The Hardware Shop: The Nuts and Bolts of Breakfast

Oh boy, do I love jam. Smucker's, a century-old American fruit spread, had snuck its way into the peanut butter sandwiches I consumed daily back home. While Smucker’s is no contest compared to the smorgasbord of colorful, homemade preserves and butters available at The Hardware Shop, this breakfast quick stop certainly whips up memories of that old favorite.

I managed to jam four different spreads on two pieces of bread, freshly baked in-house and toasted. I started with pear butter, a lighter, but more exotic take on the traditional apple version. Then, that autumn classic – their recipe isn't as thick and creamy as my favorite farmers’ market apple butter, but still hit all the right tones of early morning refreshment.

Next, I dug into the black sesame peanut butter. It is a rich, dark caramel color, thanks to the sesame paste, and brought an intensity unmatched by even the nuttiest container of Skippy. Go with this one if you're in the mood for a tasty something that will stick in your stomach – and on your gums. The Hardware Shop could benefit from serving milk to help wash down this protein-powered option.

I slathered the last of my bread with passion fruit jam, a treat I never had the pleasure of experiencing in my own dry climate. The tropical fruit spoke for itself, its seeds reminiscent of chocolate chips. This jam deserved two passionate helpings, and I had finished all my bread before I could try the other sweet toppings on offer.

Jams aside, The Hardware Shop is an intimate, eight-seater spot for coffee and carbs on the run in the a.m. or for wine and cheese in the evening. The only thing you're missing by eating there is the satisfaction of repurposing your empty jar of jam.

Also try: Café Zarah, Tavalin Bagels