Right off the train, through the streets of Windsor, under the Detroit River, past customs and down Jefferson Avenue and up to Harper Avenue, Lou and Deb speed me to Frank’s on the Avenue for what I crave most when I visit Michigan–coneys and chili. “Two Coneys and Fries.” It’s afternoon. I think. Time has gone wobbly on me. Oh yes, Lou and Deb feature as my son-in-law’s parents who graciously have afforded me lodgings for my visit. Eatwards.
We walk through glass doors and Lou shouts out to Frank who’s behind the grill assembling his diner magic of coneys, omelettes, pitas, and burgers. They hurl insults at each other, laugh and then we sit. I’m at home. Oh, I’m at home. I’m here for one thing, actually two things, coney island hot dogs smothered in chili and served with fries. A crisp-skinned hot dog that snaps in the mouth, smothered with a chili that burns the mouth, and all topped with cheese and onions. Magic. Time moves forward or doesn’t move forward or stubbornly remains where it’s always been, while Lou and Deb walk me into Travis Restaurant also on Harper Avenue. Lou and Deb shout at waiters and cooks, who shout back, all laugh, and we sit. Another home. It’s morning and time to greet the day properly with the “Travis Chili Omelette.”
Oh yes. Four eggs, seasoned ground beef, mushrooms, onions and Swiss cheese topped with homemade chili. Topped? More drowned and I only want more. Again a side of crackling hash browns seals the deal. Of course, I ask for hot sauce. Of course, I ask for more hot sauce. But wait, Lou and Deb whisk me out the door and back to Frank’s in order to sample another omelette styling. “Frank’s Omelette with Hashbrowns.”
Four eggs, seasoned ground beef, green peppers, onions, chili with Swiss and American cheese. And, of course, hash browns. Equally as rich as the Travis Omelette, though with a slightly more “hamburgery” taste. Lovely. Now. Time to rest and later continue to read Beckett as I sit on a throne and contemplate the void. Bon Appétit!
