs the place, so it has naturally become an extension of our kitchen/living room. My dad drops in on his way to work and again on his way home. It's the homework spot, the lazy day spot, the let's meet before we go to dinner spot, and there is a constant stream of New Harvest Coffee available.

Sitting here in my local coffeeshop here in Davis CA, I realize I've never shared with you one of their great innovations: Potatoes et. al.

The formula is simple: homefries topped with cheddar and broiled. Add guacamole, sour cream, salsa and an optional egg or two for a mighty brunch plate for just $6.

My only wish is that they'd use a nicer cheese; their foodservice shreds don't do their salty, crispy homefries justice. I've never attempted a home version, but a bit of quality cheddar would elevate the dish into the stratosphere.

Still, if you're ever at the Delta of Venus, and don't plan to do much with the rest of your day...