Everyone seems at home here, and most seem to know manager Charles Southwick by name. It's appropriate for a place that's inspired by family: Owner Cy Riley came up with some "food like Mom would make if she was gettin' paid." The crowd takes advantage, meaning the homemade mac 'n'cheese hardly goes unnoticed. Charles' favorites include Grandma's Meatloaf served with fresh green beans, mashed potatoes and a Bell's Amber Ale Gravy ($9.95), as well as the lemon garlic chicken, a half-chicken marinated and slow-roasted with potatoes ($11.95). Pleasantly enough, in addition to highlighting mom-like eats, the menu identifies vegetarian- and vegan-friendly dishes. Come early on Saturday and Sunday for the deluxe brunch, which rolls 'til the late hour of 4 p.m. You'll find "Hangover Helpers" like biscuits and gravy, well-priced classics like eggs Benedicts with Canadian bacon and homemade hollandaise ($6.95) and create-your-own fluffy omelets.

Silver Cloud's tinytini martinis ($3.50-$4) are adorable and scrumptious, the perfect size for the new or ambivalent martini drinker. The signature Smoretini ($7) comes with coffee, vodka, Godiva dark chocolate liqueur, a graham cracker, whipped cream and marshmallow to be savored by the quickest at the table. The lemon drop comes in a close second.

Tables in the back accommodate diners, but the booths are the way to go if you get here early enough. Otherwise grab one of the 15 bar stools and cozy up to the greet-you-with-a-smile bartenders (who deserve nice tips). It's not too conversationally challenged...well at least not at 1:30 a.m.

Centerstage Reviewer: Mara Sands