This morning I decided I was going to take a trip via Trimet transit.  I haven't really ridden anywhere during commuting hours in a long time.  My goal was two fold; one to ride on the MAX at least part of the trip, two to grab some breakfast grub somewhere along the way.

The logistics path I decided to travel on was #77 to Old Town China Town stop.  Board the Yellow Line to the convention center.  Grab breakfast somewhere along the way.  Board Yellow Line back towards downtown and possibly catch a Blue Line ride out and back.

As I rode out there wasn't too many people on either the #77 or the Yellow Line Train.  No more than 7 people at the most boarded, road, or got off of the bus.  About 35-40 people where on the MAX Vehicle that I rode in.  Not too bad for counter flow travel at 8:30-9:00am.

For some reason I noted that the Yellow Line actually seemed a lot smoother today.  Not sure why, maybe the LRV was just newer than the LRVs I've ridden on this line in the past.

I still have to agree with the majority back when they decided to put this line down.  The design is slow, very slow, and in addition the vast majority in these areas didn't want it.  Eventually it'll pay for itself through local businesses being fed more and more, but still in its early years there are some negative hurdles that need overcome, namely speed.

As the LRV cruised along down Interstate Avenue we passed Hot Wings.  This place I've never been to via transit but have driven to several times.  They have honest to goodness rocking wings!  So if you like' em go get some!

After passing the Hot Wings at the Presott stop the LRV headed down the tracks at the general snails pace of the Yellow Line.  I'm riding for leisure, and even during a commute on light rail (or other smooth riding service) I don't mind this time.  I can use my laptop or get things done while enjoying the view of travel, business, and life going on around the train.  But for many that commute, this excessive amount of time that the train takes is just unacceptable.  Some type of express service should seriously be considered.

I got off the MAX and headed to the Night Hawk Cafe & Lounge.  I had read about this place over on alt.Portland and thought it would be interesting to check out.  Walking toward the front door I noticed a sign that had "No smoking in our cafe" written on it.  This immediately made me a little more confident that the Night Hawk would have good grub.

I strolled on inside and stood for a minute taking in the cafe.  After a minute to get the layout straight I then went and planted myself down at the counter.  Checked out the menu for a minute and then ordered a plate of biscuits and gravy.  I was impressed, the biscuits and gravy and the quickness of the service was perfect.  I haven't gotten service that was quick like that since Waffle House back down in the southern states.  Portland should take notice.

After finishing up I boarded the Yellow Line back toward Portland.  At this stop there is also a little coffee shop that I was seriously tempted to give a shot, but the LRV was bearing down on the station and I didn't want to wait another 15 minutes until the next train.

 After riding downtown I was going to go to Coffee Crutch, but alas to my dismay it was closed.  So I walked down a few blocks to Rooster Coffee just by the Streetcar stop.  I knew they had wireless and I could track the Streetcar and be ready to go when it was just a minute or two away.  Upon arrial at the Rooster Coffee shop I ordered up a piping hot Cappucino and thougth to myself upon receipt, that is definately and American sized Cappucino.  I seriously doubt one could get a Cappacino this big anywhere in Europe (of course I could be wrong).

With that I headed home on the Streetcar and called it a day.  Portland again provided a great morning with nice views, easy and relaxing transit, and good coffee.