Tortuga's Cocina
11 1/2 Church St.
Lambertville, NJ 08530
609-397-7272
http://www.tortugascocina.com/
*Not open on Mondays. Call or check website for specific hours.
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: Southwest/Mexican
Serves: Lunch & Dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Traditional
Comments: I heard of this place through a friend so I looked it upon restaurant.com. I was so thrilled they had a coupon listed on there so I took up on the opportunity to check it out.
All I can say is yum, yum and more yum. I thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this place. Everything from the chips and salsa, to the chipolte shrimp dish and fajitas. Everything we ordered came out hot, fresh and yummy. I also enjoyed myself a couple of margaritas! The bar is attached to the restaurant, although listed under a different name.
I would definitely recommend checking this place out. I do feel this is a kid friendly place, although there weren't any there when we dined...it had a good atmosphere where I think children would be welcome.
They also had a small outdoor area to dine. It is not anything fancy...but if it is a nice day it is an added bonus. The only thing I would caution about this place is that it can be a bit tricky to find. I almost walked right by it. Look for the little turtle on the sign.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Sunday, August 15, 2010
The Sandbar has some good eats
The Sandbar (Old 90 Main)
90 South Main St.
90 South Main St.
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-3030http://www.sandbarnewhope.com/
NHY Rating: 9 of 10
Food: American/Cuban
Serves: Lunch & Dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Relaxing, cool
Comments: Love, love, love the replacement bar/restaurant for the old 90 Main. This place has really wow'd me as far as the food and service. So far, we have been there about 3 times...and I am addicted. I am addicted to their Cuban nachos appetizer and their Fried Green Tomato Salad. I have also tried the Summer Salad which has fresh watermelon, grilled pineapple and mint. Super refreshing salad.
For dinner I have had the Cuban Pork Shoulder and the Chipolte Pasta. Both outstanding dishes! I literally intend on trying everything on their menu because I just love the selection of food they offer...really, everything sounds scrumptious.
This place is hands down a great one to visit for a bite. They also have outdoor seating if you are a people watcher. Some of the tables are a little too close to the sidewalk though...my only beef with sitting there is that someone walking by can literally just reach over and grab one of my nachos real quick!! Ha ha!
So if you are looking for a place with fast, good service, reasonable prices and absolutely excellent food, go to the Sandbar...and please, let me come with you too : )
Friday, January 29, 2010
No. 9 in Lambertville Worth a Visit
No. 9 Restaurant
9 Klines Court
9 Klines Court
Lambertville, NJ 08530-2113
(609) 397-6380NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: Dinner (limited hours, call ahead; reservations recommended because small restaurant) BYOB
Price: On the expensive side
Ambiance: Simple, small...not a lot of decor. Not a kid-friendly place.
Comments: We were apparently there on a slow Friday night, but we made reservations anyway. Walking in we realized that is indeed a good thing to do because it is a small restaurant, probably only seats 30 people or so comfortably. We were waited on by perhaps the owner. He was very friendly and explained the specials as well as their regular meals that seem to be favorites.
Our meal, including salad and entrees for both was very good. I almost licked my plate. My husband has the fra dioblo pasta and that was also very tasty. I would definitively visit this restaurant again.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Lilly's on the Canal: Delightful Dinner Place
Lilly's on the canal
2 Canal St
Lambertville, NJ 08530-1704
(609) 397-6242
http://www.lillysgourmet.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner (only serves bottled wine, no beer or by the glass drinks)
Price: Very reasonable
Ambiance: Nice and airy. Their indoors was very unique with an upstairs and downstairs. The kitchen is open in the middle. They have a beautiful wall fountain inside. They also have a nice outdoor patio.
Comments: The food was delightful and the service was great. We ordered an appetizer which was quite filling, calamari and onion rings. They were done to perfection. For dinner, I had the Filet Mignon which was done over mashed potatoes with bacon and horseradish sauce and was quite delicious. We also had the Ahi Tuna topped with shrimp and vegetables, also scrumptious.
What we would have loved to try but didn't have an inch left of available stomach was the desserts. When you first walk in you are literally greeted with an eyeful of their decedent dessert options. They had a chocolate cake that looked like it was to die for...
Overall, it's a great spot. They did seem like an acceptable place for older kids but not toddlers. Their food prices are a bit high but comparable to other restaurants in the area.
Note: They have a little parking lot so you may get lucky and not have to pay for a meter. Also, they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
2 Canal St
Lambertville, NJ 08530-1704
(609) 397-6242
http://www.lillysgourmet.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner (only serves bottled wine, no beer or by the glass drinks)
Price: Very reasonable
Ambiance: Nice and airy. Their indoors was very unique with an upstairs and downstairs. The kitchen is open in the middle. They have a beautiful wall fountain inside. They also have a nice outdoor patio.
Comments: The food was delightful and the service was great. We ordered an appetizer which was quite filling, calamari and onion rings. They were done to perfection. For dinner, I had the Filet Mignon which was done over mashed potatoes with bacon and horseradish sauce and was quite delicious. We also had the Ahi Tuna topped with shrimp and vegetables, also scrumptious.
What we would have loved to try but didn't have an inch left of available stomach was the desserts. When you first walk in you are literally greeted with an eyeful of their decedent dessert options. They had a chocolate cake that looked like it was to die for...
Overall, it's a great spot. They did seem like an acceptable place for older kids but not toddlers. Their food prices are a bit high but comparable to other restaurants in the area.
Note: They have a little parking lot so you may get lucky and not have to pay for a meter. Also, they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Sweet Lorraines: It's Good. It really is!
Sweet Lorraine's
Route 202 and Street Road
Lahaska, PA 18931
(215) 794-4040
http://www.sweetlorraines.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Nice contemporary atmosphere, clean, spacious. Bar area is nice a large and separate from the dining areas. They also have new outdoor patio seating.
Comments:
Sweet Lorraines certainly did not disappoint. I took the whole family and felt that it was indeed a good overall family restaurant. It's not the cheapest place on the block but the quality is fitting of the prices. I tried a nice beverage, an alcoholic specialty smoothie and it was quite refreshing. We tried a couple appetizers, the Mess O Fries and Coconut Shrimp; both very scrumptious. We then moved on to Chicken Gorgonzala Pasta...topped with some spiced walnuts...Mmmm is all I have to say. The husband was more into getting a burger so he asked about ordering off of the bar menu since the regular dinner menu did not have sandwiches and they politely obliged. His burger was pretty much standard however. No bells and whistles there. The kids meals were very good. My son tried the Pita Pizza and my daughter the Mac and Cheese. Both where very happy with their choices.
The service was so-so. Our waiter was very polite and friendly, but it seemed that they were still trying to coordinate who does what and the food did take slightly longer than I would preferred. He was gracious enough though to keep us updated on the progress. They also offered the kids some plastic bendy stick things to play with which was very helpful.
I say go check them out. I think they have a very high potential to please a lot of customers!
Route 202 and Street Road
Lahaska, PA 18931
(215) 794-4040
http://www.sweetlorraines.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Nice contemporary atmosphere, clean, spacious. Bar area is nice a large and separate from the dining areas. They also have new outdoor patio seating.
Comments:
Sweet Lorraines certainly did not disappoint. I took the whole family and felt that it was indeed a good overall family restaurant. It's not the cheapest place on the block but the quality is fitting of the prices. I tried a nice beverage, an alcoholic specialty smoothie and it was quite refreshing. We tried a couple appetizers, the Mess O Fries and Coconut Shrimp; both very scrumptious. We then moved on to Chicken Gorgonzala Pasta...topped with some spiced walnuts...Mmmm is all I have to say. The husband was more into getting a burger so he asked about ordering off of the bar menu since the regular dinner menu did not have sandwiches and they politely obliged. His burger was pretty much standard however. No bells and whistles there. The kids meals were very good. My son tried the Pita Pizza and my daughter the Mac and Cheese. Both where very happy with their choices.
The service was so-so. Our waiter was very polite and friendly, but it seemed that they were still trying to coordinate who does what and the food did take slightly longer than I would preferred. He was gracious enough though to keep us updated on the progress. They also offered the kids some plastic bendy stick things to play with which was very helpful.
I say go check them out. I think they have a very high potential to please a lot of customers!
The Raven has reopened
After several months of being closed, the Raven has finally reopened. It was a busy first weekend over there. The parking lot was certainly full.
Plus it looks like they are getting a web site up and running. It is not yet ready but they do have a placeholder screen. My understanding is that it is new folks running The Raven but they are just leasing it from the owners of The Nevermore.
385 W Bridge St
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-2081
http://www.theravennewhope.com/
Plus it looks like they are getting a web site up and running. It is not yet ready but they do have a placeholder screen. My understanding is that it is new folks running The Raven but they are just leasing it from the owners of The Nevermore.
385 W Bridge St
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-2081
http://www.theravennewhope.com/
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Nancy's Village Cafe: New Little Lunch Shop in Lahaska
A new little sandwich and soup shop opened up in Peddler's Village. It's called Nancy's Village Cafe and it is yummy. It is situated behind Earl's Prime. It has replaced the Cross Culture restaurant (Indian-American restaurant) that was there previously. It is small place but neatly decorated with a mom and pop feel. I was recommended to go there from another shop owner and it definitely didn't disappoint.
They are only open though for breakfast and lunch 7AM - 3PM and have a nice array of sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, chili, quiches and of course homemade tasty desserts. It is definitely kid friendly and very low key. The prices are also very reasonable and the portions just right. This place is more about quality, not quantity. Don't worry though, it will fill you up.
The only thing was that it was kind of small so I guess on a busy day it could get a bit uncomfortable. I stopped there for lunch and it wasn't that busy. I think they just opened so maybe it is still a secret they are there. I guess I am now breaking open the secret because here's the info:
Nancy's Village Cafe
P.O. Box 634
Lahaska, PA 18931
Phone: (215) 794-8201
Special Hours: 7 am to 3 pm daily
They are only open though for breakfast and lunch 7AM - 3PM and have a nice array of sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, chili, quiches and of course homemade tasty desserts. It is definitely kid friendly and very low key. The prices are also very reasonable and the portions just right. This place is more about quality, not quantity. Don't worry though, it will fill you up.
The only thing was that it was kind of small so I guess on a busy day it could get a bit uncomfortable. I stopped there for lunch and it wasn't that busy. I think they just opened so maybe it is still a secret they are there. I guess I am now breaking open the secret because here's the info:
Nancy's Village Cafe
P.O. Box 634
Lahaska, PA 18931
Phone: (215) 794-8201
Special Hours: 7 am to 3 pm daily
Sunday, January 11, 2009
New Lahaska Restaurant: Sweet Lorraine's
Sounds like a new local restaurant is giving off mixed reviews. Former restaurant, The Spotted Hog, has now reopened as Sweet Lorraine's. You can check out their own website for more information and menu (just remember to turn down your speakers).
New Hope Yocal hasn't been over yet but has been informed from several local friends that Sweet Lorraine's didn't quite win them over. Their menu was described as slightly more vegetarian type dishes, sandwiches, salads, pasta. Now with Earl's Prime right across the street I see no competition for a great steak meal regardless. After having 3 scrumptious dinners there, plain and simple....Earl's has no competition.
As for Lorraine's more light fared food, word on the street is... although her atmosphere is esthetically pleasing and a nice addition to Lahaska's artsy flair (with supposedly a great bar by the way), she could use a little more flavor in the food and a little more service in the service. New Hope Yocal will be on the prowl there soon...details to come.
New Hope Yocal hasn't been over yet but has been informed from several local friends that Sweet Lorraine's didn't quite win them over. Their menu was described as slightly more vegetarian type dishes, sandwiches, salads, pasta. Now with Earl's Prime right across the street I see no competition for a great steak meal regardless. After having 3 scrumptious dinners there, plain and simple....Earl's has no competition.
As for Lorraine's more light fared food, word on the street is... although her atmosphere is esthetically pleasing and a nice addition to Lahaska's artsy flair (with supposedly a great bar by the way), she could use a little more flavor in the food and a little more service in the service. New Hope Yocal will be on the prowl there soon...details to come.
Working out in New Hope
For the Locals:
It's not always about eating here at the New Hope Yocal; sometimes its about working off that delicious food! Yep, in New Hope we can be fit and fabulous! If you haven't already, go check out the local gyms.
My top pick right now is definitely Body Tech in Lambertville. They have taken over the old Centre Club behind Riverhorse Brewery and have made quite a lovely little workout spot. "Little" may not be a good descriptor because in fact, they have a nice sized main facility, complete with gym, coffee and beverage area, fitness studio, child care center, spinning room, tanning room, massage offices, large yoga and dance studio.
I was also very impressed with their personal trainers and staff. Everyone is very professional and friendly. After being a member for only a month and half, I have never seen a day yet where any employee has been anything but kind and helpful.
Body Tech also has a lot of great services. They offer free towel service and great childcare, again, completely free in the membership (no extra fees!). The kids have a ball in the colorful, clean, fully equipped room moderated by some very fun people. The facility, overall, is extremely clean and basically has everything you could need in a gym. Aside from benches, free weights, universals and weight machines, they have plenty of cardio machines such as treadmills, ellipticals, bikes and stair climbers and many with TVs with CD/DVD players.
Also, the room is also very well ventilated and nicely spaced. You most certainly don't feel like you have to squeeze through machines to walk down the aisle.
The only trouble I have noticed is the parking and that usually is around the time they have multiple classes running, sometime between 9 and 10ish. Usually it is not a big problem but occasionally, you have to wait for a spot.
The best thing though by far of Body Tech is the variety of classes. They have everything; just to name a few, they have Zumba, Step, Total Body Workout, On the Ball Classes, Pilates, a variety of Yoga, Tai Chi, and even Moving Mediation. It's no joke people, if you can't find a class you like here, you are nuts.
Zumba is energizing and fun...On the Ball will work you out and Moving Mediation is an experience like no other. The fact that all these classes are part of the monthly price makes Body Tech well worth your dollar. Go check them out; they are running lots of new member specials!
Body Tech Fitness
80 Lambert Ln,
Lambertville, NJ 08530
609-397-6900
http://www.lovemybodytech.com/
Next up, I will share some info about our other local fitness clubs, newly rennovated and expanded New Hope Fitness and Cornerstone and the Tree House.
It's not always about eating here at the New Hope Yocal; sometimes its about working off that delicious food! Yep, in New Hope we can be fit and fabulous! If you haven't already, go check out the local gyms.
My top pick right now is definitely Body Tech in Lambertville. They have taken over the old Centre Club behind Riverhorse Brewery and have made quite a lovely little workout spot. "Little" may not be a good descriptor because in fact, they have a nice sized main facility, complete with gym, coffee and beverage area, fitness studio, child care center, spinning room, tanning room, massage offices, large yoga and dance studio.
I was also very impressed with their personal trainers and staff. Everyone is very professional and friendly. After being a member for only a month and half, I have never seen a day yet where any employee has been anything but kind and helpful.
Body Tech also has a lot of great services. They offer free towel service and great childcare, again, completely free in the membership (no extra fees!). The kids have a ball in the colorful, clean, fully equipped room moderated by some very fun people. The facility, overall, is extremely clean and basically has everything you could need in a gym. Aside from benches, free weights, universals and weight machines, they have plenty of cardio machines such as treadmills, ellipticals, bikes and stair climbers and many with TVs with CD/DVD players.
Also, the room is also very well ventilated and nicely spaced. You most certainly don't feel like you have to squeeze through machines to walk down the aisle.
The only trouble I have noticed is the parking and that usually is around the time they have multiple classes running, sometime between 9 and 10ish. Usually it is not a big problem but occasionally, you have to wait for a spot.
The best thing though by far of Body Tech is the variety of classes. They have everything; just to name a few, they have Zumba, Step, Total Body Workout, On the Ball Classes, Pilates, a variety of Yoga, Tai Chi, and even Moving Mediation. It's no joke people, if you can't find a class you like here, you are nuts.
Zumba is energizing and fun...On the Ball will work you out and Moving Mediation is an experience like no other. The fact that all these classes are part of the monthly price makes Body Tech well worth your dollar. Go check them out; they are running lots of new member specials!
Body Tech Fitness
80 Lambert Ln,
Lambertville, NJ 08530
609-397-6900
http://www.lovemybodytech.com/
Next up, I will share some info about our other local fitness clubs, newly rennovated and expanded New Hope Fitness and Cornerstone and the Tree House.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Fran's Pub: All around good eats and drinks
Fran's Pub
116 S Main St
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-5539
http://www.franspub.com
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Very reasonable
Ambiance: Nice airy outdoor area, large patio, inside and outside bar. Inside bar has pool tables and is now non-smoking!
Comments: Great place for eats and drinks! For New Hope, it is one of the few more affordable food stops. But don't let the price fool you, the food is high quality. Definitely no ordinary bar food. The portions also are just right. We tried out Mexican night on Wednesday and were very impressed. I have also been there for lunch several times and had a scrumptious salad and pizza. Their menu is mostly burgers, chicken, salads, and munchies. I love their chicken fingers and fries! You just can't go wrong at Fran's. They have a great beer selection too!
This place is also very kid-friendly on the outdoor patio or their semi-indoor patio area. The kids menu is also pleasing and there is no worries about noise level which is a welcome relief when searching for dining spots in New Hope with kids.
Note: This place is hot spot for bikers on the weekend. Also, there is some parking in the rear of the restaurant (if you get lucky).
116 S Main St
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-5539
http://www.franspub.com
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Very reasonable
Ambiance: Nice airy outdoor area, large patio, inside and outside bar. Inside bar has pool tables and is now non-smoking!
Comments: Great place for eats and drinks! For New Hope, it is one of the few more affordable food stops. But don't let the price fool you, the food is high quality. Definitely no ordinary bar food. The portions also are just right. We tried out Mexican night on Wednesday and were very impressed. I have also been there for lunch several times and had a scrumptious salad and pizza. Their menu is mostly burgers, chicken, salads, and munchies. I love their chicken fingers and fries! You just can't go wrong at Fran's. They have a great beer selection too!
This place is also very kid-friendly on the outdoor patio or their semi-indoor patio area. The kids menu is also pleasing and there is no worries about noise level which is a welcome relief when searching for dining spots in New Hope with kids.
Note: This place is hot spot for bikers on the weekend. Also, there is some parking in the rear of the restaurant (if you get lucky).
New local dating website
There is a new local website out there for all you singles.It is called NewHopeDating.org. Go check it out and let us know what you find...
Friday, August 29, 2008
Monday, August 11, 2008
The Landing: Dropped their customer service
The Landing
22 N Main St
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-5711
http://www.landingrestaurant.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10 (restaurant only); 5 of 10 (bar)
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Pricey
Ambiance: Small, yet contemporary on inside; outside is larger with nice patio area, overlooks Delaware
Comments: The restaurant of The Landing has a nice selection of foods, a bit pricey though...I was stuck with the thought several times that this food is a bit ordinary and not exactly worth my $28. I still wouldn't discount it though, the view is lovely and for the most part, the service is good. If you have to it toss around and desire an outdoor setting, the Landing is for you.
I also do not recommend The Landing if you have kids, the place is just too "restrictive." They are also minimalist when it comes to bathrooms. I have no idea what their capacity is but I would think with the indoor and outdoor, somewhere around 70. They have 2 private restrooms. That's it, just 2 individual restrooms.
As far as the bar area, I am completely disappointed. I am not sure who they have working there but the overall customer service and accommodation was entirely lacking. I went with a large group of women for a night out and we were completely soured by the staff not allowing us to move to a table that would fit us...thus, they lost a couple hundred dollars that night.
If you can't let us sit somewhere comfortable together, we don't want to be there. Way to go Landing. You really treat your patrons well. We almost felt like we were "sorry to have bothered you." Ridiculous too because it was a slow night. There were tons of tables right next to us but for some unGodly reason, we were not "allowed" to sit there.
Their bar tables fit no more than 4, so we were standing around in walkways amidst tons cobwebs radiating from their uncleanly bar area. Several of our pricey drinks were also made incorrectly and no justification from the bartender was made. I would NOT recommend anyone to visit The Landing just for a few drinks. Your scenery might be great but not worth the lack of customer service. As that is the case, next time we'll take our thermoses full of correctly made cosmos and relax on a nice bench next to the river for free.
To read other reviews that mention The Landing, click here. (Someone mentioned Pompous--not a bad descriptor I feel after THAT bar experience).
22 N Main St
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-5711
http://www.landingrestaurant.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10 (restaurant only); 5 of 10 (bar)
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Pricey
Ambiance: Small, yet contemporary on inside; outside is larger with nice patio area, overlooks Delaware
Comments: The restaurant of The Landing has a nice selection of foods, a bit pricey though...I was stuck with the thought several times that this food is a bit ordinary and not exactly worth my $28. I still wouldn't discount it though, the view is lovely and for the most part, the service is good. If you have to it toss around and desire an outdoor setting, the Landing is for you.
I also do not recommend The Landing if you have kids, the place is just too "restrictive." They are also minimalist when it comes to bathrooms. I have no idea what their capacity is but I would think with the indoor and outdoor, somewhere around 70. They have 2 private restrooms. That's it, just 2 individual restrooms.
As far as the bar area, I am completely disappointed. I am not sure who they have working there but the overall customer service and accommodation was entirely lacking. I went with a large group of women for a night out and we were completely soured by the staff not allowing us to move to a table that would fit us...thus, they lost a couple hundred dollars that night.
If you can't let us sit somewhere comfortable together, we don't want to be there. Way to go Landing. You really treat your patrons well. We almost felt like we were "sorry to have bothered you." Ridiculous too because it was a slow night. There were tons of tables right next to us but for some unGodly reason, we were not "allowed" to sit there.
Their bar tables fit no more than 4, so we were standing around in walkways amidst tons cobwebs radiating from their uncleanly bar area. Several of our pricey drinks were also made incorrectly and no justification from the bartender was made. I would NOT recommend anyone to visit The Landing just for a few drinks. Your scenery might be great but not worth the lack of customer service. As that is the case, next time we'll take our thermoses full of correctly made cosmos and relax on a nice bench next to the river for free.
To read other reviews that mention The Landing, click here. (Someone mentioned Pompous--not a bad descriptor I feel after THAT bar experience).
Triumph: Maybe a little over-stating
Triumph Brewery
400 Union Square Dr
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-8300
http://www.triumphbrewing.com
NHY Rating: 6.5 of 10 (restaurant only); 8 of 10 (bar)
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Simple, contemporary, brewery style, large, nice and open
Comments: Triumph is a great place for a large group. They have adequate space and easy parking. It is a pay-lot, but very reasonable and I believe only goes up til 9pm if you are there for an evening bar-hop. They usually have a nice variety of beers.
As for food and service though, it is pretty much a mixed bag. It really depends on the night. We have probably been there at least 15 times because it is one of the few more child-friendly places, only because it is loud and has ample space, so you don't feel like you are on top of the other tables like most New Hope restaurants. They do have the benefit of a nice view of the New Hope train during the day if you want to ask for upstairs seating to keep the kids somewhat entertained.
The biggest beef I have with Triumph is their very limited menu. I don't know how many times I have turned over the menu thinking, where is the rest? Is this really it; a choice of 7 meals? Their food is usually good though and I say "usually" because I noted that it is really all about the chef on duty that night. I have ordered the same meal (which they took off the menu sadly) about 4 times and each time it would come out tasting somewhat differently. For those Triumph people, that would be the Chipolte Pasta dish. It was scrumptious, yet gone from said menu. The other thing they had at one time which was yummy was a spicy ceasar salad. Again, good, but varied according to who made it. I think Triumph in New Hope (versus the Princeton location) has such a good potential, especially amongst us locals, but they really need to promote a better menu. The service is mostly good. I think out of the 15 times, our service was fair or less than only about 2-3 times. That is a nice score in my book.
The best reason to visit Triumph would be to hang with a nice group of friends either at their bar, which now they have just included a pool table area, or outside on their patio. It is a nice open area and a great meeting spot.
To read other reviews that mention Triumph, click here.
400 Union Square Dr
New Hope, PA 18938
(215) 862-8300
http://www.triumphbrewing.com
NHY Rating: 6.5 of 10 (restaurant only); 8 of 10 (bar)
Food: American
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Simple, contemporary, brewery style, large, nice and open
Comments: Triumph is a great place for a large group. They have adequate space and easy parking. It is a pay-lot, but very reasonable and I believe only goes up til 9pm if you are there for an evening bar-hop. They usually have a nice variety of beers.
As for food and service though, it is pretty much a mixed bag. It really depends on the night. We have probably been there at least 15 times because it is one of the few more child-friendly places, only because it is loud and has ample space, so you don't feel like you are on top of the other tables like most New Hope restaurants. They do have the benefit of a nice view of the New Hope train during the day if you want to ask for upstairs seating to keep the kids somewhat entertained.
The biggest beef I have with Triumph is their very limited menu. I don't know how many times I have turned over the menu thinking, where is the rest? Is this really it; a choice of 7 meals? Their food is usually good though and I say "usually" because I noted that it is really all about the chef on duty that night. I have ordered the same meal (which they took off the menu sadly) about 4 times and each time it would come out tasting somewhat differently. For those Triumph people, that would be the Chipolte Pasta dish. It was scrumptious, yet gone from said menu. The other thing they had at one time which was yummy was a spicy ceasar salad. Again, good, but varied according to who made it. I think Triumph in New Hope (versus the Princeton location) has such a good potential, especially amongst us locals, but they really need to promote a better menu. The service is mostly good. I think out of the 15 times, our service was fair or less than only about 2-3 times. That is a nice score in my book.
The best reason to visit Triumph would be to hang with a nice group of friends either at their bar, which now they have just included a pool table area, or outside on their patio. It is a nice open area and a great meeting spot.
To read other reviews that mention Triumph, click here.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
The Spotted Hog: Saying good-bye
Looks like the Spotted Hog is closed for renovations. Sounds like they are changing it up to be a little more modern. The restaurant was nearly 20 years old and most definitely could use a new look.
The plans are to reopen in the fall. It will be called Sweet Lorraine's Cafe & Bar (named after the soon to be chef Lorraine Platman). Their daily menu will include homemade soups, pastas, seafood and vegetarian entrees inspired by ethnic flavors.
The furnishings of the Spotted Hog will be auctioned July 10 at the Alderfer Auction Co. in Hatfield. For more on the auction, call 215-393-3200.
John and Peters: Don't pass up a chance
John and Peter's Place
96 South Main St.
New Hope, PA 18938
215-862-5981
http://www.johnandpeters.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: salads, sandwiches and appetizers
Price: Very reasonable
Ambiance: Inside is a bit small, a little dingy (smell from too many floods) but it really is a hometown quaint little place; with the feel of a hippie bar. They have a great outdoor patio and bar. Don't let the crazy color building scare you though, it is really a unique place.
Comments: John and Peters is one of my all time favorite stops when taking a trip down Main street. They are known for hosting lots of great musicians. I have stopped in several times where they also just had local bands and it was worth the listen. I love John and Peters mostly because they are reasonable with their drink cost and they have the best nachos. If you are taking a trip downtown, make it a pit stop for a quick drink or two. It is worth the experience.
By the way, there are a few times that I passed up old John and Peters because it is small on the inside and if it looked crowded, I knew there was a lot of smoking...but guess what? The smoking ban in PA was approved; to take into effect sometime in August. Now, I will most definitely not pass up John and Peters on my way around town.
96 South Main St.
New Hope, PA 18938
215-862-5981
http://www.johnandpeters.com/
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: American
Serves: salads, sandwiches and appetizers
Price: Very reasonable
Ambiance: Inside is a bit small, a little dingy (smell from too many floods) but it really is a hometown quaint little place; with the feel of a hippie bar. They have a great outdoor patio and bar. Don't let the crazy color building scare you though, it is really a unique place.
Comments: John and Peters is one of my all time favorite stops when taking a trip down Main street. They are known for hosting lots of great musicians. I have stopped in several times where they also just had local bands and it was worth the listen. I love John and Peters mostly because they are reasonable with their drink cost and they have the best nachos. If you are taking a trip downtown, make it a pit stop for a quick drink or two. It is worth the experience.
By the way, there are a few times that I passed up old John and Peters because it is small on the inside and if it looked crowded, I knew there was a lot of smoking...but guess what? The smoking ban in PA was approved; to take into effect sometime in August. Now, I will most definitely not pass up John and Peters on my way around town.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Villagio: Italian at its best
Villagio Restaurant
Penn's Purchase Shopping Center (next to Coach outlet)
Lahaska, PA
215-794-2777
NHY Rating: 8 of 10
Food: Italian, BYO
Serves: lunch and dinner
Price: Reasonable
Ambiance: Tuscan decor, open type of kitchen, modern
Comments: One of the nicest Italian restaurants I have been to in awhile. This was actually my second visit; the first being for lunch. The service was impeccable and the food was simply delicious.
The bread was homemade and definitely set the tone for what was to come. They also provided a small dish of olives and peppers which was also a nice touch. We ordered calmari and that was simply done to perfection. Their menu has a wide array of dishes, pasta, chicken, seafood, veal, eggplant. The prices were also just right. I couldn't get enough of my pasta dish or the fish and pasta of that of my husband.
This place is indeed kid friendly. I actually found it quite loud in there. Still, it wouldn't be my first choice for dining with the kids at Peddler's Village but I wouldn't stray away from it if you were interested. The room was large enough so they could sit families in a different area than those, say who were looking for a romantic spot.
To read other reviews that mention Villagio, click here and here.
The Raven is closed
The owners of The Raven, Rand Skolnich and Terrence Meck, have decided to officially close their doors. The restaurant/bar/pool/motel was put up for sale or lease back in April.
As of Sunday, May 11th, the Raven closed until new ownership takes over. Rand and Terrence are focusing their energies on their newer property, Nevermore Hotel (formally the New Hope Inn and Cosmopolitan Club).
Get more on this story here.
As of Sunday, May 11th, the Raven closed until new ownership takes over. Rand and Terrence are focusing their energies on their newer property, Nevermore Hotel (formally the New Hope Inn and Cosmopolitan Club).
Get more on this story here.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Another one bites the dust
The dust has not nearly even settled on the spot where the Cartwheel once stood and now it looks like The Raven is now up for sale.Per the Bucks County Courier Times article, "the owners Skolnich and Meck said “unfortunate life circumstances” prompted the “difficult decision to step away” from the business they bought four years ago.
I wonder what those unfortunate life circumstances were...
The article also said, "Should a buyer or leasee not come forward within the next two months, the e-mail said they will close The Raven by early summer."
That is most certainly going to change the town quite a bit as The Raven has an enormous number of visitors, especially on the weekends. The Raven has been a popular bar and restaurant in the gay and lesbian community since 1979.
Another one bites the dust.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Peddler's Village: Giggleberry Fair
Peddler's Village boasts a lot of wonderful unique shops and restaurants. When you are coming with the kids though, browsing through shop after shop might not be the most fun for them. My recommendation is to check out Giggleberry Fair. It is located in the back of Peddler's Village and is a big indoor play place. Mind you though, I have not always had the greatest experience there but all in all, I still think it is worth a try.They have a carousel, arcade type games, a room called Giggleberry Mountain which is basically a big room where kids can climb through rope mazes and play with soft foam balls. I would really only recommend Giggleberry Mountain for kids 5+. My four year old basically got stuck in the maze that was pretty high up and there is nothing like being a full grown adult trying to navigate through those rope things to get your child. Another thing is, you may want to ask to peek inside first before purchasing entry to it because I have been there a couple times when it looked like there was a pound of dust in there. I am not sure how often they clean but if you have a child with allergies, that dust will surely get to them. Just take a peek behind the rope thingies on the side. By the way, if you go on a Wednesday or Thursday, they are running a promotion where it is free from 4-6pm.
The other area they have for play for the smaller kids is called Discovery Land. This is really a great place for kids 1-7. Again, peek in to be sure it is clean as unfortunately I have been there when the water in the fishy play area looked like a swamp. I am sure it is difficult to keep toys from being moved around but the water should be cleaned at least daily. I have also had to ask them to put a safety plug in the socket in that room.
As for eating there, again, you are taking your chances. Remember, it is all food totally geared to kids so expect hot dogs, chicken fingers and pizza. No healthy choices here. I think at one time they offered a salad bar but it appears they have stopped doing that. My only food recommendation of all the food choices would be the chicken fingers, the pizza and hot dog was horrible. The chicken fingers actually seemed worth the price. Note that they do not offer kid cups for juice, etc. so if you are not ordering a soda be sure to pack a sippy cup if your child needs one. All the juice and milk they sell comes in bottles (not juice boxes). I say either eat before going or take the kids to Subway or Villa Galleria which is on the other side of Peddlers.
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