Moab Garage Co.

We arrive at Moab Garage Co. (MGC) just after it opens, and it’s not too busy, yet. There’s no wireless here, so patrons are invited to order at the front, enjoy their food at their leisure and talk to each other like humans. It’s a great pre-Arches stop for the best breakfast sandwich in Moab. Behind the counter (and masks) are friendly faces and warm greetings. 

A tasty and simple way to start the day

We settle on the McLovin, MGC’s take on the classic breakfast sandwich, with soft scrambled eggs, a few slices of ham and cheese on a toasted pretzel bun. The bun is what makes this sandwich so tasty. It’s soft and yeasty, ample enough to support its ingredients, but flavorful enough to stand on its own. It’s served with tater tots or grapes. We go for the fruit today.

Next is the Savory Quinoa Bowl, which is a slightly healthier option. There are quinoa and red rice, fresh greens and homemade salsa, slices of avocado, and a dollop of crème fraîche. Pickled onions, a sprinkling of cheddar jack cheese and an over-easy egg round it out. It’s tasty and comforting.

Lunch also looks good, with an array of sandwiches from turkey and gouda to meatball to deep fried PB&J (“you know, ‘cause why not?”). They also have salads, street tacos, and a selection of charcuterie, if that’s your thing. Made-to-order ice cream and a bunch of local goods, from hats to jewelry, line the table by the bar. 

Community-first for decades

Owners Erin and Ryan Bird also own a restaurant down the street (Doughbird), whose doughnuts are on display at MGC and look positively delicious. This is the kind of place that, during the height of the pandemic, reopened to offer their neighbors — especially those in the service industry — a free burrito and a book, provided by nearby Back of Beyond Books.

Previously an auto shop, Sears retail store and rock shop, its current reincarnation obviously takes its name from the auto shop, which was in business from 1928 to 1975. You can order online and stop by to pick it up, but they won’t start your coffee until you get there so it’s “freshy fresh.” Because, of course.