Excellent diner-style dining at Nayhely’s Place

Why: Nayhely’s Place is family-owned and operated by the Neteo family. The family-style restaurant has been in business for just over a year. Located in an unassuming strip mall off Highway 99, it is easy to drive past without noticing it. Nayhely’s is open seven days a week and serves a full diner-style menu of American favorites.

What I tried: I settled on the corned-beef hash with scrambled eggs and pancakes, and my dining companion had the eggs Benedict with fresh fruit.

Both breakfasts were served piping hot directly from the kitchen, just like at home. Nayhely’s doesn’t use heat lamps.

The first thing I noticed was the corned beef. The generous, meaty chunks, sautéed with fresh onion and bell pepper, were unmistakably homemade. Alongside the corned-beef mixture were hash browns that were fried to a lovely, golden crisp on the exterior and fluffy underneath. They were not the least bit greasy. The scrambled eggs were very tasty and fully cooked. The pancakes were moist with just the right amount of springiness, and they were not overly done, allowing the butter to easily soak into the surface as it melted.

My dining companion thoroughly enjoyed the eggs Benedict and found the eggs perfectly poached for the classic dish. The fruit accompaniment, which was strawberries and grapes at the time of our visit, was fresh and sweet.

We also ordered coffee, which was supplied fresh and hot in a carafe for refills at our convenience.

Atmosphere: The restaurant is composed of basic elements in cheerful colors. Walls are painted in lime green and country yellow, and chairs and booths are upholstered in a shade of red. Windows and doors are trimmed with white below a white ceiling. The floor is white, as well, which enhances the natural light that comes in through the large windows along the front of the restaurant, creating a pleasant, happy vibe. The entry room has a large-screen TV for entertainment. Through an arched doorway, another, more spacious dining room provides additional seating. Photos printed on canvas are hung on the walls and are for sale.

Menu highlights beyond what I tried: Chicken-fried steak and eggs is among the specials served with two eggs and a bread choice. Omelettes include a Denver, California, Spanish and a three-cheese. Lunch sandwiches include a French dip, Philly cheesesteak and the Nayhely’s special clubhouse, made with roasted turkey, ham, bacon, cheddar cheese, tomato, lettuce and mayonnaise on white toast. Homemade soups vary by the day and include split pea with ham, chicken noodle, and beef and vegetable. Dinner specials include a top sirloin steak, as well as grilled salmon. Among the burger choices is a Texas burger with jack cheese, jalape?os, barbecue sauce, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and onions. Shakes, bread pudding and chocolate enchiladas are available for dessert. Beverages include Coke products, coffee, hot chocolate, juice, milk and tea.

Other observations: As far as breakfast goes, this is one of those finds that I would like to keep to myself and preserve the uncrowded, relaxed pace that I experienced. It was nice to get away from the typical, bustled breakfast dining experience, for which a wait time is inevitable.

I was surprised to discover how compact the kitchen is. The Neteos are charming people, and their friendly service, deliciously prepared food and quaint little restaurant make you feel right at home. I am looking forward to a return visit to try lunch or dinner.

Cost: Breakfast specials cost $9.99 to $12.99. Omelettes are $8.99 to $10.99. Skillets are $10.99. Pancakes and French toast are $5.99. Breakfast sides range from 99 cents to $3.99. At lunch, appetizers cost $4.99 and $6.99. Soups and salads range from $2.50 to $11.99. Sandwiches are $7.99 to $10.99. Dinner entrees (served after 4 p.m.) are $10.99 to $13.99. Burgers cost $7.99 to $10. Desserts are $4.50 and $4.99. Beverages are $1.99 to $3.50.