Robeks

Robeks rocks. If you are looking for something to go or just something fruity for Breakfast, Robeks is the place. Everything there is fresh (or freshly "flash" frozen) and they don't use icky fake powders or sweeteners as a base for their smoothies. They are open by 6:30am on the week days (9am on Sat. and 11am on Sun.) and don't close until 8pm.

I don't eat their food (why go for the fish sticks at a pizza joint, right?!) but I love their smoothies. The two Acai smoothies are my favorites but I also dig the Bonzai Blueberry and the Pomegranate Passion. Though I have to say, I get something different almost every time I go in because I know it will be good and a great surprising taste. They are refreshing and thick and they taste REAL! Not like Smoothie King. Bleh.

The boosts that you can add are pretty cool too. The "power smoothies" come with boosts already included, if you are looking for some vitamins or protein or what not. But if you get overwhelmed with details, just ignore that.

The Robeks' that I've been to are really good about customizing your smoothie too. I usually get spinach added to mine as it gives you some green but can't overwhelm the fruits in terms of taste ... why not, right!?

You can also get some very different juices, if you are feeling adventurous. Wheat Grass is a staple for my orders. It is really sweet and comes as a shot. You definitely need a "chaser" for the wheat grass shot, as its a little ... pasture-y. The juices like G-Snap are quite the punch too.

Find locations here.

-- S.Coffin

The OPH

My favorite breakfast spot will come as no surprise to most people: The Original Pancake House. This gem of a restaurant opens at 7:00 a.m. and serves the best variety of pancakes anywhere. If you're looking for homestyle breakfast, this is the place to go.

Everything from pecan pancakes to spinach and mushroom crepes, to eggs hollandaise, to the infamous Dutch baby is available within 15 minutes. The best time to go is around 8:45 on Sunday morning before the church crowd gets there. Brimming with families and cute older couples, this restaurant reminds me of why I like breakfast in the first place - hearty food for everyday folks. For a special treat, try the shredded hash browns - mmmmm, I'm getting hungry just thinking about them.

The only downside is the more expensive (but still fresh-squeezed) orange juice, and the refusal to seat any incomplete party. The OPH won't split checks on weekends, but the waitresses are friendly and often will help you around that by printing multiple checks. They are also very kind to those of us who aren't ''cooperative'' in the mornings.

I also love that this place takes an interest in its community - every year, the OPH opens on Christmas morning in order to feed the homeless folks in Falls Church. What a great way to celebrate the season. I give 5 out of 5 stars to this comfortable breakfast spot - hope you get the chance to enjoy it!

- A. Griffith