Page 32 - 2019octnov

Good Eating and Good Deeds at Norma's Cafe

by Katie Anderson

n 1956, a home-style diner opened on Davis Street, along
the famous stretch of US Highway 80 in South Dallas.
IWhat started as a classic breakfast spot or a place to grab
a homemade dinner has become so much more. Award for their generous monthly fundraisers, this cafe is
As a boy growing up in Oak Cliff, Ed Murph used to eat clearly doing more than just serving all day breakfast. While
at Norma’s Cafe. He enjoyed the time he got to spend with their charitable work is a pillar of the restaurant, the food and
friends, eating great food and creating memories. He loved it service isn’t something to overlook either!
so much that he bought the joint from Norma herself in 1986. Norma’s Cafe is known for their fluffy biscuits and gravy,
In 2009, Murph opened a location in Addison with cafes Texas sized chicken fried steak and of course, their famous
following in Frisco, Park Lane off 75 in Dallas and the latest Mile High Pie. Most recipes are from the original Norma or
in Plano, including their first private dining room & patio. from Ed’s own family’s secret stash. Everything is made in-
Over those 33 years, Murph grew the Norma’s Cafe legacy house and uses local ingredients whenever possible. Norma’s
to a total of 5 locations but also included a special focus on Cafe has stacked up countless awards and for good measure
charity and giving back to the community. including Best Diner in Dallas, Best Breakfast in Dallas &
“As much as I enjoy running my own business, it’s a much Plano and Best Pie in Texas. We personally have enjoyed the
better feeling to put a smile on someone’s face”, says Ed half pound Bacon Mac & Cheese Burger as well as the Ole’
Murph. “Norma’s is not only a place for friends and family Number 7, which is essentially the kitchen sink of breakfast
to gather over a great meal but is lucky enough to support so foods.
many non-profits and community initiatives over the years.” If you haven’t enjoyed their catering at a local event, sampled
We can attest that Murph puts his money where his pie filled a Chicken Fried Steak shooter at a charity pop-up or had
mouth is. a chance to make it by a physical location yet, we highly
From feeding thousands for free every Thanksgiving to winning suggest you add Norma’s Cafe to this weekend’s to do list.
the inaugural D CEO Magazine’s Corporate Responsibility Just be sure to wear your stretchy pants and prepare for a nap
afterword!

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