Speeder and Earl's

Speeder and Earl's is a new spot in the Copley Square Hotel that's open for breakfast into the wee hours on weekends. But drop by during daylight hours, and there's a good chance you might find yourself at the counter with the self-proclaimed "Over-the-Hill Gang," a group of conversational men who have been frequenting the same restaurant space for decades.

At Speeder & Earl's, traditional breakfast items come with a modern twist, from cinnamon-swirl french toast ($6.25) to the distinctive Duke of Earl, a split bagel topped with melted havarti, scrambled eggs, tomato, onion, and smoked salmon, accompanied by pan-fried potatoes and toast ($4.95). Or try the malted waffles with Maine blueberry compote ($6.95). The Vermont-based Speeder and Earl's (two branches in Burlington, plus this one in Boston) roasts its coffee in small batches to ensure freshness -- hence its motto, "An adventure in every cup." Plenty of hot and cold coffees available; be sure to pick up Earl's Extra, a card that gets you one free beverage after you buy 10.

Speeder & Earl's is located at 47 Huntington Avenue (at Exeter Street), in Boston. Open daily for breakfast from 7 to 11:30 a.m., and on Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Pastry and coffee served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; call 421-1434.

-- Nancy Kalajian