"We've started a special this month that I think parents will appreciate," Koutoulas said.

At the Cardinal Coffee Shop and Lounge kids lunches are free.

"When a customer buys a regular lunch or dinner between noon and 8 p.m. they will get a kids meal for free," Koutoulas said.

The children's meals include either a hot dog or hamburger, French fries and a soda.

"I remember what it was like when money was tight and the kids were on summer vacation. You want to something nice or fun for them and it's expensive. I think this will help parents and kids," Koutoulas said.

Another idea that the employees of the Cardinal came up with is a 10 percent discount off of a meal when customers present a ticket stub from either a local concert or rodeo.

"My employees have great ideas. When they come to me with a new idea I look it over and usually think it's great. This was a great idea because not only do the customers go to the local events that happen all summer, but they get a reward for going by saving money when they come here," Koutoulas said.

And Koutoulas often relies on her employees for innovative ideas.

The restaurant's waitresses came up with the idea for theme Sundays. Each Sunday is a different theme at the Cardinal. One of the themes was Hawaiian days where all of the employees dressed in Hawaiian outfits.

"It's fun for the customers as well as the employees. It's always nice to have something a little different to do or even to wear. Just to kind of spice things up," Koutoulas said.

Koutoulas has been the owner of the Cardinal Coffee Shop and Lounge since her father, Evange Koutoulas. died in 1995. Anna Maria had been working at the restaurant for several years before taking over as its manager, which made the transition to ownership easier.

"I've had the same chef for 11 years now. Alfonso Esteban is the heart of this restaurant," Koutoulas said.

Esteban has been placed in charge of all of the menu decisions and Koutoulas is very happy with the way he works.

"He knows what the customers like and enjoy. He knows a lot about the restaurant business and does a great job," Koutoulas said.

During the recent economic downturn Koutoulas was worried that she would have to let some of her employees go. Happily she has been able to keep her complete staff without cutting the quality that her customers have come to expect at the restaurant.

A menue offering both American and some Greek food gives customers a wide selection at the Cardinal.

There is also a large selection of freshly baked cakes and pastries that the Cardinal has prided itself on since its original opening.

"We have about 20 specials a day," Koutoulas said. "There is always something for just about every appetite on our menu. And the customers know that we are here for them 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

The Cardinal Coffee Shop and Lounge is located at 3197 Meridian Ave, at the corner of Hillsdale Ave. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The lounge is open from noon to 2 a.m. seven days a week. For more information or for take-out orders, call 408.269.7891.