RON SWARNER: LABOR DAY WEEKEND IN TACOMA >>>

Spending Labor Day weekend enjoying the sights, sounds, tastes and smells from our own backyard:

The Mandolin Café
3923 S. 12th St., Tacoma, 253.761.3482

Hours this weekend: 8 a.m. to midnight today, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday. Breakfast ends at 2 p.m.

Scene: 35 people reading, writing and chatting over breakfast. Seven people standing in line waiting to order.

Remaining performances: Today: Mike Connelly boogie blues piano 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Marilyn Kay & Co. acoustic bluegrass 6-8 p.m. Tomorrow: gypsy swing 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Is anyone out there still foolish enough to proclaim, “Real men don’t eat quiche?” Well, nonbelievers, we are here to tell you that the most amazing collection of baked pastry, egg and filling this side of the Atlantic â€" fit for a man or woman â€" can be found at Mandolin Cafe.

Their Quiche Lorraine is incredibly rich, creamy and exploding with fresh flavor. It's massive, intensely fulfilling and damn near addictive. $6.

Two tire-sized, cushiony thin waffles topped with strawberry slices and real whipped cream on the side. A sweet treat even without the whip.$7

LINK: Mandolin Cafe Web site