Stops, Shops & Snapshots by Sara

  Birthday Cheers at Sugar Run Brewing Company What do you do for a birthday in Altoona, PA? If you’re me—you hit a brewery! I’d heard great things about Sugar Run, so I convinced Mom to join me. Spoiler alert: once we arrived, we discovered they offered more than just beer—a definite win for Mama Gable. We pulled in behind the nostalgic Meadows and Slinky Action Zone and were immediately charmed by the site, which features the brewery itself, corn hole, and both indoor and outdoor seating. Following a recommendation from Mom’s friend, we started with the carrots—delightful—and then shared the pork belly flatbread, which struck the perfect balance of salty and sweet. The interior really stood out to me: a space that feels lively and inviting in the summer but cozy enough to snuggle into during a Pennsylvania winter. Sugar Run Brewing Company is a birthday (or any day) win in every sense.

  Peach-Perfect Brunch with My Bestie at Fannie’s This darling restaurant just off Main Street in Warwick was the perfect spot for a post-tennis brunch with my bestie. I was in town visiting my longtime pal Mandy, and we kicked off our girl’s day with a clinic at Matchpoint Tennis in Goshen (a total steal at $35 for 90 minutes of play!). Afterward, we headed into Warwick, whose downtown was even more charming—and bigger—than I expected. Mandy hadn’t been to Fannie’s yet, so we decided it was the ideal choice. As best friends do, we ordered to share for maximum deliciousness. She went for a Bloody Mary, I opted for a Mimosa (fresh-squeezed OJ—yes, please!), and then we split two standout dishes: an omelette with fresh summer veggies (zucchini and tomato) and the absolute star, French toast topped with local peaches. As a peach lover, I couldn’t resist—and it was every bit as heavenly as I hoped. The service was just right—prompt without being rushed—so we had plenty of time t...

Bites, Bread, and Bliss in Pittsburgh’s Ever-Charming Strip District Delicious from start to finish! We kicked things off with the meatballs and whipped ricotta —absolute perfection—but honestly, the star for me was the bread. Imagine a magical hybrid of naan and pizza dough, warm and pillowy, perfect for savoring on its own or with dips. We also shared the cauliflower appetizer [pictured], which was just as delightful. For entrees, my friend opted for the chicken, and it was enormous—plenty to enjoy and even share if you’re not too greedy! The environment was lively and welcoming, and our servers were exceptional. They even split our shared salad for us without hesitation, which felt like such a thoughtful touch. After our meal, we couldn’t resist stopping by the pastry line to take treats home for Emily’s husband and kids. The line moved quickly, and the display was brimming with more tempting pastries than we could possibly choose from—everything looked incredible! And let’s tal...

A Leisurely Lunch That Stole the Afternoon!!   Nice is nice, but this afternoon with Danny turned out to be a highlight of our trip! We were waiting for friends arriving from Antibes and decided to treat ourselves to a slow, indulgent lunch—the kind that feels essential when you’re on the French Riviera. A quick search led us to La Villa Massenet , and we wandered in, instantly welcomed by the staff with that effortless French warmth. The space itself is charming and thoughtfully appointed, with comfortable tables that invite you to linger. We lucked into a spot beside the service window (not everyone's go to, but for me it's a front-row seat to the parade of beautiful dishes making their way out of the kitchen) —each dish that went by was tempting us to order just a little more than we could manage. I had the lamb shank (pictured) and it was perfectly cooked—rich, tender, and full of flavor. Danny’s beef tartare was equally delightful. And if that weren’t enough, a sweet...

Bill’s Grill:   When traveling with my dad and his partner, MJ, I’ve learned they’re happiest revisiting their tried-and-true favorites from past adventures. So when I suggested a new detour on our drive back from the Crystal Coast, I braced myself for polite hesitation. But sometimes a little nudge toward something new pays off — and this one really did. Bill’s Grill in Wilson, NC, has that perfect mix of small-town warmth and good, honest cooking. It’s an easy hop off Highway 795, and within minutes of walking in, we felt like locals. The cheeseburger was outstanding — I went “all in” with chili and pickles, and it was worth every bite. The fries and hush puppies were freshly fried, hot, and crispy, the kind of sides you can’t stop picking at even when you think you’re full. And the cake… let’s just say it deserves its own billboard. Moist, homemade, and served with the kind of pride that makes you believe the recipe’s been passed down for generations. It tasted exactly ...

Burgers Worth the Detour – Ted’s in Meriden:   Another road trip gem you only discover when you have an adventurous co-pilot! This stop was with Anastasia, a Boston Beer Bestie, when we were both making the drive from NYC back to Boston. I was thrilled to have an excuse to veer off the highway, and Anastasia’s research delivered big time. Ted’s Restaurant is famous for its steamed cheeseburgers — a regional specialty you don’t often see outside of Connecticut. I went for the Everything Burger, which was stacked, juicy, and full of flavor in every bite. Anastasia chose the Black & Blue, which had that perfect tangy bite from the blue cheese. Both were satiating, comforting, and exactly the kind of road trip indulgence you want. We also ordered the chili cheese homefries and a basket of French fries, which came out fresh, hot, and full of flavor. Even though we could hardly make a dent in them (thanks to those monster burgers), we loved every bite we managed to sneak in....

Call Your Mother—And Tell Her Breakfast Was Amazing:   We booked a 9:00 a.m. reservation at Mother's Bistro & Bar to beat the rush (and because our Willamette Valley wine tour bus was pulling out of downtown promptly at 10:30 a.m.)—and it turned out to be the perfect way to start the day. Mother’s has that welcoming, slightly nostalgic vibe you want in a breakfast spot, but with an elevated menu that still feels indulgent. One of the best parts? They offer half portions of certain dishes—ideal for leaving satisfied without feeling too stuffed to enjoy the rest of the day’s festivities. I went for the salmon hash, perfectly seasoned and rich without being heavy, while my friends ordered the decadent challah French toast and the flavorful Greek frittata. Everything was beautifully prepared and arrived quickly, which we appreciated given our tight timeline. I also loved that Mother’s has a little retail section with their signature “Call Your Mother” mugs. Of course, I co...

The Original Pancake House --  Pancakes that will even win over non-pancake fans!   I’m not someone who craves pancakes often—maybe once every few years—but these were worth the trip and the treat. The moment I walked in, the charming, spotless atmosphere set the tone. Everything on the table tasted fresh, clearly made with quality ingredients and care. I went for the blueberry pancakes , which were light, fluffy, and bursting with juicy berries - so so fresh. My friend ordered the Dutch Baby , a showstopper of a dish—golden, puffy, and perfect with a dusting of powdered sugar and a squeeze of fresh lemon. We shared an order of fresh berries  (those blueberries were as big as Willy Wonka!!). and crispy hash browns on the side, both well worth adding. Our server was prompt, kind, and genuinely friendly. She even offered insider tips for my next stop in Astoria—proof that great hospitality goes beyond just good service. If you’re in Portland and want breakfast th...

Two Fat Cats Bakery — Sweet as Pie in Portland If you find yourself in Portland, Maine, and are even remotely a dessert lover, make your way to Two Fat Cats Bakery . I was visiting from out of town with one very specific mission: try an authentic Maine blueberry pie. Mission accomplished — and deliciously so. We ordered a mini blueberry pie to share, which turned out to be the perfect choice. The crust was exactly what you hope for in a homemade pie — light and flaky, but with just enough substance to cradle the filling without getting soggy. The blueberry filling itself was bursting with flavor — sweet, tangy, and fresh, like summer in every bite. The staff were as warm as the baked goods. When I ordered an iced tea and then immediately changed my mind, they happily swapped it for an Arnold Palmer without hesitation. That kind of small-town kindness makes the experience feel extra special. If I lived in Portland, I’d be here far too often — for the pies, yes, but also for the sen...

Finelli’s Italian Villa: A Timeless Altoona Classic Finelli’s has been a beloved Altoona institution for as long as I can remember. It’s the kind of place that marks milestones—my high school prom dinner was here, and years later, I brought my college boyfriend to experience one of Altoona’s most special dining spots. It's more than just a restaurant; it’s a local rite of passage. Some reviewers mention the ambiance—yes, it leans into an old-school fine dining look, but that’s part of its charm. This isn’t big-city sleek or trendy minimalism. This is Altoona elegance, and it's beloved for a reason. Think of it like a Frank Sinatra ballad: you keep it on repeat because it always speaks to your heart. The food is consistently great. My chicken parmesan was top notch—crispy, saucy, cheesy, and served piping hot. The portion was generous, but I still made room for dessert. Every sweet on the menu is made in-house, and you can absolutely taste the love in each bite. Finelli’s is...

Genesis House: A Multi-Sensory Journey Through Korean Cuisine and Art Four of us ventured into Genesis House on a warm / hazy June afternoon, lured by the mesmerizing Forest installation on the ground floor—a tranquil, immersive art space that immediately set the tone for what turned out to be a memorable New York experience. What began as a casual exploration quickly turned into a full-on culinary celebration when we discovered the elegant restaurant tucked away upstairs. We decided to go all in with the tasting menu and beverage pairings—and it was absolutely the right call. Each course arrived like a small gift: thoughtful, beautifully plated, and rich in flavor and intention. The first course, a refreshing and gorgeously composed mulhwe (a chilled raw fish dish -- see picture above!), set a high bar with its clean flavors and artistic presentation. Just when we thought the kitchen couldn’t top it, the meal concluded with a transcendent pear shaved ice—ethereal, delicate, and ser...

Senza Gluten: Celiac-Safe, Comfortably Italian in the West Village Let’s be honest: finding a solid gluten-free Italian meal that actually tastes like the real deal is a tough order—especially when you’ve spent your life surrounded by Italian food culture. I grew up in Altoona, PA, where red-sauce joints are a local religion, and I now live in NYC, where Italian is practically its own borough. Between the two, I’ve grown a bit picky about what counts as “good” Italian. That said, Senza Gluten is doing something admirable and rare: offering a fully gluten-free menu that doesn’t feel like a tradeoff. I visited with a friend who eats strictly gluten-free for health reasons, and it was such a pleasure to have an entire menu available without needing to ask for modifications or risk cross-contamination. I ordered the lasagna, which was comforting and generously portioned. The gluten-free pasta was surprisingly well textured—not gummy or grainy like so many can be—and layered with rich ...

Root 11: Where the Puns Are as Fresh as the Produce Bloomsburg, PA Sometimes you’re road-tripping across Pennsylvania on Route 80, and your stomach sends you one of two messages: “Let’s find something deep-fried and covered in cheese” or “Help. Please. A vegetable would be nice.” Enter Root 11 , an absolute gem just off Route 11 in Bloomsburg, and yes — I practically squealed when I saw the name. I live for a well-executed pun, and this one is spot on. Not only is it a clever nod to its location, but also to the root veggies, wholesome ingredients, and local goodness that fuel their menu. I rolled in with my trusty co-pilot — who, unlike me and my usual salt-and-sweets pit stops, prioritizes energizing, nutritious meals. Root 11 fit the bill perfectly . I ordered a fresh, vibrant salad with a side of their creamy broccoli cheddar soup (gluten-free and soy-free!), plus a refreshing hibiscus lemonade that just tasted like wellness in a glass. Bonus: they have outdoor seating! My d...

  Bridge View Tavern: A Legendary Bite in Sleepy Hollow Exactly what I needed. On a spontaneous detour from Connecticut back into NYC, I decided to make the most of the scenic route and wound up in the historic village of Sleepy Hollow—yes, that Sleepy Hollow. And while the town is best known for its spooky Headless Horseman lore (especially in the fall), I discovered something just as legendary in its own right: Bridge View Tavern . This laid-back spot feels like a local secret you’ll be glad you stumbled upon. Cozy and unpretentious, it offers solid New American fare with a twist—and a beer list that would impress even your pickiest hops-loving friend. I was greeted by Patty, who introduced herself by name (something I will always appreciate—it’s that little extra touch that turns service into hospitality). I felt immediately welcomed and unrushed. Feeling adventurous, I went for the elk burger , stepping outside of my usual order—and I’m so glad I did. It was juicy, flavor...

  Gio's BBQ — A Strong 4 Stars! 📍 Somewhere off Route 80, Pennsylvania When you're road tripping across Route 80 and hunger strikes, you hope to stumble on a place like Gio’s . A local favorite with a cult following, Gio’s caught our attention not just for the smoky smells wafting from the parking lot, but for its unexpected location— tucked right inside a gas station . Welcome to Pennsylvania, where maximizing space (and traffic) is a bit of an art form. My friend Rachel, a fellow foodie from my Heinz days, flagged it as a must-try, and when she suggests a spot, I don’t ask questions—I say absolutely . Let me tell you: I loved my pulled pork sammy. Saucy, tender, and flavorful enough to make you want to linger—even if you’re just stopping for gas. The ambiance? Let’s call it gas-station-grit meets nostalgic comfort. The booths gave me  Sir-A-Skate flashbacks —a perfect nod for those of us who grew up near Altoona, but even if you didn’t, I think most people can pictu...

Wyndridge Farm: A Scenic Sip, A Delicious Bite, and a Side of Sunday Football I recently had the pleasure of visiting Wyndridge Farm with my cousins, one of whom lives nearby in Red Lion, PA—so this spot was just a hop, skip, and a beautiful country drive away. The rolling hills and golden fields set the tone for what turned out to be a perfectly relaxed and memorable outing. Our group of ten was seated in the brewery section, which immediately gave me a nostalgic nod back to my days at The Boston Beer Company . There’s something about the vibe of a working brewery that feels both rustic and alive—with tanks hissing quietly in the background and the comforting scent of hops in the air. If you’re looking for a more elevated or formal setting, I’d recommend asking for the dining room, but for our gathering, the brewery was spot-on. Now, the food: they handled our large group with ease, and the service was efficient and friendly. I ordered the chicken and waffles , which hit all the s...

Come for the mushrooms, stay for the cake (or give it to Mom ) I've had The Wine Cellar on my must-try list for months, and it finally happened. This cozy, candlelit little spot is literally in a cellar--and it oozes charm. Pro tip: they're only open a few days a week, so call or shoot them a Facebook message to make sure you're on the list! Here's the inside story... Back in mid-March, I was visiting my hometown of Altoona, PA when my mom said, “Have you ever been to The Wine Cellar?” I hadn’t—but her excitement got me curious. I checked online (Thursday? Perfect!) and we drove up to Gallitzin, only to find it… closed. Rookie mistake. My New York instincts should’ve known better— you always call ahead in Central PA! My mom had a good laugh, and I had to admit defeat. 😄 Fast forward to post-July 4th weekend—we finally made it in, and it was so worth the wait . Now the food... We started with the Drunken Mushrooms, and let me tell you, they were earthy, wine-kissed p...