Oregon diners looking forward to a hearty breakfast might need to start checking their fridges before heading out. In a move that perfectly captures the spirit of desperate times, desperate measures, several Oregon breakfast joints have announced a new "BYOE" (Bring Your Own Eggs) policy. Customers unwilling—or unable—to comply will be offered an exclusive alternative: the award-winning ‘Invisible Omelet’, a dish best enjoyed with a side of wishful thinking.
Local restaurant owners cite rising costs, supply shortages, and an increasing reluctance to chase down egg suppliers as reasons for the change. "We just can’t keep up," admitted one Portland café owner. "At this point, it’s either this or start charging $12 per egg. We figured it was time to get creative."
The ‘Invisible Omelet’, now the most talked-about item on breakfast menus across the state, comes with a hefty dose of imagination and absolutely no actual eggs. While some customers have embraced the minimalist approach ("It’s keto, paleo, and gluten-free all at once!" raved one patron), others are less impressed.
"I ordered it just to see what would happen," said one confused diner. "They brought me an empty plate, nodded approvingly, and told me to savor the ‘subtle hints of nonexistence.’"
Others, however, are taking matters into their own hands. Reports have surfaced of diners smuggling in eggs under jackets, inside purses, and even discreetly tucked into socks. One Eugene café has even started offering a ‘No Questions Asked’ BYOE program, allowing customers to slip their eggs to the kitchen in plain brown bags.
Meanwhile, some restaurants are embracing the chaos. A trendy brunch spot in Bend is now offering a "Farm-to-Table… If You Have a Farm" special, where customers not only bring their own eggs but are encouraged to barter with other guests for additional breakfast essentials. A single egg was reportedly traded for two slices of toast and a high-five last Sunday.
The crisis has also given rise to a growing underground egg market, with customers allegedly making back-alley deals with farmers before heading in for their morning meal. One black-market egg dealer, speaking under the condition of anonymity, described the situation as "getting out of hand." "It used to be just a carton here and there. Now I got people asking for eggs by the dozen, like they’re moving something illegal. One guy tried to trade me a $10 Starbucks gift card for six eggs. We’re living in wild times."
Breakfast enthusiasts across the state are debating whether this is a temporary fix or a sign of the dystopian brunch future to come. Some fear that this could be just the beginning. "First, it’s eggs. Next, we’re bringing our own syrup? What’s next—BYO pancakes?" asked a concerned diner.
For those unwilling to make the leap into avant-garde breakfast cuisine, restaurant owners insist that bringing your own eggs is still the safest bet. "We’ll cook ‘em for free—just don’t expect us to provide the goods," one server explained.
Meanwhile, rumors are swirling that a "BYOB" (Bring Your Own Bacon) policy could be next. One Portland breakfast joint even hinted at a "Self-Serve Griddle Experience," where diners would get their own portable stove and a vague sense of despair.
So, if you're heading out for breakfast in Oregon anytime soon, don’t forget your eggs—or be prepared to pay top dollar for an empty plate and a knowing nod from your waiter.