Gennaro's Eatery

12 Blanchard Road

Quincy, MA 02169

(617) 773-1500
www.gennaroseatery.com

My mother is a woman in love - and oddly not with my father. She has fallen for Gerry, the owner of our favorite Italian restaurant - Gennaro's Eatery. Although perhaps it has something to do with Gerry's cooking abilities rather than his good looks, Mom always gets starry-eyed when we visit.

Although some think we're crazy to drive from Fall River to Quincy just to have Italian food, I say once you've had a meal at Gennaro's, the phrase "Olive Garden has the best Italian food" should never be uttered. At first we were a little concerned that the restaurant was going to be packed. Due to its popularity and size of the dining room, this place fills up quickly. However, as we pulled into the small parking lot, it seemed that the craziness had not yet begun. I was even able to score a parking space! With only 14 spots (including handicapped) available, it must be nuts trying to find a place on a busy evening. The Gods must have been smiling down on us.

Upon entering the restaurant at around 4:30 p.m., we noticed that something had changed. It seems that Gennaro's had been renovated, and the changes were beautiful. We stopped at the front desk where we were greeted by a friendly hostess. She informed us that she would have to check to see if there was a table available, and she quickly disappeared into the dining room. Then, we heard it. A jovial voice coming from behind a row of lemon cakes featured in the dessert window. It was Gerry. My mother was all aglow. Standing at the take-out window, he had spotted us waiting for a table and began to exchange pleasantries with my mother about desserts. Since Mom was distracted by the fabulous Gerry, it was up to me to bid him farewell as the hostess returned to lead us to our table. We were seated at a back table near a window, which was coincidentally the first table we had ever dined at. I was hoping that this meal was going to be just as good as the first.

The interior of Gennaro's is quite beautiful. With a mixture of both tables and booths, the restaurant is able to accommodate every patron quite comfortably, despite only seating 70 people. The warm green and beige colors compliment the burnt orange fabrics and curtains, while the low lights and chandeliered booths bring a cozy feeling to this delightful family style restaurant. An added touch are the framed photos throughout the dining area and the Italian music playing in the background, while the shaded windows give customers an optional view of busy Blanchard Road. As always, I tried to take a picture of the interior. However, I had a hard time doing so because of the crowd, so I've included both my attempt and a picture from the Gennaro's Web site, which is fantastic. The site really gives an in depth look at everything Gennaro's has to offer, including the menu!

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picture I took

picture from the Web site

After looking quickly at the plastic-covered menus the hostess had left us with, we were greeted by our waitress. Her name was Erica, and she - along with the other staff members - were dressed in black uniforms. I really think this brings an air of class to restaurants. She was very polite and handed us a handwritten list of specials, although it was a bit on the illegible side. For our drink order, Mom chose a Coke while I ordered a Diet Coke. While Erica went to get our drinks, I spotted what would soon be my meal on the list of specials - the toasted pumpkin ravioli with sage cream sauce ($12.99). This sounded so delicious that I folded my menu and put it to the side, because I was done looking. Mom was still mulling over what to get since Italian food is her absolute favorite. When Erica returned with our beverage-filled glasses (mine was topped with a lemon), she also brought a basket of fresh bread with butter, and asked us if we were ready to order. I stuck with my toasted raviolis, while Mom ordered the manicotti with meatballs ($9.99). Erica took away the menus while Mom and I started buttering our bread. It was so hot and delicious that we each had a second piece right away.

There is plenty to choose from at Gennaro's. On previous visits, Mom has ordered the chicken parmigiana with penne ($11.99) and she said it was the best she's ever had. I've ordered both the Florentina pizza ($9.99) and the pesto ravioli, which I unfortunately noticed had been taken off the menu. Both meals were absolutely fantastic. The appetizers range from a $4.99 loaf of garlic bread to a $6.99 shrimp scampi. Also on the menu is a large list of soups ($3.79-7.99), salads ($3.99-7.99), Italian subs that are prepared on sub rolls and served with chips ($5.99-7.99), calzones ($7.99-12.99), and pizzas, including traditional brick oven and speciality topped ($6.99-12.99). Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and both the lunch and dinner prices are listed on the menu. Aside from the many pasta, chicken, seafood, veal, and pork specialties available, there are several traditional house specials. With dishes like the lobster and pumpkin raviolis ($11.99), baked ziti ($11.99), potato gnocchi ($11.99), fettuccine Alfredo ($10.99), linguine in clam sauce ($10.99), and rigatoni rustica ala vodka ($11.99), it is no wonder why these meals have become a favorite with customers. Gennaro's has a large dessert menu, and all the desserts are made on the premises using Gerry's authentic recipes. Although Mom and I have only been able to make room for dessert on one occasion, we were sure that we made the right choice. We ordered the tiramisu ($4.29) and it was the absolute best version we have ever tasted. It was moist, fresh, and topped with real whipped cream. Other desserts include ricotta cheese filled cannolis ($2.49), carrot cake ($4.29), chocolate layer cake ($4.49), and Italian style rum cake ($4.49). Daily specials are also available. Gennaro's also has a kids' menu, and list of side orders that you can order in or take home, such as two meatballs or two sausage ($2.79), chicken parmigiana ($6.99), or some of their homemade marinara sauce (pint $2.99; quart $5.49). Gennaro's also serves alcohol, and has a large list of both beer and wine. Make sure to ask your server about the recommended wines with certain meals.

When our food arrived, it was delivered by a man who seemed to have a heavy Italian accent. He was very polite and placed each steaming platter down in front of both Mom and myself. Mom's manicotti was accompanied by what looked like two baseballs. She had never seen meatballs that big before, and she was very pleased to see that they were well done. At first she was afraid that, because of their size, they would be a bit mushy inside. To her enjoyment, they were both tasty and deliciously spiced. The tomato sauce was more sweet than tangy, and the three manicotti were filled with a creamy ricotta cheese blend.

To my surprise, my dish actually came with chicken. This may have been mentioned on the list of specials, but I hadn't noticed it. The four pieces of white meat chicken were topped with the same sage cream sauce that the raviolis were in. The chicken was extremely moist and tender, and the raviolis were to die for. The pumpkin filling was spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, and the breading was delicate and flavorful. I have had pumpkin ravioli in other restaurants before, but never toasted. It was definitely a fantastic dish, but a bit on the heavy side. I wasn't able to finish one of the raviolis and some chicken pieces, and believe me, I was kicking myself for it. I didn't want to leave any of this dish behind. It quickly became one of my favorites.

When Erica had come over to our table to ask how our meals were, we gave her one of those mouths-filled-with-food kind of responses. While we were stuffing our faces, we noticed that the couple at the next table was not only taking home their leftovers and ordering dessert, but they were ordering extra servings of sausages and meatballs. When their waitress brought over a large piece of carrot cake, the gentleman exclaimed, "This is the best presentation of a carrot cake I've ever seen. This guy really knows how to do it." They continued to ooh and ahh over the dessert until all that was left was the empty plate. You could tell that these people were definite hardcore fans of Gennaro's.

Erica must have noticed that Mom and I had stopped moving because we were so full, so she returned to our table to clear away our plates. After turning down her offer for dessert and coffee, she left us with the bill:

Ravioli - $12.99

Manicotti - 9.99

Coke - 1.99

Diet Coke - 1.99

Subtotal - $26.96

Tax - 1.35

TOTAL = $28.31

We left $34 on the table for Erica, including 20% tip. She was an great waitress. After climbing through the crowd that had gathered near the dining room and the take-out window, Mom and I decided to use the restroom. Since there was only one unit, we had to take turns. While I was waiting for Mom, I decided to track down a new take-out menu because Gennaro's had not only changed the interior, but also updated some of the items. Mom spent her time waiting for me by watching Gerry serve customers. The restroom was adorably decorated, clean, and organized.

Although Mom didn't get a chance to say goodbye to Gerry, we left Gennaro's with full bellies and big smiles. The crowd was definitely starting to thicken, and we were glad to be getting out of there at around 5:30 p.m. - before the dinner rush. Gennaro's Eatery remains our favorite Italian restaurant because of its beautiful dining room, fantastic food, low prices, and friendly atmosphere. It is the perfect place to bring a date, stop by with friends, or get together for a family event because Gennaro's also specializes in catering. Neither Mom nor I have ever had a bad thing to say about this place - and I doubt we ever will ... especially while Gerry is there.

Gennaro's Eatery is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturday. Sundays are available for the pickup of pre-ordered catering and private parties only. All major credit cards are accepted.

White's Cafe & Pastry Shop

1041 Pearl St.

Brockton, MA 02301

(508) 584-5100

92 Derby St.

Hingham Plaza

Hingham, MA 02043

(781) 740-0300

White's Cafe and Pasty Shop (in Brockton) came highly recommended by two of my former co-workers. Since Mom was in a bakery mood, we decided to "drive by" White's to see if they were open. Usually when we say we are going to "drive by," it means we are going to park, go inside, and buy stuff. With MapQuest leading us in the right direction, we arrived at White's at around 3:30 p.m.



When we first got out of the car, we were unsure of which door to use. Two doors stated they were for the pastry shop, but we soon found out that the pastry counters are accessible through the cafe door, and the other two doors are entry to the bakery kitchen. Located in a small brick plaza, there was average parking and a ramp for the handicapped. When we stepped inside, both Mom and I were astounded. There was pastry as far as the eye could see. I had no idea it was going to be this big. When my co-workers described it, I pictured this tiny counter with a few fresh breads scattered along the top. Not this bakery. There were at least five or six large bakery cases along with two long tables topped with fresh pies, breads, cookies, and other treats. Mom was in heaven. If she had a hat, she would have spun around and threw it up into the air like Mary Tyler Moore.

We noticed that the cafe was empty, and all the action was near the bakery display cases. The interior both in the cafe and on the main floor is quite modern. There is black seating in the restaurant with yellow walls and a black checkerboard floor highlighting both areas. There was a lot of lighting around the display cases to make them pop, and both the dining room and the bakery area were clean and organized. There were two cash registers (one on either side of the counters) because I'm assuming that this place does a lot of business. There were also plenty of cashiers standing behind the glass waiting to take your order. Although it was not extraordinarily busy, a few customers had gathered around the goodies.




Still spinning, Mom decided to organize her thoughts and start drooling at the first display case. Filled with prepared foods like spinach quiches, chicken pot pies, and ham and asparagus tarts, the meals come with heating instructions and are ready for you to place into the oven as soon as you get them home. The next few bakery cases were filled with the good stuff - sweets. There was a great section with just mini pastries such as cannolis, carrot cakes, cream puffs, eclairs, cheesecake, and Neapolitans ($9.95/dozen). They also offer both mini pastry and cookie trays for $25 (two dozen mini pastry) and $35 (two pound cookie). Other sizes are also available. Other desserts include opera cakes, cream filled turnovers, half moons, brownies (nuts and without), cupcakes, tortes, biscotti, and individual slices of their delicious cakes. With cakes like Italian rum, banana split, black forest (from $18.95 to $176), frosted and whipped cream, midnight madness, kahlua sombrero, tiramisu, chocolate and lemon mousse, brownie torte, pavoratti, and the gateau and white gateau Charlene, there is plenty to choose from. Both the *checkerboard cake and the ricotta pie (which we didn't see) came highly recommended from a few Internet dining sites. White's also makes New York style, Oreo, Heath Bar, fruit flan, and chocolate covered cheescakes (chocolate covered - 7" is $23.95; 10" is $6.25/lb). They also offer a large variety of novelty theme, wedding, anniversary, christening, and corporate cakes. Also made fresh at White's are their delicious looking pies, such as apple, blueberry, cranberry apple, dutch apple, lemon meringue, custard (seasonal), mince, pecan, pumpkin, ricotta, squash, and strawberry rhubarb. The listed pies from custard to strawberry rhubarb are seasonal only, and pies range from $10.05-16.95. Cream pies include banana, Boston (the only one not topped with fresh whipped cream), chocolate, chocolate mousse, and key lime (seasonal). These pies range from $11.50-12.95. At the last bakery display cake were all their breads and breakfast items such as muffins, danish, danish rings, turnovers, croissants, fig and lemon squares, and pecan rolls. Visions of sugar plums danced in Mom's head as she tried to make a decision.

After a few spins around the counter and almost taking out a few customers, Mom was ready to order. She chose two mini cannolis (a plain and a chocolate dipped), two frosted brownies, a brownie with walnuts, a gold half moon, and a fig and a lemon square. Mom was too glazed to remember to get a receipt, but I can tell you that the total was $11.30, and the prices were individually marked on each item's tray. The polite cashier had a lot of patience to put up with Mom running from counter to counter and pressing her fingers against the glass.

Although we were on our way to have a early dinner, Mom decided that she just had to try something right away. When we got to the car, she decided to pull out both mini cannolis. The reason being was that they have to be refrigerated, and since we were going to be gone for the rest of the day, we should eat them right away. Good call, Mom! They were amazing. I had the chocolate dipped one, and although the chocolate side was a little too crunchy, the delicious filling and chocolate chips made up for it. I think that you can actually taste the filling more if the cannoli has a plain shell - like Mom's did. She said it was one of the best cannolis she's ever had. The shell was fresh and crisp, the filling was cool, creamy, and very rich. She said it was not sweet and had a very nice texture.



I thought I was going to have to give my mother a paper bag to breathe into while we were at White's, but when we left she was able to catch her breath and relax. This was one of the best bakeries, if not the best, that I have ever been to. There is so much to choose from, and everything is both beautiful to look at and to eat. You can tell that whoever is making these items definitely had formal training, and if they haven't, they have an extraordinary talent. Mom is already talking about her next visit, and as I type this, she's telling me that she wants to go back - NOW. Perhaps our next visit will be sooner than I think!

*Click here to see pictures of the checkerboard cake. DELICIOUS!

Stephen Anthony's Restaurant

999 Boston Post Road

Wayside Country Store Plaza

Marlboro, MA 01752

(508) 460-9618

www.stephenanthonys.com

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To top off our visit to the Wayside Country Store, Mom and I decided to stop at Stephen Anthony's, a restaurant located at the very end of the long plaza. We were hoping to have a delicious meal, and - eventually - we did.

We stepped inside at around 4:30 p.m. A friendly hostess greeted us and asked if we would like a table or booth. Although I love booths, Mom chose a table. The hostess promptly brought us to a back table located next to a row of windows overlooking Hager Pond. After leaving us with two large menus and a list of specials, we were joined by a waitress who poured ice water into two glasses that were on the table and took our drink order. Mom chose a Coke while I had a Diet Coke. Mom was surprised and happy by the ice water because we almost never see this being done in restaurants anymore. The waitress explained that some of the specials on the list were not available, but she was going to check with the kitchen to make sure. She returned with our drinks and a basket containing a dish of butter and two steaming hot pieces of bread. She then informed us that the lobster casserole and the chicken and rice soup were no longer available. Thankfully, we were not interested in either. She gave us a few minutes to look over the menu. There were so many things to choose from, and when Mom and I made our decision, the waitress returned to take our order. Mom chose the fish and chips ($11.95), while I chose the classic Reuben ($7.95). After taking away our menus, I - unfortunately - noticed that there was a hair on my deliciously fresh bread ... and it wasn't one of mine.

Stephen Anthony's is a beautiful restaurant. With a lovely wooden bar with high stools, and chandeliers over each booth, it is both classy and cozy. I was able to see out of the windows overlooking the pond, which was beautiful - especially during the fall season. There were multiple antique pictures on the walls of what looked like local events in old New England. Although there were no table cloths, there were cloth napkins and our drinks were served in real glasses. The color scheme was mauve and beige, and the main light was being brought in through the beautiful windows. It was very clean, cool, and the waitstaff seemed to be very attentive to all of the customers.


What I didn’t know about Stephen Anthony’s was that it is also specializes in homemade sausage. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, customers will see that sausage is available throughout the entire menu. Breakfast choices include waffles, French toast, buttermilk pancakes, eggs, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and specials such as the Country Benedict, Nor-Easter, and Anthony’s Famous Maple Sausage, which is two eggs any style with toast, home fries, and the homemade maple sausage. Lunch and dinner choices include soups ($3.50-4.95), appetizers (including a sausage sampler for $7.95), salads ($3.95-12.95), seafood, steaks, pasta, and sandwiches, including the homemade Italian sausage sandwich topped with fire roasted red peppers and served on a grilled bulky roll ($7.25). Featured items include the surf and turf ($21.95 with your choice of scrod, shrimp, scallops, salmon, sirloin, tenderloin, chicken, and pork chops), maple glazed chicken, grilled meatloaf, roasted sausage and potato, country baked ham, apple glazed pork chops, pork chops Lyonnais, and the roasted garlic rib eye, which is a 14 oz. choice French cut pan seared rib eye steak rubbed with fresh garlic and herbs and served with country mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables ($19.95). Stephen Anthony’s also has a dessert menu featuring a complete ice cream parlor, along with a children’s menu and a large list of both beer and wine. Due to the high demand, the maple sausage is available by the pound to take home or order. Also, this restaurant is famous for having unusual weekend specials. Guests delight in choosing from the many choices each weekend.

At about 5 p.m., a second waitress came over to our table. She was looking pretty down, and we were hoping that it had nothing to do with our food. We were wrong. She asked who had ordered the Reuben. When I said it was me, she told me that they could not make me one. I just stared at her for a few moments because about five minutes prior to her coming over to our table, I could have sworn I saw a Reuben sandwich get served to the table on my right. I even cleared my area because I thought that the waitress was going to bring it to my table. Still staring at the waitress, I asked to see a menu. Since I was really in the mood for a sandwich, I went with the chicken salad wrap ($6.95). This second waitress offered me a free dessert, but I politely turned her down because I had my fill of desserts at Esler's about two hours before. After taking the menu away, I saw her head over to the table on my right and heard her say, "So how's that Reuben?" I glared at Mom. I knew they had my Reuben!! How dare they use all their corned beef on someone else? Oh well. I had to be brave and suck it up. Besides, their chicken salad wrap sounded delicious. It was just odd that it took them 30 minutes to figure out that they wouldn't be able to serve me a Reuben.

Mom started to get concerned because her fish and chips hadn't come out yet. Perhaps they wanted to serve both meals at the same time, and we were hoping that Mom's fish wasn't going to be soggy when they finally presented me with my sandwich. Lo and behold, the food came out and everything looked delicious. Mom's fish and chips were very good. The fish was not greasy, which impressed her. The batter was very light and flaky, and more on the dry side than most. The fish itself was very moist, tender, and white. The fries were fantastic, crisp, and obviously homemade. It is really tough to get fish and chips that aren't greasy, but Mom was pleasantly surprised that this platter was just to her liking. Her meal came with a side of coleslaw, which she passed over to me.


My chicken salad wrap was delicious. Included in the wrap were apples, walnuts, and raisins. The salad was wrapped in lavash bread with a lot of lettuce. There might have even been too much lettuce as I felt there could have been more of the actual salad. The cuts of chicken and apple were pretty bulky, and perhaps that was why they could not fit that much of the salad into the wrap. However, the sandwich arrived wrapped in a thin tissue paper, which made it easy to handle. The sandwich was cool, refreshing, and I loved the apples, raisins, and walnuts mixed in with the chicken salad. It was definitely something I'd love to order again, but I'd like to see a little more of the filling. I thought both the fries and onion rings were quite tasty.


During our meal, our original waitress and the waitress that had both delivered the bad news about my Reuben and served our food had visited our table. Perhaps they were changing shifts, but I was wondering who was going to get my tip since they both had been serving us. I think at one point both of them came over to ask us how everything was, and we had no complaints. The second waitress came over to deliver the bill. Now in the back of my mind, I thought they might have given me a discount for waiting so long. The reason being that I turned down their free dessert offer. Either way, I did not receive a discount. No big deal. The bill came to:

Fish and chips - $11.95

Chicken salad - 6.95

Coke - 1.85

Diet Coke - 1.85

Subtotal - $22.60

Tax - 1.13

TOTAL = $23.73

While I was pulling out $28 to leave on the table for whichever waitress was handling the check, I noticed a name at the top of the bill - Nancy H. I believe that Nancy H. was our second waitress. What happened to the first woman? Either way, both staff members were very polite and attentive. I think that the whole mix up with the Reuben was probably the kitchen's fault. They should keep the waitresses informed of what they have and don't have.

Before leaving, Mom and I overheard a waitress inform a family of five (three of them children) that they no longer had any hamburgers. No hamburgers? How could a restaurant run out of ground beef? I actually thought that I heard a waitress tell another table the same thing about 30 minutes earlier, but I was hoping that I misunderstood. I was wondering how they were going to serve the meatloaf dish that I saw on the menu, but I guess that was something they were going to have to figure out before the dinner rush. Both Mom and I decided to visit the restroom before our long drive back to Fall River. The restroom was both clean and organized.

As we were leaving at around 5:45 p.m., we noticed that an enormous amount of huge geese had gathered in the nearby parking lot. We had read that these geese like to hang out by the pond, and we remembered that Esler's had a basket filled with day-old breads that you could buy to feed them. They were beautiful, but big. I'm not sure how brave I would be if I were feeding them and one decided to grab the food from my hands and take off with it. We watched them for a while before heading back to my car. I actually had to make sure that there were none behind my car when I was backing up, and I had to leave the parking lot through its second exit because the geese had decided to cross the road, and I didn't feel like waiting around until they all got to the grass. It was a funny way to end a fantastic day at the Wayside Country Store Plaza, and although not everything went our way at Stephen Anthony's, I do still want to try that Reuben. We'll be back.

Stephen Anthony's Restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. Stephen Anthony's is closed on Christmas.

Wayside Olde Tyme Candy Store

Wayside Olde Tyme Candy Store

1015 Boston Post Road

Marlboro, MA 01752

(508) 481-3458

After stuffing our faces with Esler's desserts, Mom and I decided to take a walk around the Wayside Country Store. As we walked through the door to the Olde Tyme Candy Shop, we saw that it had been visited by none other than the Phantom Gourmet! If the Phantom enjoyed himself, we were sure to have a good time.

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When we walked through the door at around 4 p.m., it was like we were stepping into Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory. Although there were no Everlasting Gobstoppers and Wonka Bars wrapped with golden tickets, there were rows and rows of chocolate candies, jelly beans, nostalgic treats, and assorted novelty candies. The counter tops were lined with glass jars filled with candies, and every wall had some sort of display featuring various edible items. There was even a beautiful, old fashioned cash register. Mom and I didn't know where to start, so we followed the make-shift line that had formed in a square around the candy counter. There was quite a crowd in that area, so Mom and I decided to hang out in the back of the store until the cluster of wild-eyed people had lessened. In that area were handmade crafts, candles, and assorted country decor. Mom picked out a couple of spiced pumpkin Yankee Candle car jars for my sister and I ($2.99 each). There was also an area to purchase packaging supplies like gift bags and bows in case you were in a gift-giving mood.

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When the crowd died down, Mom made her way over to the counter. There was chocolate as far as the eye could see. She became fascinated with one particular area of the counter because it had giant-sized truffles, peanut butter cups, and other chocolates. The truffles were $2.50 each, but they were definitely larger than any truffle I'd ever seen. Flavors include chocolate decadence, pumpkin, Irish creme, tiramisu, peanut butter, and many more. Also on display were their many trays of delicious-looking fudge - their feature flavor being the apple cinnamon walnut for $9.95 a pound. Other flavors include pumpkin, chocolate walnut, vanilla, mudslide, peanut butter, rocky road, and penuche ($8.95/lb.). Chocolate covered pretzels and bark (both white and dark) seemed to be quite popular, while the pre-boxed chocolates (1 lb. assorted for $15.95) were piled high and awaiting purchase. There was also a lot of activity around the nostalgic and novelty candy area. Children were having a sugar-fueled time choosing from the different flavors of Jelly Belly Jelly Beans, the different colors of M&Ms, and the many sour and gummi favorites that they love. Parents enjoyed reliving their childhood with old fashioned favorites such as Boston baked beans, candy cigarettes, Mary Janes, and root beer barrels. They also have something called Bubblegum Buddies ($2.25 each). These are actual pieces of gum molded into the most interesting and beautiful shapes. Mom and I saw Thanksgiving turkeys, brides and grooms, Halloween Draculas and cats, and various other animals. They are way too cute to actually eat, and whoever is making these has an extraordinary talent. They are the most unique pieces of gum I've ever seen! You can order any of their delicious treats, including the Bubblegum Buddies, via their Web site.

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Mom decided to purchase two of the giant truffles for Dad. After flagging down one of the busy cashiers, she chose the chocolate decadence and peanut butter, since he is a fan of both flavors. The total came to:

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Truffle - $2.50

Truffle - 2.50

Car jar - 2.99

Car jar - 2.99

Subtotal - $10.98

Tax - .30

TOTAL = $11.28

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Since the entrance to the Henry Ford General Store is connected to the candy shop, we took our newly purchased goods into the store and continued our shopping trip. The general store, established in 1929, features many New England crafts along with dry goods, old fashioned crackers, Christmas crafts, jellies, relishes, dog and cat treats, and much more. Mom found something called Microwave Corn on the Cob. It is a small cob of corn that comes with a bag that you place it in to be cooked in the microwave. She bought two of them ($1.59 each) to take home to Dad and Mallory.

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Both Mom and I had a fabulous time at the Wayside Country Store. It is an adorable place to visit, and Dad had nothing but good things to say about his truffles. Both he and Mallory also enjoyed their microwavable corn on the cob. Stepping into Wayside was like taking a step back to old New England, and I can definitely agree with the Phantom Gourmet - your mind will be boggled by all the selections at the Olde Tyme Candy Store.

Esler's American Bakery - CLOSED

1019 Boston Post Road East

Wayside Country Store Plaza

Marlboro, MA 01752

(508) 485-8844

www.eslers.com

JUNE 2009: A new bakery has taken over. Check out Madrid's review here.

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Date visited: 10/21/07

During one of her Internet searches, Mom came across a place called the Wayside Country Store. Located in Marlboro, MA, this country store complex has been in operation since 1929 when Henry Ford owned and operated it. Now home to several different shops and businesses, Wayside has definitely become quite the tourist attraction. One of the businesses Mom read about was called Esler's American Bakery. With its homemade cakes and fine desserts, Esler's became the first stop on our visit to Wayside.

When we pulled into the parking lot at around 3 p.m., we both thought that the entire complex was beautiful and well-kept. All the buildings are white and seem to be set really close to one another, if not connected. We spotted Esler's right away and were dying to try one of their decadent desserts. After stepping inside, we realized that Esler's was a tiny bakery that seemed to specialize in wedding and occasion cakes. However, they had a wide assortment of baked goods such as muffins, breads, brownies, and other pastries. The interior of Esler's is very fresh and pristine, which makes the yummy desserts stand out against the white wall color. There is a glass display case located under a large window that shows off some of their wedding cake designs. Parallel to the cardboard cakes is where all the action is - Esler's exquisite chilled display case filled with some of the most beautiful desserts we had ever seen.

With cakes like the Chocolate Blackout, Boston Cream Pie, Coconut Buttercream, Lemon Layer, Strawberry Shortcake, Traditional Buttercream, and Carrot, any dessert lover will find something to drool over. Esler's also features a cake called The Atomic, which is their take on a Chicago bakery classic. Starting with a layer of chocolate cake, Esler's adds chocolate pudding, banana cake, sliced bananas, vanilla pastry cream, yellow cake, sliced strawberries, and just enough whipped cream to truly make this cake "atomic." Round layer cake prices start at $20 for a 6" (serves 6-8), to $85 for a 16" (serves 40-50). Sheet cake prices start at $45 for a 1/4 sheet (serves 20), to $140 for a full sheet (serves 90). Esler's also specializes in gluten- and dairy-free goodies, including the buttercream cakes, vanilla or chocolate cupcakes by the dozen ($18.50), cookies, and their Pavlova cake, which features three layers of meringue filled whipped cream and fresh fruit - inspired by the New Zealand tradition (6" at $20, 8" at $25, and 10" at $32). Please allow 48-hours notice for Esler's to prepare your specialty order. On the counters and in the pastry case were many different treats, such as the lemon bars ($2), double chip brownies ($2), chocolate pecan bars ($2), streusel bars ($1.75), eclairs ($2.75), cream puffs ($2.75), and chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and mudslide cookies ($1.75). Be careful - the mudslide cookies have been rated PG-13 for adult chocolate content. Also at Esler's is a variety of tarts such as the fresh fruit, key lime, apple, chocolate raspberry, banana cream, lemon, and peanut butter. Tarts are either made in 4" or 8/9" sizes, depending on how many people you want to feed. Other goodies include the mini cakes ($4.75), fig bars ($2), and the fresh baked bread from Pain D'Avignon in Hyannis, MA. Mom and I saw loaves of French, Italian, and rye breads available. If you're looking for party platters, Esler's is the place to go. You can choose to have a petite pastry platter ($30-60), or a cookie, brownie, and bar platter ($18-40). If you're just stopping in for a muffin or two, make sure to grab a cup of joe. Esler's proudly serves Terroir coffee from the George Howell Coffee Company in Acton, MA.

We were so indecisive, but Mom and I finally settled on two lemon bars, two chocolate cupcakes, and a bag of walnut brownies. The cashier was very polite and quickly boxed up our order. The bill came to:

Bar - $2

Bar - 2

Cupcake - 1.50

Cupcake - 1.50

Brownies - 6

Subtotal - $13

Tax .35

TOTAL = $13.35

Of course, we wanted to buy everything in the bakery, but the prices are a bit high here and we still wanted to shop our way around the plaza. However, after looking at all those desserts, we were starving. We headed back to my car to "sample" what we'd purchased.

My "sampling" turned into me stuffing my face with both a cupcake and a lemon bar. Mom had a bit more restraint than I did - she did not eat all of her lemon bar. Instead, she saved the second half for later and devoured her chocolate cupcake. The cupcake, besides looking beautiful, tasted delicious. It was very moist with a deep fudgey taste. The frosting on top was surprisingly not sweet. Mom was afraid she was going to get a big dose of sugar when she bit into it, but instead the frosting was delicately sweet. She definitely wants to get a half dozen of them on our next visit. The lemon bar was outstanding. With a shortbread bottom, the lemon filling was neither too sweet nor too tart and topped with a hard, sugar icing that was cool and refreshing. Full of pastry, we got out of the car and decided to work off some calories by visiting the nearby country store. Both Mom and I felt that Esler's was definitely a great find, and we can't wait to go back for more.

Esler's American Bakery, at the Wayside Country Store Plaza, is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Wednesday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Esler's is closed on Mondays.

Becky's BBQ

82 East Main Road

Route 138

Middletown, RI 02842

(401) 841-9909

www.beckysbbq.info

After visiting the Green Animals Topiary Garden in Portsmouth, RI, Mom and I were ready for lunch. We decided to take the drive to Middletown to visit an Internet favorite - Becky's BBQ. Conveniently located across from the Christmas Tree Shop plaza, Becky's resembles a home rather than a barbecue restaurant. With parking located in the back of the building, Mom and I pulled in at just around 3:45 p.m.

sign on Route 138

rear parking area and entrance

When we stepped inside, we saw that Becky's only had six tables. At first Mom and I started to choose a table, but then we realized that we would have to order our food at the counter, which was located just in front of a large kitchen area. After studying the homemade meals board located just to the side of the counter, we were ready to order. A polite young man was sitting beside the cash register, and Mom informed him that we were going to dine in. Then she told him that she would have the BBQ pulled pork sandwich plate with corn ($5), and I would have the BBQ pulled chicken sandwich plate with potato salad ($5.25). The young man then asked us what we would like to drink since the sandwich plates come with a beverage. He informed us that aside from the soda cooler which held soda cans and bottled water, Becky's also had homemade sweetened and unsweetened tea available. We both chose a sweet tea and he gave us a total:

BBQ pulled pork sandwich plate - $5

BBQ pulled chicken sandwich plate - 5.25

Subtotal - 10.25

Tax - .82

TOTAL = $11.07

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After paying for our meal, Mom and I took a seat at the back of the restaurant so that we could take in the full view of the place. Being at Becky's feels like you're in your grandmother's kitchen. With its country decor, apple wallpaper, background music, and lace curtains, we felt very comfortable at Becky's. The smell of the barbecued meat is just intoxicating. A large hutch placed close to the door held things like small candies and various Rhode Island pamphlets and fliers. Each table was dressed with baskets that held utensils, wet naps, and napkins, and also on the table were their two main sauces - the Kansas City Sweet and the North Carolina, a vinegar/pepper based sauce. Take out menus are available on the counter, so of course, Mom grabbed one. There was also a chalk board that listed a kids' menu and the house specials. Today's listing was a Brunswick stew with cornbread and a drink for $5.99.

The food did not take long to arrive, and we were pleased to see that it was served on compartment plates. A young lady in a Becky's shirt delivered the food, and about a minute later, delivered our teas. Mom's pulled pork was very moist and tender, with not a bit of fat anywhere. It was delicious, and not at all salty. She said that it was done really well, and was disappointed that the sandwich wasn't bigger as she scarfed it down so quickly. Her corn - the typical nibblet variety - was tasty. She added butter, and she said that it complimented the pulled pork nicely.


Also wishing my sandwich was bigger, I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. The potato salad was surprisingly tasty. They added celery and topped it with paprika - which I love. My chicken was also very moist and tender, and I decided to add some of their Kansas City Sweet sauce to the sandwich. It gave the meal an extra kick without totally overpowering the delicious meat.

Both Mom and I were afraid that the sweet tea was either going to be too sweet or too bitter, but we were both very pleased with the way it tasted. It was very cool, refreshing, and satisfying. Neither of us had ever had sweet tea, and we were glad that this was our first experience with it.

Because our meal was on the small side, we decided to order dessert. Since I was facing the chalkboard, I could see that Becky's was offering three different dessert choices - key lime pie ($2.99), pecan pie ($2.50), and New York cheesecake ($1.99). I decided to go with the key lime pie, while Mom chose the pecan. I returned to the counter and gave my order to the young man. The total came to:

Pecan pie - $2.50

Key lime pie - 2.99

Subtotal - 5.49

Tax - .44

TOTAL = $5.93

TOTAL OF ENTIRE MEAL = $17

I returned to the table to join Mom in waiting for our pies. We didn't have to wait long. We decided to cut both pieces in half so we could try each one. The key lime was cool and refreshing, and seemed to have a bit of a chocolaty crust. The pecan pie wasn't overly sweet (as some are) and had an unusual crackly crust that both Mom and I really enjoyed. Both were topped with real whipped cream, and the pies were a great ending to a delicious meal.

We left Becky's happy, satisfied, and pleased that the Internet recommendations did not let us down. Thankfully we did not have to use the restroom, because there didn't appear to be one. Perhaps it is located in the kitchen area beyond the counter. The waitstaff was very pleasant, and we even saw the young lady that brought our food return some money to a family that was mistakenly overcharged for some beverages. The only thing that we regret is that we did not leave a tip. Sometimes when we visit places that require payment before dining, we forget to leave something for the waitstaff. Perhaps it is because we're used to including the tip with the bill, but I'm sure we will make up for it next time - and there will definitely be a next time.

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**NOTE: Becky's now has a Web site - www.beckysbbq.info**

Normally I only include snippets of the menu, but since there is virtually no information about Becky's on the Internet (except five-star ratings), I decided to post the entire menu complete with prices. On the back of the menu, Becky's explains the barbecue process: "Barbecue consists of placing a large cut of meat in a closed pit and allowing it to cook indirectly by the smoke from a hardwood fire. The temperature is kept at 180 to 225 degrees, and the very slow cooking causes the connective tissues of the meat to tenderize and dissolve. We are talking about barbecuing with real hardwood, real slow, for a real long time. When that meat comes out of the pit, it doesn't need sauce because the barbecue flavor is smoked right in. The smoke ring from our cooking process creates a reddish color in our meats. This is known as a smoke ring - the sign of real barbecue." Both the pork and the beef is barbecued in Becky's hickory pit for 18 hours, and then pulled, cleaned, and lightly sauced (you can ask for meat without sauce). Becky's chicken and ribs are hand-rubbed with their own spice blend and then barbecued in the hickory pit for hours. Both the chicken and the ribs are described as "fall-off-the-bone."

Becky's BBQ dinner specials are perfect for feeding your hungry family of four, six, or eight. The Straw House (dinner for four) includes one quart BBQ pulled pork, two pints of the sides of your choice, and four pieces of cornbread for $25.95. The Wood House (dinner for six) includes one quart of BBQ pulled pork, one pint of BBQ pulled pork, three pints of the sides of your choice, and six pieces of cornbread for $39.95. The Brick House (dinner for eight) includes two quarts of BBQ pulled pork, four pints of the sides of your choice, and eight pieces of cornbread for $52.95. Becky's BBQ is also available to cater all business luncheons, company outings, holiday functions, family events, and weddings. Mom and I actually came in behind a couple of girls that had stopped by to place an order for a party of 12.

Dinner plates include rib tips ($6.99) which are subject to availability, BBQ half chicken ($7.49), BBQ pulled pork ($7.99), BBQ pulled chicken ($8.29), the 1/3 slab rib plate ($8.99), BBQ pulled beef ($9.29), and the 1/2 slab rib plate ($12.25). All dinner plates come with cornbread and your choice of two sides. You can also substitute a side in place of beverage for an additional 25 cents. Customers can also choose one of Becky's combos, where you can build your own meal with the following choices: two sides and cornbread ($2.99), BBQ pulled pork ($2.60), BBQ pulled beef ($3.25), BBQ pulled chicken ($2.75), BBQ chicken leg and thigh ($2), BBQ chicken breast ($3), and the 1/4 slab of BBQ ribs ($4.75). Add any of these meat portions to all available plates for the prices listed above.

If you're looking for something lighter, there are sandwiches and sandwich plate options. BBQ sandwiches come in small, regular, and large, and are available in pulled pork ($1.99, 2.99, 3.99), chicken ($2.15, 3.25, 4.49), and beef ($2.49, 3.75, 5.25). You can also add coleslaw to your sandwich ($.20, .40, .60). Sandwich plates include the BBQ pulled pork ($5), BBQ pulled chicken ($5.25), and the BBQ pulled beef ($5.75). All sandwich plates are served with a regular sandwich, a beverage, and one side. Lunch plates include a BBQ chicken leg and thigh ($4.75), BBQ pulled pork ($5.25), BBQ pulled chicken ($5.40), BBQ chicken breast ($5.75), BBQ pulled beef ($5.99), and the 1/4 slab BBQ ($7.25). All lunch plates are served with a beverage, cornbread, and one side. The lunch menu is served until 5 p.m., and for children under 12 and seniors, lunch is served anytime.

Family style meals include the 1/2 pork ribs ($9.25), the whole slab of pork ribs ($17.99), half chicken ($4.50), whole chicken ($8.49), and a dozen wings ($3.99), which are subject to availability. You can also order the pulled meat in 1/2 pints, pints, or quarts. Pork is $4.99, $9.49, and $17.99; chicken is $5.25, $9.99, and $18.99; and beef is $6.25, $11.99, $21.99. Sides, which include Becky's three-bean bake, smashed potatoes, nibblet corn, potato salad, and cole slaw, are also available in different size containers (side $1.25, 1/2 pint $1.79, pint $3.40, and quart $6.40). You can also order a slice of cornbread for $.79. Beverages include soda or spring water for $.99, or you can try some of their delicious homemade sweet/unsweetened tea for $.99. There are free refills on the tea.

For dessert, Becky's has key lime pie ($2.99), and New York cheesecake ($1.99). Listed on the chalkboard, but not on the menu, was the pecan pie ($2.50). For the kiddies, Becky's offers peanut butter and jelly on a roll for $.99, a Juicy Juice box for $.75, and whole and chocolate milk for $.99.

Becky's is open from 12-8 p.m. on Sunday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Check out the beautiful sights at the Topiary Garden:

Salem Beer Works

Boston Beer Works

61 Brookline Ave.

Boston, MA 02215

(617) 536-BEER

112 Canal St.

Boston, MA 02114

(617) 896-BEER

Salem Beer Works

278 Derby St.

Salem, MA 01970

(978) 745-BEER

www.beerworks.net

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After a long day of sightseeing and museum visiting, Mom and I decided to have lunch at a highly recommended place - Salem Beer Works. Mom perused the menu prior to our visit, and everything sounded fantastic. We couldn't wait to go in.



Luckily, I found a spot in their tiny lot. Although there are only about six parking spaces in the lot, there is a parking garage just across the street. Derby Street is very popular and highly traveled, so street parking is only for the lucky. When Mom and I went inside, there was a gift shop to our right that sold Beer Works T-shirts, and the brewery to our left. The Beer Works restaurants brew all their beer on site. It is also the oldest restaurant and brewery in Boston.

As we walked to the front desk area at around 4:30 p.m., we were greeted by a friendly hostess. She grabbed two floppy, colorful menus and led us to a table both in front of the kitchen, and on the side of three plasma screen TVs underneath a very large witch decoration. We only had a few seconds to peek at the menu before being joined by Shannon, our waitress. She asked us if we'd ever been to Beer Works before. We told her no, and she proceeded to explain their brewing process. She also informed us of a special beer menu that was already on the table, and asked if we'd like a minute to decide what we wanted. Since I had already begun flipping open the beer menu, I quickly spotted what I wanted - a 16 oz. glass of Pumpkinhead Ale. Mom chose a Coke. Shannon left to retrieve our drinks while Mom and I looked over the food choices. Mom was later mad at herself for not spotting the Real City soda that was available in raspberry, black cherry, lemon lime, root beer, and birch beer in time.

When Shannon came back with our drinks (in glasses), Mom and I were ready to order. Since we'd been walking for hours, we needed some protein. We both decided to go with a burger and fries combo. Mom chose the "Charlestown," which is a burger topped with bacon and cheddar cheese ($9.95), while I went with the "North End," which is a burger topped with red sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sauteed mushrooms ($9.95). We both ordered our burgers medium-well, and Shannon asked both of us if we would like lettuce, tomato, or pickles with our sandwiches. Mom said no, but I love pickles so I told Shannon to go ahead and add them. As she left with our menus, I decided to take a sip of my Pumpkinhead Ale ($4.50). It was great! I couldn't taste the pumpkin at first, but after I'd gulped it down I tasted a sweet mix of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. It was quite tasty, and actually a Beer Works favorite! They also have a Bunker Hill "Bluebeery" Ale that I was dying to try. Uninterested in beer, Mom's Coke tasted good, too.

*Later I noticed a little tray going by with what looked like a sampler of four different beers (approximately 4 oz. glasses). I hadn't noticed that on the menu, and am definitely going to get one of those on my next visit.

Salem Beer Works is your typical bar/pub/let's-watch-a-sports-game-on-their-flat-TVs kind of place. With pool tables in the back of the restaurant along with a little stage-type area, you could tell that this restaurant was equipped to have a lot of fun. The great part about Beer Works is that if the whole pool table scene isn't your thing, the dining room is located further away so that diners can eat in peace. Seating consists of tables and chairs, and against the wall there are long benches. Also, on good weather days, seating is available outside. The ceiling is open so that you can see all the industrial piping, and the walls are stained with a dark wood finish. The Beer Works colors seem to be orange and brown, which works great especially with the fall season approaching. The bar is toward the center of the room and is surrounded by lighted fall leaves, colorful chalk message boards, a variety of Beer Works T-shirts, and topped off with a very large American flag. Also surrounded by chalk message boards is the kitchen, which we were facing. The boards described different menu items and beer choices, along with some cute drawings. There were no tablecloths, but there were cloth napkins. Both Mom and I thought the dining area was very clean and we enjoyed looking around at the decor.

Specializing in bold American food, there is a lot to choose from at Salem Beer Works. From the different homemade beers to the delicious desserts, you can really go crazy here. Starters include the Boston clam chowder ($3.95 cup; $5.95 bowl), Beer Works sliders ($10.95), and the Mako shark skewers ($9.95), which is made from fresh Mako shark marinated in Beer Works "raspbeery" ale and grilled with tomatoes, onions, and served with jasmine rice and fruit salsa. You can order a Beer Works Bucket filled with things like beer battered o-rings ($6.95), jalapeno poppers ($6.95), and fried pickles ($6.50). You can also choose to get a bucket of fries. Beer Works offers both starter salads and dinner salads which you can order straight or vegetarian-style. All burgers are named after various areas in Boston, and for 95 cents you can add different toppings to your sandwich. The pizzas are all oven baked with hand-rolled dough and topped with fresh ingredients, and you can get them in both eight and 12 inch sizes. Choices include the BBQ chicken pizza ($7.95/$9.95) and the chicken and artichoke pizza ($8.95/$10.95), and you can add more toppings if you choose. There is also a lunch menu in addition to the regular which serves smaller versions of Beer Works favorites every day until 4 p.m., and a list of side dishes that include Beer Works sour cream and chive fries with ranch dressing, cornbread, and sweet potato fries with raspberry vinaigrette. Desserts include a creamy Oreo cheesecake ($6), the "Big Dig" brownie ($6), which is a huge chunk of brownie with vanilla bean ice cream, chocolate syrup, and candied pecans, and the Beer Works apple blueberry crumble ($6), which is layers of warm apple and blueberry crumble served with Herrell's vanilla bean ice cream, topped with whipped cream and served in a 16 oz. beer glass. Both chicken and speciality sandwiches are available like the New England lobster roll ($13.95), and the Nor'easter chicken sandwich ($9.95) topped with Canadian bacon and cheddar cheese. Every month, Beer Works offers fresh fish and meat specials served with vegetable and your choice of sides. To ensure the highest quality, these items will have limited availability and will require greater preparation time, and customers are asked to allow 20-25 minutes depending upon desired temperature. Two of this month's specials include the flat iron steak ($15.95) which is a 14 oz. grilled, marinated, flat iron steak topped with a roast tomato and avocado slices, and the red snapper ($16.95), which is a 10 oz. pan roasted red snapper, dusted and bronzed with Beer Works' house rub and served over a mixed berry coulis. There are also suggested beers located nearby on the menu that would compliment these dishes. Finally, there are the "Beer Works Favorites," which include dishes like the sugarcane seared salmon ($13.95), BBQ'd baby back ribs (full rack - $16.95; half rack - $12.95), the Beer Works chicken penne ($10.95 - or $8.95 vegetarian), and the Rajun Cajun ($12.95 - or $10.95 vegetarian). This Beer Works' classic is a mix of sauteed shrimp, tasso ham, and chicken tossed with fresh tomatoes, peppers, and green onions in a slightly hot Southern-spiced sauce over jasmine rice. You really can't go wrong with any of these.

It didn't take long before we spotted Shannon coming over with our dishes. Both burgers arrived steaming hot and looked and smelled delicious. Mom found her burger to be outstanding. She said that she could tell they used a good quality meat, and the bun was fresh and soft. The fries were also very tasty and her bacon topping was cooked perfectly. The melted cheddar complimented her burger, and she seemed to really enjoy her meal.

My burger was fabulous. From the mozzarella cheese to the sauteed mushrooms, my pattie was also cooked perfectly. The fries were tasty, and the red sauce gave the burger a tangy twist. It reminded me of a chicken parmigiana dish, except without the chicken and with mushrooms. OK, maybe it wasn't exactly like a chicken parm, but it was still outstanding. My pickles were also very good.

After we finished stuffing our faces, Shannon appeared to take away our plates and bring the bill. She offered dessert, but we were just too full. Shannon had previously stopped by while Mom and I were chowing down to ask us how everything was. The meal was great, and so was the service. The bill came to:

$1.75 - Soda (Coke)

4.50 - Pumpkinhead Ale

9.95 - Charlestown Burger

9.95 - North End Burger

$26.15 - Subtotal

1.31 - Tax

TOTAL = $27.46

We left $33 on the table for Shannon as she was a great waitress and definitely earned her 20% tip. Both Mom and I wanted to use the ladies' room before the long drive back to Fall River, so we spotted a waitress in a black uniform (I think it is great that the waitstaff wears uniforms) and she directed us to the back of the restaurant. We walked past the pool tables and into the ladies' room. It was clean and organized. Mom and I left the restaurant at about 5:30 p.m.

My week-long birthday celebration has finally come to an end, and I'm glad that it ended with Salem Beer Works. From my Pumpkinhead Ale to the wonderful service, everything was a welcoming treat from a day of museum visiting and souvenir buying. We will definitely be back.

Ye Olde Pepper Companie

122 Derby St.

(original shop and candy factory)
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 745-2744

59 Main St. (shop)
North Andover, MA 01845
(978) 689-3636
www.yeoldepeppercandy.com

For the second part of my birthday gift, Mom and I drove to Salem to spend the day sightseeing. After a guided tour through The House of the Seven Gables, Mom and I decided to visit America's oldest candy company - Ye Olde Pepper Companie - located just across the street. Featured on the Food Network, this company has been making candy here since 1806. Considering they've been in business for over 200 years, it was obvious that Mom and I were going to stop in for some of their famous treats.

Although the building is small, it is very cute and colonial. Through the glass windows you can see into the kitchen where the candy is made using some of what looks like the original equipment. As we stepped inside around noon, Mom and I saw that the owners had dressed up the shop for Halloween. Lined with garland in a fall leaf design and covered with pumpkins and witches, the shop was neat and beautifully decorated. From the information I read on the Web site, I learned that the shop is owned by the fourth generation of the Burkinshaw family, who bought the shop from Mr. Pepper, who purchased it from the son of the original owner, Mrs. Spencer, who was shipwrecked in Salem on her journey from England in 1806.

The two candies that they are famous for are the Gibralters and the Black Jacks. The first commercially made candies in America, they are still satisfying to the modern day sweet tooth. The Gibralters come in lemon and peppermint flavor and have a smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture similar to an after dinner mint. The gift box of Gibralters, made using the original recipe, contains six lemon and six peppermint ($11.98). Although we didn't see it, we later read that somewhere in the store is a jar of original Gibralters. Can you believe it? The Black Jacks are made with old fashioned black strap molasses. The sticks have a smooth, rich, long-lasting flavor not found in artificially flavored candies. Black Jacks come in a six ounce package consisting of approximately 10 sticks, and are also made by using the original recipe from the 1800s ($4.98). Also popular at Ye Olde Pepper is the almond buttercrunch, which is made from an old family recipe using the finest Grade A butter, and then hand-dipped in creamy milk chocolate and generously covered with freshly roasted almonds. A one pound box is $15.98, and a two pound box is $30.98. They also have homemade turtles (one pound box - $16.98; two pound box - $32.98), chocolates, truffles, and fudge (one pound for $8.99). Fudge flavors include chocolate walnut, penuche, peanut butter, creme de menthe, pumpkin, mudslide, and much more. In the center of the store, they also have treats like chocolate-covered marshmallow pumpkins, old fashioned hard candies like horehounds and root beer barrels, a selection of sugar-free choices, different flavor candy sticks, ready-made boxes of treats, chocolate covered pretzels, flavored squares, and daisies made with cashews and pecans topped with a white chocolate pumpkin. The treats that Mom purchased were:

Five candy sticks - $1.25

(banana, strawberry, root beer, bubble gum, butterscotch)

Chocolate-covered marshmallow pumpkins - 2.49

Half pound of fudge - 4.05

(1/4 lb. mudslide; 1/4 lb. pumpkin)

Half pound box of assorted chocolates - 7.99

TOTAL = $15.78

We didn't get home until much later, and we were pretty excited to try our candies. The candy stick was just as I remembered from my childhood - very flavorful. The marshmallow pumpkins were sugary and sweet, and their chocolate tops were smooth and creamy. The chocolates were very good. The fillings were quite unusual - I had one that was cherry nougat, and Mom had one that was caramel peanut butter. It was interesting to see which flavor we were going to get, as none of them were what we expected. The fudge was outstanding! It had a very creamy consistency and was not sugary sweet. The pumpkin fudge had a pronounced flavor of clove, and tasted just like eating a slice of pumpkin pie. The mudslide had a lovely flavor of chocolate and cream - like a mudslide! This was some of the best fudge we've ever had.

fudge not pictured

We had a great time at Ye Olde Pepper Companie, and we were glad to have visited America's oldest candy company. It was fun seeing the old equipment through the glass encased kitchen, and if you can't get to their stores, you can place your order for their famous Gibralters, Black Jacks, or some of the other goodies on their Web site. You won't be disappointed!

Ye Olde Pepper Companie in Salem is open July through October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday; and November through June from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The North Andover shop hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday (closed Sundays). Call either location for extended hours before holidays.

Check out the slide show to see what else we saw in Historic Salem:

King Richard's Faire

235 Main St.

Route 58

Carver, MA 02330

(508) 866-5391
www.kingrichardsfaire.net

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For my birthday gift, my sister Mallory decided to take me to one of our favorite seasonal places - King Richard's Faire in Carver, MA. We had visited for the first time one Sunday last year, and enjoyed ourselves so much that we went back one week later! Both Mallory and I scored some great T-shirts and jewelry, and even had a great meal. We couldn't wait to return.

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With free parking, I pulled into the large dirt lot at around 2:30 p.m. and found a space close to the entrance. I noticed that Mallory had worn flip flops, which was a little insane considering we'd be walking on dirt and rocks the entire time. Mal shelled out $50 for admission (adults - $25; kids 5-12 - $14; kids under 5 - FREE) and we walked through the entrance and handed our tickets to a waiting wench. Our strategy was to walk around once, pick out what we liked, and then walk around a second time to buy everything. Then, we were off to have lunch.

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King Richard's Faire has something for everyone. Although Mallory and I don't dress up, you can rent costumes or arrive in your own! There are games, joust tournaments, a royal zoo, jewelry shops, a few ancient-looking rides, and various artisans selling clothing, swords, walking sticks, leather goods, and assorted knives. There are also several psychics, tarot readers, face painters, shows, musical performances, and strolling musicians. It is a typical Renaissance faire with all the trimmings. It's quite a spectacle, and if you haven't been to a Renaissance faire yet - go! Everyone seems to enjoy themselves.

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After our second trip around the large faire, Mallory and I were ready to eat. We stopped at the ticket booth to purchase tickets (the food area does not take cash). Although a little pricey at $5 for a sheet of 10 tickets (there is a $5 minimum), both Mallory and I had to get two sheets of tickets each in order to get what we wanted. Since last year, Mallory had been talking about getting the famous roasted turkey leg. I was a little less adventurous, but went with another faire favorite - the King's Chowder Boule. We stood in line at the New Castlegate Grill, one of the many food sections, and placed our order. Mal's turkey leg was 14 tickets, while my boule was 13. We each ordered a "servant" sized Pepsi (five tickets), and took our seat at a nearby picnic table.

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I like the way the eating area is set up here. Everything is in a large circle, with the ticket booth right across from the tables. Each "window" has its own name - The Canterbury Kitchen, Potions, The Vinery, Witches' Kitchen, Hex Kitchen, Village Oven, Royale Sweet Shoppe, Ye Creamery, and Roaming Delights. Some of these areas are located between the many shops, but the majority are right in the center of the faire. Serving favorites like the dragon wings n' fryes, shepherd's pye, stuffed po-ta-toe, Lord's pigge sandwich, rack o' ribs feast, and the King's roasted nuts, you can really pig out here - but be careful. The food can really add up. For those ready for something more adult, there are several areas that serve large yards of beer, mead, and different wines and champagnes. Mal and I were tempted to try the mead, but wanted to save it for our next trip since our funds had steadily declined since stepping foot through the entrance.

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Mal's turkey leg was insane. It was a good size and smelled delicious. She peeled back the skin (she hates skin) and dove in. It actually had a strong flavor of pork. It was roasted and had a delicious smokey flavor. She thought it was amazing, and she definitely had a fun time using her hands to eat her lunch.

My chowder boule was delicious! The chowder tasted homemade, and the boule they used was soft and fresh. I was impressed at how hot everything was, considering that everything is outside and there were quite a lot of hungry kings and queens waiting to be served.

After nearly being scared to death by a passing monster, Mallory and I started to plan ahead for our next visit to King Richard's Faire. We're going to order the chicken, fryes, and the King's Towering Chocolate Cake, which seems to be quite a hit with patrons. We also can't wait to revisit our favorite shops - The Silver Lady, The Remembrance Shoppe, and Uncommon Adornments. All in all, we had a great time and can't wait to go back. However, I definitely suggest bringing a lot of cash if you go with your family. Although there are ATMs available, only some of the merchants accept credit cards.

King Richard's Faire is open this year until October 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Discount coupons are available on the Web Site, along with a list of merchants, games, food, and a map of the park. You'll definitely have a royal good time!