Wild Gnome Red

In a weekend where Maja had play practice, Millie travelled to watch their high school basketball team completely crash and burn in the state playoffs, and their mom handled all transportation, I had a free weekend, and.... a date. 

It was decided we would spend the Saturday afternoon in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.  She had never been, and I had been with the complete family when the girls were younger. 

I won't go into full rant mode about the lack of street parking and the public parking monopoly that rewards hardcore tourists, but discourages casual and local foot traffic.   We were coming from two opposite directions, but next time I would drive down and take one car.  

Jim Thorpe has prided itself on the train rides downtown, and the Victorian architecture developed from the wealth of the Pennsylvania coal boon, the canals, and most certainly the railroads. The main tourist trap is maybe six square blocks, with cutesy shops, and a LOT of caffeine and alcohol.  

Curiosities Coffee and Ice House -  77 Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA  - She was impressed so much the first pass that we came back for another round on the way back.   She gives it Five out of Five Cheshire Cats, for the drinks, the service, and an all-in Alice in Wonderland theme. 

Notch Eight Craft House - 107 Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA - One reason not to visit with kids.  There is an alternate universe where I just sit at the bar and drink the Belgian Quad they were serving until the end of time.  The Japanese Burger I had was way out of my comfort zone and was still spectacular.  More importantly, SHE was wildly impressed, and she's quite picky about her alcohols.    Five out of Five gnomes, even if the senior citizens came in halfway through our meal and asked for Guinness and (Yuengling) Lager, despite being directed to the board for available brews.  I believe the craft beer samples they were provided may have generated the theme to 2001: A Space Odyssey.

At least they didn't ask for Coors.

Stonekeep Meadery - Also 77 Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA - Another reason we went back for more coffee.  The building with Curiosities had multiple shops on two floors, full of shops of trinkets, plants, and what have you.... plus a small room serving mead and wine samples.   The two meads tasted like Yule and Summer, and I actually tried one wine and ended up buying a bottle.  

It was almost a requirement: 

It was described as a red and white blended wine with a red aftertaste.  I bought it without concern, but haven't cracked it open for a full review.

Final notes on a great day:  

It's just over twenty bucks for the train ride for an adult, actually a cheaper and longer excursion than Strasburg's down by Lancaster. 

If the bakery is set up in front of the train station, it's a much visit.  Yes, the eclair was a bit much for my delicate constitution, but it was worth every penny.