Cool Columbus

Ballet Met Nutcracker

2011-12-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

A quick nod to the Ballet Met Nutcracker performance. We have seen the Nutcracker ballet in several cities: Boston, San Francisco, San Jose, to name a few. This one, the Columbus Ballet Met's, simply blew us away!

This traditional Christmas performance is already good as it is originally intended to be. But the version that Ballet Met puts on is splendid. Several comical characters are added (think the grandmother!), and some very creative props and dances add the extra wow to the show (think Arabian coffee, among others).

Bravo, team Ballet Met. If you have not seen it yet, and have the tickets, you are in for a treat!

The Bexley Coffee Shop

2011-12-13T18:47:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the holiday season, here is shout out to another Bexley gem of a place: The Bexley Coffee Shop.

This unassuming café is everything a neighborhood coffee shop is meant to be. Proprietors, Paulette and Sean, make you feel welcome as soon as you enter the door. They will, by order, make you a cup of what might be the best coffee in all of Columbus. I kid you not.

The reason behind this? They roast their own coffee (named Red Bike Coffee Roaster). Few people might know about this because they currently make small quantities just for the café's needs and only replenish when necessary. They do have enough, however, for people like me to take a pound or two home to extend that strong, nutty flavor experience in the comfort of my own home.

Beyond the daily caffeine requirements (they do have teas and other beverages as well), Bexley Coffee shop is a small mecca of local arts and locally produced goods. Sean and Paulette carefully select interesting handmade items to intrigue and inspire their customers.

With a cup of coffee in your hands, you can browse the selections and grab that perfect holiday gift for your loved ones. What could be better? No crowds, no nonsense. And you are supporting the local economy!

I must not forget to tell you about the baked goods they have on the offer as well. Again, local bakers are present here: Pattycake Bakery, Sassafras Bakery, Sweet Thing Gourmet (jams and biscottis), among others. Whoever invented pastry and baked goods must have known that their two best friends are named Coffee and Tea.

I was also happy to see handmade art pieces by my dear neighbor, Abby Feinknopf whose talents I adore. She was one of the first people in Columbus who took me by the arms (literally) and showed me around some of her favorite 'gems' in the city. For that, I do owe her!

So, if you have a minute, or two, and are hungry for that 2pm coffee break (or whenever else that may be), stop by this sweet spot and say hi to Sean, or Paulette, or both. They are always there with big smiles along with that perfect cup of coffee with your name on it.

The Bexley Coffee Shop
492 Cassady Ave.
N. Bexley, OH 43209
614-253-3788

Sweet Thing Gourmet

2011-12-08T17:00:00.000-08:00

There is jam, and then, there is Sweet Thing Gourmet jam.

I have always had a fondness for jams in general. They dress up toasts in the morning, add sweetness to buttery cookies, and can be surprising good in salad dressings.

I heard about Mark and Kyla and their jams before I met them in person. Because we live in the same town, it was not too long before I was introduced to them, along with their deliciously creative jam creations.

During the farmers market season, the couple and their three children can be found at several markets around Columbus. They always have a variety of jams to sample (my daughter's favorite reason to go to a market), as well as their homemade biscottis beautifully packaged and oh so good with a hot cup of tea.

It was a beautiful cold morning when I popped in to say hello the Sweet Thing team. Mark and Kyla were elbow deep in their jam making session, in their home kitchen. The scent of warm apple cider and raspberry filled the whole house.

"We are making Raspberry Jalapeño and Apple Cider Jelly!" they announced as I entered.

Dozens of already packaged jam jars decorated their counters and tables, ready to be shipped to the expecting customers. Sweet Thing Gourmet operation was in full swing!

I got to witness first hand the artisanal quality that these jams receive. The are made in small batches, and everything is done by hand. Even the labels are designed and printed out of their home office, sealed and packaged individually as well.

Back home, I already have a few jars. Some are open, and some are going into gift bags for the holiday season. Everyone that I have shared the jams with have not only loved the products, but want to know the history behind them.

My husband, who does not throw out words of compliment easily, tasted their Peach Jam with Samos Saffron recently. He paused after the first bite, studied the jam jar once or twice, took another spoonful straight into his mouth and blurted out:

"That is the best jam I have ever had!"

Coming from my life-partner, who I know so well, those words are pretty powerful.

"I know," I said. "The people behind the jam are really great, too," I added. "They put their souls into the jam."

I have seen and tasted it myself.

Sweet Thing Gourmet can be found in several stores in Columbus (including Whole Foods, and Celebrate Local in Easton), or you can order them online and have them delivered to you. I am one of those people who enjoy making my own holiday gifts, but I have no qualms giving these jams out to my family and friends. It makes a difference that I know the hands behind the jars, and the souls that get put into them.

Village Lights and Bierberg Bakery revisited

2011-12-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

We missed it last year: the night when German Village puts on a little show with thousands of luminaries along the sidewalks where stores and galleries stay open late into the night. It's a festive way of welcoming the holiday season, Columbus-style.

We missed it last year because it was cold. I know, it sounds a little sad that we wouldn't venture out just because the thermostat didn't peak beyond 20 something degrees. But remember, we were newbies to the midwest winter; our thin skin was adjusting to the drastic changes of the season. We took a rain check and promised to try it again next year.

And poof! Just like that, here we are a year later. That rain check became more literal than we would have liked. The precipitation started coming down in the late afternoon, testing our courage to experience our first Village Lights. The air was warm, however, despite the rain. We had no excuse. Besides, I needed to introduce my family to the best kept secret in Columbus this time of year (well, maybe not such a secret anymore!).

No matter the temperature, or precipitation, dear fellow Columbus residents, the Village Lights in German Village, and a visit to Bierberg Bakery should be on your early December agenda (the former, you will have to wait for next year, but the latter, you still have until the rest of the year to experience).
The bakery will warm your body, and the lights, your soul. Here's an early happy holidays to all!

Air Force Museum

2011-10-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

Do you like airplanes? History? War-time related artifacts, stories, movies? Here is just the place for you.

We had been talking about this place for a while, this place being the National Museum of the United States Air Force. It's got a great reputation. It's open everyday of the year except for a few (Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's). And... it's free!

With the grandies visiting, one of them being a Korean War veteran, it was a no-brainer that we should just jump in the car, drive an hour or so West (of Columbus) on I-70 (so easy and straight that I almost fell asleep driving), and visit the impressively large and information-packed museum.

We could have spent a few days in there and only scratch the surface. Maybe we will bring a tent next time.

From the Wright brother's stories and replicas to the fighters in both World Wars, to the beginning of the US Air Force, Korean and Vietnam wars. Fascinating in every possible way.

From 7 years old, to 77 (and some in between), we all found something to enjoy, reminisce and take away from. It's worth the trip!

National Museum of the USAF
Museum Hours
Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day
FREE admission!

Museum Location
1100 Spaatz Street
Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433
(937) 255-3286

Wexner Center, a portrait

2011-10-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

The Wexner Center deserves a real, long, detailed post. I had but a short visit there today, just long enough to try their new eatery, Heirloom.

The day was so beautiful (must we say goodbye to this for many months?), I had to take a quick shot at the front of the building (graced with the current exhibition on landscape).

I will return to the Wexner, and do it justice, I promise.

Sunny Meadows Flower Farm, Revisited

2011-10-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

A year ago, when we had just moved to Columbus, I looked for a small farm to find that sense of belonging one yearns for when they are feeling 'out of place'. Sure I had just transplanted myself from a different time zone, a different landscape and culture (yes, California has its own culture), but I knew that all farms share the same common denominator: earth with things growing out of it. And from my experience thus far, I have liked all the farmers I have met (regardless of where they are from), especially the small-organic-sustainable-farm-type farmers. It's easy for me to connect with them: it's easy for me to feel comfortable in their presence, and on their land. It makes me feel at home.

Sunny Meadows Flower Farm was the first farm I visited, and it gave me what I was looking for. The small farm reminded me of my friend's farm in Massachusetts, and Gretel and Steve felt like old friends with whom I could reconnect. I loved seeing their fields of flowers with so many different colors and shapes and sizes. Walking through the rows of towering sunflowers felt like living in an impressionist painting, only better.

Hard to believe that it has been a year since I was introduced to this hard working couple and their magical flower fields. Life got busy, and it was not until recently that I returned to the farm.

Steve and Gretel had expanded their growing space, renting a part of their neighbor's land for the season, to produce more flowers to meet their demand. They are still focusing on flowers, creating the most beautiful bouquets and wedding arrangements. On an impromptu tour, they showed me the different ways they tend their flowers; some need more TLC, some like to be under cover, and some just need more sunny days.

They also told me about their flower CSA which is quite a neat concept. Instead of getting produce weekly, you get bouquets of flowers. How cool is that? Imagine a house filled with beautiful flowers grown right around here. I'd say it's a swell idea.

A wise man named E.E. Cummings once said: Earth Smiles with Flowers. I could not agree more.

Sunny Meadows Flower Farm

(614) 361-5102
(614) 296-1637

SunnyMeadowsFlowerFarm@gmail.com

3555 Watkins Road, Columbus, OH 43232

Stratford Ecologial Center

2011-09-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

It's the season of fall festivals. For the most part, our family avoid them... mostly because we are not the best at fighting crowds, wait in line, and spend a lot on really rather bad-for-you foods.

But I think that we just found the perfect festival for ourselves, and sadly, you all will have to wait until next year to experience it, too (unless, of course, you went there today!).

Stratford Ecological Center in Delaware holds an annual Harvest Festival. The place itself is worth a visit regardless of what is happening there (a working farm, animals, greenhouse, children's garden), but with the festivity, our family was impressed by the low-key, informative and fun afternoon we spent at the center.

The center's main mission is to educate young people about the food system, how food is grown, and how to respect the earth with organic practices. They have vegetables and well as livestock on site, plus a good flock of chickens and roosters in the orchard.

Today, families and children were treated to several activities, art booths, wool spinning, felting, sauerkraut making. Even the turtle lady was there (a very popular lady today, I've got to say).

Some got to ride horses, meet donkeys, and learn the differences between the two. Farm kitties appeared out of nowhere for children to follow.

There were goats, sheep, pigs, and cows munching on the just rained-on green grass being lit up by the much appreciated afternoon sun.

Secret gardens and hiking paths to the sugar shack were also good distractions into the wonder of nature.

Musicians entertained throughout the festivities. Folk singers, and bands took stage and sang nature songs. We had to remind ourselves that we were still in Ohio, and not back in Northern California!

After all, it does not really matter where we are, does it? The right spirit was there, shared by all the people attended. Together, we celebrated the earth, the harvest, and this day at the Ecological Center where its vision was, clearly, being realized.

Malabar Farm State Park

2011-09-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

As a special birthday gift from my family, I was given a choice to go anywhere in Ohio for a day. My mind started racing. I grabbed some books I had been reading about this (still) new state of ours, and I knew that I had to prioritize where it was that would make sense for a day trip from Columbus that we would all enjoy.

When I read the article about Malabar Farm in Edible Columbus last spring, I ear-marked it, knowing that I would want to get back to it at some point. Sure enough, it came in handy. Out of all the places I read about in this book, Malabar Farm was by far the most appealing place to spend the last day of my 35th year on the planet.

A bit embarrassed that I didn't know who Louis Bromfield was before reading about the farm, I did a little research before our journey to his farm up north. An accomplished author and a notable farmer, Bromfield was quite a pioneer in environmental conservation and sustainable farming practices (my kind of hero!). After several books (with a pulitzer prize to boot), and a decade or so in France, Bromfield returned home to Ohio and built the homestead where he spent the rest of his life close to the land that he clearly loved.

The trip from Columbus took about 1.5 hours, straight up I-75, and through beautiful small country roads. The farm is well marked, and is nestled in the rolling green hills of Pleasant Valley.

As part of Ohio State Park, Malabar Farm is free to visitors. You only have to pay fees for the tours through the main house, and the tractor ride that takes you around the property. We opted for a self-guided tour, with a map and descriptions of each building in hand.

The farm has several animal residents: goats, sheep, cows, chickens, turkeys and horses to name a few. It also has a smokehouse, and greenhouse, and several other features that made us feel like we were visiting a real operating small scale farm.

On the way out of the park, we drove up Mt. Jeez for a panoramic view of the whole farm cradled by the valley. The day was grey, the sky blanketed with heavy clouds. But the land still speaks for itself. It still embodies the man who had a vision, who lived his dream, and left it for us to enjoy long after his days.

It was a most wonderful way to celebrate the beginning of a new year.

Malabar Farm State Park
4050 Bromfield Road
Lucas, Ohio 44843
Phone: (419) 892-2784

Park Hours

Daylight, closes at dark.

Visitor Center/Gift Shop Hours

Memorial Day thru Labor Day

7 Days A Week 10 AM thru 5 PM

P.S. Before you reach the farm, Malabar Restaurant (and an adjacent small farm stand) boasts the locavore ideology and delicious creations. Too bad it was closed when we visited, but now we have a good reason to go back, don't we?

Malabar Farm Restaurant
3645 Pleasant Valley Road
Perrysville, Ohio 44864
419-938-5205

Black Creek Bistro

2011-08-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

The truth is, we don't eat out much. When we get a chance, we opt to stay home and make something delicious instead of going out.

In the last year that we have been here, I pretty much documented all the eating places that we have gone to right here on this blog. No joke. Well, I did leave out some places that don't belong in the blog subtitled "authentic finds...". And there is one place that I should have written about, but I left the camera at home that night. This blog would not be as much fun without the photos, right?

The other day, my husband and I had a rare opportunity to eat out, at a restaurant, without our children. We didn't want to go to far from home, but wanted something good, and easy.

We chose to go to Black Creek Bistro, one of the first (non-chain) restaurants I heard about when we first moved here. And I did get to go there a couple of times with friends. This would be the first with my husband.

Black Creek Bistro sits in the corner of Parsons and Oak streets, in the sweet neighborhood of Olde Town East. We got there after the lunch crowd rush, so the pace was slow (arguably a bit too slow for lunch time, in our opinion), and we almost had the place to ourselves.

My husband ordered their corn soup which was nice and spicy, and a large Caesar salad with the custom-ordered anchovies on top (he was happy about that!). I went for the vegetarian option of portobello mushroom wrap which was fresh and delicious.

As we enjoyed our lunch, we did wonder what dinner would be like at this bistro (with a nice bistro ambiance and beautiful rotating artwork on their walls)... but at the rate we are going, we might not find out for quite some time!

On the way home, I could not resist stopping at The Angry Baker to get some of our favorite éclaires to bring home to the bakery's little fan club.

Columbus Museum of Art

2011-08-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

It's a crime, I know.

How did I spend a year in Columbus and not have visited this museum until today? I wish I could say that it was the distance (which it is not, because we are only 3 miles or so from it), or that I didn't have time (that's always a lie when someone tells you they don't have time for ___, it's another way of saying they don't want to do the said ___. I think you would agree).

The important thing is that I finally paid a visit to the newly renovated art museum in Columbus today. And I am so glad I did.

The Columbus Art Museum, though small compared to other big city art museums, boasts an impressive collection of art work. I was happy to see some big names there: Monet, Picasso, Degas, to name a few. It is also housed in a lovely building that has well appointed lighting, mixed with a naturally sun-lit central foyer (where I assume a lot of functions and events are held).

Most impressive of all actually, was the creativity room designed for children ages 3 and older. I brought my 7 year olds along, and they were quite happy with several hands-on stations where they could creatively build something resembling the real pieces of art in front of them. We could have stayed in that room for a long time, but Mama needed to explore the rest of the museum. They only exited the room willingly when I promised to take them to the outside patio where they could play chess with gigantic pieces of pons, kings, queens and the rest.

I could go on talking about the different galleries and exhibits in the museum, but I am pretty sure that you would rather go and experience it for yourself! Admission is free through the end of August, and I believe on Sundays in general. But if you happen to get there on a different day, the cost to get in will be worth every penny, I promise.

Columbus Museum of Art
480 E Broad St
Columbus, OH 4321
Monday - Closed
Tuesday-Sunday - 10am-5:30PM
Thursdays - 10am-8:30PM

Caesar Creek State Park

2011-06-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

Parents beware. This park may become a favorite one for your young children, forever!

We were on our way home from Cincinnati, driving the most direct way to get home: Hwy 71 North. But we had a stop in mind: Caesar Creek State Park. The kids' first grade teacher told them about this place months ago, and how it is a place where one could collect fossils, real million-year-old fossils, to take home.

Dubious, but hopeful, we found our way to the park as the rain stopped, the sky parted and the sun came out. It was perfect fossil-hunting weather.

To hunt for these fossils legally, one must go first to the visitor's center of the park to obtain a free permit. I am pretty impressed that they still let visitors collect as many (smaller) fossils to one's heart's content! But if you go yourself, you will see why. This place is COVERED with fossils!! From trilopods, to brachiopods, to corals and shells of all kinds... we were basically standing in the bottom of the 125 million year old ocean bottom and collecting the fossilized shells!

Intrigued? You can do it, too! It's about 1.5 hour drive southwest of Columbus on I-71. Follow signs to Caesar Creek State Park Visitor's center, and you won't be disappointed.

Cincinnati, Part II, Findlay Market

2011-06-27T09:42:00.001-07:00

Of course I couldn't go to Cincinnati without visiting the Findlay Market, right? My understanding family was nice enough to be dragged there despite the rain that was pouring down on us on Sunday morning (that was NOT in the forecast, but oh well). I had read a little about this public market in Edible Columbus' sister publication, Edible Ohio Valley. It was time to see it for myself.

Findlay market is tugged away in a small block in a sleepy neighborhood north of downtown Cincinnati. Like I said, it was raining, and it was early on Sunday morning, so it was not the most happening place in the city. But in some ways, it was a wonderful introduction to the market - we literally had it all to ourselves.

The inside of the market reminded me of a smaller version of the one in Cleveland we went to last winter. There were lots of meat vendors, bakeries, and even seafood stalls (a bit of a puzzle to me!). The German food culture influence is big here as well with lots of options for sausages, and German baked goods. Outside a very small farmers market braved the rain. We got some fresh staples to bring home as edible souvenirs.

Just outside of the covered market, more restaurants and shops lined the small streets. I have not felt this way about other places in Ohio (besides German Village), but the quaintness, the local food vendors, plus the colorful hanging baskets reminded me of small European villages I had visited in the past.

I can only imagine how lively and well attended the market would be on a warm sunny summer morning. I don't even need to see it to know, but I do hope to get back there again sometime to experience this place at its best.

Findlay Public Market
1801 Race Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Hours of Operation

9am to 6pm - Tuesday through Friday
8am to 6pm on Saturday
10am to 4pm on Sunday
Closed Monday

Findlay Market is open year-round.

Cincinnati, Part I

2011-06-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

We took the slow way to Cincinnati.

I hardly ever make a hotel reservation the day of our arrival, but this time I did. The head cold that turned into something a bit more made it uncertain whether we should attempt a little road trip. But the weather was fine, and the travel bug in me had been very bothersome of late...so to Cincinnati we went.

It was a brand new territory for all of us. Sadly, our daughter knew more about Cincinnati from reading and watching Kit Kittredge than anything else! We were determined to make it a pleasant drive (knowing that we could make it a short 2-hour trip the quick way), going first down to the first capital of Ohio, then southwest toward the Queen City.

The landscape changed about an hour into our journey. Rolling hills, corn fields, and big old barns peppered our views. We stopped for a picnic lunch at the Seip Mound, which also happened to be a rest area with picnic tables and well kept grounds. We had visited another of these interesting Hopewell sites before, so it was fun to see another.

Then we crossed the mighty Ohio river into Kentucky, only to cross it again a few minutes later when we entered the city from the south side. Our hotel was smack in the middle of downtown, right across from the fountain square. We gave up our car and did not need it again until we checked out 24 hours later.

Downtown Cincinnati had a quaintness to it. The streets are smaller (than Columbus), and there seemed to be a lot of restaurants and shops within walking distance of the fountain square. We wanted to visit the National Underground Railroad museum before they closed for the weekend which was also a quick block and a half walk from our hotel.

If you are a foreigner like me, you would learn a lot in a short period of time about the whole anti-slavery movement, the history of slave trades in the US, and beyond. It's an intense experience - probably a bit too much for our 7 year-olds. But my husband and I agree that it's never too early to teach children the importance of equality.

Just outside the museum entrance, several quotations are imprinted into the stone walk way. Our son asked for a piece of paper and a pencil. I want to write these down, he said. I want to remember them.

One of the quotations he chose was this:

"Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth." ~ George Washington.

Never too early, like I said.

Schacht Farm Market

2011-06-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

To some, Canal Winchester might feel like a long way away. In reality, it's closer than you think. For those of us in Bexley, it's a quick ride down Hwy 33.

Farmlands appear as soon as you leave the city proper, and you feel like you have entered a simpler, unhurried world. Red barns, horses, and those struggling-to-grow corn fields due to a very wet spring, open up the landscape. My heart rate immediately slows down.

I had been to Schacht farm before several times. Today I had a vision of picking the last of their strawberries, to accompany their homegrown rhubarb stalks. "It's like a treasure-hunt now," said Lisa Schacht, co-owner of the farm. "They are there, but this is probably the last week of strawberries."

There were plenty of already-picked berries once we got to the farm stand, off of Gender Rd. heading north of town. We decided to bring those home instead of treasure-hunting in the mid-day sun. A healthy bunch of rhubarb also made it in our new basket ($2 a piece by the register!), among other goodies grown on the farm.

Those two peaches came from South Carolina, however. They were sweet and juicy, and were, naturally, devoured way before reaching home.

Schacht Farm Market
5950 Shannon Rd.
Canal Winchester, Oh 43110
Phone: 614-833-1932
Recording: 614-837-GOOD (4663)
E-mail: schachtfarmmarket@gmail.com

Hours:
April 17 through October 30, 2010
Monday-Saturday
9:00am-6:30pm
(Call about Holidays)

Columbus Rose Garden

2011-06-12T11:10:00.000-07:00

Did you know that tucked away in the middle of Clintonville is one of the nation's best rose gardens?!

The air was cool this morning and the sun was bright. I knew that roses prefer this kind of weather over the scorching humid days that we had had the previous weeks. We had to get to the Rose Garden before the roses are done for the season!

Of course many other people had the same idea, but because the garden is rather sizable, it did not feel crowded. Rather, it was wonderful to see families, the young and the old, locals and visitors, meander about the garden. We all literally took a pause in our lives to smell the roses!

The heat and drenching stormy showers we had last week did harm a lot of the roses. But some strong ones powered through, and new buds are still bursting out with the sun. Each type of rose has a well-labeled sign, some of the names will make you smile even. Our kids enjoyed deciding which ones they preferred. From the bright colors to the undeniably edible fragrances, the rose garden brought joy out of all of us.

VISITING THE GARDEN:
Admission: Free
Park Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk.
Best Viewing Time: Peak Bloom mid-June and mid September.
Features: 13 acres of manicured gardens, 11,000 rose bushes, 350 varieties. Herb & Perennial gardens, Daffodil garden featuring over 1,000 varieties.
Directions: From I-71, exit on North Broadway, proceed West to High St., turn North on High Street, proceed approximately 1.5 miles north to the Whetstone Park entrance located at 3901 N. High St. Enter at this location, follow the park entry road to the lower parking lot. The Park of Roses is easily located and well signed from the lower parking lot. Wheelchair accessible.

Granville, revisited

2011-06-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

It's been long overdue, a revisit to Granville, Ohio.

Last time I was here (my first visit to this quaint town reminiscent of New England), I promised my husband that I would introduce it to him soon. But alas, winter came, and so did spring. Here we are on the verge of summer, and we finally got to go as a whole family!

Granville has several positive reputations. The farmers market, Whit's custard, the Granville Inn, and Denison University campus all made it on our itinerary today.

What was brilliant was that we didn't even have to set foot on the ground when a genuine comment came from my life's partner.

"I get it now," he said. "I get what you mean." His eyes admired the beautiful tree-lined streets, the flower-filled porches and beautiful New England style homes. "It's peaceful here."

Granville had him before it even needed to say hello. How brilliant is that?

Clintonville Farmers Market

2011-05-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

Farmers Market season is in full swing. And boy, have the farmers been busy or what? With all the rain, and the coolish spring we have had, I was VERY impressed with what was on the offer at the infamous Clintonville Farmers Market today.

I know I have to stop comparing life here with life in Northern California. That was then, this is now. However, it is safe to say that the Clintonville folks have got it right. They have a thriving farmers market, regardless of what standard it is compared to. Sure it is lacking the local avocados, and the deep yellowish orange Meyer lemons, or the sweet ripe fresh figs...but what I saw today was impressive. Especially when it is still May.

There were strawberries, and asparagus, mushrooms and grass fed beef, vegan burgers and farm fresh eggs, Ohio maple syrup, honey, and so many plants and flowers I forgot where I actually was!

Needless to say, if you have not visited this wonderful market, you must. It happens every Saturday from now until late fall. Get ready for a lot of great local produce, and artisanal goodies. You can also feel a strong sense of community here, and it was only my first go-round!

Clintonville Farmers Market
The market is located in Clintonville along the west side of North High Street at Dunedin Road between Orchard Lane and Torrence Road. Open Saturdays until Oct 29, 2011.

Taco Truck Dos Rositas

2011-05-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

Sunny Saturday for the first time in a while.

We had just frequented the Olde Worthington Farmers Market (whoa - they are pretty serious there. Reminded us of a California farmers market!), and we needed to refuel.

Close to home on the East side of Columbus, there are not as many taco trucks. We had found one before, and were loyal to them during their season last year. They have not returned, at least to their normal site, however.

Today, we found this one: Taqueria Dos Rositas. It is right on Livingston Ave, not far from the intersection with Brice Rd.

We beat the lunch crowd, it felt like, and ate our tacos and burritos in the shade under a tree near the parking lot in the back.

We even had a picnic blanket in the car which made this delicious taco truck lunch the best impromptu picnic in a long time!

Village Valuables

2011-05-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

Do you like yard sales?

Getting good deals?

Doing it all in a quaint, friendly, walkable neighborhood?

It was my first time at Village Valuables in German Village. A friend I bumped into there yesterday said "It's a rite of passage" of sorts for being a Columbus resident. And I could see why!

If I didn't have a young-one tagging along with me, asking to go home, to have more breakfast, to please Mommy can we go back...I would have spent all of my Saturday browsing the streets of this quaintest neighborhood in Columbus.

It started early, at 8am, although I am pretty sure that many people had an even earlier start than that.

I didn't do justice in taking pictures of the 'valuables' I saw at dozens of spots that we did manage to stop at. There was pretty much everything under the sun, from clothes, to pottery, to furniture, to books and toys.

The bad news is that we will all have to wait another year for this day to return. But it will be worth the wait!

OSU's Jesse Owens

2011-04-25T03:51:00.000-07:00

Ohio State's Thompson Library celebrates one of the most respected atheletes of all time: Jesse Owens.

It was my first time to this library, an impressive building unto itself. And the exhibit taught me many things about Owens, the four-gold medal winner at the 1936 Olympic games in Berlin.

Owen's accomplishments echoed more than just that. During a tumultuous time in world history, he represented an icon, a hero, a Black man against all odds.

I enjoyed the exhibit quite a bit. I especially liked reading the fan letters, a lot of which came from youngsters who looked up to him as their role model, appropriately so.

I also enjoyed riding the elevator up to the very top floor of the library afterwards to get a panorama of Columbus in (wet) bloom.

It's a worth a visit!

The exhibition is located in the Thompson Library, 1858 Neil Ave., in the display area on the first floor outside the Gallery. The Thompson Library is open Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. -2 a.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. -10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. -2 a.m.

Pattycake Bakery

2011-04-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

Is it bad that I had not been to Pattycake Bakery until today?

I think it is. After all, I have seen, and eaten Pattycake baked goods several times before (in the last 8 months that we have been in Columbus...eight months have past, amazing!). They are sold at several places around town, and they sure are delicious (and vegan, and some are gluten free!). I honestly didn't know that there was a store-front, a real little bakery of a place where I can walk in and look longingly at all the possibilities.

After a morning at Urban Acupuncture, and a satisfying lunch at Lavash Cafe, my friend suggested that we meandered to Pattycake Bakery for a little something sweet.

I loved the blue table and chair instantly and wished they were for sale as well. But I was able to let go of the love (for now), and settled for a lemony cupcake instead.

It was not blue, or practical, but I think my choice for the cupcake (over the table and chair set) was a mighty good one.

Pattycake Bakery

614.784.2253

info@pattycakeveganbakery.com

hours:
mon-fri: 8-7
sat: 9-6
sun: 11-4

Pattycake Bakery
3009 N. High Street
Columbus OH, 43202

Julia's Kitchen

2011-04-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my absence. Life has caught up with me!

I also apologize that this post has nothing to do with Columbus, or Ohio. Rather, I am sharing with you a glimpse of Mrs. Julia Child's real-life kitchen. The one that she cooked in, and lived in, until she gave it to the Smithsonian Institution.

During our Spring break a couple weeks ago, we got a chance to do a whirlwind tour of Washington DC. We didn't do it all, since that is impossible to accomplish in a few days...but we did visit the National Museum of American history, now home of Julia Child's kitchen.

Her kitchen was cozy, and full of pots, pans and knives. I love the table in the middle there, inviting anyone to spend time with the cook at work. I am sure it would be extremely convenient to cook & serve, all within a few feet. I would really like that.

We did a lot more in DC than seeing this lovely kitchen, of course. We visited Mt. Vernon, the lovely estate of George Washington. We went up the Washington monument to get the best views of the city (and witnessed how close those planes get as they head to the airport). We hopped in and out of many museums. We loved taking the metro and walking around the city that was in full Spring bloom, the cherry trees included!

Spring!

2011-03-18T12:02:00.000-07:00

Isn't it grand to be opening those windows again?

And to see things starting to shoot out of the ground?

Spring here is going to be fantastic, I can already feel it.

We are off to the capital of the country for a few days. I will share some interesting finds here...

Until then...enjoy the warm air and all the signs that Spring is indeed here!

Market 65

2011-03-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

Market 65, a new institution in downtown Columbus (Capitol Square, to be precise) opened its doors just a week ago, but you might have heard about them from several places since a few weeks back. Why? Because their philosophy behind the food is what the customers are looking for: fast, fresh, locally grown and produced food, made and assembled right before your eyes.

Patrick Katzenmeyer and Anthony Micheli, co-owners and brains behind the restaurant, greeted me when I entered the door today. Their bright green decor was very welcoming, lively, and spring like. It's almost enough to go in there just for that. Pat showed me around a bit, listing off producers and artisans that they are partnering with. Just to name a few, the baked goods are coming from a few local bakeries like Sassafras Bakery, their coffee is from Stauf's, their diary products is (of course) from Snowville Creamery, their eggs and meats are Ohio raised, and pretty soon their greens will be coming from local farms.

The atmosphere at Market 65 is young, alive, and ready to feed customers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Too bad I don't work downtown, but I think I will be going there regardless.

Market 65
65 E. State St.
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Open at 7:30am M-F

Oodles

2011-03-07T05:43:00.000-08:00

Say the name of this restaurant 3 times, and your Monday has just gotten a little happier!

A friend and I checked out this little spot on E. Main St. the other day, knowing nothing about it. But the name is sweet, and the idea of noodles for lunch is always appealing to me.

We each ordered a different kind of noodle dish. I was recommended the Pad Thai and my friend got the Singaporian noodles. The service is quick, and the price is low. I was not prepared for the disposable dishes and silverware, but I guess it makes sense for this pseudo-Asian-fast-food place.

It made a good enough impression on me that I returned one more time to try one of their rice bowls. I was there during a busy lunch hour, and it was clear the place has a following.

They gave me an option of brown rice if I wanted, and the topping of vegetables and chicken was tasty. A little sprinkle of Sriracha sauce made it complete. The portion was big enough to feed two people, so I left with a take-home box.

I have not tried their dumplings (should be good since it's in their name!), so I have something to try next time.

Mumbling their silly name to myself as I exited the door, I was happy to have visited another new establishment in my Columbus food repertoire.

Oodles has two locations:

765 Neil Avenue
Columbus, OH 43215-1611
(614) 222-8831

443 E. Main St.
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 228-6755

Thoreau lake at Blendon Woods

2011-02-28T10:19:00.000-08:00

Our family has a soft spot for Henry D. Thoreau, the New England author whose books have inspired the love of nature in many of us.

Walden Pond in Massachusetts, as I am sure most of you are familiar with (at least as a title of a book), is a special place to our family. Both my husband and I went to schools not too far from this infamous pond. Because of that, we have many fond memories of swimming across the pond with dear friends, visiting it during all the four seasons, taking our children there to make their own memories.

Best of all, both of our children learned how to swim at Walden, in the sandy, shallow end of the pond. How cool is that?

And so when we saw that there is a pond named after our beloved author who spent a whole lot of time by one of our favorite places, we had to check it out (and I am naively assuming that the pond was named after the author...I could be wrong!). It sits in the middle of Walden Waterfowl Refuge at Blendon Woods Metro Park.

Yesterday's spring like weather was perfect for a little outing. The sun was out, the temperature hovered around 60 degrees, birds were chirping wildly.

Thoreau's lake is only 0.3 miles from the nature center at Blendon Woods - an easy walk on a paved path that leads visitors to two separate viewing areas. These hide-outs allow us to watch the wildlife in and around the pond. There were several kinds of birds there yesterday: ducks, geese, even a white swan.

I can only imagine how lovely Thoreau's lake will be in the spring time with vegetation bursting out of dormancy. It's not far away now... I think we can all feel it in the air.

BLENDON WOODS
4265 E. Dublin-Granville Road
Westerville, OH 43081

Columbus Zoo

2011-02-22T00:01:00.000-08:00

It was not the most ideal day to go to the zoo, I admit. The temperature was hovering freezing, and getting colder. The rain was steady, and starting to change to wintry mix (my favorite term, but not my favorite kind of weather). But the kids were out of school, and we had talked about going to the zoo on this very day for two reasons. One, we had not gone there yet. Two, it's free-admission day (who can say no to that?). And as long as it was not a blizzard out there, we were going to the zoo.

The main attraction, of course, was the polar bear. The zoo made it easy for us to find the bears with large white paw prints on the ground leading us to them from the entrance. These arctic beasts were fun to watch, but I did wonder how they felt living in a place with virtually no snow, or ice. And with a lot of crazy people watching and taking pictures of them. But that's another story.

We also wanted to visit the Asian elephants whose original home-land, I am quite certain, is the same as mine. Sadly, they had just lost one of the adult elephants, Coco, a few days ago, so the zoo is down to four elephants. The youngest, Bodhi is barely two years old. He's adorable, and lovely to watch. He is one of the few male elephants in this country (one of about 20, I was told). Most elephants in the US are females, or so I learned today.

We wandered around a bit more, knowing that we had to return for a more complete visit. But we will save that for a warmer and dryer day! Plus we had a date that we could not miss.

Aside from this President's Day freebie, the zoo admission fee is half-price through the end of February. Parking is $5 regardless of when you go, however.

I have my reservations about zoos in general, but the Columbus zoo seems to be as good as one could get. And with children who are always hungry to see and learn about animals, you just can't go wrong making a trip to this worthwhile place.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
4850 West Powell Road
Powell, Ohio 43065
P.O. Box 400

Cafe Ephesus

2011-02-21T16:44:00.000-08:00

It's not often that my husband, the man in a white coat who does not get to discover new places much, suggests a dining destination for the family.

Today was one of those rare days. The kids were out of school, and we were heading north (I guess I go north more than I realize) to visit some animals at the zoo for the first time (more on that later!).

My husband suggested that we all meet for lunch (also a very rare event) at a brand new place to me: Cafe Ephesus.

We all enjoy middle Eastern food quite a bit, and have not gone to any place that we could delight in that type of cuisine here in Columbus (I know there are many, but not sure where to go).

The children were delighted to dip pita bread in hummus and fresh yogurt flavored with fresh dill.

We also got a couple of their Kabab lunch items that came with rice pudding to end the meal. Our daughter shamelessly devoured some pomme-frites (I just can't bring myself to writing the English version down here. We were at a Turkish restaurant people!).

I would go back here in a heart-beat...if it was not so far out of our way. But again, maybe I do get up north more than I realize...

Cafe Ephesus
6720 Perimeter Loop Road
Dublin, OH 43017-3202
(614) 798-8091

Columbus' Food Co-ops

2011-02-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

As far as I know, there are two food co-ops in town, one in Bexley, and the other in Clintonville.

Whenever I can, I do prefer to get groceries from food co-ops such as these ones. I have been to a few in my life. Santa Cruz, our old hometown, doesn't have co-ops per se, but does have a plethora of natural food stores. There are so many of them that I believe Whole Foods will have to fight hard to stay alive there.

At any rate, I am pleased that we have a couple of choices here. In the winter, especially, when most farmers markets go into hibernation mode, these markets continue to supply us with local (and not so local) healthy choices of food supplies. I appreciate the labels specifying which products are, indeed, locally produced (I am still learning about our Ohio producers, after all).

These tiny stores are often packed with everything from baking soda, to locally baked bread, to herbal tinctures. They also have staples such as garlic, onions, pasta, rice, and frozen items in the freezers.

The Bexley Co-op has a good selection of books as well as fresh produce. The Clintonville Community Market might be a bit larger of the two, with more bulk herbs it seems. Both places have knowledgeable staff who can help you find what you need if you are not familiar with the products or the brands.

I might be one of the few customers out there who is happy with less choices of goods. I don't do well when I am faced with 100 kinds of cereal, or 20 brands of jams. I do just fine if you give me two or three quality choices, and that's what these places offer.

And for sure, you know that you are supporting the community and producers closer to home. Nothing wrong with that!

Bexley Natural Market
508 North Cassady Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43209
Phone: (614) 252-3951
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10am - 8pm
Saturdays 10am - 6pm
Sundays 11am - 5pm

Clintonville Community Market
Clintonville Community Market
200 Crestview Road
Columbus, Ohio 43202
614.261.3663
info@communitymarket.org
Hours:
Open 7 days a week
8am-10pm

Pho Asian Noodle House and Grill

2011-02-18T18:57:00.000-08:00

I had my first bowl of Pho in Columbus at this restaurant, almost a year ago. It was a request of sorts, for the realtor who was kind enough to show me around different neighborhoods (for 8 hours!) to assuage me that there is good Asian food in this city.

That bowl of pho was good enough. And that was when I was introduced to this place, but had not been back until today.

I don't get up 'north' much, you see. But work had me moving about this morning. By the time lunch time rolled around, I was only a mile away from this little noodle house, and I was famished.

Instead of ordering another bowl of pho, I opted to try something different and ordered Dan Dan noodles. The Dan Dan I have had in the past had been nooldes with spicy peanut sauce. Not this one, it turned out. It was a good plate of noodles, but I would not have called it Dan Dan noodles.

This experience won't prevent me from going back to Pho Asian Noodle House, however. They have a lot more to offer there, including a perfect glass of Thai ice tea to remind me a little bit of home.

Pho Asian Noodle House and Grill
1288 West Lane Ave
Columbus, OH
614-488-8886
Open 7 days a week
11am - 10pm

Anthony's Pizzeria

2011-02-16T14:13:00.000-08:00

We have found the kind of pizza we know and love: thin crust, chewy yet crusty dough, delicious sauce, and not too much cheese to top it all off.

Bexley is a little city with a lot of pizza places (and banks, and ice cream parlors... not much else really!). We had tried two other places before we landed at Anthony's Pizzeria on Pleasant Ridge Avenue.

Thomas, the proud owner of the pizzeria, pointed out to us a picture of his 5-year old self making pizza dough. Food has been his family business for a long time. Before opening this place 8 months ago, they owned a catering business that included pizzas, calzones and stromboli, among other goodies.

The pizza idea came when his father met a man in Florida who made the best pizza he had ever had. The Floridian, Mario, actually grew up in Connecticut, so there was a bit of the East coast/ Italian blood running through him. Thomas' father acquired the recipe for the dough, and perfected the sauce, and the rest is history.

Coming from California where pizza is prized at about $20 a pie (*gulp*), and usually not a good one, it is a breath of fresh air to enjoy a good slice, at a reasonable price.

Thomas and his family purchased the location from the previous owners at the same location, so they kept the name Anthony's. But the pizza and subs...all their own creations.

I am not sure of other great pies in and around Columbus...I am sure there are a few. I must say, however, that Anthony's is a competition that will be hard to beat.

Anthony's Pizzeria and Subs
602 Pleasant Ridge Ave
Columbus, OH 43209
(614) 231-6628

The Angry Baker

2011-02-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

Last week, through Columbus Underground, I found out that there is a new bakery about to open in my neck of the woods.

After being iced in for a couple of days with little children running around the house putting me on the verge of insanity, it was time to venture out into the world, and say hello to the new bakery: The Angry Baker.

First, you've got to like the name, right? Or be curious, at least? Vicki, the owner, and baker, is far from being angry when I visited the bakery today. She was busy behind the counter making lunches and taking croissants out of the oven. But she was not angry. If anything, she seemed rather serene. (There is a story behind the name in the ColumbusUnderground article).

An unfinished Menu Board, looking pretty against the brick wall

The bakery is on Oak St, right across from Yellow Brick Pizza (a place I have yet been to), in the Olde Town East area of town. Being new here, I can only say that these two eateries and a few other businesses on Parsons St, seem to be giving Olde Town East a bit of a come-back. A great reason to rejoice!

The Angry Baker offers a variety of baked goods as well as breakfast and lunch items. I left with two scrumptious looking things: an oversized eclaire and a vegan brownie. I am kindly saving the latter for my children for their post-school snack, but the eclaire? In my tummy. It was one of the better eclaires I have had in a long time. Maybe ever, actually.

The Angry Baker
891 Oak Street
Columbus, OH 43205
(614) 946-0583

Cherbourg, Revisited

2011-02-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

The warmth and aroma inside Cherbourg Bakery was a wonderful way to spend a little time on this icy, grey day!

Here are just some images from my visit there earlier today.

Needless to say, if you have not tried it, you have to go. Soon!

The West Side Market of Cleveland

2011-01-30T16:35:00.000-08:00

Clearly, I could not have gone to Cleveland without paying a visit to the West Side Market. Everyone in Columbus who knew anything about food told me that I had to check it out, on my first ever trip to the city by the lake.

So on Saturday morning, my daughter and I said goodbye to the other half of the family who were heading to the R&R Hall of fame. Instead, we took a cab a few miles from downtown Cleveland to what I was told was a North Market-like place, but better.

I didn't know what to expect, really. It was only after we got there that I learned that there are TWO buildings to this market: one is devoted solely to fruits and vegetables while the other houses everything else.

I had to take it all in slowly. Now that I have gotten used to our North Market where the vendors don't bother you, and where you pretty much know where to get your stuff (one or two options for each kind of food). At the West Side Market, there were many options, for everything.

Take MEAT, for example. They must love their meat in Cleveland. There are several vendors selling beef, pork, bison, chicken, among others. I saw a few seafood stalls, several dairy product vendors, coffee roasters, and even a crepe place!

There were also a few bakeries to choose from, but I was told to get my baguette from Christopher's to go with the cheese and salami that we had bought for our lunch-picnic by the lake.

I was tempted to purchase produce in the other building where vendors tried to lure you to buy their good-value products (from oranges to star-fruit)...reminding me of my days at the North End market in Boston.

Without our own transportation, and a kitchen that was a couple of days away, I did not feel like I could partake in all the buying fun. But do I wish that I could have bought everything there? YES, of course!

We did enjoy our picnic later with some goods bought from the market. And we did treat ourselves to a hot crepe filled with lemon curd and mascarpone cheese.

When we finally found another taxi to take us to our next destination (can't flag a taxi there either, I learned), the cab driver informed me, with his middle-eastern accent, that:

"You know, we have another market like this, on the East side of town!"

"Really?" I said, then jokingly asked "Is it called the East Side Market?"

"Yeah, how did you know?" replied the driver, with an impish grin.

I didn't know, in fact. And I am a bit dubious since my food people from Columbus didn't say anything about this East Side place. But I am happy to learn that there are still many more places to discover in Cleveland, should I return there hungry.

The Happy Plants at Portico

2011-01-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

If you are anything like me, you will appreciate anything that puts a smile on your face, especially in the dead of winter, in Ohio.

I found just the things that made me just a little happier each time I see them:

The Happy Plants at Portico Cafe, part of Voda Emporium in Olde Town East.

Really, how can they not make you smile?

The owners, Gary and Ted, recently opened the sister-store/cafe to their wonderful Voda Emporium next door. They not only enjoy plants, and creativity, but these Happy Plants, as I like to think of them, are made by Gary from salvaged thrift-store dolls. The plants that become their hair styles are impossible-to-kill house plants, which makes these items irresistible!

Portico Cafe offers other house plants as well, and Ted told me that they will have some flowers, too, come Valentine's Day. In addition, the cafe is the perfect stop if you are looking to warm up with coffee, soup, bagels, sandwiches, and other breakfast and lunch items. It's a cozy nook, with happy plants...what else can you ask for?

Portico at Voda Emporium
85 Parsons Ave
Columbus, OH 43205
Neighborhood: Olde Towne East
614.744.0101
http://www.Vodaemporium.com

Sledding at Sharon Woods

2011-01-23T11:49:00.000-08:00

I can (sort of) deal with the cold, if the sun is shining. I think a lot of you would agree! And with the perfect kind and amount of snow on the ground, what else would a family with children do on a sunny Sunday...but go sledding!

We live in Bexley, where there is apparently a sledding hill in someone's back yard (Miller's Hill).

Not quite ready to intrude (but I am sure we will venture there sometime soon), and tired of the mound we made ourselves in the yard, we headed to Sharon Woods Metro Park in Westerville today for some good sledding, on a real hill!

In fact, there were two sections of the same hill, one just for children ages 10 and under. This section is narrower, but as steep and safe (with hay bales as cushions) as the bigger hill just a few trees and shrubs over.

The kids (and grown-ups) had so much fun that we all forgot about how cold it actually was. Knowing that the snow is not going to melt any time soon...we know we will be back again soon.

Note: Do not enter at the main entrance on Cleveland Ave...instead, go just a little north, and take a left onto the street with a small sign that says "Sledding Hill" and proceed to the parking lot area. The sledding hills will be just to your left.

SHARON WOODS
6911 Cleveland Avenue
Westerville, OH 43081
(northern Franklin County)

The Geckos among us

2011-01-17T15:15:00.000-08:00

I won't lie to you: I do not like lizards, of any kind.

But oh, we had to go catch the exhibit of these creatures at COSI... it was not only a good excuse to pay our first visit here, it was also a fun thing to do on this MLK day.

We are lucky to have been to a good number of museums in the kids' young lives. We have even been to the infamous American Museum of Natural History in New York City. And we plan to visit the museum of all museums in the next few months.

So I didn't hesitate to get the family membership upon arrival. Like other good museums we have frequented (and become members), COSI promises several more trips back to explore the wonders of nature, and science, and currently...these wonderfully ugly geckos!

Tropical Columbus

2011-01-15T10:35:00.000-08:00

Just about the time that I am missing our tropical days in Thailand, Franklin Park Conservatory reveals its new exhibit of orchids from different tropical places in the world. I can't be more thankful.

We went there at 11am today, just in time for the Hula Dancing performance in the Palm Room. The Hawaiian music, together with the genteel, beautiful Polynesian dance, put the winter blues away (almost completely!).

Afterwards, the kids had fun with the craft activities offered in the family fun room in the lower level. There are many activities planned around this wonderful exhibition throughout the month and beyond. With our membership, we are free to go as often as we wish... lucky for us!

Here is more information about the exhibition. Columbus is lucky to have such a wonderful conservatory, especially for a mid-winter escape like this one.

Cherbourg Bakery

2011-01-14T10:54:00.000-08:00

Even though I am not a gluten-free or gluten-intolerant eater, I was very excited when I heard a couple of months ago that a new (gluten-free, nut-free) bakery was opening up in Bexley, just down the road from where I now live!

Now that I have mostly emerged from my foggy world of being jetlagged, I paid the new bakery a visit today. I was lucky to have met Shari there, one of the owners of this new, bright, happy, and very tasty place: Cherbourg Bakery.

I asked about the origin of the name Cherbourg, which I later found out is a port city in France.

"Geri fell in love with this city when she was visiting France," said Shari. "When she came back and told her stories to her family, she found out that there is a lot more family history tied to the city of Cherbourg."

The full story can be found on their blog... I love stories behind names like this!

Cherbourg Bakery has been in existence for a while, actually, just not with its own store-front. Their gluten-free offerings have been available through wholesale, and have been very popular amongst the gluten-free food community. I was instantly confirmed why Cherbourg needed to grow when I took a bite of their lemon bars.

If you a lemon-bar lover like me, you would know a good bar from a bad one. Cherbourg's had the perfect complement of the sweet and the sour custardy top that crunches just enough when you bite from the surface. The crust is moist and buttery, and in no way tells me that there is no gluten in it!

I was sold.

Shari tells me that they are in their 'soft' opening phase right now, with their grand opening day expected on January 26, 2011. Their will be samples and cheer to be had from 5:30-6:30pm on that day.

The decor alone is worth a visit... Something about that bright blue will make you instantly happy, I tell you! Plus a bite of something sweet and a cup of warm coffee... I think I will be back there often.

Cherbourg Bakery
541 S. Drexel Ave.
Bexley, OH 43209
614-725-5460

Food Carts, Bangkok Style

2010-12-29T02:06:00.000-08:00

Papaya Salad Cart

There is a reason why I am attracted (and oh so happy with) to the food carts and taco trucks in Columbus... Food carts are ubiquitous and necessary all over Thailand (and Asia in general).

Fruit-cart

People depend on these carts for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, midnight snacks. Some of the carts will provide a few chairs for the 'eat-in' customers, but most are for 'to-go' customers.

Grilled beef ball cart

You can find any kind of food from these carts; from noodles, to fruits, to grilled pork with sticky rice, to...well, everything under the sun!

I took just a few photos to share with you all. Sending warm wishes and a very happy new year to all from the land of food-carts!

Beverage-cart

"North Market", Bangkok Style

2010-12-22T05:13:00.000-08:00

When "Cool Columbus" is away from Columbus, I am still determined to bring you something interesting, from near and far.

This time, I am taking you through the Jatujak Market in Bangkok (also known as JJ Market), which is somewhat the equivalent of the North Market in Columbus...just, well, very Thai, and a whole lot bigger.

First, we have to have garlic. Thai food would be dismal without these bulbs! Check out all the different kinds.

Then, we need grilled pork (with Thai sticky rice). And all sorts of other grilled meats, fruits, vegetables, you name it, it's there being grilled. The place is constantly in action with the vendors cooking right here and now. Fresh food, the fast way. Not to be confused with fast food.

And of course, Thai fruits...including these durians that are either loved or loathed. I happen to love them.

There are also prepared foods everywhere you look. These are huge pots of curries.

There is also plenty of fresh seafood off the boat.

And chestnut being roasted the Chinese way (with hot pebbles).

And meats, butchered right before your eyes.

Every time I come back here, I wish I had a stomach many times larger than what it is. Each stall of food vendor offers something so very different, and so very comforting and nostalgic for me. My senses go a little insane smelling and seeing everything together in one place. It's rather overwhelming, albeit in the best possible way.

The Gift from Ohio

2010-12-15T09:36:00.000-08:00

I found the perfect gift to bring back to my parents. And it's even (sort of) made in Columbus! That snow won't last in the heat of the tropics, but it's to prove that it came from our winter wonderland.

A few months ago, during one of my first visits to the North Market, I got to taste some olive oils from The Olive Orchard. Now, I have had quite a bit of olive oils in my life: from the many years spent in California, and several trips to Europe. I have learned that I like my olive oil good and bold.

When the lady told me that the Sicilian Olive Oil is one of the best in the world, I did not hesitate to dip a piece of bread into the bowl, and got a good big bite for a taste.

That did it. A bottle of that good stuff came home with me. A few other bottles followed back into our house since that first day, and I have not looked back.

Then I started to hear more about this very olive oil; how it became part of Jeni's new flavor, I even saw a clip with them on morning news. In the new winter issue, Edible Columbus tells their story behind the bottles quite well. My Olive Oil was getting famous!

Simply put, The Olive Orchard is owned by local Columbus families who are passionate about producing the best olive oils from the best sources in the world. I am happy to bring a taste of this divine fruit, directly via Columbus, back to my home country, half the world away.

I know my parents will scratch their heads a little and say something like:

Olive Oil? From Ohio?

Well, sort of. Even though olive trees do not thrive here, Ohio just knows how to put the right stuff in the right places!

Visit their website for locations where you can find/ purchase these oils.

Train town at the library

2010-12-13T04:26:00.000-08:00

I still recall the days I spent with Thomas, and Bertie, and Spencer...ah oh, I am starting to forget their names! How impossible? They were everywhere in our lives back then...books...shows...toys.

Those days abruptly ended when my son turned three. And we have not looked back, really.

When I went to the main library to return some books the other day, I was surprised to see a huge set, a town of sort, with trains running everywhere. It reminded me of a deli we used to go to in Santa Cruz (the Train Deli) where my husband and I had our first uninterrupted meal as parents of twin toddlers. We returned there several times, despite the terrible overpriced food, before they closed their doors for good. The (train) joy it brought to the kids, and the temporary peace we had, was worth it...I think.

Although I am sure my children will still get a kick out of this set (who wouldn't?), I am 100% certain that parents with children ages 3 and under are required to come see and experience this holiday spirit, put up by Huntington Bank (I believe). It's quite awesome, and I am also pretty sure that you won't be going there just once before Christmas rolls around.

It's a Wonderful Life

2010-12-12T02:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was our family "Christmas Day"(because some of us will be on the other side of the globe, and some on the plane going to that other side of the globe).

How fitting it was that we got to view It's a Wonderful Life on the big screen, right here in our little hometown of Bexley!

I know it's a classic, but yesterday was my first time ever seeing the movie. I don't think there was a dry eye in the theatre.

It was also our first time to the Drexel Theatre", an unassuming movie house on Main St. that tends to feature a lot of independent, interesting films rather than the typical big box ones.

The audience was treated to pre-movie trivia questions complete with prizes. We also got to sing along, the old fashioned way (with the hopping dots), some Christmas songs led by a sweet girl, a volunteer from the audience.

With some food brought in to donate to the mid-Ohio Foodbank, we only paid $2 each for this wonderful experience!

The good news is, it will be showing again today at 4pm, and next Wednesday, December 15th.

It made a great end to our pseudo-Christmas day (albeit, quite emotional from one of the better movies I have ever seen).

Drexel Theatre
2254 East Main Street
Columbus, OH 43209
(614) 231-1050

Yosick's Last Days

2010-12-10T09:37:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that I used to tell people that I didn't really care for chocolate? Maybe I was temporarily insane, or maybe I really didn't like it that much. Well, I have changed and gotten normal now. I do love chocolate. Yes, I do.

I had heard about Yosick's from a few people. In fact, when I was trying to get directions to Bierberg the other day, the lady at Katsinger's wanted to steer me to Yosick's. I politely said no, that's not what I was looking for.

Until today, that is.

Columbus Underground posted this morning that Yosick's door is closing at the end of the year. This prompted me to look at the calendar, and soon after, jumped in the car.

After dropping off some more copies of Edible Columbus at the sweet ladies at Bierberg Bakery, I turned north, on the same street (5th) in German Village.

Yosick's sits in the corner, adjacent to a massage therapy office (hello...chocolate and then massage?! Too bad it was closed). The friendly store lady, Megan, greeted me and even offered to plate up some truffle pieces for me if I wanted to take photographs. Why indeed!

Not only did I take photographs, and chatted with Megan (a chocolatiere in the making herself), I purchased all those truffles you see in the first photograph up there. Presents for friends, I tell myself. Although, I did allow myself to taste one: a heart with some kind of rum filling. Heaven.

I am sad to hear that this sweet little spot will be closed for good comes Christmas Day. Megan assured me that Kristy, the owner and artist behind Yosick's, will continue to produce these beautiful and delicious chocolates that can be purchased online, and I believe, in some places within Columbus.

In the mean time, their door is wide open, and I can tell you that I would be a happy recipient of these morsels as a decadent holiday gift!

Yosick's
539 South 5th Street
Columbus, OH 43206-1203
(614) 223-9575

Bierberg Bakery

2010-12-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

I might have found another favorite spot in the city.

It's been such a cold stretch, and I have had a sick child home with me the last few days. Now that he is back in school, I had a bunch of errands I needed to do out and about.

Before I headed out the door, I made a note to myself that a stop at this (infamous) little hidden gem had to be on my itinerary.

The secret about this tiny German bakery is no longer, especially if you have seen the article in the new Winter issue of Edible Columbus. Surprisingly, however, many people still don't know about it. Take the two people I asked for directions at Katzinger's who looked at me like I had three heads.

No matter, I put in the address into my GPS and a few minutes later, I was parked in front of a well signed and decorated, yet unassuming, store front: Bierberg Bakery.

An older German lady greeted me. She had a thick accent still, even though she and her husband moved here since the 60s. As I entered and regained my senses from the freezing cold temperatures (really Columbus, why so cold?!), I started to take in all the scents and smells of all the cookies that laid before me.

I did not count, but there must have been a few dozen different kinds of cookies. These special German cookies are only made here, in this tiny house, 3 months out of every year. Johanna, friend and baker, told me how busy they had been and will continue to be until the end of the year when she will again close up shop and retreat to her much deserved rest.

After I purchased some good-looking cookies, as well as a stollen, I asked if I could slip into the kitchen and watched them work a little.

Another lady in the kitchen, Cathy, is a family-friend. She helps out each year at the bakery. While Johanna and Cathy cut up more cookies to be baked, they recited to me their stories of how they ended up in Columbus (because you know, as a transplant myself, I am always interested!).

As it turns out, they were both sponsored to move to the States from Europe, Johanna from Germany and Cathy from Hungary. I listened with curiosity as Cathy told me the story about her family living in a castle in Germany where several other immigrant families took refuge. Their hands never stopped working, but they seemed to enjoy reliving their past with me as their audience.

As I turned around to say goodbye, they wished me well in discovering my new home city. I told them that I was happy to have met people like them because that is what matters the most. Johanna agreed with me, and then she added: It's also what you give back, too. That's also very important. Don't forget to give back."

She is absolutely right.

Bierberg Bakery
729 S 5th St.
Columbus, OH

They will be open until the end of the year.

Edamame

2010-11-30T19:39:00.000-08:00

We ate at Easton today.

Before I go on, I feel like I need to give you a bit of an explanation.

If you noticed the name of this blog, you will see that it is about finding 'authentic' things in and around Columbus. Easton may be the antidote to this blog since it is mostly comprised of chain stores, chain restaurants, things that you can find in most places in this country...and around the world (think fast food chains).

But thankfully, as we found out tonight, not everything there fits that bill. You can find some things that are relatively authentic, relatively good, and the perfect stop for dinner with the family on a rainy night (after picking up a member of the family who insists on bike-commuting 15 miles to work).

Edamame is the place. We all love Japanese food in our family. And we have explored a few places in town that are worth writing home about. We have even been here! The plethora and quality of the cuisine here, in central Ohio, is quite impressive. We are happy about that, needless to say.

This restaurant is unique (look at the colors and decor), but serves up perfectly acceptable sushi rolls, miso soup (not the best, but I am picky), green tea, and mochi ice cream.

Service was wonderful, and best of all, if you eat on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, you get a good deal on your sushi rolls. Who would say no to that?

Field Trip: Grand Rapids Michigan

2010-11-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

There is one happy Jeni's taster, and she does not live in Ohio!

We are visiting family in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
At some point along the way, I heard that Jeni's can be found at this lovely store on Wealthy Street, not too far from the family's home.

So we went on a treasure hunt, and found these lovely tubs of goodness.
They even offered some tastings from flavors in the back on the store!
I am happy to say that I have now tasted the new Olive Oil flavor. Love it.

I am glad that our neighbors to the north get to experience a slice of heaven that was born (and raised) in our fair state.

Bear's Mill

2010-11-21T07:24:00.001-08:00

Tucked away, and nestled by Greenville River, is historic Bear's Mill. It is quite a drive from Columbus (almost two hours), but it is well worth the trip, I tell you.

The mill has been in operation since 1849, and the master miller himself (Terry Clark) can tell you all about it. He can also tell you that it took him over a year to teach himself how to work this old-fashioned, water-powered mill. There is only a hand full of them left in the state, and not that many in the country.

We enjoyed visiting the mill this weekend, during their Christmas preview open house. Terry did a demonstration, showing us how he grinds wheat, corn, and spelt. He also shows us how the water-powered mill can generate its own electricity. He proved to us that we were all 'green' just a generation or so ago. We were in awe, and inspired, to say the least.

The mill store has a collection of handmade arts, crafts and food for sale as well as products made locally and at the mill itself (we came home with cake flour milled by Terry. How cool is that?).

It's a gem of a place, and we are very glad to have found it!

Wood-fired Pizza at Franklin Park

2010-11-15T11:48:00.000-08:00

It's mid-November right?

Right?

I want to brag about the outdoor, wood-fired pizza experience we had yesterday at Franklin Park Community Garden.

Jim Budros, the man behind the outdoor kitchen theatre at the garden, put together a wonderful gathering and cooking on a sunny mild November afternoon.

We don't live too far from Franklin Park, so when we heard that there was pizza being made out of my dream pizza oven (I learned of this from my previous visit to the garden), I told my family to jump on our bikes pronto.

We got there just in time for the last pizza of the day (Jim said he made twenty!). The fire was still going strong both in the pizza oven and in the fireplace (where Jim was grilling skewers of pork tenderloin). We watched the 'show' and ate our pizza on a bench, drenched in mid November sun.

The Food-town that is Columbus

2010-11-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

Why is it that in the 11 years of living in the Bay area, I did not have the privilege of dining with a cool chef like David Tanis? I even lived in the same town as this famous chef, and this famous food blogger (with whom I did share some meals). I know there are many reasons for this question.

At any rate, I did not expect to have moved to a city (small town?) that was quite this interested in good food. I am pleasantly surprised, needless to say, to have met many people who care as much about what they are eating, and where their food comes from.

Last week when I had the opportunity to share a meal with the Head Chef of Chez Panisse who was coming through Columbus on his book tour, I knew not to pass it up.

I can't say I knew much about David Tanis before this rendez-vous. But I sure know a lot about the restaurant at which he cooks and spends half of his annual time. It's probably one of the most famous and influential restaurants in this country. I am sad to say that we did not make it there either in our years in the Golden State.

I wrote a tiny book-review of Tanis' new book that should be on this blog in a few days. In a few words, though, I can attest that this talented and charming chef has given us a beautiful and inspiration book that every home cook should have in the kitchen, or at their bedside table (because it reads like a wonderful nonfiction).

I am honored to have met David Tanis in person, right here, in Columbus, Ohio.

Maid-Rite

2010-11-10T20:44:00.000-08:00

On our daytrip to western Ohio, Bethia insisted that I have to try a "Maid-Rite" burger in Greenville. You have to, she said. And it won't take more than 10 minutes!

Though I did not grow up eating burgers, beef or otherwise, I have been exposed to them living in the US. I must admit that I don't love burgers, of any kind, enough to order it at a restaurant. Give me a bowl of Pho any day, or a rice bowl with anything on it. I am a loyal rice fan.

So when I found out a little about what I was about to experience at Maid-Rite, I was a tad dubious. Loose beef burger? I was willing to give it a try once!

Now that I am on the other side of it, I can say that, in fact, I did enjoy the loose-beef burger. I enjoyed it quite a bit that I can say I would go back there tomorrow, if I was given the opportunity. Just don't offer me a bowl of Pho.

I was also intrigued by the chewed gum decorating along the outside walls of the Maid-Rite building. Intriguing is all I will say about it for now, because you know, I will probably have more to say after my next trip there for another loose-beef burger!

Peanuts

2010-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

I was downtown the other day when I saw the Planters Peanuts guy standing proud on the side of a building.

Could this be the headquarter of these ubiquitous peanuts? I wondered to myself.

So I had to walk in there and find out, and get some peanuts...naturally.

It turns out that, no, it's not the headquarter, but this particular store (a franchise, I learned) has been here for 75 years! Several Planters Peanuts memorabilia decorate the store, along with several kinds of peanuts and other nuts and other treats alike! It's like stepping back in time, really. Not quite like a museum, but almost.

My favorite was Mr. Peanut with his bright red lips sitting on some kind of machine inside the store. You should go in just to say hi to the guy, and he might tell you the best kind of peanuts in the store.

Amish Country, Part II

2010-11-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

How do they do it? How do they keep living their simple life when all around them exists the fast-paced, hyper-technology, materialistic, media-crazed world?

There is a little part me that wishes to live such a lifestyle. I know it is a lot more than that -- one can't just decide one day to give it all up, and go join the crowd (plus I would look out-of-place with my tan skin and dark hair). So the next best thing to do is to take a trip up to Holmes County and be inspired by the simple way of life, the bucolic landscapes. I do find myself feeling refreshed and re-inspired after each visit.

Last time we went for a day trip from Columbus to Holmes County, we only scratched the surface of the Ohio Amish country. For one, we picked the wrong day to go (Sunday - their sabbath!). We also thought Millersburg would be the center of it all (that's how it looks on the map), where in fact, Berlin and Walnut Creek are more centers of the Amish country.

We still did not make it to the latter two towns (saved for the next trip!). From Columbus, we took I-71 north to Hwy 39 which took us through Millersburg. Before we hit Berlin as we had planned, we got side-tracked and found ourselves heading south for Charm, Ohio. Yes, how can one say no to such an elegant name of a town? It was charming, indeed, and we had lunch at an Amish-style restaurant complete with creamed chicken and biscuits.

We also found ourselves, later on, driving on Ohio's First State Road which is a gravel road winding along the hilly landscape peppered with farm houses, beautiful old barns, horses and cows. We would occasionally pass by an Amish buggy containing well-clothed passengers (it was COLD!) who would wave to us from their small window.

Last but not least, we saw our first snow of the season! Yes, this is true. Some hills were actually covered with the powdery white stuff. Can you imagine the children's plea to stop to have a snowball fight? We reassured them that this would not be their only snowy opportunity.

All in all, it was another pleasant trip to the Amish country. We feel lucky to be close enough for a day-trip for a bit of rejuvenation, and a little reminder that indeed, less is more. Always.

The Cambridge Tea House

2010-11-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

If you want to treat yourself a little, or transport yourself into a European-like place, you should go to The Cambridge Tea House in Marble Cliff neighborhood (just beyond Grandview Heights).

This elegant (yet casual) place is right on W. 5th Ave. They specialize in tea, as the name suggests, yet there is so much more!

For instance, you can have an oatmeal breakfast like I did this morning, with a cup of perfectly brewed Rooibos tea on the side. You could also go for some eggs and bacon, if that is what you are hungry for. Or you can go the traditional English route, and order their homemade scone with butter or cream. Any which way, you can't really go wrong.

Lunch time there is supposed to be quite busy, but probably because it's so good and convenient! Soups, salads, quiches, you name it. You might feel so pampered that you won't want to go back to work...

It's also a great place to just come with a book, sip some warm tea on a cold day, and watch the world go by. There is nothing wrong with that, is there?

Scioto Audobon Metro Park

2010-11-02T10:06:00.001-07:00

We have been a big fan of Audobon for a long time. Though Audobon may be synonymous with birds, the organization is a lot more than that now. If you have children (or not), this is a great book about the man himself.

Lucky for Columbus, we have a beautiful new building that houses the nature center at the Scioto Audobon Metro Park just a few miles south of downtown, next to the Scioto river. This green building boasts many 'green' features, and it won a well deserved gold medal award!

Since today is election day and around here, I guess that also means no school day, the kids and I went to pay the park a visit for the first time.

We were one of the only visitors this morning, aside from a couple of school field trip groups. Inside the beautiful building, you can find several rooms with hands-on activities, books and references, observation stations and some live animals (snapping turtles, toads, frogs and fish). You can even hear bird sounds coming in from the outside (I need to learn how they do this. It's pretty cool!). Outside, there are several trails that lead to the marshland, or along the river.

The Park has several programs for children, including a summer camp! I can't wait for the kids to join next summer. For now, we will go back to enjoy this nature sanctuary in our own backyard.

St. Joseph's Cathedral

2010-11-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed 2010 Halloween this year, mostly because I was not handing out candy, or being scared by teenage costumes. Instead, my family and I attended a special ceremony at St. Joseph's cathedral in downtown Columbus where I volunteered to take photographs of the event.

Let me first tell you that I had no clue what to expect even though I was supposed to document the whole thing. Being born and raised in a mostly Buddhist country, I am still trying to figure out the Catholic stuff (I am married to a Catholic, but even then, I am still baffled). I was warned about the little, if any, light there will be during the candle ceremony...but that was about all.

It was different than normal mass which I have attended a few times in my life. There were prayers, yes, and singing, but the whole candle thing was quite spectacular! I did my best with the camera, but honestly, it was hard to capture the beauty, and the peace and the energy that I felt behind the lens.

I am not telling you to go to church, per se (I don't even go to a Buddhist temple myself, sad but true). I just wanted to share these pretty incredible moments I experienced, right in the middle of this city we are calling home.

Grill and Skillet

2010-10-31T07:57:00.001-07:00

We did it. We went to Grill and Skillet.

Asked by Nick and Bethia a few weeks ago if we had frequented this Breakfast (and more) establishment, my answer was No. But really, it was more like, where?

We moved to Bexley about 3 months ago now, and honestly we don't go out to breakfast much, if at all (sorry Nick!). Something about this morning called us outside for a walk (the sun, the leaves, the cool fresh air?), a walk and some food and so we decided it was time for a visit to Grill and Skillet.

The place, right across from the post office on Main St. in Bexley, was packed when we arrived. Clearly, this is a known entity in town (unbeknownst to us!). John Flood, the owner, gave us the signal to sit wherever we would like (one of the two available spots left).

We were quickly given some water, offered some coffee and the menus. We came for breakfast (which is served all day -- see the sign?), but we could have gotten other food items (sandwiches, burgers, dinner plates) as well. Our kids opted for pancakes and bacon and the adults tried a Veggie omelet and Chicken Fried Steak (that would be my husband!).

While waiting for our food, John came to chat with us, giving us a little history about this place he has owned for 25 years. Apparently the building/ restaurant has been there for much longer, maybe since post WWII. Some additions had been built on to it, but it has had loyal customers forever.

After the history lesson, we dove into our breakfasts. Happy with our choices and our bellies full, we promised to return many more times, now that we know the owner by name and vice versa.

Edible Columbus Cooking Series

2010-10-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

I had fun at my first ever cooking class!

Tricia Wheeler, the founder and editor-in-chief of the beautiful local-food magazine, Edible Columbus, teaches a series of cooking classes at M/I homes in Easton. Today her ingredients came from The Chef's Garden: specialty vegetables in season from lettuces to carrots to beets to purple potatoes (and much more). Just looking at the vegetables made my mouth water!

Tricia made several dishes out of the bounty. She emphasized simplicity because she wanted us to taste these delicious vegetables at their best. The potatoes were simply sauteed with olive oil and rosemary; the beets were oven roasted to perfection; the cauliflowers were baked with a bit of cheese on top. There was also a green salad with white wine vinaigrette that Tricia whipped up in a flash. The Waldorf Coleslaw featured celery root and tart apples. The class and meal ended with warm apple crisp and vanilla ice cream. And of course, we all went home with recipes of everything we got to taste during the class.

It was such a fun, informational class! Check the schedule for future classes, if you would like to see what else Tricia is planning to create and share with us all.

Colors!

2010-10-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

I didn't really expect it to be this magnificent, honestly.

I have lived in New England, a few times, so I know what fall foliage is supposed to be like. And I knew to expect more colors here in Ohio than, say, what we had in Northern California during this time of year.

But I didn't expect it to be this beautiful. How wonderfully wrong I was!

Fall Bounty

2010-10-24T18:15:00.001-07:00

It is no secret that we love the metroparks here in Columbus. And this is one of our favorites: Slate Run Historical Farm.

This morning, this is what we found upon entering the farm.

And this.

It was also fun to show friends from out of town this little gem. They are from the state up north... and they were impressed with the bounty and the beauty around here.

I think I am starting to feel a little...what do you call it? Ohio Pride?

Schacht Farm

2010-10-22T18:04:00.001-07:00

Did you know that just a few miles south of Columbus in Canal Winchester, you can pick your own greens? By greens, I mean, kale, collards, mustard greens, turnip greens and more!

Schacht farm has been in operation since 1981, and perhaps it is a big kept secret that you can go there to purchase fresh produce at their farm market, or if you would like, harvest your own produce! It's brilliant. At least, it is for those who like to get their hands a little wet and dirty and know exactly where their dinner is coming from tonight.

The picking is a plenty and will be available until the end of October. I will be going back there to stock up on my greens for the winter months for sure.

Discovery Park

2010-10-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

Broad Street is a busy thoroughfare for downtown Columbus. I have gone by this little park many times before, but yesterday, I made a point to stop, and really spend a moment getting to know this sweet little spot.

Discovery Park, as it is called, was built to honor the public educators of Ohio (well deserved, needless to say!). I love the figures of both children and grown-ups: they each have expressions so familiar to me (being a parent of a boy and a girl myself).

I can almost feel the emotions of the girl in that first photo. Am I reminded of myself as a youth? That is possible...but that would be a whole different story!

If you have time, go by this little spot, and maybe these children will speak to you as well.

Franklin Park Community Garden

2010-10-20T11:17:00.000-07:00

It was one of those mornings when I had many things planned, but not all of them got accomplished. And the most (wonderfully) unexpected ventures became part of the day.

Fall has treated us well here, I am sure you will agree (if you live here in Columbus, that is!). Take today: the sky can't be more blue, the foliage is in full blown display. It is quite lovely to live here, right now.

From point A to point B (part of my plan this morning), I had to go by Franklin Park Community Garden. Though I did not plan on stopping, I found myself pulling into their parking spot, and getting the camera out of the car.

I love this time of the year in the garden. I love it that there are still treasures to be found on the leaves and branches of the vegetables, and flowers and other produce that are still growing from the earth. These are the last of the fresh tomatoes, ripe eggplants, and sweet basil before we all go into hibernation and won't emerge again until next spring!

I also love all the colors playing against one another. The deep reds, the bright yellows, the crazy orange hue of the maple leaves that have fallen next to the dark green of the kale and broccoli. It must be a painter's paradise.

As I bent down to take a picture of some Swallowtail butterfly caterpillars on dill leaves, a gentleman named Bill joined me in marveling at these creatures' beauty. As we talked, I found out that Bill is the coordinator for the Franklin Park Conservatory's community garden. He is the man behind the amazing community garden projects in and around Columbus. He is also the man with inspiring visions. I was terribly happy that I stopped by and had met Bill.

We talked some more about our shared interest in community and school gardens. I learned a lot about what has been happening in Columbus alone. For instance, did you know that there is a free eight-week Urban Garden Academy course sponsored by the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company right at the Franklin Park Conservatory? Did you know that if you have an idea about starting a new community garden somewhere in town and did not know where to start, you can call up Bill and just...ask?

I am very happy to see and hear that the "getting closer to our food source" movement (my own term), whether you want to call it Slow Food, Edible Schoolyard, Sustainable Community Agriculture, Locavore, or something else, is alive and well and growing in this community.

You can find out more about Franklin Park Conservatory, their programs and resources here! Best of all, I recommend that you go and spend a quiet morning (or afternoon) at the community garden. Bring your camera, or a book, and see where it will take you!

Something Sweet

2010-10-18T16:48:00.001-07:00

I took this photo at a jewelry store downtown Columbus. Not too much story here, except that I like the way she looks. I also appreciate her offers. And simply, she made me smile as I walk out the door (even without taking a candy from that pretty tray!).

Brothers Drake Meadery

2010-10-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

I had my first tasting of mead today at Brothers Drake Meadery.

I am surprised that I had not had this before. It's honey! Turned into wine! I love both things... How bad can it be?

The Drake brothers, with their partners, held a special tour for some food bloggers at their tasting room and refinery. We were given samples of their products right away and it only took one whiff of the mead to confirm that it is a honey product: that sweet scent is hard to miss!

The brothers gave us a brief history of mead (oldest form of alcohol, and used to be for the royals only!). They then took us through the whole process of mead-making (a bit like a chemistry lab!). It sounds simple, really. You need three ingredients: water, yeast, honey. The key thing about making good mead, though, they stressed, is that you want the best quality of all these ingredients you can find. This is not always a simple thing to do. Also, oxygen is not mead's friend. Once mixed and covered, the mixture needs to stay out of sunlight and air for a few months for best results.

I was happy to hear that they have a local source for their honey. They are also trying to strategize how best to find more locally made bottles. One thing is for sure, these people are passionate about making the best quality mead possible. I think their products will tell you that as well. Try their 'Apple Pie'! Very seasonally appropriate... it's like sipping apple pie from a glass...

Charlie's Apples

2010-10-15T12:00:00.001-07:00

This was more like it, people!

You may recall that we went apple picking as a family earlier this fall, and it was not the most ideal of experiences (or at least for our family). Since then, I had been waiting to go picking again before the season is over.

The kids are out of school today, and I had this planned all week, to go to Charlie's Apples in Newark. Many of you have been telling us to go here for organic (the only one around!) apples, and we were not disappointed.

It took a little while to get out there from Bexley, but we had all day, and a packed lunch picnic in the back of the car, and new audio CDs from the library. Plus, it's peak fall color right now. Every time we see a tree that is in all of its fall glory, we yelled out: "That's a TEN!"

Okay, so back to the apple orchard.

First of all, it was very modest. Just one sign saying U-Pic, Charlie's apples. We followed the path up to find a farm house standing in front of an apple orchard. Inside a little shed, it gave us instructions of the picking, and out of the corner of my eye, I saw an honor system cash box with a little note next to it. I heard myself breath a sigh of relief. This is more like what we are used to. This is like the orchard we picked at near the coast of Monterey Bay. Thank goodness this kind of place still exists!

The sun that was just out, slipped back behind the clouds. The wind picked up, and there was just enough chill in the air that created the perfect ambiance for a fall-apple-picking kind of day. The kids and I decided that we needed to have a little competition going (who could pick the most, the fastest).

Because Charlie's apples are organic, the apples have blemishes on them, and some have been nibbled on a little (or a lot). So the picking goes a little slower as we each try to find the somewhat perfect-imperfect looking apples to bring home.

The competition was a success ( I won! Of course.) as we all picked 50lbs of apples in a short time. Besides, they were looking forward to the many apple pies, and apple sauce cakes and apple butter that we would have for weeks to come.

Thanks to Charlie (although I did not meet you, or anyone else for that matter, which was awesome in its own way!), for this orchard, and for keeping the apples the way they should be! Imperfect, delicious, and pesticides-free!

Olde Towne East

2010-10-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

When I was researching possible neighborhoods for our family to land in Columbus while still in California, I came across many names that meant nothing to me: Dublin, New Albany, Gahanna, Bexley, Upper Arlington, Grandview. These are, naturally, more family-friendly neighborhoods with good schools, sidewalks and the like. After a few months here, these names are very familiar to me. I think I might have even been to them all, for one reason or another.

The neighborhood of Olde Towne East (OTE) came up occasionally during my research. It was not on my radar screen as much, but I sure know that name, and that it is somewhere between Bexley and downtown Columbus. I had been by it a few times, and even had lunch at the Black Creek Bistro. Still, I was a bit puzzled about the neighborhood.

I was determined to find out more about it today, on this beautiful fall day when everyone seems joyous and carefree like the leaves that are falling off the trees. I went down a few streets in this so called 'Olde Towne East' section of town, snapped a few photos, and walked onto Parsons street, into Voda Emporium.

Two gentlemen, co-owners of the shop, greeted me warmly. They shared with me a little history of OTE, how it used to be home to important people of the city, with their grand mansions that still stand today. In the 70s, apparently, things went south and it became an unsafe place to be. Just more recently, there is an effort to revitalize and bring more people to the area.

Voda Emporioum has two sections, one with mostly locally made goods: cards, art, candles, kitchenware, dog treats and more! The other section is a hair salon, well tucked away, but roomy enough to be part of the whole place. In the mornings, they also serve coffee and pastries for those on the run! How cool is that?

The owners tell me that a cafe is about to open next door to them, any day now! And a few doors down the street is the aforementioned Black Creek Bistro as well as a (so I am told) a popular bar called Carabar. Across the street, I see signs for galleries, too. Is this a mini-version of the Short North?

Downtown is just down the road from OTE.

If you are interested, Olde Towne East is holding a Fall Festival this Saturday from noon to 10pm. Here is where you find more information.

I am sure I am not the only one to be excited about the revitalization of this little neighborhood!

Moshi Sushi

2010-10-13T16:50:00.001-07:00

There is a lot to brag about our little town of Bexley. Although, not a lot to brag when it comes to food. We have a lot of choices of pizza places, and ice cream parlors, and a few coffee shops. As far as restaurants go, not much.

BUT!

We have Moshi Sushi!

Sitting right next to Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream, Moshi Sushi serves up excellent Japanese and a few Korean dishes.

The first time we went there, I made a comment about their unique water glasses. The nice waiter answered with a big smile "We try to do things different here at Moshi Sushi!"

The food is beautifully presented, and more importantly, quite tasty. Our children devoured their Eel, Avocado, and Shrimp tempura rolls. My husband enjoyed his perfectly hot bowl of Udon noodles, and I satisfied my Korean food craving with a hot pot of Bibimbab.

All the plates were clean and sparkly. All of our tummies were happily full. Our son, the lover of Japanese cuisine, leaned back after finishing his delicious meal, and said quietly:

"This is great...."

I think that says it all!

The Golden Lamb and Lebanon, Ohio

2010-10-10T14:59:00.000-07:00

Well, it didn't quite happen as planned.

We had wanted to go to the Sauerkraut Festival in Waynesville this weekend. And because of that, we booked a night at the Golden Lamb Inn in Lebanon, Ohio (claimed as the oldest Inn in Ohio, with guests like Charles Dickens!). Two birds with one stone, we thought.

We had explored a little of the Southeast Corner of Columbus (Hocking Hills), and the Northeast part (Holmes County). So this weekend was going to be the Southwest portion with a festival to boot.

As we approached the exit for Waynesville, off of I-71, we changed our plans abruptly. There were so many cars, and a bit of traffic jam by the exit. Not a good sign, we thought. We were glad that a lot of people were heading to taste all kinds of sauerkraut, in all shapes and sizes. We just were not going to be one of them. Not this time.

Instead, we kept going on I-71, just a couple of exits beyond. We saw a brown sign on the highway, saying something about Fort Ancient Museum. That looked a lot more appealing to us than spending the afternoon with thousands of people, so we veered off, and found ourselves on an unplanned route.

Fort Ancient Museum tells the history (and pre-history) of Ohio: the Native Americans who used to call this land their home, and the importance of the Indian mounds found all over the state. We hiked a trail behind the museum, admiring the peak fall foliage on display. It was a lovely unexpected afternoon!

Our home for the evening, The Golden Lamb, did not disappoint. With its more than 200 years of history, 12 US Presidents and Charles Dickens as guests, the Inn delights in sharing their unique stories with their visitors. We loved the Shaker-ish decor and the beautifully decorated guest rooms (all named after visited Presidents). Our suite, with its own living room and ensuite bathroom, was the perfect choice for our family of four.

The Golden Lamb is also a popular restaurant, attracting visitors from all over. We were lucky to have made a reservation before hand and we did enjoy our dinner there (with the Inn's historian entertaining us with facts about The Golden Lamb and the town of Lebanon before our meal was served!).

So, it was a short, but sweet, and somewhat unexpected get-away that we would happily do again!

Blacklick Metro Park

2010-10-08T18:04:00.000-07:00

Have you been to Blacklick Metro Park?

I had not been until the other day when I was going to submit my photos for this contest. I wanted to hand deliver them at the park partly because I wanted an excuse to visit this park that is not too far from where we live.

I did not spend much time there, but like the other metro parks that I have been to, Blacklick seemed very well organized, with several hiking paths, picnic areas, and I hear that there is even a pond somewhere.

The fall leaves are beautiful right now, too, with some purple asters and goldenrods blooming away. Against that deep Autumn blue sky, it's picture perfect!

Leslie's Creperie

2010-10-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

I had planned on finding the Foodie Cart for lunch after seeing their tweeted location (close to where I was going be at lunch time), but got side tracked when I saw another crepe cart at the Pearl Market.

Paul, the crepe master, was very warm and personable (very much appreciated on a cold blustery day). He told me a bit of the history of Leslie's Creperie; the hard work that he and his wife had put into perfecting their European-inspired savory and sweet crepes. He also made sure that I knew that they are not competitors of the more Japanese-inspired counterpart. They are good friends, he said, and they are happy to be co-existing, making crepes for us to enjoy side by side!

I ordered a Spinach-Feta-Chicken crepe which Paul quickly made for me. He handed me the warm and perfectly wrapped crepe within minutes.

Who said fast food has to be unhealthy food? I am so pleased that Columbus seems to embrace the food-cart culture that provides fast, healthy treats with local business owners who are fulfilling their dreams.

Pearl Market

2010-10-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

I am just learning about Pearl Market downtown. I am learning that it's not just a farmer's market, but there is a bit of craft, handmade goods, food trucks and live music! I can see looking forward to Tuesdays and Fridays if I were to work downtown Columbus. I would look forward to saying hi and being fed by the local farmers and chefs, visiting artisans and musicians alike. Does this happen in the winter, too? I guess I can go here, to find out!

Foliage

2010-10-05T04:08:00.000-07:00

The fall foliage seems to really be going on now. I remember from living in New England that once this happens, you'd better enjoy it because next thing you know, the trees are bare, and we are bundled up with 6 layers, or more. Happy Fall!

Pumpkins!

2010-10-04T17:01:00.000-07:00

The weather was really too cold to spend the afternoon on a pumpkin patch. Although, it did add to the experience, and it made our pumpkin hunting more speedy!

We went south to Circle S farm with some friends after school. Although we have been to many pumpkin patches in the past (in California and Massachusetts) I did not know what to expect from this experience...except that we were going to pick some pumpkins from their vines. Little did we know, it was a sort of farm-amusement park with hay stacks, hay slides, maze, petting zoo, hay ride plus donuts and cider! We were not prepared for all of that!

At any rate, we had fun, and it helped that we were there during their lull, so the only people who shared our hay ride to the pumpkin patch were new parents of little twin girls. We shared stories of being parents of twins. It brought back many good memories of when my own were little wee ones...just about the size of the pumpkins we brought home.

Still Blooming

2010-10-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

I am pretty enchanted by the lotuses at Goodale Park. If you are ever near there, take a walk around the pond. The lotuses will capture you, even if for a moment.

Local Foods Week

2010-10-03T05:06:00.000-07:00

Columbus is super duper cool this week!

It's the second annual Local Foods Week, which got kicked off with the Market-to-Market bike event (biking between North Market and Hills Market), amongst many other events that focus on promoting local grown foods.

Visit Local Matters for more information. I am happy to find that there are plenty of locavores in this part of the country!

Happy Beautiful Fall Day!

2010-09-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

I was lucky to be on a beautiful piece of land like this on this glorious day! Enjoy!

Art in Downtown Columbus

2010-09-28T18:59:00.000-07:00

Plants grown on the Green Rooftop garden at the Ohio Urban Arts Space

View of COSI from the Supreme Court building Law Library

A room in the Supreme Court, fancy, eh?

Did you know there is a lot of hidden art in downtown Columbus?

Well, maybe they are not hidden to you if you have found them. I just happened to have found some of them today during my tour here and a self-guided tour here.

The best part? They are free! Free art (or at least the ones you can look at, not take home) does not come around very often! Take advantage of it and go explore downtown!

A little glimpse of Boston

2010-09-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

I have never really been a tourist in this city before. When you live in a place for a while, it becomes home, and you move about your home the way it's most convenient and comfortable for you.

For instance, this may be the first time that I am actually staying at a hotel in the middle of Boston. Though familiar to the area, I could not help but feel, well, like a tourist today.

So please enjoy some of these photos I took during my 4 hour walk from Commonwealth Ave. to Newbury Street, to the Boston Public Garden to Beacon Hill.

Boston is a very bike-friendly city. We should take after this, Columbus!

Dunkin' Donuts is everywhere here.

This sign made me happy.

Happy geese at the Public Garden.

A side street in Beacon Hill

Fall foliage

The John Hancock building

The Boston Public Garden, an oasis in the middle of the city.

We are only scratching the surface of this place!

Fieldtrip: Cambridge, MA

2010-09-25T13:28:00.000-07:00

Cool Columbus is taking a field trip this weekend, back to my old stomping grounds: Cambridge, Massachusetts.

I spent a lot of my formative years here, and feel very at home, even after many years of being away. It was great to hop on the 'T', even with that strange, yet familiar smell of the subway station.

I also love being part of the crowd that feels so familiar to me (even though I am older than those around me now). Harvard Sq. and its soul has not changed one bit. Even the chess master is still here, waiting to be challenged. Maybe our son will be sitting opposite from him one day!

The namesake and his weekend

2010-09-24T04:43:00.000-07:00

A little bird told me that this city has a way to celebrate Columbus Day the proper way?

Experience Columbus, the official visitor's bureau of this new, cool city of mine, has loads of ways for us to celebrate during Columbus Day weekend (Oct 8-11).

Every year in Columbus, on this fall weekend, a whole slew of Columbus attractions offer 50% off admission (or in some cases, BOGO or free). Plus, the tasty part -- Dine Originals Columbus restaurants offer 25% off.

If I were you, I would take advantage of what this city has to offer!

By the way, can someone tell me why this city is named after the infamous explorer? I would guess that he did not land his ship around here...?

Pawpaws

2010-09-22T14:14:00.000-07:00

Ah...the pawpaws. The semi-tropical native fruit to this area was well celebrated at the 12th annual Pawpaw Festival last weekend.

I didn't know anything about the fruit, but after eating and drinking and seeing everything pawpaw related, I am a bit more informed!

You can read more about the festival and my experience with the family here!

Cheryl's Cookies

2010-09-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

I got to be a fly on the wall at Cheryl's Cookies photo shoot the other day. This is because I am a lucky girl with a neighbor as a talented photographer. Although he himself does not shoot the cookies, he lets Cheryl's Cookies crew use his studio space. And what a beautiful space it is!

I could not get over how calm and peaceful the environment was. Everybody seemed so content, happy, at ease with the process... even with hundreds of cookies surrounding them.

Those cookies were well taken care of, too. They were dusted, precisely placed, angled and shot in the most professional way. I was impressed.

Athens Area

2010-09-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

Our first taste of Pawpaws!

And Pawpaw beer

We had a lovely 24 hours away from Columbus.

First there was the Pawpaw Festival where everything you needed to know (or eat, or drink) that had to do with the native fruit was right there (more on this later!).

Then there was Ohio University, and the town of Athens. Apparently (as I have now learned) a fierce rival of the OSU Buckeyes.

Then, there was Strouds Run State Park (where we camped) with its tranquil lake, sweet smelling hiking trails, and a lot of buckeye trees and huge toadstools!

We got a little of everything and we were only 1.5 hours away from home. If you have not gone south on Rt 33, I would highly recommend it. Even if it's just for a drive to see the change from flatness to hills!

It's worth a trip.

Topiary Garden

2010-09-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

With threatening rain in the forecast, I risked it to the Topiary Garden today!

It was as if I was entering a garden party with couples arm-in-arm, people rowing a boat, some may even be dancing (hard to tell with some of them). The park has an interesting background. Read about it here!

It surely is an oasis: a tranquil oasis right behind (now) one of my favorite libraries ever. I loved walking around these carefully cared-for topiaries, some of them have yet to fill in completely to what they are to become ( I feel like that on most days myself).

And the pond! With the huge Coi fish!! They surprised me, to say the least. I was wondering if the pond was big enough for these giants?

I didn't linger too long as the rain started to fall. I can imagine, though, on a sunny fall day, with the family and a picnic. It might just be the perfect spot to hang for a while.

Columbus Public Library

2010-09-14T05:55:00.000-07:00

Columbus, you have something to be very proud of!

Again, it has taken me a while to visit the main public library on Grant Street. Many people have suggested that I take the kids there, that they have a great kids' section, that there is an art gallery, that the library got Museum of the Year award.

Believe it or not, my librarian friend in Santa Cruz praised about this library even before we packed our boxes to leave town.

We are lucky to be only a couple of miles away from this beautiful place. I was a little dubious about parking only to be pleasantly surprised that there is a designated parking garage for the library, and that it is free for the first hour (and only 50 cents for 2 hours!).

The kids were excited at the selection of books. I was blown away by the architecture, the art gallery, the natural light that comes inside.

And I didn't even go upstairs to where all the books are.

I am setting up a date with myself to go there just to really get to know it some more.

Apple Picking and Taco eating, all in one morning

2010-09-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Just outside of the Columbus proper, you can be in farm-country. Now, because we are in the midwest here, there is a lot of corn in the farm country. A lot.

There are other things, too, of course. We have found some orchards, vegetable farms, farm markets. This being apple picking season, we wanted to have some for our favorite apple-related things: crisps, pies, cakes, or just plain crunchy apples for a snack.

I won't tell you where we went apple picking because we won't be going back there again (sad, I know). And I will be sure to tell you if we find one that is more to our pace. The apples are fine, don't get me wrong. We are just a bit more off-the-beaten-path-organic-crunchy-type apple pickers than we thought.

What we will tell you about, though, is our favorite taco truck. I wrote about them before. In fact, they made it as my first posting on this blog! Taqueria Morena.

Tucked behind a small market, on Livingston Ave, this Mexican family makes some very good tacos and burritos. This weekend they had melon fresca for a refreshing drink to go with the flavorful dishes.

If you think apples and tacos don't go together? You may have to think again!

Jeni's

2010-09-11T19:52:00.001-07:00

It's about time I talk about Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream.

It took us about one week into our lives in Columbus before we learned about Jeni's. Thanks to our marvelous neighbors who had us over for dinner a few days after our arrival, we were introduced to at least four flavors of Jeni's ice cream at the end of the meal.

Columbus has a lot of ice cream places, they said. But you have got to try Jeni's. She makes special ones!

My first Jeni's flavor was Wildberry-Lavender. It was intensely lavender, I am sure you know this if you have had it. And yet, I could not help myself eating more of it. Then came Salty Caramel. Now, I am used to sweet/salty/spicy desserts from my homeland. But as ice cream flavor? I think this was my first. And it worked! It really did. Again, I could not stop 'tasting' the flavors.

Bexley has its own Jeni's, so lucky us, we can walk or bike there from where we live easily. Of course, now that I have been around a bit, I have found that Jeni's is...well...everywhere!

You can find Jeni's at the North Market, on High St. in the Short North, in Grandview Heights on the main drag. And I am sure there are many more that I have not seen or heard about. The truth is, Columbus loves Jeni's. And I can understand why now!

I love how Jeni's is not afraid of change. The flavors change with the season (but there are many that stay put because they just work!). And Jeni herself does not seem afraid to be bold with her combinations. I also appreciate the Cow-to-Cone concept. I am still getting to know Snowville Creamery. The fact that Jeni's uses only Snowville's products is just, to me, quite as splendid as her ice cream is reputed to be.

Granville

2010-09-11T05:06:00.000-07:00

I spent many years in New England, many of my formative years.

And then I spent a lot of my 'adult' years in California, getting a masters degree, getting married, joining the most challenging yet rewarding career also known as parenthood.

So Ohio (and the midwest) is new to me: the way the houses look, the way the neighborhoods are designed, the fact that there is a lawn in front of each house instead of a garden or a fence, or both. I am getting used to it, slowly.

But then, just 40 minutes from here, there is Granville.

I have been told by many that I need to visit Granville, Ohio. I heard about their fabulous farmers' market, about their famous resident, about their small liberal arts college not unlike the one I attended in New England.

Yesterday was the day I was introduced in person to this sweet little town. We could not have ordered a more picture perfect September day either. My neighbor, an artist, needed to drop off some of her fabric pieces to the Gallery M in Granville, so I tagged along.

I was surprised that we could take E. Broad St. all the way from Bexley to Granville. Soon after leaving the strip malls and busy intersections that are far too common around here, we entered the tranquil countryside, corn fields and farmland. Before I knew it, we were entering Granville. I felt like I was back in New England.

We drove through downtown which has that familiar small/ college town feel with coffee shops and ice cream parlors and small locally own stores. We parked and walked around under shady trees to check out Denison's campus which purges on a hill. Walking back down to town, I noticed the houses with front porches, big gardens with beautiful flowers, some of the houses that have been standing since the early 19th century.

We poked into a sweet smelling tea shop, ate lunch at the Granville Inn, and ice cream at Whit's. We rummaged through someone's barn full of vintage and not so vintage stuff for sale. I felt like a tourist in a familiar land, and glad to know that I can return if ever I am feeling out of place, like a stranger in the greater Columbus area. There is this little village that can me feel at home.

Bangkok

2010-09-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

Mortars for Thai Papaya salad

A restaurant and a grocery store, Bangkok made me feel like I was transported back to my homeland...even if it's for a brief moment.

I was surprised to find out that the institution has been there for over 20 years, a long time for any restaurant to thrive, especially considering its off the beaten path location.

All kinds of frozen foods

We don't eat cheese in Thailand...but look at this! So they have more than just Thai groceries.

Some Asian vegetables. You can see here the somewhat hard to find Thai eggplants.

Pig parts, anyone?

The grocery store, though not as clean and bright and impeccable like Tensuke market, is well stocked with all one needs for Asian ingredients with some fresh produce, and a variety of frozen seafood, fruits, processed items, you name it! I was tempted to purchase a Durian, but I will wait for another day to put off our neighbors with its pungent smell (but oh, what a delicious fruit it is!). Maybe when they are gone on vacation?

You can also purchase several cookware for Thai dishes here: sticky rice steamer, mortar and pestle for Papaya salad, pots and woks and the like.

Notice, they are closed on Mondays!

The restaurant can use a face lift, no doubt. But we go there for Thai food, right? So if you ignore the decor, and the annoying Thai music video on the wall mounted television, you will get some very authentic Thai food in the middle of Ohio!

Pad See-Ew

Beef Noodle Soup

Because I was with the kids (who have very small tummies), we didn't order too many things. I did study the menu and noticed how extensive it was with all kinds of Thai soups, salads, and curries.

We ordered two kinds of noodles (Thai people like to have noodles for lunch, our version of fast food): Pad See Ew, and Beef Noodle Soup. They were both delicious and freshly prepared. We also ordered Thai iced coffee and iced tea which always go well with a Thai meal.

The pricing? Very affordable. We had a big container of leftovers to bring home, and the bill was less than $20.

We will be going back for sure, hungrier next time. My sticky-rice loving husband will be in heaven.

Bangkok Restaurant and Grocery
3277 Refugee Road
Columbus, OH 43232-4811
(614) 231-6878
Open Tue-Sat 11am-8pm; Sun 10am-8pm

Sunny Meadows Farm

2010-09-09T15:44:00.001-07:00

The kids and I visited Sunny Meadows Farm today after having contacted the farmers before hand to see if we could come out to see what they do. Steve and Greta could not have been nicer or more hospitable. The day was gorgeous, and I am sure they had a lot of work to do on the fields, and yet they spent so much time with us, giving us a tour of the farm, telling us about their past stories and of future dreams.

Fact is, there is a lot going on at their 10-acre farm. They are mostly growing flowers now with some seasonal vegetables. The farm supplies places like Whole Foods, and farmers markets around Columbus. There is a budding orchard, a small area for honeybees, a few greenhouses that grow food during the harsh winter months. Gretel also makes homemade soap!

Only five years into this way of life, the young couple is still learning about what works and what does not. I applaud them for following their goals of living and farming sustainably (they are not certified organic yet, but they do not use pesticides and are working towards becoming certified).

I can see a bright future for their farm, and so pleased to have found this little gem in a big city!

Sunny Meadows Flower Farm

3555 Watkins Road, Columbus, OH 43232

Market Locations

Granville Farmers Market
Downtown Granville
Saturdays 8 am - 12 pm
June - October

Pearl Market
Pearl Alley (across from the statehouse), Downtown Columbus
Tuesdays and Fridays 10:30am - 2pm
May - October

Upper Arlington Farmer's Market
Arlington Ave.
Wednesday 3:30pm to 6pm

Downtown Columbus

2010-09-08T13:29:00.000-07:00

Beautiful golden tomatoes at a stand in Pearl Alley

Downtown Columbus is smaller than any other big cities I have been to (I am thinking Boston, New York, San Francisco, London, Paris... you know, big cities). It's still new to me, though, so who knows maybe it is bigger than I think.

The intersection of Gay/High Streets is where the main action is.

Before I go there, though, can I just talk a wee bit about the parking lot? Right there, downtown, I found a spot in a Public parking lot. After locking the car, I looked for a self-pay machine...or a person, or something. And this is what I found: an honor box self-pay station where you put money into the number slot corresponding to where your car is parked. I have done this once, in Boise, Idaho. But right here in the middle of Columbus? I was a bit dubious, but loved it at the same time.

Downtown is also where a lot of the many glorious Columbus food trucks congregate for people to grab a quick lunch. I spotted the Three Babes and a Baker cupcake truck by the parking lot...made a mental note to self that I needed to get some goodies to bring home to the kids (they have $1/kid cupcakes!).

Then I headed to the Cajun food truck for a my first ever crab cake po'boy! It was so big (and good!) that I had to share with my friends!

Then there was the Pearl Alley market which happened to be selling on Tuesdays. The produce was more varied than our tiny Bexley Farmers' market, and there were other booths selling coffee, artisan bread, crafts and much more. Again, I made a mental note to self to return.

So...downtown Columbus...not so bad! There are a few notable restaurants and coffee shops as well. Too bad (or rather, luckily) I don't frequent downtown too often. But if you are looking for some (eating) action, there is some to be found there, for sure.

Japanese Goodness

2010-09-06T18:49:00.001-07:00

Even though I grew up in Thailand, I think I had more Japanese food growing up than anything else. Well, maybe not quite, but it sure feels like it!

I love Japanese food, and can probably eat it everyday. Since we got to Columbus, we have been told about a few 'good' Japanese / Sushi restaurants. It was pretty unanimous that we needed to check out Akai Hana, and Kihachi.

Since I needed a place to celebrate a birthday dinner, I first called Kihachi to make a reservation for a Monday evening table... Of course, they were going to be closed. So Akai Hana it was.

Being new in town, we relied on our GPS to take us to this new area of town. We had had no reason to go to this area before, but once there, it felt like a whole new-Japanese-world opened up to us!! A restaurant, a market, a bakery? All Japanese. Phenomenal!

Tensuke market was impeccably clean, and stocked with everything you need to enjoy Japanese meals. I even found frozen Amish Chicken tenders there, along with fresh fish, fresh vegetables and all sorts of Japanse goodies.

The restaurant, well, was superb! Our children devoured their meals (edemame, sushi rolls and Una-ju), and my husband and I enjoyed our udon and tendon quite a bit. I was even surprised with fried green ice cream at the end for a birthday treat. No candle on it, though. Do you think it would have melted the treat?

All I can say is that I am certain that all my Japanese cravings will be satisfied now in this new home town of ours.

Akai Hana
1173 Old Henderson Road
Columbus, OH 43220-3607
(614) 451-5411

Tensuke Market
1167 Old Henderson Road
Columbus, OH 43220-3607
(614) 451-6002

Stauf's Coffee

2010-09-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

Birthday Coffee. Where to go better than Stauf's in Grandview?

To be honest, I had not spent much time in Grandview, yet. I did come into this coffee shop before, without any purchase, just to have a look around. And that is why I returned there today, with my family in tow.

The retail/ coffee shop has a great ambiance. If I were still a student (alas...those days are over), I could see spending hours of my days here with text books, and a computer, and a lot of caffeine being fed through my veins. Alright, let's get back to reality.

I brought my husband and children here because 1) I knew my coffee-loving husband would love it, and 2) I knew my pastry-loving children would love the selection of scones/muffins/bagels they have beautifully displayed at the counter. And I am glad to tell you that I was right on both accounts!

Stauf's
1277 Grandview Avenue
Columbus, OH 43212-3438
(614) 486-4861

Three Creeks Metro Park

2010-09-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

Our mission of visiting more metro parks around Columbus continues!

We didn't go to Three Creeks Metro Park today for any special event. We brought a picnic lunch, followed the directions, and just hit the road.

Since we live in Bexley, catching highway 33 south is a breeze. A few minutes later, we found ourselves at the Huron Pond. Soon, we discovered that this park is more extensive and spread out than we had thought. There was a 'nature playground' area where we had wanted to check out, but it seemed a bit out of our way (from Huron Pond), so we will have to check that out next time.

The park was very well used, with numerous bicyclists, families, and fishermen! There are plenty of trails, too, for short or long walks around the creeks and ponds.

We will go back there, for sure, with more time to explore, and maybe a fishing rod or two. How nice to have an easy access to some natural area so close by.

THREE CREEKS METRO PARK
3860 Bixby Road
Groveport, OH 43125