FOR over 30 years Eegon's has been the anchor English traditional cafe in Cowes.
Having ascended stairs, we slipped into the venue's prime spot - a window table with a sea view.
This was literally a step up from the relocated cafe's previous home, which had no such visuals to distract us.
Another improvement was a reduction in the plethora of laminated signs - a feature of the old Eegon's.
Instead of melamine tabletops we enjoyed actual plastic tablecloths, and some seats even had cushions. Progress indeed.
Reassuringly, the mugs of tea were delivered in familiar branded Eegon's mugs; teabag and cow's milk already in the cup, with sugar in an open bowl on the table. Sugar in a bowl? Can you imagine?
Parents should bring their children here to marvel at how we used to live.
Look, kids, no single-serving sachets to fumble with. No, don't lick the spoon.
If you want avocado, shakshuka or anything with seeds in it you will be better off elsewhere.
Our choice at Eegon's was unashamedly full English classics all the way.
Eegon's Breakfast Bonanza is still there, so that's what we had.
The ominous warning on the menu yelled in red, "PLEASE NOTE ANY CHANGES TO THE MENU WILL BE CHARGED AS EXTRAS DUE TO RISING COST".
However, just as in 2013, this edict proved to be negotiable and we were not, in fact, charged for not having beans.
The breakfast was the epitome of a traditional fry-up. Eggs, bacon, sausage, tomatoes, mushrooms, fried bread and toast.
The addition of hash browns and black pudding made the Bonanza stand out, and overall this was a meal that was no less, and no more, than it promised.
The meals were fresh, hot and gratefully received.
We're glad that Eegon's has survived; this stalwart venue serves up food in the popular 'greasy spoon' diner style - proudly claiming to be open 363 days per year.
It's a great institution that is determinedly keeping English cafe traditions alive, with success judging by the number of customers who are willing to climb the Eegon's staircase.
This style of dining is, in fact, these days a novelty and worth experiencing in itself.
The food is as good as you'd expect and Eegon's is a true cultural, more than a culinary, delight. We hope the cafe lasts at least another 30 years.
Matt and Cat's bill
Breakfast 2 @ £13.50 = £27
Tea 2 @ £2.25 = £4.50
Total £31.50
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