Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Apple Blossom in Winchester VA

Pink and green bunting decorates the historic homes and buildings of Winchester, mirroring the beauty of the bursting blooms and budding leaves of the apple tree. Ask any of the revelers you see, and they will tell you that it's Apple Blossom time again!



The 81st Annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, held from April 25th to May 4th in scenic Winchester, Virginia, promises to be another fun, family, and food oriented celebration in the lovely Shenandoah Valley. This year, the Festival has been expanded to include Old Town Wine & Fine Arts Festival, which promises to be a great addition to the exciting event schedule.



Whether you are an out-of-towner or a native to the area, the Apple Blossom Festival offers a multitude of culinary delights that vary from street vendors and food stands to pubs and breweries to upscale dining and martini bars. No matter what your taste, Apple Blossom has something to suit your palate.



Winchester's unique hometown eateries offer many options. For a traditional home-style meal, head to Papermill Place and enjoy a hearty breakfast, plate lunch or country dinner at the counter or the family-friendly dining room - and don't forget your sweet tea. With the flair of a small European cafe, Patsy's Pastry Pizzas offers a breakfast and lunch menu featuring a variety of salads, soups, desserts and - of course - creative specialty pizzas. Generous portions of reasonably priced Peruvian cuisine are served up at Marcella's Restaurante Char Broiled, and the menu features many healthier options. If you are craving seafood, The Naked Oyster's fresh and inventive fare will satisfy with dine-in, carry-out, and "cook it yourself" options. Authentic Thai food is prepared and served in the family-owned and staffed THAI Winchester, which boasts reasonable lunch specials, fast delivery, and pleasant dining room atmosphere.



For upscale dining, Winchester features a handful of centrally located restaurants. Family-owned Violino Ristorante Italiano offers truly authentic Italian cuisine at the north end of the Old Town Mall, with an outdoor patio dining area - a delightful option for warm weather days. Near the center of the Old Town Mall, Village Square Restaurant also offers spacious outdoor seating and an inventive menu that displays award-winning culinary variety. Engaging in clever wordplay even as they chart a course for patrons, restaurant One Block West lies just one block west of the Old Town Mall and embodies custom culinary artistry in its market influenced menus which change daily and always feature an outstanding wine selection.



Winchester is home to many wonderful eateries that also feature great spirits. Piccadilly's Brew Pub and Restaurant has a sit-down restaurant separate from the bar, which offers a full menu of pub fare, the Brew Pub's own beer, and special events. A hometown favorite is Brewbaker's Restaurant, an Old Town Mall locale that boasts a tried-and-true menu, a variety of beers on tap, outdoor seating, and a laid-back bar with plenty of atmosphere. For a more upscale experience, visit V2 Lounge and Piano Bar, located next to Village Square Restaurant and featuring a wide array of exotic martinis and top-shelf liquors. Wine connoisseurs should not miss One Block West, offering seventy wines by the glass and highlighting many local varieties, or Salute! Wine Market, self-described as "The Place for Everything Wine". Those looking to explore local wineries will have the opportunity to participate in wine tastings and also sample food, music, and art at the Old Town Wine & Fine Arts Festival, an event slated to be held Friday April 25th and Saturday April 26th on the Old Town Mall. (please visit thebloom.com for more details)



During the festival, a variety of foods will also be available from street vendors – from Greek gyros and Italian sausage to pretzels and funnel cakes. A new dining experience awaits around every corner, each touting uniquely delicious opportunities. No matter your cravings or your palate preferences, the Apple Blossom Festival offers a variety of food options for food lovers of every kind!

Cheers,

Mark
www.wincfood.com

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