Two days out of the year Newport, Rhode Island is the center of attention by celebrating their finest restaurants, arts and culture. The Stop & Shop Taste of Rhode Island brings together all the culture of Rhode Island that attract the travelers and keep the locals around, featuring dozens of Rhode Island’s favorite eateries, continuous live entertainment brought to you by Southwest Airlines, culinary demonstrations, games, contests, prizes, a Cookbook Corner and more! And best of all, there will be the top foods from all over the state in one little town. The festival is also host to the yearly New England Oyster Festival sponsored by American Mussel Harvesters. You won’t want to miss showing off your Rhody Pride at the 20th Annual Taste of Rhode Island at the Newport Yachting Center in Newport, Rhode Island.

Nearly a 10-minute walk off of Pelham Street is the Cliffside Inn whom is hosting a Coastal New England Wine Tour Package for Late Summer & Fall of 2009. They have joined together with the Coastal Vineyards of Southern New England to offer this package including: a top-pick bottle of both red and white regional wine (or one sparkling) selected by New England’s Coastal Winemakers; wine tasting and tour for two at the Coastal Winery of your choice; 10% savings at select wineries on purchases of three or more bottles; Coastal Wine Tour Guide and Vineyard Passport. Guests at the Cliffside Inn can add this wine package to any reservation for an additional $50. Call 401-847-1811 for more details.

]]> http://www.NETravelGuide.com/2009/09/22/newport-rhode-island-festival-celebrating-culture-food-music-and-fun-for-21-years-at-the-newport-yachting-center/feed/ 0 http://www.NETravelGuide.com/2009/09/06/the-best-fresh-produce-from-local-farms-in-camden-maine/ http://www.NETravelGuide.com/2009/09/06/the-best-fresh-produce-from-local-farms-in-camden-maine/#comments Sun, 06 Sep 2009 13:03:06 +0000 admin http://www.NETravelGuide.com/?p=628 Top three places to get local, fresh, and the best produce in Camden, ME in Knox County

1. Beveridge Farm

This farm has a vast variety of fresh produce picked every day offering vegetables, fruit, herbs, flowers, Fall decorations, grass, hay and wood. There’s a self-serve vegetable stand and custom bush hogging services. It’s located 2.2 miles on the left from intersection of Main Street and Rte. 52 (388 Turnpike Drive) in Camden, ME. For more information call 207-763-3596 or e-mail cherylbv@roadrunner.com.

2. Cappy’s Chowder House, Inc.

Cappy’s is a family owned restaurant and bakery with a variety of home-cooked products to take home with you. Grab a bite to eat on the harbor then bring back jam, dressings, clam chowder, a gift pack, T-shirt, or or any of the many other products they offer. Since 1979, Cappy’s has been serving up the best in town with a full bar, comforting atmosphere, harbor views, and not to mention their traditional Maine Clam Chowder. They’ll even host your next wedding, clambake party, corporate meeting, or whatever you’re looking for the bigger parties. Check out their website or e-mail cappyschowder@aol.com for more information on the restaurant, catering, their store, about Camden, and much more. Cappy’s Chowder House is located at 1 Main St. in the center of Camden, ME and can be contacted at 207-236-2254.

3. Endless Summer Flower Farm

No matter what kind of flower, color, size, or texture, you’re bound to find the right one at the Endless Summer Flower Farm. Their specialty is the dahlia tubers, which for the amateurs is a perennial plant native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia that come in plenty of different colors and textures. This roadside flower stand carries 150+ varieties and 2,000+ plants only in flower season; August to October for flower, September to May for tubers. For more information e-mail info@endlesssummerflowerfarm.com or call 207-236-8752.

Only a few blocks away from all these exciting attractions is the Camden Maine Stay, a historical and New England country inn. Located in one of America’s most beautiful seaside villages, this relaxing, cozy, romantic, and very friendly home will suit all your accommodation needs on your next getaway vacation to Camden, Maine. For a brief history lesson, back when Thomas Jefferson was President of the United States, roads were dirt and Maine was still part of Massachusetts, Alden Bass built a house at 22 High Street. That stunning main house with an attached carriage house and a four-story barn has been renovated to welcome every guest to create the best experience. The Camden Maine Stay is the second oldest of the sixty-six lovely homes that are listed on the National Register of Historical Places in the High Street Historic District. Check out their website for more information on accommodations, prices, history, package specials and much more.

Cappy's Chowder House, Inc.

Perched high up in the pristine Ossipee Mountain Range overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee lies the “turn-of-the-century” 16-room Arts & Crafts mansion cleverly named Castle in the Clouds. This beautiful estate vents the enticing nature and landscape of Moultonborough, New Hampshire in the heart of New England. No matter what age nearly everyone can thoroughly enjoy this quaint area with incredible views, hiking, waterfalls, gardens, mountains, plenty of history, a fabulous Arts & Crafts Castle, and an acclaimed Cafe and Patio. The 45 miles of hiking and walking trails will lead you along lavish gardens and gorgeous waterfalls where you can even feed giant trout in Shannon Pond. For the next few months, Castle in the Clouds will be hosting many events either free or for a small charge such as jazz concerts, exhibition and sales of paintings, pet shows, history lectures, car shows, and plenty more. For the engaged, there’s no better place to hold whatever size wedding in front of the iconic Castle followed by cocktails at the Patio and dinner in the Winnipesaukee Room. For more information check out their website or call 603-476-5900.

Nearly an hour past Squam Lake is the Manor on Golden Pond whose special of the month for August is a Midweek Boost. When you book Monday and Tuesday night any time during August, you’ll get Wednesday night 50% off. The Manor began as a love story at the turn of the 20th century when a wealthy Englishman captured the heart of a beautiful debutante. On Shepherd’s Hill, in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, amid the tall sentinel pines, they built a magnificent country estate with sweeping vistas overlooking Squam Lake, of Golden Pond fame. E-mail info@manorongoldenpond.com or call (603) 968-3348 or (800) 545-2141.

Essex, Connecticut

At the Museum of Fife & Drum learn about America’s visual and music background dated from the Revolutionary War to today. Listen to shrills of fife and the beats of long drums as you observe the numerous artifacts on display such as drums, fifes, military swords, uniforms, medals, awards, and photographs. If you enjoy colorful and upbeat parades, then this is the perfect place for you to visit on your next Connecticut River vacation. There will even be free concerts every Tuesday evening during July and August usually featuring two corps per night. If you’re a drum corp, club, historical society, or college/high school music group, call the museum at (860) 767-2237 to arrange for a group tour. The donations are only $3 for adults, $2 for youth (ages 13-17), and children under 12 are free. Click the link proceeding for travel directions. Not even one mile down Comstock Avenue is the Copper Beech Inn, a four-star country inn and four-diamond, wine-spectator-award winning restaurant. It’s located in the beautiful Connecticut River Vally aside the Long Island Sound shoreline nearby several charming historic towns, shops, attractions and many outdoor activities. Currently they are advertising a two-night Summer package highlighting an Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Cruise, champagne upon arrival, free dinner for two one night in Brasserie Pip, and VIP discount coupons for Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets. Add a 3rd night for 50% off the regular room rate and enjoy your stay in Ivoryton, Connecticut.

Dream Team and Piston Coach Hall of Famer, Chuck Daly, passes away at 78
May 11, 2009

Chuck Daly in 1994 with his Hall of Fame Medallion

Chuck Daly gained worldwide fame as coach of the legendary Olympic Dream Team in 1992, but long before Barcelona and the gold medal, the twelve-year NBA coach was established as one of the game’s premier mentors. (Read more)

For all you extreme basketball fans or simply the interested, visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame museum in Springfield, MA and learn about the most incredible athletes of our past. Learn and understand the fascinating stories of legendary players and coaches whom performed phenomenally and touched many lives. Tickets run for no more than $17 and its usually open from 10am-4pm (click here for details on tickets and hours). After all the basketball excitement, you have plenty of choices of where to go for dinner: Max’s Tavern, Pazzo Ristorante, Cold Stone Creamery, j.Quincy’s & Samuel’s Sports Bar, Subway, Onyx Fusion Bar & Restaurant, and UNO Chicago Grill. Stop by the Official Museum Store online or in Springfield, MA and grab something suitable before visiting the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Bolton, Massachusetts

Up in a hilltop orchard in the charming town of Bolton, Massachusetts, The Nashoba Valley Winery is producing the most superior fruit wines and exquisite foods since 1978. Here’s a brief overview of this fantastic winery that makes them worthy of over 100 national and international medals and perfect destination for your next vacation. Every Saturday and Sunday of the year join the tour-guides and discover the process for making their highly-acclaimed fruit wines, brandies and distillates. The one-hour tour includes a tasting of four selected wines plus two additional standard wines and then receive a commemorative wine glass to take home. As book your wine tour, don’t forget to make the dinner reservation at the carefully restored rustic farmhouse now called J’s Restaurant. Mix up the vacation the next day to check out some of the finest distilled spirits and crafted beers made from the freshest ingredients. If you and your loved one really enjoy everything, Nashoba Valley Winery hosts a stressless and elegant wedding day.

For more information and to make reservations call (978) 779-5521.

Just around the corner through the windy country roads of Bolton, Massachusetts is a dainty restored 1812 farmhouse bed and breakfast named Charlotte’s House. The owners, Paul and Lyn Slade, invite you a quiet stay in a fireplace room with a full-private bathroom, hand crafted quilts, oriental rugs, and traditional artwork. Arrive to freshly baked homemade cookies and begin the mornings with a delectable breakfast. Click here for more information or to make reservations.

In the Glass Blowing exhibit a guest was selected randomly to try glass blowing for himself!

Feel the heat as you watch molten glass being turned and twisted into exquisite forms at the Sandwich Glass Museum. Here you will find many exhibits and activities that could easily fill up an entire vacation for you and your loved ones of any age. Currently, Edward and James Poore explain their journey through the glass realm and display their expertise in the contemporary exhibit called “Two Generations of Glass Engravers, Cutters and Sculptors”. Learn about dining in the Victorian Era as Hannah “Rebecca” Burgess flourishes the glass made finger bowls, celery vases, epergnes, butter dishes, knife holders, and even individual salt shakers. Get some fresh air on a walking tour highlighting the historic town’s American architecture and the people of the village and their past. Be sure not to miss the Annual Cape Cod Glass Show and Sale featuring 45 nationally prominent glass dealers offering antique and collectible American & European glassware dating back to the 18th century.

For rates, directions, and any other information click here.

Less than five minutes down main street is the ideal place for accommodating your Cape Cod vacation getaway. With three different Victorian parlors, a fine bistro, relaxing spa services, and a cozy atmosphere, the Belfry Inne & Bistro will provide the perfect hospitality. Many rooms feature fireplaces, whirlpool tubs for two, stained glass windows, private balconies, and many unique touches. At the bistro, the culinary team are sure to use the freshest ingredients they can find to produce fantastic and delicate meals. Finally, relax in the comfort of your own room to any massage, facial, or pedicure of your choice. Make sure to check out all the current specials and package deals before you book your stay with the Belfry Inne & Bistro!

Hands-on Specialty Cooking Classes at the Williamsville Inn

Think your honey needs a little help in the kitchen? At the Williamsville Inn, Master Chef and Instructor Erhard Wendt can teach a few things not just about cooking, but doing it gourmet. After one of his cooking classes, you won’t want to keep feeding the dog leftovers. You’ll enjoy making any kind of dinner for everyone you know. Each class is designed to inspire a passion for cooking, baking, and ambiance while learning about preparations, healthy cuisines and the basics for good techniques, tools, and equipment.

Master Chef and Culinary Instructor Erhard Wendt has reached the highest degree and achievement in Culinary Arts back in 1982. Ever since then he has been working as an Executive Chef at several different star-rated restaurants… even in Europe! His publications can be found in many cookbooks, gourmet magazines, and newspaper articles. He hopes to deliver his same passion to many other aspiring cooks around the country.

All classes start at 10:30 or 11:00 A.M running only about 4 hours. Prior to the class is a required fee of $125.00 per person for the Sunday Breakfast Buffet. Every class is limited to 6-8 participants. There’s a discount for reserving three classes for one participant.
Call 413- 274-6118 for registration or more details.

NEW 2008/ 2009 HANDS-ON SPECIALTY CLASSES
Sunday, November 16, 2008 “The Art of Baking” with Amy Loveless FULL
Sunday, November 23, 2008 “Holiday Cooking & Baking” FULL
Sunday, December 7, 2008 “Christmas Specialties” FULL
Sunday, January 25, 2009 “The Art of Baking” with Amy Loveless
Sunday, February 8, 2009 “The Taste of Germany”
Sunday, March 8, 2009 “The Taste of Provence”
Sunday, March 22, 2009 “Cucina Italiana Unlimited” FULL
Sunday, April 26, 2009 “The Taste of Germany”
Sunday, May 3, 2009 “Berkshire Nature Wild Foods” (Excursion & cooking class)

The Williamsville Inn, Route 41, West Stockbridge, MA 01266

Food lovers may remember Chef Secich from several acclaimed establishments, including The Inn at Erlowest on Lake George (earning four stars from the Times Union,) The Alpenhof Lodge, in Jackson Hole, WY (noted by critics as creating the best dining experience in all of Jackson Hole), The Oval Room in DC (receiving frequent raves in the Washington Post) and most recently, Charlie Trotters in Chicago.

His impressive culinary journey began as a young gold-medal winning student at Johnson & Wales Culinary. He then spent several years with renowned chefs domestically and abroad, including ACF Master Chef Hartmut Handke, Patrick O’Connell of the famed 5 Star Inn at Little Washington, and Chef Craig Shelton of the Mobil Four Star, AAA Four Diamond, Relais Gourmand Ryland Inn in Whitehouse, NJ. In France, he studied at Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, with Guy Martin at Le Grand Vefour, and with Raymond Blanc at La Manior Aux Quat’ Saisons.

After a one year sabbatical, Secich excitedly returns to the culinary stage. He now finds himself “at home” in the internationally acclaimed, AAA Four Diamond Rabbit Hill Inn, in Vermont.

Inspired by his uncompromising commitment to the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from the best local farms, he brings a heightened dimension of fine creative cuisine to Rabbit Hill Inn. Although there are strong French influences, his cooking style is without boundaries -beyond a label or description. Secich masterfully blends classical and new age techniques, unlimited imagination and artistry, topped with amazing attention to detail. The results are extraordinary.To see his exciting offerings, be sure to bookmark a link to his frequently changing menu. Also check out his “Inn Good Taste” Cooking Class Getaways!

His philosophy is “when you cook with love and passion, everything is cooked to the brink of perfection. One can taste the passion.” Expect to meet him while you are there and enjoy the conversation. His passion is contagious! Above all, his dedicated focus is on always exceeding guest expectations and proudly bringing joy to all that find their way to Rabbit Hill’s table.

Click here to learn more about the Rabbit Hill Inn or browse The Rabbit Hill Inn category for other updates.

Thanksgiving at Billings Farm & Museum
Woodstock, VT

Come celebrate Thanksgiving and Billings Farm & Museum’s 25th Anniversary. Grab everybody in the family for a Wagon Ride pulled by the Percheron teams through the farm. It’s running every Saturday and Sunday in November from 10am-4pm. In the last week of November you can learn about the Thanksgiving traditions in the Victorian Parlor during the holiday weekend. Just to top off the spirit, feast to a wonderful 19th century Thanksgiving meal prepared by costumed guides.

Thanksgiving at The Hartness House
Springfield, VT

Need a break from the Thanksgiving frenzy? The Hartness House is providing the perfect package for you to still enjoy Thanksgiving with a little less stress. It includes a welcome wine reception, two nights stay, two breakfasts, and a wonderful Thanksgiving feast at the Governor’s Room Restaurant. Executive Chef Michael Hofford will offer more Thanksgiving options than you ever thought of. Prices start as low as $349 for two people.

Thanksgiving at The Four Chimneys Restaurant
Bennington, VT

Where can you get all the great Thanksgiving food with no washing dishes? The Four Chimneys Restaurant is definietly the answer. If people like Elizabeth Taylor, Norman Rockwell, and Walt Disney dined here, then you know it’s the place to talk about this holiday. Some of the food you’ll find here this year are:

• STARTERS
• Butternut Squash Ravioli
• Vermont Ham & Cheddar Fritters
• Sweet Potato Bisque
• Beef and Harvest Vegetable Soup
• The Inn Salad

• ENTREES
• Traditional Turkey Dinner
• Cider Glazed Atlantic Salmon
• Black Angus Filet Mignon
• Long Bone Pork Chopp
• Tangene of Fall Roasted Vegetables

• DESSERTS
• Pumpkin Pie
• Vermont Maple Cheesecake
• Apple Crumb Gallette
• Chocolate Gateau
• Rich Brownie Sundae

• DRINKS
• Full cocktail bar available