I'm pretty sure that celebrity chef dinners happen quite often in places like Los Angeles and New York. And maybe even in Chicago. But it's not really something that happens in the center of the country so when I saw that one of my favorite Kansas City restaurants, Raglan Road, was hosting a Gastropub Dinner with Master Chef Kevin Dundon (Ireland's Chef of the Year 2009) we made the drive down for dinner.
Yes, we drove 3 hours- one way- for dinner. And drove back that night. Yes, it was worth it!
Kevin and his wife Catherine own and operate the incredible Dunbrody Country House Hotel in Arthurstown, County Wexford, Ireland. (It is, incidentally, across the road from Glendine House, where we stayed in 2008.)
We were lucky enough to meet Kevin briefly before dinner and again after the meal. It's no wonder his hotel is so highly rated: the man exudes Irish charm. And he can cook! Our meal was incredible! Forget what impressions you may have of Irish food- this isn't typical "pub grub"... Our four course meal began with a choice of Warm Goat Cheese and Orange Salad with Caramelized Walnuts or Mini Beef and Lamb Shepherds Pie with a Port Wine Jus. I can't speak about the salad, though it looked incredible, because everyone at my table had the Shepherds Pie. The flavors of the meats with the port wine jus...fabulous. I loved the presentation of the potatoes artfully balanced on top with a caramelized onion leaf. Delish!
The second course was Maine Lobster Bisque. I'm not a huge fan of lobster but the bisque was very flavorful and creamy. Of course the presentation was incredible...
The entree followed. The choices were Roast Pork Belly with an Irish Mist and Honey Glaze served with Pickled Cabbage or Crispy Pan Seared Salmon served on a Ragout of Winter Vegetables. I chose the pork belly. I cut it with a butter knife. It was so tender and flavorful. The glaze was so sweet- I'm going to have to do my best to recreate it. Doug had the salmon. He pronounced it perfectly prepared and "excellent".
And then came dessert. Merely calling the Chocolate Fondant with Irish Stout Ice Cream "dessert" is almost too plain. Though it appeared unassuming on sight there is really no way to describe the incredible richness of the chocolate, how the surface opened to reveal an interior of molten chocolate or how truly decadent it was.
The Gastropub Dinners at Raglan Road just began in summer 2009 but response has been positive and the restaurant plans to do more- one per quarter at each restaurant (there is another location at Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney, Orlando, Florida.) To keep up to date on upcoming events check out the "Get In Here" page on Raglan Road's website or follow @RaglanRoadPub on Twitter.
If you're really wanting a taste of Ireland try some of Kevin Dundon's recipes for yourself! The mini shepherds pie recipe is in the "starters" section, there is a lovely loin of bacon in Irish Mist glaze in the "mains", and an Irish whiskey chocolate fondant in the "desserts". I have a feeling my annual St. Patrick's feast may have some new dishes this year! Sláinte!
A couple of weeks ago I traveled- sans kids- to Asheville, NC to attend a blog conference. Because I flew in the day the conference began and it rained- poured, actually- during my downtime I didn't get a chance to tour the area.
What I did get to experience, however, was one of Asheville's restaurants. Asheville is known as a "foodie's paradise" with most restaurants serving locally grown produce, fish and meats. Wines and beers are even locally produced and much touted.
I had made plans with my friends Paula and Andi for dinner. We had no destination in mind but instead decided to wander through downtown Asheville and see what we found.
After wandering about we stopped at The Market Place to chat with some other conference attendees and have a drink at one of the outdoor tables. Our waiter was very attentive and offered the appetizer menu in case we wanted something to accompany our drinks.
We were also being "checked on" by another gentleman who we assumed to be the owner. We were only half right. He was the former owner. He had owned The Market Place for 30 years and had recently sold it. It was his final night at the restaurant and the first night under the new owner. We chatted with him, he took our picture, and we decided to stay for dinner.
We had ordered appetizers while outside; they were delivered to our new indoor location with no problem- we even had the same waiter.
We began with duck cracklin's (duck skin fried crispy) with a whole grain mustard and seared sea scallops served on a cauliflower puree. The cracklin's were perfectly crispy and the scallops seared to perfection.
Then meals were served. Andi had the warm duck confit salad, which she announced to be fabulous. I was overjoyed with my wood grilled filet mignon and fingerling potatoes; the steak was so tender I cut through it with a butter knife. Paula had the house-made sweet potato ravioli; it was sweeter than she was expecting but still quite tasty.
Desserts followed. Andi said the trio of seasonal sorbet were a tasty, and very European, end to her meal while Paula raved about the apple crisp.
We had a wonderful dinner at The Market Place. It was a great place to catch up with friends I don't see often. The decor invites you to sit, be comfortable and linger. That is just what we did. It was a terrific dining experience.
We had barely three days in St. Louis. That's not a lot of time to get out and try all the food St. Louis has to offer so I put out an plea and received a few recommendations. Other spots were chosen for their location to our activities. Here's where we ate during our explorations:
Every morning began with the breakfast buffet at the Drury Plaza Inn. It had something for everyone. Fresh fruits, breads & bagels, cereal (it is here that my girls first tasted Lucky Charms), yogurt, milk, juices, coffee and tea are a basic Continental. Then add the hot off the griddle pancakes (made right in front of you), eggs, sausage and biscuits & gravy... That's a breakfast that will fuel you through your explorations.
Day one's excursion to the Magic House put us within a few blocks of Imo's Pizza, a St. Louis institution. This isn't fancy dining; this is true St. Louis style pizza. Walk up to the counter, place your order and it will be brought out to you by a member of the friendly staff. This location only has a few tables though there is outdoor seating in nice weather.
We ordered some fried ravioli which was tasty but not spectacular. The pizza, though, was another story. The secret in in the cheese, a tangy provel®, and lots of it. Delicious! Imo's has locations all over Missouri and even some in Illinois. Not that close? Have Imo's shipped to your door.
That lunch fueled us through til evening when we made our way to McGurk's Irish Pub. If you've been reading this site very long you know that we love a good Irish pub and McGurk's is one of the best in America.
It's a cozy pub (smoking) with restaurant attached (non smoking). But what makes this the place to be in the summer is the beautiful garden behind. Getting seating outside on a beautiful evening can take over an hour!
We sat inside, listened to the craic at the tables around us and enjoyed our Magner's - the girls had chocolate milk. Our server was so kind- even when a napkin was dropped behind a heavy wooden bench seat- and our food was quite good.
We began with the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp appetizer, The jumbo shrimp were almost "steak-like", they were so big and meaty. And the horseradish dip... To die for! We kept it at the table and Doug drizzled it onto the Guinness Stew- which was thick and hearty. It didn't need the extra flavor but it was really tasty! My only problem with the stew was the bread bowl- it didn't live up to the stew.
We ordered fish and chips, which was good but I've had better. The chips, however, are fresh and very crispy. They were the perfect side to the thick and perfectly prepared McGurk's Burger the girls shared (which was also very tasty with the horseradish sauce from the shrimp).
You would think that with all that food we would be stuffed. Well, we were but we managed to make room for some Flourless Chocolate Torte and Traditional Whiskey Bread Pudding. The chocolate torte was so thick and rich; it was practically fudge. The vanilla bean ice cream on the side complimented it perfectly. And the bread pudding was divine. The caramel and raspberry sauces mixed with the melted whiskey butter and created a sweet sauce that almost made Doug lick the bowl clean.
McGurk's also has live Irish music nightly. It "usually" begins around 8:30pm and is piped through the building.
Day two took us to a bit more proper British dining at the London Tea Room. This charming spot opened a couple years ago next to the English Living Store (you can drool over the fine furnishings through a large window between the shops).
English to the core but not stuffy (and nary a doily in sight) this is a great place for a light lunch or an afternoon tea. The assortment of pastries at the counter will tempt you and, when you give in, will prove to be worthy of the long walk you'll be taking to "work it off".
We thoroughly enjoyed our lunch of Strawberry Salad, Pumpkin Soup and sandwiches. Followed by yummy chocolate chip and shortbread cookies.
You can also buy loose leaf tea here to brew yourself. If you can make a proper cuppa, that is. Need the tools? Get those as well. Oh, they also serve coffee if you need a cup of joe.
Our final day in St. Louis was rather "off". I had planned for us to eat at the Terrace Cafe at City Garden. Unfortunately it is closed on Sundays. So we ate where the Panera phenomenon began: Same great bagels and pastries, soups, salads and sandwiches that you find across the country. It's always a good choice.
Before heading out of town we had one final stop to make- Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. I was told by quite a few people that this was a "must" while in St. Louis. The location we went to on Chippewa is along the old "route 66". It's not fancy; you walk up to the window and place your order. The girl at the window may offer you a Route 66 sticker. And you wait for your frozen custard.
Which is huge! Oh my goodness! We should have paid more attention to what people around us were ordering! The girls each ordered a Crater Copernicus- devils food cake, frozen custard, hot fudge and whipped cream. Doug and I both ordered specials that were posted on the window. Doug's had apples and caramel, mine had a frozen brownie in the bottom and a lot of fudge.
It was a sweet way to end our St. Louis adventure.
Thanks to the generosity of the St. Louis CVC my family spent 2 1/2 days in a city I probably wouldn't have ever thought to visit. And now... We anticipate our next trip! I was, honestly, amazed at all St. Louis had to offer- and much of the great stuff is free!
I am always amazed when I visit a city with majestic landmarks that the "natives" can be so nonchalant about them. I suppose it comes from viewing them continuously... I was not prepared for the absolute awe the Gateway Arch inspired in me. I could have laid on the grass below it and watched the clouds blow by all day. Nor did I realize that there is an amazing museum below the arch.
The free activities around St. Louis are incredible. The St. Louis zoo is absolutely amazing and it sits in the most beautiful parkland. Both the Anheuser-Busch brewery and Grant's Farm have free admission and the new City Garden is great fun for the family.
While we did visit the Magic House we didn't spend as much time there as the girls would have liked and we didn't make it to the City Museum.
Over the next couple of weeks I'll be taking you on a tour of our St. Louis exploration. Here's what I'll be sharing:
Full disclosure: While we are paying for our gas money to get to St. Louis and back all of the expenses we incur while there will be covered by the CVC. While the CVC is sponsoring our trip all the decisions and thoughts about where we go, what we do, see, eat, etc. will be my own. Please see my disclosure policy for more specific information.
Crown Center is an all-in-one family fun zone. Truly. From shopping to dining, free entertainment indoors and out, live theater, Kaleidoscope, and the Hallmark visitor's Center this is an attraction unto itself!
Map of Crown Center
Crown Center was designed as a mixed-use development and covers 85 acres. First envisioned by the founder of Hallmark Cards and his son the Crown Center development has helped to redevelop the area. Crown Center has more than 2 million square feet of office space, 300,000 square feet of leasable space in the shopping center , a six-acre residential community and two hotels: the Westin Crown Center and the Hyatt Regency Crown Center.
Probably the greatest part of the entire area, though is Crown Center Square, home to Kansas City's largest fountain - a very popular place to cool off in the summer - free summer movies and concerts, the Ice Terrace in the winter and great local events all year long.
Free things to do: The Hallmark Visitors Center: With exhibits that are always changing and the chance to visit with the craftiest people at Hallmark. The tour is interactive so it's fun for everyone. Don't forget to download a coupon for a free gift after your tour! Kaleidoscope: A free hands-on art experience for kids ages 5-12; sponsored by Hallmark.
Events: Check the events calendar for free events going on both in Crown Center and outside on the Square. Concerts, movies, kids activities... There is always something going on!
Shopping: Dozens of shops are in Crown Center, including Hall's (FYI: $$$). Luckily other shops are much more affordable. This interactive map gives you an idea of the diverse offerings.
We made a quick stop in Chips Chocolate Factory where handmade chocolates and imported truffles sit side by side tempting you. Of course the decision isn't easy. Jumbo peanut butter cup? Chocolate dipped Twinkie sprinkled with M&Ms? Fresh fudge? Or maybe some choose-your-own M&Ms? I recommend the Australian Kookaburra Licorice. Mmmm...
Dining: From 4-star to fast food you'll find all the variety you need. The interactive dining map will direct you to everything from burgers to bagels, custard to creme brulee, steaks to scallops.
For really good burgers and a server like you'll find nowhere else check out Fritz's Railroad Restaurant. The railroad theme is everywhere with model trains running throughout the restaurant. The menu is simple- mainly burgers- but quite good. I highly recommend the Jody Burger (and not just because it bears my name, though that is why I got it!) Orders are placed by phone. But it's the delivery that will wow you:
For kid -and parent- friendly food the Crayola Cafe is a safe bet. The placemats double as an artist's canvas. There are plenty of food options including salads, sandwiches and wraps, pasta and fish. I suggest splitting an entree and saving room for dessert!
Theatre:
Coterie: Performances for the family plus classes!
American Heartland: Live, Broadway-style productions in a relaxed and personal theatre.
Union Station as Viewed from the Westin Crown Center Hotel
We've been to Kansas City many times yet, somehow, I never knew anything about Union Station. I can plead nothing but ignorance. Luckily I am ignorant no more and can't wait to return to Kansas City to see and do more at Union Station!
The Grand Hall and North Waiting Room
Union Station was built in 1914, opening on October 30. In 1917 almost 80,000 trains came through the station. The Union Station Massacre, an attempt to free mobster Frank Nash, happened here in 1933.
As the airline industry grew and rail traffic declined many shops in the station began to close. In 1973 only 6 trains were coming through the station per day and by 1983 only Amtrak and the Lobster Pot restaurant remained in the building. Amtrak left in 1985 followed by The Lobster Pot in 1989.
In 1996 voters in Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson County in Kansas approved a one-eighth of a cent bi-state sales tax to restore and redevelop Union Station and create a science museum. The tax raised $118 million toward the total $250 million project. The remaining money was raised through private donations and federal funds. November 10, 1999 marked the opening of the fully restored Union Station. Amtrak returned in 2002.
It's an amazing history for a truly glorious building. And while there is much to do there, the history of the golden age of rail travel remains. A huge model train display sits at the west end of the Grand Hall across from the post office. It fascinated my girls! There is also a Lionel Train display in an area off the North Waiting Room. Follow the signs to the Freight House Bridge, formerly the Pencoyd Railroad Bridge, which serves as a pedestrian crossing over the train tracks. From here you can look down upon trains in the yard below and maybe even stand above a train as it passes through!
The Freight House Bridge
You can also get a "hands-on" with trains at The Great Rail Experience; explore vintage rail cars, see artifacts, learn about the people who rode and worked the rails and try the locomotive simulator.
Another spot of great interest to me was the Irish Museum and Cultural Center. Located in the lower level of the west wing, at the base of the escalator, we were drawn here instantly. It's a lovely little center with plenty of information on anything Irish in Kansas City, a very nice genealogy room and a kids corner with books and activities to keep the kids busy.
I think the "star" of Union Station, though, is Science City, an interactive science museum. There is no end to the things you can do there. We didn't do half of it... And we spent the better part of a day there. My girls played with water, made music, dug for dinosaur bones, slid through "sewer" pipes, worked with pulleys, saw animals, climbed in a helicopter and so much more. Some of the areas were definitely geared toward older kids- things like exploring the human body, a crime lab and S.O.A.R. Laboratories. Nice.
Union Station also features live theater at City Stage.
If all the exploring makes you hungry there are a few options within Union Station:
The Harvey House Diner serves a full breakfast menu all day long and has Blue Plate lunch specials, burgers, home made pies and hand dipped shakes.
Fast Tracks Deli offers a quick bite when you're on the go; sandwiches, salads and brick oven pizzas
Pierpont's is known for it's steak and seafood- some say it's the best in Kansas City.
The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory- 'nuff said
There is also a concession stand near the Extreme Screen with drinks, popcorn, nachos,pretzels and candy.
Helpful Information for your Visit
Much of Union Station, except the shops and restaurants, is closed on Mondays. Except on certain holidays. The schedule can be found here.
Entering Union Station is free but the exhibits and attractions do charge fees. Pricing packages are as follows:
First Class Ticket $19.50 A First Class Ticket includes admission to the fallowing attractions: KC Rail Experience, Science City, Gottlieb Planetarium, and one Regnier Extreme Screen movie.
Round Trip Ticket $14.50 A Round Trip Ticket includes admission to the fallowing attractions: Science City, and Gottlieb Planetarium and one Regnier Extreme Screen movie.
Express Ticket (General Admission) $9.50 Admission to: Science City, and Gottlieb Planetarium.
One Way Ticket $6.50 Your choice of the following: Gottlieb Planetarium, KC Rail Experience or one Regnier Extreme Screen movie.
Tickets may be purchased by phone or at the ticket counter.
An ATM is available on the lower level Theater District.
Lockers are availabe to rent for 50 cents. These are located in the Theater District near the restrooms and at the Science City entrance on the lower level.
A nursing area is available in the women's restroom in Festival Plaza.
Strollers and wheelchairs are available on site. Strollers are for rent, wheelchairs are first come first served but carry no fee.
There is both a parking garage on the west side of Union Station and parking in front of the building. Charges may apply.
It was our first time in Boston, we "discovered" Roisin Dubh (Gaelic for Black Rose) just a block from Faneuil Hall and fell in love with it! Of course it's an Irish Pub, which didn't hurt, but we were always welcomed, the food was consistently good (I recommend the Irish Stew and the fish & chips, Doug raved about the Shepherds Pie and the hot artichoke dip was scrumptious! I would skip the Reuben) and there was often entertainment. It's very kid friendly and the girls looked forward to our next pub visit.
During our 3 months in Boston we probably ate at The Black Rose 6 times! I probably miss it more than anything else!
In the first video Caelan had just gone potty in a toilet that wasn't familiar. We celebrated with a song!
This video stars Brenna, singing on stage with Frank Ryan of Celtic Clan (whose CD we listen to daily.)
If your travels take you to Boston make sure to stop in the Black Rose for a pint, some pub grub and great craic! The closest T stops are blue (Aquarium) and orange (State). Also very close to Long Wharf.
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Once in a while traveling with kids and off season can keep you from doing the things a town is famous for. Because, when you think Salem, you think witches. It's automatic. Kind of like baseball & hot dogs. So when we ventured north of Boston to Salem I fully expected to be taking in some witchy fun.
In fact, it's difficult to avoid the witches as the Heritage Trail is marked with these lovely ladies. From the Witch Museum to the Witch House, the wax museum to Witch Village, and the multitude of tours it's difficult to escape the witches. Many of these attractions were either closed for the season (which begins in May and ends just after Halloween) or we were warned against taking our daughters in as they would probably become frightened. This statue, despite it's frightful appearance (and the fact it stands directly outside the Witch Museum) is not actually a witch but is Master Roger Conant, who led the first settlers to Salem in 1626.
Upon settling in Salem, then called Naumkeag which means "the fishing place" in the language of the local Native Americans, the settlers made their living from the sea. Maritime industry expanded and flourished for almost 200 years.
In 1628 Naumkeag was renamed Salem which, ironically, means "place of peace".
We arrived in Salem late in the morning, found a parking spot very near NPS Visitor Center where we grabbed a map and visitor information. The visitor center is filled with information about Salem and the surrounding area and is staffed by the National Park Service. There is a children's area near the rear- they can add thier artwork to the "Fish & Ships" wall. For older kids ask about the Junior Ranger Activity Booklet to earn a badge by following in the footsteps of Elias Hasket Derby and Nathaniel Hawthorne.
We left the visitor's center as the girls began complaining about being hungry. Just across Essex was The Old Spot. We chose to sit in the pub (there is also a dining room) to enjoy our lunch.
I highly recommend the fish & chips; the hamburger the girls shared was perfectly done. My mom got the fish sandwich and was disappointed- it was mostly bun. The desserts were fabulous! The brownie sundae was big enough for the girls and I to share and Doug raved about the spotted dick.
Fully fortified we set out to explore the town. Following the Heritage Trail we passed many witch related sites, restaurants and shops, explored the Common and set out for Salem Harbor.
This was, quite honestly, the highlight of our time in Salem. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, and we were lead through every nook and cranny of this house; up through a fireplace and into the attic! This tour is a "must do" in my opinion!
Also on this property are the counting house- with play area- and the house where Nathaniel Hawthorne, who wrote The House of the Seven Gables and The Scarlet Letter, was born.
You'll also see the Peabody Essex Museum, one of the largest museums in the nation. This complex will take a day (at least) to explore, separate from Salem. The 200 year old Yin Yu Tang Chinese House looked amazing from the outside and the art museum is ranked as one of the nation's top 10 for children. This is definitely on our "must do" for a future visit.
To the west a few blocks is the McIntire Historic District, a walking trail named for Samuel McIntire who designed some of Salem's most distinctive houses.
Getting to Salem:
Though we didn't get to take it I'm going to recommend the Salem Ferry as a relaxing and enjoyable day trip from Boston. I wish it had been operating while we were there; we took commuter ferries into Boston and enjoyed the smooth, quick ride.
The MBTA commuter rail connects to Salem via Boston's North Station, Newburyport, Rockport and Gloucester.
If you are driving directions can be found here: Salem.org.
Even though Plymouth was only half an hour from our rental house in Scituate we waited until our time in Massachusetts was almost at an end before visiting. Mainly because Plimoth Plantation didn't open until the end of March, but more than that, we really wanted some nice, warm weather.
Thankfully the Saturday we chose for our Plymouth outing was amazing- blue skies, sun, warmth. And Sunday promised to be even more beautiful- which was lucky for us as we needed another day to explore what Plymouth had to offer. And we still didn't see everything!
If you want to see both the Mayflower II and Plimoth Plantation (and if you're visiting Plymouth I'm gonna say it's pretty much a given that you want to experience that history) I recommend you buy your tickets from the Jenney Grist Mill. While you won't "technically" save any money on your tickets you will get a tour of the mill for no additional charge. I also suggest scheduling yourself for the Historic Walking Tour- it was the best part of our first day. Just a note: the Jenney Grist Mill only accepts cash for the combo tickets. Visa and Mastercard are accepted for all other tours and merchandise.
Nancy Martin, who with her husband Leo (the miller), cares for the mill, was incredibly helpful when I inquired about scheduling our first day. Her suggestion: Tour the Mayflower first, then head out to the Plantation. Do the grist mill at the end of the day, followed by the walking tour. Getting Around Plymouth
Plymouth's downtown area is walkable and parking is plentiful, though most of it is pay-parking. There are a few free parking areas, one of which is at the Jenney Grist Mill. To get to Plimoth Plantation you will need a car or get in touch with America's Hometown Shuttle to inquire about routes and pricing.
Things to Do
My recommendation for your first stop, ok your second stop after you get your tickets from Jenney Grist Mill, is the visitor center on the corner of Water Street & Memorial Drive. Pick up the great (free) visitor's information: the Plymouth Guide, the Pilgrim's Path & Town Square "Walk Through History" brochures from VisitPlymouth.com and the Best of Plymouth map with a close-up of the downtown area on it.
From the visitor center it is an easy walk to the Mayflower II.
The Mayflower II is a recreation of the original Mayflower, a late 16th century merchant ship. You can explore the decks and chat with costumed staff members about what the journey would have been like. Off the ship are exhibits with information about both the Mayflower and the Mayflower II (which sailed the Atlantic in 1957). Check out the list of passengers- maybe you'll find a distant ancestor (I did: William Brewster).
Just past the ship, back on dry land, are two rough hewn log buildings which house the gift shop. You will find many of the same items at Plimoth Plantation, although there are some maritime items that we only found here.
Walk a bit farther and you'll find Plymouth Rock, probably the most celebrated sediment in the US. Plimoth Plantation, a recreation of the original settlement, is a couple miles from the downtown area. If you are a history buff or you enjoy talking to people I suggest planning few hours here. Luckily the combination ticket we purchased allows for entrance into the plantation two consecutive days. We went through quickly on the first day and went back for the entire afternoon the next.
The plantation has 6 areas: Visitor Center: view the orientation program, grab something to eat in the cafe, visit the gift shops and view the Thanksgiving exhibit. Wampanoag Homesite: Here you will meet Native People and learn about their history and culture. We spent a lot of time here learning and talking. The staff in this area wear traditional clothing and practice traditional skills. They are not re-creationists, however, but preservationists of their culture. We spent a lot of time here both days we visited talking of life and listening to stories. Eel River Boardwalk: This is a beautiful way to get from one site to another. Lots of fauna and wildlife. 1627 English Village: The staff here recreate the original colony settlers. You have stepped back to 1627. Look inside the homes, talk with the settlers and learn their life stories as they all represent actual people. Ask in modern language- but be prepared for questions and clarifications: a bathroom hasn't always been called a bathroom! Crafts Center: We missed this on the first day and spent over an hour here on the second! We all enjoyed watching the artisans at work and listening to them discuss what they were doing and how. There is another gift shop here featuring pottery made on site.
Nye Barn: Learn about the rare breeds of animals that didn't used to be so rare.
Jenney Grist Mill: A recreation of the Jenney Grist Mill built on the site of the original mill (the first mill built in the US; the original mill burnt in 1837.) Learn why the mill was so important to Plymouth, how big a grinding stone is, and why John Jenney built a fish ladder. Talk with Nancy & Leo about the history of the mill and their dreams for the John Jenney house and bakery, located across the Town Brook. And reserve a spot on their Historic Walking Tour. Leo is full of information from past and present. We learned so much from him during our tour (he's got great back-story on "Hollywood East".)
Next to the Jenney House is the Sparrow House, the oldest house in Plymouth. It's a great pottery shop (among other amazing finds).
If you get your fill of history there's lots of shopping. Souvenir shops line Water Street; head up to Court Street for eclectic shops.
At the end of Water Street, past the free parking, is Nelson Street Memorial Playground. Picnik areas, great equipment and a sandy beach for walking. Nothing better on a nice day.
Eating in Plymouth
Isaac's on the Waterfront was elegant without being imposing. Our daughters were welcomed and the food was quite good. Salads, seafood (of course), sandwiches and specialty burgers. $10-$15 entrees.
New Tokyo is located at the edge of Plymouth just off Hwy 3. We drove down a couple of times. Go for the Hibachi. The traditional Chinese food was a let down a couple weeks later. Kids eat free Wed-Fri. Expect to spend $25 per person, not including drinks.
The British Beer Company has a location downtown. We ate at a BBC in Pembroke. Fun atmosphere, good food.
For a picnic in the park visit Tedeschi, in the heart of downtown. Huge deli sandwiches, made to order.
Skip the Ming Dynasty near the waterfront. The food wasn't very good, the service was terrible and the prices were high for the quality.
Summary
Plymouth was one of those places we would have liked to spend more time. No matter how much we saw it left us wanting to experience more.
Because the house we rented was so close by we didn't stay in a hotel here. There are plenty of lodging options: hotels, B&Bs, camping and home rentals. (If you're renting a house though, I suggest Ocean Perch.)
Cohasset, Massachusetts is a small sea side town which, honestly, won’t take you long to tour if you’re in a car. You may, in fact, end up in Scituate or Hull and not realize it until a sign alerts you.
That said, Cohasset is a lovely town and the magnificent sea side homes make a leisurely drive through town worthwhile.
It was suggested to us (by our postmaster in Humarock) that we visit the harbor to view the duplicate top of the Minot’s Ledge Lighthouse. As the closest you can get to the actual lighthouse is by boat this is the next best thing. The little park also has a historical plaque, a monument to two lighthouse keepers lost during a storm and a couple of large bells. Very interesting are the circular forms used for fitting the pieces of the lighthouse together before it was permanently assembled at sea. One note on the park: when we were there we encountered a lot of dog poo. In fact we encountered a lot of dog poo at every park we visited in the Boston area. I am not sure if this is common (we never observed anyone pick up poo after their dog made a “deposit”) or if it was due to the time of year (February-April, after winter). I will just say to watch your step in the parks.
Cohasset has many beautiful beaches, the most beautiful we saw being Sandy Beach. This beach is open to all but parking is by permit only. (This is common all along the South Shore. I found two great beach resource guides: South Shore Moms & Dads and Plymouth County’s website to help you find a beach with public parking.) I have no idea where you should park if you are not a resident…
We stopped in to French Memories Bakery for a pastry before wandering the village center. We did some window shopping at the three real estate brokers along South Main Street before wandering into Carmela Drew Fine Foods where we were heartily welcomed by co-owner Michelle Rizzo and her mother (Rizzo’s sister is also co-owner and her father bakes cookies specially for the shop. He makes a mean oatmeal chocolate chip.) This gem of a shop has fine cheeses, an amazing array of specialty foods & products, entrees & side dishes to take with you and even provides catering.
Carmela Drew is housed in the Samuel Bates House (as is Bia Bistro) and has two vacation rental units above it that we walked through. (The smaller of the two is listed here. I would inquire about the larger, 2 level unit if you need more space.) On the other side of Carmela Drew is Atlantic Bagels, which I have heard is the best bagel place outside of New York City. Having not had a bagel in New York City I’ll have to believe this until I learn otherwise.
Cohasset town center isn’t terribly large and it’s not a day-long destination unless you have plans to visit the beach. But it’s a great little stop if you’re touring the South Shore.
If you have a desire for Asian Food I suggest a stop at Feng Shui, on highway 3A. Located in a strip mall the restaurant was a surprise to us when we walked in as it was much nicer than the exterior led us to believe. The restaurant is quite kid friendly- the girls’ chocolate milks came with umbrellas which amused them to no end. The Feng Shui Sampler with shrimp, crab Rangoon, boneless spare ribs, beef skewers, chicken fingers, chicken wings & eggs rolls –which Doug ordered a double- was more food than we needed. The addition of my Orange Chicken and Doug’s Crispy Duck left us with enough food for the next day’s lunch. I also planned ahead, knowing my girls would be “done” after the appetizer, and ordered this kid friendly dessert. Feng Shui also has sushi & sashimi (the Feng Shui Love Boat is huge) and we fully intend to return for their buffet (available for lunch throughout the week and on Sunday evenings).
If I could live anywhere in the world you could find me in southwest Ireland. My husband is the best person to ever come into my life. My daughters are my joy. My life may not be perfect but I wouldn't change a thing. I love cooking and believe that you can never use too much garlic.
Thank you for visiting and reading of our adventures. I hope you are inspired to travel with your kids and I hope I gave you tips, tricks and maybe destinations you didn't think of!
Kevin and his wife Catherine own and operate the incredible Dunbrody Country House Hotel in Arthurstown, County Wexford, Ireland. (It is, incidentally, across the road from Glendine House, where we stayed in 2008.)
The second course was Maine Lobster Bisque. I'm not a huge fan of lobster but the bisque was very flavorful and creamy. Of course the presentation was incredible...
The Gastropub Dinners at Raglan Road just began in summer 2009 but response has been positive and the restaurant plans to do more- one per quarter at each restaurant (there is another location at Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney, Orlando, Florida.) To keep up to date on upcoming events check out the "Get In Here" page on Raglan Road's website or follow @RaglanRoadPub on Twitter.
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