The Best Western is getting into the restaurant business.

There is space within the Best Western Landmark Inn at Kimball Junction for a restaurant that years ago was inhabited by JB’s, and prior to that, Denny’s.

Recently the hotel decided again having a restaurant would provide better service to guests while likely attracting local patronage as well, explained Cindy Galli, director of marketing.

“There’s no place to have breakfast at Kimball Junction,” she said.

The Hungry Miner’s Breakfast Bucket opened last Monday, Dec. 14. The buffet offers all the basic fare: scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, waffles, biscuits and gravy with occasional specials like omelets, egg benedict and quiche.

The buffet is included in the price of lodging for guests of the hotel but is also open to outside diners from 6 to 11 a.m. Don’t ask about the lunch or dinner menu, it’s breakfast only. There’s seating for about 120 people and as the name implies (and as is consistent with the décor of the hotel) the ambiance throws a nod to the area’s historic past.

To celebrate the opening, The Hungry Miner’s Breakfast Bucket is hosting Santa and Mrs. Claus this weekend on Dec. 19 and 20 from 8 to 11 a.m.

The people who arrange for Santa to come have previously had him work in Fashion Place Mall and other high-traffic situations so they are well experienced, Galli said. They will also be donating their time this weekend to help raise money for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.

A portion of proceeds during the breakfast will be donated and parents bringing their children to see Santa are welcome to give to the donation by leaving money with Santa or Mrs. Claus. Parents are also encouraged to bring their own cameras for photographs, Galli said.

The idea of raising money for the foundation at the visit was Santa’s idea, she explained. He learned about the group some time ago and tries to help it out.

According to a press release, 10 children are diagnosed with a brain tumor everyday. Four out of 10 will die within 5 years. Research gets 84 cents of every dollar. The foundation also aids in early detection, helps improve treatments, provides support and education for families and gives higher education scholarships for survivors.