There was a time, way back when, when there was only a small handful of “go-to’s” for breakfast. You know the deal: good service, strong coffee, nice patio, and of course great food.

While there are considerably more options these days, Ghini’s French Cafe has withstood the test of time. Opened in 1992 by chef and owner Coralie Satta at just 21 years old, Satta is still at the helm. And all of the menu items are dishes that Satta’s grandmother would cook for her when she was a little girl in France.

For the record, there are plenty of tasty dishes on Ghini’s menu. However, the top three must-try dishes that guests tend to order the most and rave about are…

3. Crepes

Ghini’s offers 5 different crepes to choose from, all served two to an order with a choice of hashbrowns, sliced oranges, baby greens, or kettle chips. (For $2 extra you can upgrade to breakfast potatoes or locally sourced sliced tomatoes.)

Crepe options include:

• Ham & Swiss
• Spinach & Swiss
• Chicken Florentine (add garlic, feta, and parmesan)
• Ham, Spinach & Swiss
• Fresh Strawberry & Whip Cream

If you’re dreaming of a crepe not mentioned here, ask your server. Ghini’s is happy to create off-menu options if the ingredients are on hand.

2. Croque Madame

Ghini’s Croque Madame is classic rich French deliciousness. Thinly sliced ham layered with béchamel, gruyere, and parmesan on French bread WITH A SUNNY SIDE UP EGG ON TOP. Uh, YUM! Calories, be damned. Like the crepes, Ghini’s Croque Madame (and Croque Monsieur – same dish, sans the egg) are available in a number of different variations:

• Florentine Croque Madame – substitutes fresh baby spinach for the ham. Available without egg (Croque Monsieur)
• Chicken Florentine Croque Madame – adds chicken breast to the Florentine above. Available without egg (Croque Monsieur)

1. Eggs Provençal

Don’t let the simplicity of this dish fool you. It truly is one of Tucson’s best breakfast dishes and a signature item at Ghini’s. Local tomato sautéed with fresh garlic, thyme, and farm eggs served with a choice of toast (although you really should opt for the fresh, baked-next-door baguette). For an extra $2, add the hashbrowns, too.

Lastly, Ghini’s is all about supporting local as much as possible, from varying food suppliers to its in-store merchandise, plateware, and more.

Ghini’s French Cafe is located at 1803 E Prince Rd. For more information, including hours and full menu, visit ghiniscafe.com.

This is a paid piece. Learn more about how Tucson Foodie can help promote your food-based business.