Yoder's Pumpkin Pancakes are Here!

Breakfast at Yoder's in Sarasota

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Yoder’s Amish Village has been on my must-check-out list for quite some time. So on a recent trip to Sarasota when I woke up craving a good hearty breakfast, I decided to find out for myself what locals have known since 1975. Driving down Bahia Vista Street, I spotted the marquee: “They are back, pumpkin pancakes and sweet potato fries, yum.” Much to my delight the restaurant was flanked by a cute gift shop (where I bought a Christmas ornament) and a produce stand and fresh market (where I purchased unfiltered honey and fresh Navel oranges).  Inside the dining room, tables with dark red-checkered tablecloths and Windsor-style oak chairs created a homey environment. Looking around I noticed quilts on the walls and artwork featuring farm scenes and Amish girls in crisp white bonnets.

One look at the plates of food being served and I knew I’d have a hard time deciding. So I asked my server Lori, a very sweet and polite lady wearing a floral apron with eyelet lace trim. On her recommendation, I chose one of four Amish skillets. The tomato, bacon and avocado version was mixed with home fries (freshly peeled potatoes, not the frozen variety) and topped with melted cheese and two poached eggs, plus a southern biscuit on the side (see photo). And of course I couldn’t leave without sampling a side of the pumpkin pancakes (see photo again). Score! These super light and fluffy flapjacks, perfectly sprinkled with powdered sugar, were so very worthy of their spot on the marquee. Yum!

Tags: pumpkin pancakes | Sarasota | Yoder's