The Muffin Men

When La Grande Orange opened its Santa Monica location in May, there were two words on everyone's lips: English muffins. This restaurant's oversize, airy muffins, made fresh daily, put store-bought brands to shame. Even better--you can buy a bag ($9) to bring home.

The chefs make the muffins the old-fashioned way, using organic flour and a 19th-century recipe. Each is formed by hand, dusted with cornmeal and then cooked on a griddle (instead of in the oven), which gives the muffins their flattened shape and extra-crunchy exterior when toasted.

Because LGO's are larger than most commercially produced muffins, they make great sandwich bread. They're the vehicle for the restaurant's Commuter Sandwich, a hearty, one-fisted breakfast (click here for the recipe). And--insider tip--you can order LGO's thick hamburger on a muffin. It's so sturdy, it stands up to the juicy fresh-ground beef patty, melted Tillamook cheddar and fresh tomato better than a bun.

At home, simply split one with a fork (which helps create nooks and crannies inside) and toast. Spread it with butter and jam for breakfast, or top with tomato sauce, cheese and herbs for a savory pizzette lunch.

La Grande Orange, 2000 Main St., Santa Monica; 310-396-9152 or lagrandeorangesm.com