Written & Photographed By Theresa St. John
day trippin' with Just2FeetandaCamera.com
Three Days of Peace & Music –
So Many Years Later
Specialty Shops Everywhere
In Candlestock, I found every sort of candle imaginable. There was a selection of yummy-smelling healing candles, several beeswax choices, pretty greeting cards, and trinket trays. The scent of the candles was heady, following me throughout the shop and back out into the stifling air afterward. In the back area of the store, they have an enormous ‘Drip Mountain’ that dates back to 1969, when the shop first opened. It has a curious back story, so I’m not going to say too much here, as I want to write about it shortly. But look through their photos – crazy cool item and conversation piece for sure.
Allison's Restaurant
History Isn’t Always
About Events – Sometimes
It’s About People
Bread Alone is just down the street from the restaurant. It looks like such a small space from outside. Once you walk inside, though, it’s quite cozy and offers up so many tasty treats; you can’t help but bring a bag or box home with you. They feature artisanal breads, muffins, sweet loaves, coffees, and other specialties. When I arrived, there was a line out the door, but it was well worth the wait. The family has been in business for 40+ years, and their mission is simple: “Work hard to serve folks simple, honest breads and foods that speak to the best in us.” Their first organic sourdough loaf was baked in 1983! Long before ‘organic’ was even a certification! This café (they have a few others in different locations) has been a village staple for nearly 20 years. They offer breakfast, lunch, and brunch 7 days a week in a warm, welcoming environment.
Candlestock
Taking Time to Enjoy Lunch
I stopped into Allison’s Restaurant and found myself pleasantly surprised with the short rib sandwich they suggested. It was made on grilled sourdough bread, and the short ribs were slathered with melted cheese, a special sweet-spicy sauce, and fried onions. Oh-My-Gosh, yummy. The meat was sooo tender, and the sauce was a perfect match. My waitress also suggested a blueberry lemonade. So refreshing. I found myself wishing there was a shot (or two) of rum mixed in. I was driving, so I nixed the idea, but sipping it through lunchtime gave me an idea to try at home. The restaurant was buzzing – one waitress running from table to table, staying calm and taking orders. Whoever was in the kitchen handling all the tickets she delivered worked quickly and got every order right. I would highly recommend a meal here and hope to visit again to try another tempting item or two from their expansive menu.
Bread Alone
A Final Note
I could go on and on about all the wonderful places I discovered on Tinker Street. The crazy 3-D art pieces that made me stop and think a bit, the bright and colorful street art on the side of old buildings that made me smile, and meaningful signs and statues expressing beliefs and opinions of people who not only live and work in Woodstock, but also live and work all over the world, made me feel hope.
I love visiting Woodstock, and I sure feel lucky that it’s only a short drive from Saratoga. I can jump in my car whenever I want to, really, and see the village in every season. It’s quirky, eclectic, filled with imagination and creativity. The place inspires me. Hopefully you’ll visit and find it inspires you, too.