Steak Chile Relleno @ Far Western Tavern

What other brunch selection is there when a historic restaurant that’s known for blending the culinary cultures of past and present immigrant cuisines alongside serious oak-grilled meat offers up a Cowboy Steak Hash Chile Relleno? Topped with a delicately fried egg and served next to probably the least greasy, perfectly flash fried homefries ever made, the Far Western Tavern’s brunch dish makes for a brilliant breakfast in the heart of Old Town Orcutt.

The small town, just south of Santa Maria, is growing its reputation as a place to drink and eat. The tavern, which moved to the area last year after nearly six decades in the even lesser known city of Guadalupe, commands quite a presence for lunch and dinner, though breakfasters tend to head down the street to the also awesome plates offered at Kay’s Country Kitchen. But ignoring the tavern’s brunch, which seemed sparsely attended on a recent Sunday, is a grave error for those who enjoy creative morningtime twists on old fashioned Santa Maria Valley barbecue cuisine. Since lunch is also available during brunch, you can even start your meal with delicacies like sweetbreads, done with enough smoke to convince budding organ eaters that they’re on the right path.

In the relleno, the cheesy steak bites fill the roasted chile, with the egg plopped on top. It’s the perfect amount of food, paired nicely with a Bloody Mary and coffee, leaving you full but not overstuffed. Those requiring full jamming can finish their potatoes, dwell more on the jam, butter, and biscuits, or order a side of the famous pinquito beans.