mmm-yoso!!! the food blog written by friends Kirk, Ed(from Yuma) and Cathy is back again with another post. Cathy is writing because the guys are adjusting.
Shirley's Kitchen, a quintessential Diner, open from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. seven days a week has been in this location on University near 70th for at least 20 years.
It's not fancy. It is clean. 
When you walk in, daily specials are on the wall. The decor is eclectic. Your waiter/waitress will be efficient.
Basic condiments are on every table: you can order breakfast until closing.
You might be bored with more photos of breakfast, since I tend to order the same thing everywhere (poached eggs, rye toast and whatever meat craved that day or the Shirley's Special ($5.99)-2 eggs, 2 pancakes and choice of 3 bacon, 2 sausage or ham), so this post will be about lunch.
The pot pie dinner ($7.49) is always a good choice here. The shortening-based house made crust, filled with turkey and vegetables in gravy is why it's called "Famous Pot Pie" on the menu: people drive here for this. Served with mashed potato, vegetable of the day and more gravy as well as a side of cranberry sauce, this is a filling as well as good tasting meal.
I always enjoy a simple salad ($2.99) because of the house made Thousand Island dressing and pair it with the house made reasonably sized cup of chili ($3.99). Meaty and made with a great variety of spices, making it mildly spicy, the chili here is comforting and so very good.
The people working here know the 'regulars' and are always welcoming to new people. It's like eating at a friend's home.
Shirley's Kitchen 7118 University Avenue La Mesa, 91942 (619) 462-5732 Open 7 days 7 a.m.-2 p.m.