The email came into my inbox as I was brainstorming ideas for my next food write-up; naturally, I took note of the words “Breakfast is on us.” The email was from ModMarket—purveyor of “fast casual” salads, sandwiches, soup, pizza, and now, breakfast—and offered a 2-for-1 breakfast and an introduction to Chef Nate’s magic. So I rounded up a few friends to see just what was cooking for breakfast.
(From the email: “While enjoying a meal at Modmarket, it is not uncommon to catch a glimpse of our director of culinary operations, Chef Nate Weir, dashing about in our kitchens while perfecting his next new menu item or tweaking an age-old favorite. As he quickly moves from station to station, grabbing a handful of red bell peppers here and a few sprigs of basil there, you can see the culinary wheels turning in his head. He is running through different flavor profiles, determining the best ingredient combinations that will create the next Modmarket fan favorite.”)
We did indeed meet Chef Nate, and invited him to sit with us for a few minutes and talk about the breakfast menu. He told us that ModMarket now has eight stores in the Denver metro area. They pay a premium for their proteins (they hail from Niman Ranch, and are all hormone- and antibiotic-free), use only cage-free eggs from chickens fed a 100% vegetarian diet, and when possible, they purchase organic veggies. Many dishes are vegetarian and/or gluten-free. In the past, I’ve come for their large, delicious salads and homemade soups.
The four of us ordered the following:
Rocket Egg – an egg sandwich with arugula, tomato, provolone, and basil aioli on a yummy ciabatta roll made special for ModMarket by Izzio’s (formerly Udi’s Bread). The consensus was that the basil aioli “made” this dish. The eggs were perfectly cooked, and the roll was soft and super fresh. This sandwich was truly delicious.
Prosciutto & Eggs – This meal was lighter but still satisfying. The mixed greens were a nice addition, with a lemon maple vinaigrette. The eggs came out over easy despite being ordered sunnyside up, and we thought the dish could use more prosciutto, but the eggs and Izzio’s multigrain toast were delish.
Chili & Eggs – for those who like a larger breakfast, this dish comes with two eggs “smothered in green chili” which was true, as you can see in the picture. The consensus was that true chile-lovers may be disappointed in the lack of major heat (it’s made with Anaheim chiles), but that this meal, served with roasted potatoes, was filling and good.
Market Scramble – this dish was like a frittata and came chock full of broccoli, cheese, and other goodies, rendering it a filling meal, especially with the multigrain toast & butter. I might like to see it with feta instead of the provolone. After a vote, we decided that this dish and the Rocket Egg were my little group’s favorites.
With Allegro coffee at $1.50/cup with free refills (at least we think that’s the case – we walked up and served ourselves more!), you can’t go wrong with breakfast at ModMarket. It’s a great spot for a weekday breakfast meeting or a second date, to fortify yourself before taking on the mall, or before embarking on a road trip.
Next time, I’d like to try the waffles and the oatmeal, and I won’t wait for another two-for-one coupon. ModMarket serves a fresh, healthy breakfast that unlike many spots in Boulder, will not torture your hungry tummy with a huge line. Go experience it for yourself, and give Chef Nate our best.
