Café Sol: A Bright Spot in Bristol

If you’re looking for a bright spot just down the street from Bristol Mountain, try Café Sol, located at the corners of Bristol Road and Route 64 in Bristol.

Four of us arrived early on a Saturday night to avoid the crowd — you should make reservations — as it gets very busy.

We started with the popular Hummus appetizer. This is enough for a group to enjoy with three types of hummus: Classic, black bean and peanut butter (Which sounds gross but is awesome!)

Next we enjoyed the Hawaiian stir-fry which is loaded with veggies, Pan-seared Scallops with a blood orange poppy seed reduction, and the Lamb Ragu, and I tried the Mediterranean Mussels off the Tapas Menu, with a house salad. We did not order the Bacon-wrapped Java rubbed Filet Mignon —  this time — it sounds delicious! There is Naked Dove Beer on tap as well as a nice selection of wines.

The service was attentive and the chef friendly, with lots of good choices whether dinner or tapas. The chef, Julia offers a varied menu with a lot of specials, which sources local produce.

Best was the fact that they staggered our courses keeping us eating for a long time and allowing us to catch up with old friends who had recently moved to Canandaigua.

They also serve breakfast at 8am on Saturdays and Sundays.

• Lunch Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10:30a.m. 4 p.m.
• Dinner Friday thru Sunday 5 – 9 p.m.
• Breakfast Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m till 2 p.m.

Cafe Sol
4503 State Route 64
Canandaigua, New York 14424
585.229.2233

 

Seneca Lake Super Cycle

 

Seneca Lake is so large that its difficult to imagine riding around this endless body of water.

Seneca Lake’s North end is the town of Geneva, containing Hobart Williams Smith College, Belhurst Castle,  plus  some of my favorite post-cycling pit stops like The Red Dove.

This time I am riding with my high-mileage bike-riding girl-friend who is training for a four hundred mile Finger Lakes bike tour. We started the loop in the Lakeshore Park and headed counter-clock-wise around the lake, weaving through the sides streets that surround the college. Students had just gone home for the summer and this gorgeous campus seemed way too quiet.

We took Rt 6 (Pre Emption) with a short jog on Earls Hill to Rt 9 (Ridge Rd), to Rt 7 to Rt 1 (Himrod) all the way down the west side of the lake to avoid the traffic, not picking up busy RT 14 until we came to The Glenora Winery. Rt 14 however goes right along the lake edge and might be lovely in a quieter riding season.

I was barely able to overtake the horse riding up hill

Highlight was an Amish horse and buggy making great time on the road. I pursued and finally was able to overtake it as we crested the hill.

Future lunch destination along the west side of Seneca Lake

Another highlight was a little Inn in the town of Himrod that I would like to stop at some time. I think Himrod was probably a much bigger deal when the railroad was the only way to go north south and before Rt 14 eclipsed Rt1.

If you plan on spending more time in the area, stop at the Starkey House B&B – a genuine Mission-Revival-style home, built in 1922.  It is close to several wineries (18 along this side of the lake!), plus close to both Hammondsport and Watkins Glen. The owner of the Starkey House, Cathy Moskal, is a gracious hostess and a great cook.

Speeding past the south end of Seneca Lake into downtown Watkins Glen

Once we were on 14 we had a nice wide shoulder, but steady 55 MPH traffic at our backs as we rode almost continuously downhill to Watkins Glen. We lunched at the Glen Mountain Market, sharing a great sandwich and some coffee to warm us up. This bakery/deli has combines baked goods bread and creative sandwich inventions, which when combined make for a mouth-watering smell – even if you have not ridden 44 mile to enjoy them.

Ride through downtown Watkins Glen before heading north again. Enjoy the great turn-of-the-century architectural relics. The village originally known as Salubria was officially named Watkins Glen in 1926. The original race course used to wind through the streets of the downtown area.

The other famous attraction right in the center of town is the Glen itself. Watkins Glen is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks. It is one of the most amazing geological sights in the area.

Despite all this information it is still a very quick ride across town. Once we make the turn north we hit the incline. This upward climb will continue for about two miles of sheer agony followed by several more ups that feel more like a mountain climb than a simple lake circuit.

Here was one hill even Pam could not ride up

We chose roads away from the busy main route, passing through the Finger Lakes National Forest, Danos Heuriger, a traditional Viennese winery restaurant. This section of the ride is long and perhaps better enjoyed with a winery stop or two.

We were able to spot several white deer while riding by at about 5pm.

As we came to the last 20 miles we rode by the now empty Seneca Army Depot. Today it is a protected sanctuary for white deer. Several dozen wild white-tailed deer were probably caught within the fence that was built to surround the Seneca Army Depot in 1941. Isolated from predators and hunters, the deer population grew quickly.

Fried Chick Peas are irresistible when combined with fresh brews and a crane operator

It was still a long trek back into Geneva. Bikes in-car, we hiked to my favorite watering hole for our reward.

Here is a link to our route

 

Red Bird Market — Close to Home

Imagine a grocery store that specializes in locally produced foods and delivers to your home! Red Bird Market in Fairport is proving that locally produced food can fill a grocery store providing a host of unique and creative choices.

Some of the local specialties: Hand-pinched pierogies from The Pierogie Guy, Flour City Pasta made from wheat ground at the pasta factory in Pittsford, amazing butternut squash based hot sauces from the Karma Sauce Company in Bushnell’s Basin, a variety of cheeses from Miranda Cheese, Cuba Cheese Shoppe, Lively Run Goat Farm, and Yancy’s Fancy, grape twists and Healthy Purple fresh grape juice, natural salad dressings, and jams provided by Arbor Hill Vineyard in Naples.

Hours of Operation:

December – April:
      Monday – Friday 9am – 7pm
      Saturday 9am – 5pm

May – November:
      Monday – Friday 9am – 7pm
      Saturday 8am – 5pm

Pultneyville: Maritime History, Modern Charm

Situated along the east bank of Salmon Creek on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, and the well-traveled Seaway Trail. Pultneyville is a town that combines maritime history and modern charm. It is located on Lake Ontario about 25 miles east of Rochester.

The Landing at Pultneyville offers unique shopping and dining experience in the midst of a historic hamlet in the Town of Williamson. The Landing is among 37 Pultneyville properties, that in 1975, became listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, with a historic district reflecting Federal, Second Empire and Greek Revival architecture.

The Landing at Pultneyville a shared space between The Pulneyville Grill and Artisans’ Loft.

We stopped for drinks and appetizers one Sunday afternoon and enjoyed the undivided attention of the bartender who warmed us right up after a chilly hike.

The Grill has a tasty menu, but has done a great job of pairing wines with each entrée and offering special wine pairing events. There is live music summer and winter, on the weekends.

The gallery features the work of over sixty artists, on two floors of exhibition and special event space,

Just down the road is a great spot to picnic, right on the lake. B Forman Park.

Armory Square, Syracuse

Walking around Armory Square you can find interesting shops and LOTs of places to eat

The Armory Square district in Syracuse was originally settled in 1804. The Erie Canal and later the railroad helped to put Syracuse on the map as a center for industry and manufacturing. Most of the area buildings were constructed between 1860 and 1890 as factories or warehouses.

Walking toward Armory Square on Jefferson

Part of  the Armory Square district consists of a circular street, West Jefferson, with Armory Square Park at the 12:00 spot (N) on the circle. The Jefferson St Armory was actually three buildings used to house both the cavalry and the infantry.

Today the area is bustling with hotels, restaurants, businesses, loft apartments as well as cultural elements such as the Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), the Red House Musical Theater on Fayette, and the Landmark Theater on S. Salina St.

We enjoyed a nice quiet lunch at Lemon Grass.

Well-known area restaurants include Pastabilities, and Lemon Grass and bc. We ate at Lemon Grass enjoying great service and a nice view onto the Circle.

Intrepid reporter working the square

This area is best known for its night life as it has a many bars close together, The Empire Brewing Company, Blue Tusk and The Syracuse Suds Factory, which in the summer open onto the square and street. It is fun to hop from one spot to another to listen to live music and sample local brews.

Map

Fargo Bar and Grill, Aurora NY

Most people drive through the little town of Aurora while heading south to Watkin’s Glen or north to the Thruway. If you have a little time, and especially if you are hungry, stop at the Fargo Bar & Grill.

They make a great burger and some mean sweet potato fries. They are also famous for their daily soup specials: Creamy Tomato and Bacon, Chipolte Black Bean and Pork, just to name a few.

Take a turn playing pool or throwing horseshoes in the backyard pit.

Open 7 days/week, year-round, with the exceptions of Christmas and Thanksgiving Days. On Christmas Eve, we close at 4 p.m. Wi-Fi available. Check out the daily specials on Facebook.

384 Main Street, Aurora
315.364.8006

Brown Hound Bistro — A Lovely Stop — In Between

The Brown Hound features fresh, healthy fare.

Driving from Canandaigua Lake towards Naples and then veering towards the rolling hills of Bristol we came upon the Brown Hound Bistro — a lovely little restaurant — in between.

We did a quick wine tasting at  Arbor Hill Grapery, before we walked next door. A Grapery is a store that has LOTS going on with grapes — jellies, candy, gifts and of course wine. The tasting was generous and we sampled cheeses at the same time.

View of Brew and Brats (left) and The Arbor Hill Grapery

The Brown Hound is located between Canandaigua and Naples, in South Bristol. They offer brunch, dinner, and more, all with a focus on local foods and Finger Lakes wines. The Brown Hound is located in a tiny 100-year-old house.  We sat out on the wrap-around deck, which was not fancy, but very comfortable. and cool on a hot day.

Our waitress was friendly, fun and helpful — answering our endless questions about whether ingredients, checking with the chef through the kitchen window. We sat out back on the deck and it was about 80 outside and was perfect temperature on the shady deck. Starting with local wines and some amazing sourdough bread, we had plenty of time to relax and unwind after playing a round of golf.

Braised Scallops with Quinoa

My top recommendation:  the seafood bisque which had a roasted red pepper/lobster taste that was rich and creamy.

My husband enjoyed the Wild Mushroom Risotto:  Creamy, slow-cooked arborio rice with assorted mushrooms, parmesan, white wine, finished with white truffle oil and vegetable.

My friend enjoyed braised scallops over quinoa with peppers and other veggies. The quinoa was really tasty.

I had a tuna steak (“meh”) with sweet apples and a yummy radish cake (daikon).

We ate very early in the evening and I noticed that the tables were filling up early on a Saturday night.

The Brown Hound is just a few minutes south of Bristol Mountain ski area, The Brown Hound can be easily access via RT 21 from Canandaigua, or RT 64 from Bristol.

6459 State Route 64, in South Bristol.

Call for  a reservation 585-374-9771.

Reviews

Genesee Brew House: Enjoy the Sparkling Waters of the Genesee

High above the “sparkling” waters of the Genesee River in Rochester NY, is the Genesee Brew House, once a century-old packaging center, the  Brew House has transformed the 9,200 square-foot space into a beer destination, featuring interactive exhibits, multimedia content, gift shop, pilot brewery and pub-style restaurant.

The Brew Pub offers all the classic Genesee Beers plus a changing array of delicious microbrews, I loved the Expresso Porter. The bar upstairs was built from old beer barrel boards. It was opened in September of 2012, after a LONG restoration process which is well documented.

The  retail store sells irresistible “Beer Gear,” the great selection of vintage t-shirts, with the full “Brew-story”. We were not wowed by the food, but the beer on the terrace with this fabulous view was well worth the price.

Hours: Mon-Wed 11am – 9pm Thurs-Sat 11am – 10pm Sunday Noon – 9pm 25 Cataract St. Rochester, NY, 14605 Get Directions 585-263-9200 Check out their reviews on Yelp.

Cure, #50 Public Market, Rochester NY

Cure for the common cold, cure for what ails you, Cure is all and more, creating a warm and inviting slice of good taste.

Since they are the only thing happening at the Public Market at night, parking is NOT a problem. I noticed their window said “Javas,” and found out that they share the same market space as a daytime coffee house — brilliant.

Finger Lakes Fun: 2012 New York State Fair

Photo contest runner-up, 2011

Here it is — everything you need to know about the 2012 New York State Fair. I’ll be attending, and you can attend too — free — compliments of the NYS Fair — if you let me know your favorite fair memory. I have tickets to give away, so impress me. I’ll pick a winner August 22, contact you, and you can pick up your (2) FREE tickets at Will Call.

• Thursday, Aug. 23, to Monday, Sept. 3, 2012
• Gates open at 8 a.m. daily
• exhibit buildings are open from 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
• 375 acres filled with fun: Free Stuff to do and see:
• • Butter sculpture / Sand sculpture
  • Animal shows, petting zoo
  • Nightly parade at 6 p.m.
  • NEW: Monster truck show
  • NEW: BMX stunt show
  • NEW: Interactive rain forest learning exhibit
  • NEW: Midway Music Series – built around local and up-and-coming bands
  • NEW: Great Lakes Lumberjack Show

• 2012 Chevy Court FREE concerts

• Different acts each day at 2 and 8 p.m.
• All shows at Chevy Court are free with Fair admission

Photo Contest Winner — 2011

Signature State Fair Food:

• Lots of food deals: $0.25 cup of fresh milk, $1 baked potatoes (Horticulture Bldg.), hot beef sundaes, salt potatoes
• Deep-fried mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, candy bars, cheesecake, PB&J sandwiches
• Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Gianelli sausage sandwiches
• Big Kahuna Donut Dog

Tickets:

• General admission is $10 (children under 12 free every day)
• Advance sale tickets $6 – save 40% – (on sale at a variety of locations throughout New York State, click here for a full list).
  • Can also purchase six-day frequent fair passes (valid for one person) $30, pre-paid parking passes for one day $5

Special Days:

• Senior Citizen Days: Aug. 27 & 28 (free admission 60 and older)
• Veterans Day: Aug. 30 (free with military ID)
• Student’s Day: Aug. 31 (free admission for students 16 and under)
• Native American Day: Aug. 31 (free admission for Native Americans)
• NEW: College Night: Aug. 31 (college students will receive vendor discounts)

photo contest runner-up 2011

Midway:

• Unlimited rides for one price: $25 wristbands on six days

• Thurs 8/23, Fri 8/24, Mon 8/27, Tues 8/28, Wed 8/29, Thurs 8/30
• This year we will again offer the Discount Strates Shows Midway FunCard worth $24 for only $14 if you purchase by Aug. 22
  • Available at most advance sale locations
  • 24 credits per card – each ride requires 2 or more credit.
  • A savings of $10 off the regular ride book price.
  • The FunCard System replaces traditional ride books and individual tickets with a single electronic, bar coded card that can be used on all of the of the rides at the Midway and Kiddieland.
• NEW: This year, Fairgoers can also buy advance sale midway wristbands and ride tickets online through Aug. 22. There will be a price discount for those purchasing online.

 Mobile Fair Site:

• A mobile version of nysfair.org
• It functions like an app on a smartphone and allows smartphone users to have easy access to the most popular Fair information (concerts, visitor guide, food guide, etc.)

QR Code:

• NEW: This year, QR Codes will be placed on agricultural signage around the Fairgrounds allowing Fairgoers to scan the QR Codes and learn more about NYS Fair agriculture.
• There is a QR Code on the advance sale posters and counter cards at all advance sale ticket locations. The QR Code will also be placed on print ads.
• If you can scan the QR Code with a smartphone, you can enter into a drawing to win a free, one-day parking pass to the Fair.
• Those without a smartphone can text “parking” to 24587 to be entered into the free parking drawing.

Updates:

• You can sign up for email and text message updates at www.nysfair.org
• Find The Great New York State Fair on Facebook
• Follow NYSFair on Twitter