This is our collection of discoveries in and near our home. If you have time to explore a bit check out some of these! If you know of other cool stuff in the area be sure to let us know!

Food:

• Blue Oar - Delicious food, casual outdoor dining beside the river.
  Midway Marina, Haddam, CT   Open 11-9, April through September 29, weather permitting. (860) 345-2994
• Pilot House - Locally owned and operated hot dog and hamburger stand, with real milkshakes and all-american fast food
  1364 Saybrook Rd. Haddam, CT   Serves lunch & dinner 7 days a week in the summer (860) 345-2945
• Lupo, Mediterranean cuisine - 189 Middlesex Avenue (R. 154), Chester, CT (860) 526-4400
• Gabrielle's - 78 Main St. Centerbrook, CT 06429
• The Cooking Company - Fresh Prepared Food
  1610 Saybrook Rd. Haddam, CT   Mon-Fri 10-8, Sat. 10-6 (860) 345-8008
• Javapalooza - Great coffee drinks, desserts and wonderful service in a welcoming room. They also have live music evenings. Middletown
• Cato Corner Farm - Farmstead Cheeses
  178 Cato Corner Rd. Colchester, CT (860) 537-3884
• Equal Exchange - Fairly traded organic coffee and hot chocolate, available now at Super Stop & Shop stores!
• O'Rourke's Diner & Catering Classic American Diner. Be sure to ask Brian about the specials!
  728 Main, Middletown, CT   Now reopened after post-fire renovations.
• Middlesex Fruitery - Quality fruits and vegetables, cheese and specialty foods, fruit baskets
  191 Main St. Middletown, CT   Open Tue - Sat 8:30-5:30 (860) 346-4372
• Aleia's - "Innovative Bistro" serving some of the best food around.
  1687 Boston Post Rd. (Rte. 1), Old Saybrook. (860) 399-5050

Other cool stuff:

• Lucille's Bridal Finery - Awesome design studio, specializing in custom made silk gowns, hand crafted tiaras, evening bags, ring pillows and garters.
  4 Water St. Chester, CT   Open Wed thru Sat 10-5 (860) 526-3999
  
• Hammered Edge Studio and Gallery - Hand wrought jewelry, beads, buttons, hand woven textiles, exotic containers and carved wooden masks.
  14 Main St. Chester, CT   Open Thur thru Mon 11-6 (860)526-1654
  
• The Willow Tree - Fine vintage clothing
  4 Water St. Chester, CT   Open 12-5 Tues thru Sat (860)526-4297
  
• Thankful Arnold House - historical tour conducted by Thankful's "ghost".
  14 Hayden Hill Road, Haddam, CT   open during office hours and by appointment (860)345-2400
  
• Little Tibet - Tibetan Art, Carpets & Antiques
  680 Main St. Middletown   Open Tuesday - Sunday (860) 343-1975
  
• Rachel Thomas Associates
  If you are interested in buying or selling your home please talk to us!
  5 Essex Square, Essex, CT 06426   (860) 767-8635