Good neighborhood brunch places are hard to come by in the Valley, so it’s no surprise the few great ones are typically overcrowded. The key is finding the good ones before everyone else does, which leads me to Norm’s Eggs Cafe on Durango south of Spring Mountain. And don’t let the name fool you—Norm is doling out a lot more than eggs.

Breakfast at Norm’s is fairly standard, although options do include both red velvet ($7) and lemon ricotta ($7.50) pancakes, along with an outstanding lox and cream cheese scramble ($9). Steer clear of the corned beef hash ($7.25)—it’s more hash and less corned beef than I like, and Bagel Cafe’s is far better, anyway.

Norm’s “quick lunch specials” might actually be the menu’s highlight. Officially served after 11 a.m.—though ask if you’re there earlier as they’re pretty accommodating—the selections ($6 each) include a fairly good beef stew and an even better meatloaf made from turkey and beef, both served with homemade mashed potatoes. The potatoes themselves are worth the price of admission.

Also included in the specials: a memorable chicken curry. Don’t fear for its authenticity; Norm is Asian-American. And while this version isn’t David Wong-caliber, it’s a mild and flavorful rendition that’s still worth checking out. Surprisingly, even it can be ordered with mashed potatoes in lieu of steamed rice … an option almost worth considering.

Maybe they should change the name to Norm’s Curry Cafe. Whatever you call it, just be sure to get there before everyone else.