It’s hard for me to remember meeting Sam Classen. She’s one of those people you just feel that you have known forever. I know that sounds cliche but really, it’s true. She’s kind, sends the best texts and she always keeps her promises.Sam owns Golden West Cafe, a Hampden neighborhood institution. One thing I really love about Golden West is that it’s different from anything else, it has its own vibe from the decor to the food to the people. And, not only does it serve some of the most comforting food in Baltimore, it also satisfies the growing number of plant-based diners – with zest. And where else could you get Elvis pancakes in Bmore? What are they? Here you go: thick-sliced applewood bacon baked into two buttermilk pancakes, topped with fried bananas and powdered sugar and served with peanut-butter butter and maple syrup. Wow. Two more things I like about Golden West are hanging out in the back bar and grabbing an order of tacos at the pick-up window out front.Sam is a neighborhood champion, she donates to every possible fundraising event and sees her staff at the restaurant as family, like, really. She genuinely cares about them and will go the extra mile for them. Let’s just say, Golden West is a very special place. The front of Golden West Cafe in Hampden.Cake or Pie? And what kind?It’s controversial but my Aunt Joy makes the most perfect coconut cake at Easter. Not too sweet, light and fluffy.Your most prized possession?My Grandmother’s wedding ring.What’s your favorite thing to order out at restaurants?Always the “weird” stuff. A chef friend and I used to joke that you could always tell which tables were industry by their orders. They order a lot and never shy away from adventurous specials. What’s your favorite thing to cook at home?Curry. Warms the soul and fills your belly. A burger from Golden West Cafe.What is your morning beverage and how do you take it?Rooibos Tea with a little honey. What’s your personal motto?My husband would say, Never stop improving. I love a project. This is how I look at most things, how can I make this just a little better, each day. What is your favorite holiday and why?I’m bad at favorites, but probably Christmas. Halloween is a solid second. It’s all nostalgia, my Mom made everything feel so special. We didn’t have any money growing up, but she would make cocoa and we would drive around looking at neighborhood Christmas lights. She always found a way to share whatever we had with others. That spirit fills the holiday season for me.Pancakes, eggs and sausage from Golden West Cafe.Best advice you were ever given? And from whom?Don’t borrow trouble from the future – My Dad. What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?I have three kind, intelligent, thoughtful children. That feels monumental. The last text you sent?“Always keep one in your car so you’re never without”What is your idea of perfect happiness?Happiness is so fleeting right? Happiness is finishing most of the laundry. It’s the kids doing well or if my sweet husband is nearby. I do feel happiest when we are all together. Peanut noodle salad from Golden West Cafe.What do you love most about food?The power it has to bring people together, to soothe wild, hangry children, to make new friends, to celebrate an achievement or a passing. There’s so much beauty in what we do, it’s an honor to serve guests. At work or home. I love throwing an impromptu dinner party.Your favorite place in Baltimore?Hampden, of course. I’m thrilled to be in business here for so many years. It’s vibrant and full of amazing business owners I can call friends. Together, over the last two decades, we have built a great community of people dedicated to making memories and caring for our neighbors. We volunteer our time to our causes and what we have is unmatched in the city. You could say we try to improve it just a little bit every day . . . Read more Baker’s Dozen pieces here at Baltimore Fishbowl or at Charm City Cook.