Union Station
128 W Market St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
(540) 437-0042
$$
A restaurant deeply ingrained in local history, Union Station invites diners on a journey back to the early 20th century to witness the roots of Harrisonburg Virginia being planted. Diners are guaranteed a traditional American meal with touches of southern cooking; much like Harrisonburg itself.
Located on West Market Street, just outside the heart of downtown, Union Station occupies the second floor of the massive Westel warehouse. Unlike some of the other warehouses scattered around Harrisonburg, Union Station seems to have pursued efforts of expanding the downtown area outwards from South Main by revamping one of the many dark and grungy warehouses into a friendly and welcoming eatery.
As diners settle into their comfortable dark green booths, the inviting décor captivates attention; jump starting an educational experience. Vintage metal signs and yellowed sketches of Harrisonburg in its urban infancy spark interest and conversation, while stories of local history are revealed through pamphlets accompanying photographs at each table. The atmosphere of this distant era is further amplified by Frank Sinatra and big band music playing throughout the room.
An ingenious feature of the Union Station dining room is an old freight elevator renovated to house a table for two, for extra privacy. It reminds diners that the restaurant was once a warehouse from a time when good honest work was the key to success. The value of hard work proves to be a major piece of the town’s history and is close to the hearts of residents.
The servers, dressed in uniforms reminiscent of the time; crisp, white, button down shirts with black bowties are relatively knowledgeable, but it is the management that treats all guests as regulars and comes over to promote interest in the menu and unique theme.
In an eatery dedicated to Virginia history, it is expected to see a selection of burgers and sandwiches. Union Station exceeds expectations by appeasing your inner carnivore with fifteen meat heavy sandwiches and burgers with the spotlight falling on the Cannonball Burger. This not- quite- diet- friendly- monster of a burger, is deep fried and topped with cheddar cheese, barbeque sauce and coleslaw. If you dare attempt this artery clogging monstrosity be sure to save room for the crispy battered fries that surpass any of the other downtown alternatives.
The other burger choices easily fulfill a diner’s cravings; thick, juicy and served on a toasted buttery roll with nearly any topping imaginable. Unfortunately the steak and cheese doesn’t match the quality of the burgers, and the unmemorable prime rib hoagie is better off skipped.
On the lighter side of the menu, the Black Bean cakes with homemade salsa provides an unexpectedly flavorful addition to the menu and whichever fare you choose, the Cajun nachos with zesty queso are a great way to start a meal.
Unfortunately, the interesting interior and satisfying food from Union Station doesn’t translate into a student hot spot. Crowds on the weekends are still relatively thin but seem to be slowly picking up speed as more students are drawn to the eatery for good old fashion American food.
Similar to other downtown restaurants, Union Station has booked some musical acts to generate nightlife crowd, but they appeal to a much older audience. They recently had the Harrisonburg harmonizing quartet; not exactly the ideal spot to get pumped up on a Friday night. For now, Union Station proves to be the ideal location to bring parents or to spend a low key night out with friends.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Fuzionz
As you drive down Main street in Harrisonburg's Historic downtown, you'll notice a new face on the corner of Water street, a new restaurant called Fuzionz. Formerly Cuchi Guido's, Fuzionz takes the merging of flavors to a new level, giving exotic favorites such as Blue Nile and Taste of Thai a run for their money.
On first walking in, my sister and I weren't sure if the restaurant was even open yet, considering that the first floor was deserted except for a lonely waiter staring at a t.v. As soon as we walked in, he snapped to attention and invited us to choose either downstairs of upstairs for dinner. Since the first floor is all of three booths, and part of the kitchen, we decided to try our luck upstairs. Similarly to Dave's, Fuzionz has a problematic, winding, severely vertical staircase that makes you feel as if your climbing a jungle-gym. This poses a threat to older patrons and sadly limits them from the stylish, contemporary upstairs dining room. (I think it might actually be impossible to climb the stairs if you are above the age of 65)
As we emerge from the staircase I notice the trendy black and deep red decor. We choose a comfy leather black booth, just a few feet from the cocktail lounge. My sister noticed that the dining room reminders her of a New York City restaurant. Relatively small , divided by walls with large open windows, a brick wall on one side and funky light fixtures. To our left was a very small stage with tall tables and bar stools. Behind it was a projector screen. In the background we are serenaded by the tunes of Katy Perry, MGMT, Taylor Swift and Fergie as we decide on what to eat. The only complaint we have is that half the room is flooded by fluorescent lighting, the other half of the room gave such a relaxed feeling from the small lamps scattered around.
After scoping out the menu, I decide that the focus is a combo of Indian and Asian dishes. We immediately chose Fuzionz MoMoz for an appetizer which are pretty much just steamed dumplings with a "secret sauce". You can choose between chicken and beef so we decided to split it into 3 chicken and 3 beef. The appetizers came pretty quick and were surprised that the beef was much more flavorful than the chicken.
Deciding on a main course was a different story, everything sounded amazing; all filled with exotic and alluring spices. My sister chose the Traditional Curry right away but I took longer to decide on my Basil and Ginger dish. Each main course comes with a choice of Vegetarian (8.95) Chicken (9.95) Beef (10.95) and Shrimp (11.95). You also get the choice of mild, medium or hot, for which we both chose medium.
Just a short while later, I could smell our dishes coming. Our table became immersed in the intoxicating aroma of curry and ginger. As our plates were put in front of us I couldn't help but to admire the palette of colors in the dish. This admiration didn't last long as I couldn't stop myself from digging in right away.
In my opinion, the test of a truly delicious meal is determined within the first few minutes. You and your companion may exchange a few words like "This looks great!" as your meal is presented, but as you take your first bites there is silence. You concentrate on the mixture of flavors and with an Asian/Indian fusion such as this, you make sure it isn't too spicy. Tonight, both of our dishes had a zing to it but weren't too spicy (actually, I probably should have gone for "hot"!)
In the end, we decided that the meal was terrific. It is a perfect place to go if you aren't a really adventurous eater, as it is a good introduction to Asian and Indian food.
Basic Info:
Address: 95 South Main Street Harrisonburg Virginia 22801
Phone Number: (540) 432-3896
Cuisine: Asian/Indian Fusion
Website: No website yet!
Price: $$ (Our bill came to $17.00 each with tax and tip)
Specials: Happy Hour Specials Vary
Category: Date Night, Event, Parents
3.5 Stars
On first walking in, my sister and I weren't sure if the restaurant was even open yet, considering that the first floor was deserted except for a lonely waiter staring at a t.v. As soon as we walked in, he snapped to attention and invited us to choose either downstairs of upstairs for dinner. Since the first floor is all of three booths, and part of the kitchen, we decided to try our luck upstairs. Similarly to Dave's, Fuzionz has a problematic, winding, severely vertical staircase that makes you feel as if your climbing a jungle-gym. This poses a threat to older patrons and sadly limits them from the stylish, contemporary upstairs dining room. (I think it might actually be impossible to climb the stairs if you are above the age of 65)
As we emerge from the staircase I notice the trendy black and deep red decor. We choose a comfy leather black booth, just a few feet from the cocktail lounge. My sister noticed that the dining room reminders her of a New York City restaurant. Relatively small , divided by walls with large open windows, a brick wall on one side and funky light fixtures. To our left was a very small stage with tall tables and bar stools. Behind it was a projector screen. In the background we are serenaded by the tunes of Katy Perry, MGMT, Taylor Swift and Fergie as we decide on what to eat. The only complaint we have is that half the room is flooded by fluorescent lighting, the other half of the room gave such a relaxed feeling from the small lamps scattered around.
After scoping out the menu, I decide that the focus is a combo of Indian and Asian dishes. We immediately chose Fuzionz MoMoz for an appetizer which are pretty much just steamed dumplings with a "secret sauce". You can choose between chicken and beef so we decided to split it into 3 chicken and 3 beef. The appetizers came pretty quick and were surprised that the beef was much more flavorful than the chicken.
Deciding on a main course was a different story, everything sounded amazing; all filled with exotic and alluring spices. My sister chose the Traditional Curry right away but I took longer to decide on my Basil and Ginger dish. Each main course comes with a choice of Vegetarian (8.95) Chicken (9.95) Beef (10.95) and Shrimp (11.95). You also get the choice of mild, medium or hot, for which we both chose medium.
Just a short while later, I could smell our dishes coming. Our table became immersed in the intoxicating aroma of curry and ginger. As our plates were put in front of us I couldn't help but to admire the palette of colors in the dish. This admiration didn't last long as I couldn't stop myself from digging in right away.
In my opinion, the test of a truly delicious meal is determined within the first few minutes. You and your companion may exchange a few words like "This looks great!" as your meal is presented, but as you take your first bites there is silence. You concentrate on the mixture of flavors and with an Asian/Indian fusion such as this, you make sure it isn't too spicy. Tonight, both of our dishes had a zing to it but weren't too spicy (actually, I probably should have gone for "hot"!)
In the end, we decided that the meal was terrific. It is a perfect place to go if you aren't a really adventurous eater, as it is a good introduction to Asian and Indian food.
Basic Info:
Address: 95 South Main Street Harrisonburg Virginia 22801
Phone Number: (540) 432-3896
Cuisine: Asian/Indian Fusion
Website: No website yet!
Price: $$ (Our bill came to $17.00 each with tax and tip)
Specials: Happy Hour Specials Vary
Category: Date Night, Event, Parents
3.5 Stars
Shank's Bakery
On October 16th I sprung out of bed like it was Christmas morning. It was the day of my 20th birthday which just happens to also fall on JMU Homecoming (which, if you think about it, equates to Christmas). As I made preparations for a day and night full of fun, I got a call from an unknown number. When I answered it was the joyful voice of a baker from Shank's Bakery telling me that I had a birthday package waiting for me, from my parents.
Located in the heart of Harrisonburg's Historic Downtown area, Shank's is a small bakery hidden near the Water street parking deck. I remembered seeing Shank's stand at the Harrisonburg Farmer's market and had been wondering what it was like for quite some time.
As we waiting for the baker's to put the finishing touches on my "birthday surprise" my roommate and I enjoyed an outstanding iced coffee. Shank's combines regular iced coffee with a small amount of an espresso like coffee base to put a sweet, creative spin on this favorite.
During the four minute ride home (which felt more like 30 minutes) I couldn't contain my excitement. I could smell a mixture of spice and sweetness and knew there was something pumpkin flavored waiting for me. When we got the three huge white boxes home, I uncovered a carrot cake, a huge pumpkin roll and 20 cupcakes (all for under 30 dollars my parents divulged later). Basically I could have fed an army, and given them all cavities. The carrot cake was average, (I seem to have every high standards for this dessert because it is my favorite) but the pumpkin roll stole the show. The Shanks specialty has soft pumpkin cake on the outside and decadent cream cheese filling with walnuts on the inside, rolled up into a perfect package. The special pastry is exactly how you would expect autumn to taste. One roll can be split into 12 heaping servings (perfect to bring to an event or dinner party).
When you look at these birthday dessert options, it seems that cupcakes can unfortunately fall to the waste side, but don't overlook them. These cupcakes are superior to most with their moist cake and delicious and are not to be missed (be sure to get the ones with strawberry icing!)
If you just need a quick fix for your sweet tooth I recommend succumbing the power of the "Monster cookie". Filled with chocolate chips, coconut, peanut butter (and pretty much anything else you can fit into a cookie) this is one nonsensical (and surprisingly) fabulous dessert.
Shank's interior is small but trendy. When you walk in through the front door you will most likely be pulled into a dessert hypnosis, and find yourself drooling over the large glass case, guarding the delicious treats. After you come out of your dessert heaven trance, look to your right for a table. To the left there is a wall of bread, making Shank's the homemade, superior counterpart to Panera.
If you walk forward a few steps, the thin room with tables for two, opens up into a slightly bigger room that is lively enough to chat with a friend yet quiet enough to read or study.
One great aspect of Shank's is that every visit is different. The menu is never exactly the same as the bakers are constantly experimenting with new pastries, muffins and deserts so you always have the opportunity to try something new.
Basic Info:
Address: 49-A West Water Street, Harrisonburg Va 22801
Hours: Closed Sunday. Monday-Friday: 7am-7pm Saturday: 7am-3pm. (Monday is mostly reserved for baking so they only have a limited menu for most of the day, your visit is better spend on Tuesday-Saturday)
Cuisine: Comfort food/ Bakery: breads, muffins, pastries, cakes and cafe.
Price: $ (Although depending on what you get, Shank's charges bake sale prices; small pastries are around one dollar!)
Must Have: Monster cookie and a slice of pumpkin roll (if you don't want to buy the entire roll, they are sold by the slice)
Classification: Parents, Saturday morning/afternoon post brunch coffee fix, quick bite, birthday cakes.
How to get there if you don't have a car: The downtown area is about a 10 minute walk from the quad. If you don't want to walk you can take the route 3 bus.
Directions: Drive straight down Main street (the heart of downtown) and turn left onto water street and park in the parking deck. Shanks is to the right next to Downtown Books.
3 Stars
Located in the heart of Harrisonburg's Historic Downtown area, Shank's is a small bakery hidden near the Water street parking deck. I remembered seeing Shank's stand at the Harrisonburg Farmer's market and had been wondering what it was like for quite some time.
As we waiting for the baker's to put the finishing touches on my "birthday surprise" my roommate and I enjoyed an outstanding iced coffee. Shank's combines regular iced coffee with a small amount of an espresso like coffee base to put a sweet, creative spin on this favorite.
During the four minute ride home (which felt more like 30 minutes) I couldn't contain my excitement. I could smell a mixture of spice and sweetness and knew there was something pumpkin flavored waiting for me. When we got the three huge white boxes home, I uncovered a carrot cake, a huge pumpkin roll and 20 cupcakes (all for under 30 dollars my parents divulged later). Basically I could have fed an army, and given them all cavities. The carrot cake was average, (I seem to have every high standards for this dessert because it is my favorite) but the pumpkin roll stole the show. The Shanks specialty has soft pumpkin cake on the outside and decadent cream cheese filling with walnuts on the inside, rolled up into a perfect package. The special pastry is exactly how you would expect autumn to taste. One roll can be split into 12 heaping servings (perfect to bring to an event or dinner party).
When you look at these birthday dessert options, it seems that cupcakes can unfortunately fall to the waste side, but don't overlook them. These cupcakes are superior to most with their moist cake and delicious and are not to be missed (be sure to get the ones with strawberry icing!)
If you just need a quick fix for your sweet tooth I recommend succumbing the power of the "Monster cookie". Filled with chocolate chips, coconut, peanut butter (and pretty much anything else you can fit into a cookie) this is one nonsensical (and surprisingly) fabulous dessert.
Shank's interior is small but trendy. When you walk in through the front door you will most likely be pulled into a dessert hypnosis, and find yourself drooling over the large glass case, guarding the delicious treats. After you come out of your dessert heaven trance, look to your right for a table. To the left there is a wall of bread, making Shank's the homemade, superior counterpart to Panera.
If you walk forward a few steps, the thin room with tables for two, opens up into a slightly bigger room that is lively enough to chat with a friend yet quiet enough to read or study.
One great aspect of Shank's is that every visit is different. The menu is never exactly the same as the bakers are constantly experimenting with new pastries, muffins and deserts so you always have the opportunity to try something new.
Basic Info:
Address: 49-A West Water Street, Harrisonburg Va 22801
Hours: Closed Sunday. Monday-Friday: 7am-7pm Saturday: 7am-3pm. (Monday is mostly reserved for baking so they only have a limited menu for most of the day, your visit is better spend on Tuesday-Saturday)
Cuisine: Comfort food/ Bakery: breads, muffins, pastries, cakes and cafe.
Price: $ (Although depending on what you get, Shank's charges bake sale prices; small pastries are around one dollar!)
Must Have: Monster cookie and a slice of pumpkin roll (if you don't want to buy the entire roll, they are sold by the slice)
Classification: Parents, Saturday morning/afternoon post brunch coffee fix, quick bite, birthday cakes.
How to get there if you don't have a car: The downtown area is about a 10 minute walk from the quad. If you don't want to walk you can take the route 3 bus.
Directions: Drive straight down Main street (the heart of downtown) and turn left onto water street and park in the parking deck. Shanks is to the right next to Downtown Books.
3 Stars
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Dave's Taverna
Every college town needs the quintessential college town restaurant. Located decently close to campus, you'll find a lively atmosphere where you will most likely run into someone you know, but more importantly, has tasty food at a price that doesn't break the student's budget.
For JMU, this college town restaurant is Dave's Taverna. Located in downtown Harrisonburg, it is without a doubt the most popular restaurant for students in Harrisonburg. If you ask any student to name their restaurants in the downtown area, their list will most likely begin with this Greek influenced eatery.
Walking into Dave's on a Friday or Saturday is like walking into a party. You are immediately welcomed by the teal and hardwood decor and lively sounds of patrons chatting, plates clanking, and t.v in the background, all straddling the line of rowdy. On a busy weekend night you may have a short wait, but the four dining room space usually accommodates the students that come in droves on weekend nights. A winding, difficult staircase leads us vertically to the second floor where the waitress shows us to our table. If there is room, and the weather is nice, there is nothing more enjoyable that sitting outside at the Tarasta, on the rooftop. Usually a late at night hotpot, there is a bar on both the first floor and the Tarasta that overlooks historic downtown. To sit on the rooftop you sacrifice the wide range of choices on the menu ( a limited menu is served outside).
The menu is filled with Greek fast food dishes such as gyro's, souvalaki, and pita sandwiches. You will also spot American favorites with a Greek spin, such as chicken, pork chops and tuna along with four different types of linguine dishes. When you do order, be sure to get a side salad. Dave's House salad is loaded with veggies and a dressing is not to be missed. Off the regular menu, you can order whatever your in the mood for, and know that you won't be disappointed. I'm partial towards the Greek favorites such as the souvalaki or the veggie pita. Dave's has a fabulous mikro menu full allegedly small dishes (yet are big enough to fill you up) to have while hanging out at the bar or simply not ravenous. I recommend the roasted vegetable pasta or the pita quesadilla.
The service is full of well trained employees (a majority are students) that are attentive and friendly. Be sure to come hungry because your food will come very quick.
Dave's is a great place to come for a group outing on the weekends or a good place to bring your parents to get a feel for the JMU/Harrisonburg Community.
On the weekend the atmosphere may be a little too much to bring a date, but a weekday is a different story.
You should still expect great service, good food served quick on a weekday, but the entire restaurant is transformed into a friendly, calmer atmosphere. The rooms aren't jam packed with students and the waiters have more time to chat with you. Be sure to come on a night when your favorite football team is playing because on the first floor near the bar, a large projector screen is lowered to make you feel like your literally on the sideline while enjoying your meal. Wednesday is jazz night and Tuesday is open mic night.
Dave's has become so popular in recent years that the owners have opened another location, Dave's Express, on Port Republic road (pretty much the epicenter of student off campus housing). With the needs and desires of students in mind, Dave's Express is open from 11:00 am to 4:00 am and delivers. The menu takes the most popular dishes from the full service restaurant, and the mini eatery even offers Beer Delivery.
Dave's probably won't win any culinary awards but concentrates on fulfilling the needs of this demanding demographic. The Dave's experience is one that all JMU students have have again and again.
Basic Info:
Address: 121 South Main street Harrisonburg Virginia 22801
Phone Number: (540) 561-1487
Cuisine: American with Greek specialties
Hours: Dave's Taverna: 11:00am-1:00am Dave's Express: 11:00am-4:00am
Price: $/$$
Budget Friendly Dish: All of the meals in the sandwich and salad sections are less than $10.00
Vegetarian: There are lots to choose from but the Veggie pita and linguine with pesto are fantastic!
Classification: Weekend: Good for groups, Events, Parents
Weekday: Date night, Parents, Sport events
How to get there if you don't have a car: From the quad, the walk to Dave's is about 10 minutes. If you don't want to walk, you can take the route 3 bus.
3.5 Stars
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Harrisonburg Farmers Market
Just imagine: The leaves are starting to change, the weather's getting cooler and the pumpkin spice lattes has become you drink of choice. You don't quite need a heavy coat, but there is a cool breeze provoking you to drag out that bin full of cozy sweaters,scarf's and most importantly... your snuggie.
Want to get into that festive Autumn Mood? Be sure to stop at the Harrionburg Farmer's Market.
This past weekend my roommate and I decided to take advantage of the gorgeous fall weather, so we ventured out to the Harrisonburg Farmers Market we've been hearing about all year.
Located right behind Dave's to the left of South Main it is perfectly situated for a stroll around the downtown area after your visit.
In typical Harrionburg fashion, we were welcomed by friendly vendors and a lively bluegrass band. At first glance, I was skeptical on what I would find; due to the market's somewhat small size, but I was happy to discover that it is definitely not short on great locally made products.
My first stop was to grab a hot cup of dark roast coffee from Grains of Sense for $2.00. As a coffee addict, starting off my stroll with a great cup of joe set the tone for the morning.
Locally grown fall produce dominated the vendors. Sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini, gourds, pumpkins radiated that special fall feelings directly from the tables. Impressive jewelry stands (specializing in unique gemstones and turquoise), clothing, craft and gift stands also held a strong presence. The first stand we stopped at contained homemade lotions and lip balm called Pure and Simple Farm. Green Haven Farm Cheeses had homemade goat cheese that was simply amazing (and free taste tests!) branch out and try some!
As we continued our tour, the scent of the stereotypical country breakfast wafted through the air, making my roommate and I regret eating before we went. Next to the breakfast stand were mouthwatering breads(more food samples!) and baked goods from Willow Run Bakery (pies, donuts, scones, cookies, cakes and pretty much anything you can imagine)
My roommate and I went to every stand, talked to a couple of locavores, tasted a couple of new foods and were there for less than half an hour. It is one of those activities that you can do in 15 minutes or spend the entire afternoon.
I am beyond excited to go back next week (October 30th) for the Autumn Celebration and Customer Appreciation Day. According to the website there will be free hot drinks, carriage rides, balloons, more music and much more in addition to other Downtown activities.
This farmer's market is a perfect activity to bring your parents to or a great thing to do on a lazy Saturday morning with friends.
When you do go be sure to bring some cash. Everything is pretty cheap- for about $10.00 you can get a huge breakfast, a pumpkin to take home, and dessert....and when I say dessert, I mean a full size pie.
When I go back:
1. I am definitely not eating before so I can get a country breakfast from the stand in the back. You'll easily be able to find it,(just follow your nose) and a pastry from Willow Run Bakery. There is a green lawn next to the Market, perfect for a picnic.
2. I am definitely going to buy a lip balm from the Pure and Simple Farm stand and pick up some fall flowers from the Willow Spring Farm.
Also, make sure you check out the website! Its really easy to follow and goes in depth on each vendor and what they specialize in!
Want to get into that festive Autumn Mood? Be sure to stop at the Harrionburg Farmer's Market.
This past weekend my roommate and I decided to take advantage of the gorgeous fall weather, so we ventured out to the Harrisonburg Farmers Market we've been hearing about all year.
Located right behind Dave's to the left of South Main it is perfectly situated for a stroll around the downtown area after your visit.
In typical Harrionburg fashion, we were welcomed by friendly vendors and a lively bluegrass band. At first glance, I was skeptical on what I would find; due to the market's somewhat small size, but I was happy to discover that it is definitely not short on great locally made products.
My first stop was to grab a hot cup of dark roast coffee from Grains of Sense for $2.00. As a coffee addict, starting off my stroll with a great cup of joe set the tone for the morning.
Locally grown fall produce dominated the vendors. Sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini, gourds, pumpkins radiated that special fall feelings directly from the tables. Impressive jewelry stands (specializing in unique gemstones and turquoise), clothing, craft and gift stands also held a strong presence. The first stand we stopped at contained homemade lotions and lip balm called Pure and Simple Farm. Green Haven Farm Cheeses had homemade goat cheese that was simply amazing (and free taste tests!) branch out and try some!
As we continued our tour, the scent of the stereotypical country breakfast wafted through the air, making my roommate and I regret eating before we went. Next to the breakfast stand were mouthwatering breads(more food samples!) and baked goods from Willow Run Bakery (pies, donuts, scones, cookies, cakes and pretty much anything you can imagine)
My roommate and I went to every stand, talked to a couple of locavores, tasted a couple of new foods and were there for less than half an hour. It is one of those activities that you can do in 15 minutes or spend the entire afternoon.
I am beyond excited to go back next week (October 30th) for the Autumn Celebration and Customer Appreciation Day. According to the website there will be free hot drinks, carriage rides, balloons, more music and much more in addition to other Downtown activities.
This farmer's market is a perfect activity to bring your parents to or a great thing to do on a lazy Saturday morning with friends.
When you do go be sure to bring some cash. Everything is pretty cheap- for about $10.00 you can get a huge breakfast, a pumpkin to take home, and dessert....and when I say dessert, I mean a full size pie.
When I go back:
1. I am definitely not eating before so I can get a country breakfast from the stand in the back. You'll easily be able to find it,(just follow your nose) and a pastry from Willow Run Bakery. There is a green lawn next to the Market, perfect for a picnic.
2. I am definitely going to buy a lip balm from the Pure and Simple Farm stand and pick up some fall flowers from the Willow Spring Farm.
Also, make sure you check out the website! Its really easy to follow and goes in depth on each vendor and what they specialize in!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Brooklyn Cafe
When the name Brooklyn cafe pops into your head, what kind of restaurant comes to mind? As a native New Yorker, I expected a cozy Italian or traditional American restaurant, probably family owned, who would be eager to chat about life in the big apple. On the contrary, this imaginary scenario could not be farther from the truth.
It's Friday night and the restaurants on South Main are just starting to buzz with their weekend rush of JMU students freeing themselves from the stress of a long week. Unknown to most, just one block over on South Mason, the Brooklyn cafe sits empty, with the exception of an elderly couple eating gyros by a large glass window...Not exactly the ideal location to get pumped for the weekend.
Upon entering the establishment, guests are hit with the intoxicating (or is it toxic?) fumes from the Hookah bar that sits just above the restaurant. The main dining room is small but plesantly decorated with images of New York City. The outdoor patio is comfortable enough, scattered with glass tables and comfortable iron chairs. A makeshift blockade made of vines, branches and plywood seperate the eating area from the sidewalk.
Now, knowing that my idealized "Brooklyn cafe" does not exist, what's your best guess for the type of cuisine to be served? Italian? Greek? Not quite. The menu is a hodge podge of Persian, Turkish, Russian, Traditional American, Mexican and Greek. After scanning the menu, I noticed that the owners have taken the most 'Americanized" dishes from each cuisine and plopped it on their menu. Of course, they have the typical favorites such as Greek salads, quesadillas and Buffalo wings. The more daring diners are teased with the promise of the adventure of trying an authentic exotic dish. After teasting meals on both sides of the menu, I reccomend steering clear of the lackluster Persian dishes and sticking to the good ole' American favorites. The cheese steak and fajita burger are two good options.
The reason that I would go back to the Brooklyn Cafe wouldn't be to hang out with the stellar crowd, but it would be to get the hummus appetizer again. Regardless of the restaurants severely unfocued menu, they have an outstanding homemade hummus. Served with pita chips (I reccomend asking for pita bread instead) with olive oil on top, it is one dish you can't afford to miss.
My group and I were also given a great deal of attention from our waiter, who was excited to make friendly conversation (this may have something to do to the lack of influx of customers, but nonetheless he was very friendly and attentive).
The Brooklyn Cafe has a ton of untapped potential but has yet to find it's niche. It has a decent location, a Hookah Bar and once they focus on their stregnths in the menu and make it a more upbeat and lively place to go, it may even give the hotspots on South Main a run for their money.
Address: 20 South Mason Street
Cuisine: Persian, American, Russian, Mediterranean with touches of Greek and MexicanNo Website
Atmosphere/Spirit: Small yet welcoming establishment, completly dead for a Friday night
Price: $
Vegetarian Option: Entire section dedicated to vegetarian dishes
Must Get: Hummus Appetizer
Classification: Good for an average night out, Hookah Bar uptairs
Directions: From 800 South Main street make a left towards Downtown Harrisonburg. After about .7 miles turn left onto East Market Street and make the first right onto South Mason. The Brooklyn Cafe is on the left, there is parking both in front and behind the building.
Public Transportation: Bus routes 1,3 and 4 drop you at the intersection of South Mason and Water Street which are less than a block from the Brooklyn Cafe
1.5 Stars
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Harrisonburg, Virginia: The Uncovered Gem of the Food World?
When dining out, there are few things better than having your expectations exceeded. When your meal is settled in front of you and suddenly your senses are aroused and taste buds tingled, you can tell that you are in for a treat. From the first delectable bite to that feeling of wanting to prolong your last mouthful, having a professional whip up a dish for you can be quite a treat. Especially for a college student, dining out is a great change of pace; after studying and working all week, it can be just what the doctor ordered to re-charge for the weekend.
Harrisonburg, Virginia; not exactly a booming metropolis of Michelin Star restaurants, but a truly underestimated town full of terrific restaurants and untapped potential.
As a self proclaimed foodie, my goal is to show JMU students that just because you're living like a college student doesn't mean you need to eat like one. We all love to brag about JMU's high rank in the Princeton Review for on-campus food, and sometimes a quick pit-stop at e-hall will suffice to get you through your seemingly unending day of classes. But for those times that you don't just want, but need to break out of the JMU bubble, I am here to prove that there is more to the Harrisonburg dining scene than meets the eye.
I have taken on the quest to hit the hotspots and find the hidden gem's for all of JMU's foodies. Despite the range of your palette, I am going to challenge you to try different types food that you never considered (escargot anyone?) and highlight the most important aspects to consider when picking the perfect place to spend your precious eating time.
My goal is to persuade students to expand their horizons and take note of all the great restaurants this town has to offer. Using this guide, readers will be able to avoid the stress of researching a restaurant OR falling into a rut of going to the same place over and over.
As I visit each restaurant I will document and rate the entire experience based on a specific criterion.
Basic Information
Harrisonburg, Virginia; not exactly a booming metropolis of Michelin Star restaurants, but a truly underestimated town full of terrific restaurants and untapped potential.
As a self proclaimed foodie, my goal is to show JMU students that just because you're living like a college student doesn't mean you need to eat like one. We all love to brag about JMU's high rank in the Princeton Review for on-campus food, and sometimes a quick pit-stop at e-hall will suffice to get you through your seemingly unending day of classes. But for those times that you don't just want, but need to break out of the JMU bubble, I am here to prove that there is more to the Harrisonburg dining scene than meets the eye.
I have taken on the quest to hit the hotspots and find the hidden gem's for all of JMU's foodies. Despite the range of your palette, I am going to challenge you to try different types food that you never considered (escargot anyone?) and highlight the most important aspects to consider when picking the perfect place to spend your precious eating time.
My goal is to persuade students to expand their horizons and take note of all the great restaurants this town has to offer. Using this guide, readers will be able to avoid the stress of researching a restaurant OR falling into a rut of going to the same place over and over.
As I visit each restaurant I will document and rate the entire experience based on a specific criterion.
Basic Information
- Address
- Hours
- Cuisine
- Link to Website
Price
- $: Under $10.00
- $$: $10.00-$20.00
- $$$: $20.00 and up
Discovered Information
- Best Dish on the Menu
- Vegetarian Option
- Budget Friendly Dishes
- Specials/Deals
Classification
- Date Night
- Birthday Party or Large Group Outing
- Quick Bite
- Event Pairing
- Parents
Transportation
- Directions
- How to get there if you don't have a car
Number of Star's (Out of 4) for the Overall Experience
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