InnBrattleboro » Amy Brady

Cafe a la Carte

Amy Brady — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:40:27 +0000

“Upscale street cart.” It sounds like an oxymoron, right? Aren’t street carts supposed to serve hot dogs and soft pretzels?

That’s why I was so intrigued when a friend of mine who works in downtown Brattleboro told me I have to check out Cafe a la Cart, a brand new “upscale street cart” on Elliot Street right next door to one of our other favorites, Peter Havens.

I stopped by the bright white cart (which is more like a trailer, complete with a grill, prep station and lunch counter) last week and was immediately drawn to the colorful menu propped up against it. It soon became clear why this curbside chow stop was branded “upscale”. While the menu consisted of basic items like burgers, quesadillas, hot dogs and sausage, peppers and onions, the ingredients and preparation were anything but typical.

I went for the “Vermont Farm Burger,” made with all-natural, Vermont-raised beef. Instead of a roll, it’s served on a Portuguese muffin, a crisp and slightly sweet bun. For extra zing, chef/owner Zach Corbin-Teich adds homemade pickles that he cures himself. A fixins bar on the lunch counter is complete with the standard mustard and ketchup, plus a variety of hot sauces, relish and fresh chopped onions.

For the veg-heads, Zach, who has served as chef at several upscale Vermont restaurants over the years, includes a veggie burger on the menu. There is also an “Egg McZach” breakfast sandwich served all day.

Wherever possible, Cafe a la Cart uses fresh local ingredients, all homemade. As innkeepers, we really appreciate that. We do the same for our breakfasts and really try to support others who support the local farms and farmers. The carts daily specials are always listed on a separate chalkboard (when I visited, homemade potato salad and chocolate cookies were waiting). The only drink on the menu, beside bottled water, is fresh-squeezed lemonade, squeezed to order before your eyes (soooo good). Newbies to the Cart may not notice, but there is a shaded picnic table hidden just behind it. Have a seat and relax while you eat, watching the world go by on Elliot St.

You might expect to pay upscale prices at an upscale cart, but nothing on the menu is more than $6. It’s a cash-only establishment, and Zach keeps the windows open from 11 – 5 every day but Sunday and Monday.

So if you’re thinking of coming up to visit Brattleboro this summer, make sure you stop by Cafe a la Cart. Just a short stroll from our Brattleboro inn and the perfect spot for a casual but delicious lunch.

Whitewater Rafting with Zoar Outdoor

Amy Brady — Sat, 29 May 2010 13:56:52 +0000

Whitewater Rafting is a great way to spend a hot summer day. We recently enjoyed an awesome whitewater rafting adventure with the great team down at Zoar Outdoor. Just a short 45 minute scenic drive from our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, Zoar Outdoor is located in Clarlemont, MA.

Being new to this, we went on the beginner whitewater rafting trip called the Zoar Gap. This trip is 10 miles of fun on the Deerfield River consisting of mainly class I and II but a small stretch of class III rapids. That makes it perfect for all ages and skill levels. Of course if you are a more advanced whitewater rafter they recommend you check out one of their tours down the Miller River where you can find some class IV and V rapids.

But back to our adventure, we arrived, signed in and met their fun staff. We point that out as sometimes guided tours can be a bust solely because of the guides. On occasion we have found that they forget that while they are experts, we are not. The folks at Zoar really went out of their way to introduce the sport to us and got us excited about our trip, and about coming back for more. So after a short lesson on how to use the equipment we were off getting fitted for life jackets PFDs (learned that in the lesson), helmets and oars. Then we jumped on the bus to the “put in”. Once in the water our instructor Katie began cracking a few jokes and chatted us all up so we could get to know one another better. There were 2 other Zoar Outdoor rafts on the water with us, so when we were not navigating the rapids we found ourselves horsing around and having splash fights with the other rafts. Just after we maneuvered our way through the most aggressive part of the journey, the class III rapids, we stopped for a homemade picnic lunch. Lunch consisted of homemade salsa, hummus, organic lunch meat, freshly baked rolls, homemade pasta salad and cookies for dessert. That was just the energy boost we needed to finish our trip.

Overall, we had a blast! Not only was this the perfect activity to cool off on a hot day, but we got a little exercise and made some new friends. So weather you are a beginner or an expert at whitewater rafting, you should check out Zoar Outdoor for a great afternoon adventure during your trip to Brattleboro. And of course, we hope that you’ll spend the night with us at Forty Putney Road B&B!

Strolling of the Heifers

Amy Brady — Fri, 28 May 2010 16:23:39 +0000

It is that time of year once again, that’s right, the Strolling of the Heifers here in Brattleboro. You may be thinking why or who would possibly want to see a bunch of cows walk down Main Street? It is pretty clear by last year’s photos as to who would attend such an event, everyone! So here are my top 3 reasons this is the biggest event in Brattleboro, and a must attend.

#3 Cows are cute!

Who can resist the cute face of a cow. Not only will you see their cute faces you will see them all dressed up for the event. We are not just talking about live cows either. We are talking about paper machete cows on floats, stuffed cows on the side of the road, cow aprons, cow T-shirts, balloon cows, people dressed up like cows and finally cow scarecrows (with a political message of course…this is Brattleboro, VT after all).

#2 Not just cows?

That is correct this parade is not all about cows it is about a community joining together to celebrate local agriculture and do what we love to do here in Brattleboro… that is to parade down Main Street. According to local historians the town of Brattleboro has been parading down Main Street since the 1800’s. You will find more than just cows parading down Main Street, you will also see the kind of parade you may remember as a child. That’s right this parade has marching bands, unicyclists, stilt walkers, clubs, local businesses, men and women driving historic tractors and little cars. That’s not all…don’t forget about the circus. The local circus school will be in the parade and performing afterward.

Be sure to be here Friday night as well for a killer Gallery Walk. Downtown will be blocked off to traffic for an awesome block party. A stage will go up for live performances and street performers will be out in full force.

#1 Free Ice Cream and Cheese!

After the parade we stroll just a few blocks to the Brattleboro Retreat where tent after tent is set up. Each tent is serving locally made dairy products including milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. The best part is it is all free…that’s right free!

Clear your schedule on June 4th and 5th (2010), book a room at Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast and join the festivities. This is sure to be worth the trip!

Ice Fishing

Amy Brady — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 22:04:33 +0000

Ever wonder about those little huts out on the ice around Vermont? Well, beside creating a great “Norman Rockwell” backdrop at our Vermont Inn, they are used by ice fishermen to keep warm and dry. A few days ago Tim headed out on the ice with our friend Doug, who operates a small local outdoor adventure guide service, to learn a bit about the basics of ice fishing.

Watch as Doug explains the simple equipment you will need to ice fish, as well as shares some tips for an enjoyable experience on the ice.

The Retreat Meadows is a very popular ice fishing spot in Brattleboro, and is luckily located just behind our bed and breakfast. We are happy to make reservations with Doug at Brattleboro Outdoors if you would like to borrow an ice shanty for the day, or have a guided afternoon of ice fishing (or other outdoor activities). Of course, we hope that if you are heading to Vermont, you will stay with us here at Forty Putney Road!

For details about ice fishing in Vermont, you can check out BrattleboroOutdoors.com.

Artists in Brattleboro: The Cotton Mill

Amy Brady — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:19:35 +0000

The Cotton Mill is an old mill in Brattleboro, Vermont that has been converted into studio space for artist and performers. The first weekend in December the Cotton Mill opens to the public with demonstrations and art for sale, just in time to pick up some great holiday gifts. Since the space is not usually open to the public, many of the pieces of art you see in this video can be purchased at the shops downtown including Gallery in the Woods and The Artisan Design.

If you would like to contact these artist directly please find their information below:

Natalie Blake Studios
802-254-9761

T. Breeze Verdant
Marquetry & Inlay
802-258-9820

Solinglass
802-251-0389

If you would like to contact any of the performers in this video please find their information below:

Luminz Dance Studio
802-254-9200

John Hughes Music

Nimble Arts New England Center for Circus Arts

And for information on Brattleboro and the surrounding area, please keep an eye on our website InnBrattleboro.com or spend some time with us at our inn, Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast here in Brattleboro Vermont. Thanks for watching!

Keene Pumpkin Festival in Keene, New Hampshire

Amy Brady — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 20:52:48 +0000

The Keene Pumpkin Festival in Keene, New Hampshire is the kind of event you have to see to believe. Last year the total pumpkin count was 25,644. This year even more are expected on October 17th when folks from all around bring their customized pumpkins to Keene for the 17th annual pumpkin festival.

The jack-o-lanterns line the streets of downtown Keene, set up on huge scaffolds. At night they are even illuminated, creating a spectacular glow of pumpkin colored light into the night. This event, like any good fall festival, is complete with craft and art vendors, live music and entertainment, fireworks and of course lots of great food (last year Tim unsuccessfully tried to eat his weight in cider donuts).

So carve your pumpkin and take it to the Keene Pumpkin Festival! Help them reach their world record goal this year of 29,000 pumpkins – topping their old world record which was just short of that. For lots of information about the festival and a schedule of this years event, check out www.pumpkinfestival.org.

Tubing in Vermont

Amy Brady — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:06:47 +0000

I am all about spending a sunny summer day outside as you can see from the video above. One of my favorite leisurely outdoor activities is tubing on the West River in Southern Vermont. The best part is the tube rental and the river are located very close to our Bed and Breakfast. The West River is great for tubing as it is not too deep, the water is moving at a good speed, and it offers variety. In some spots you are just floating along while in others you are gently bumping your way through the large smooth river rocks. What a relaxing way to spend a hot summer day.

If you are planning a trip to Brattleboro and you choose to stay with us here at Forty Putney Road B&B, we can help you with your tubing adventure. We will direct you to the tube rental (Vermont Canoe Touring Center 802-257-5008) to pick up a tub and life jacket, you can follow us in your car to the ending point where you will leave your car, we will then drive you and your tubes to the launch site. The launch site is located at the West Dummerston Covered Bridge this trip will take you about 2 hours depending on the speed of the current. Then all you have to do is float down the river and get out at the nearby swimming hole where your car will be parked. What do you need to bring? We suggest water shoes and sunscreen. You will find beach towels at our B&B that you can borrow. So cool off this summer in a tube on the West River – and at Forty Putney Road B&B!

Brattleboro Farmers Market

Amy Brady — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 15:29:22 +0000

There is a movement across America to begin purchasing products that are made locally. Whole Foods, food cooperatives and local grocers have gained serious popularity in the last few years.

I think people are moving this direction for several reasons. One reason is certainly the recent contamination scares from imported produce. This year it was salmonella in tomatoes (but really they meant peppers) and don’t forget that last year it was scallions. Of course, I also think Americans are more health conscious then ever before and they are looking for organic choices for their families. I am reminded of the line in the Counting Crows song:

Farmer, farmer, put away your DDT, I don’t care about spots on my apples leave me the birds and the bees…please.

Of course for me personally, it is mostly about supporting my small commuity and the people in it.

Here in Brattleboro (and I would venture to say most of Vermont) there is a strong showing of support for the fellow “little guy”. It’s awesome to be able to support the local economy and eat wonderful locally produced produce – and the easiest way to do both is at the Brattleboro Farmers Market.

The market is held every Saturday between 9am – 2pm (there’s a smaller version on Wednesdays as well). Set outdoors on a great sliver of land with a covered bridge in the distance and next to the oldest house in Brattleboro, the Brattleboro Farmers Market is a must see for anyone visitng the area.

Some of my favorite vendors include True North Granola (which we offer here at Forty Putney Road B&B), Pottery Works (where my sister got her wedding china), and Dutton Farm. I just can not get enough of Dutton Farms herbs, flowers and fresh produce. You can also find hand made jewelry, homemade jams, breads, and pastries. Be sure to save room for lunch as you will find stand after stand of Thai, Mexican, Indian, South African and more. We are huge Anon’s Thai fans and find that the farmers market is the ideal setting to enjoy their great Thai food. Of course its all topped off with occasional live music, great people and some pretty killer lemonade…

If you are looking to visit the farmers market, it is located near the Creamery Bridge in Brattleboro Vermont. It’s open from 9am – 2pm on Saturdays from May through October. Wednesdays they move a small version of the market into the Brattleboro Food Co-Op parking lot as well, for the same hours.

Of course, the farmers market is just one of the great things to do around Brattleboro. We hope that you will spend a night or two at our beautiful Vermont Inn and we will be glad to share some more of Brattleboro’s treasures with you.

Dutton Berry Farm Newfane, VT

Amy Brady — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:56:16 +0000

Dutton Berry Farm has three locations in Southern Vermont. They sell a wide variety of wonderful fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade fudge and jams. Some even have a full bakery with homemade soups. Last year we even get our Inns Christmas Tree there.

Of course, Dutton Berry Farm still has plenty of berry’s – which of course are where it all started. The owner Paul grew up in Southern Vermont on a Dairy Farm. He pursued his education in Agriculture and gained hands-on training in Michigan while working on some berry farms. In the early 1980′s he moved back to Vermont, married his wife Wendy, and they opened their first farm stand. In the mid to late 1980′s they purchased their first “Duttton Berry Farm” and stand in Newfane, VT (still open today). By the early 1990′s they purchased their second location an orchard in West Brattleboro and then yet another farm stand in Manchester, VT. Just this past year they built a brand (and quite beautiful if I may say) new farm stand at their West Brattleboro location.

Don’t want someone else selecting your berries for you? Picking your own fruit is a great way to spend a summer day here in Vermont. Dutton Berry Farm offers Strawberry and Raspberry picking seasonally from 7am – 7pm. Strawberry season runs from about June 15 – July 15 and Raspberry season runs from mid July through early September. Berry picking is one of my personal favorite summer time activities. I love using the fresh picked berries in our scrumptious breakfasts like my Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast.

Dutton Berry Farm stands are located on Route 30 in Newfane, Route 9 in West Brattleboro, and in Manchester, VT. Hours vary seasonally. Dutton Berry Farm products can also be found at the Brattleboro Farmer’s Market every Wednesday and Saturday from May – October.

Hiking Mt. Wantastiquet in Hinsdale, NH

Amy Brady — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 11:00:39 +0000

Mt. Wantastiquet in Hinsdale, NH is just a short walk from downtown Brattleboro, VT and is one of our favorite simple hikes. It’s easily walkable from our Vermont B&B, and offers 3 great choices for hiking.

Start by walking downtown and crossing the steel bridge into New Hampshire. Make the first left and follow that dirt road to the end. You’ll see a small parking area, where you can head off in several directions.

When we want to take a leisurely stroll with the dog we head to the left and take the nearly flat walk along the Connecticut River.

When we are looking to build some endurance we will head up the hill to the right, and take the winding switchback style jeep trail to the top of the mountain. This trail is pretty gradual, but a steady climb. We would label it as a moderate hike, and it takes about three hours from our front door to the top and back.

Finally, if we are short on time, we will take the short cut straight up the mountain which is much steeper, but shorter. We would label that path moderately difficult, this trail only take about two hours from our door step and back.

Both the switchback and the short cut will take you to a clearing at the top where you will see panoramic views of Brattleboro and the river valley. Even on a hazy day you can see our slate roof peaking out over the trees and our huge Japanese Maple with its bright red leaves, in the back yard.

If you are really looking for a longer adventure, venture over the top of the mountain and hike the backside down all the way to the old “Castle” (see our haunted hike). Be warned though, that is a long trek.

When you come off of the mountain, you walk back to the Inn through downtown, where you can stop to enjoy a well deserved lunch. This certainly makes Mount Wantastiquet a great local hike and one of the many reasons we love living in Brattleboro.

For more great Brattleboro area activities, be sure to keep an eye on our blog at InnBrattleboro.com!

InnBrattleboro » Amy Brady

Cafe a la Carte

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