Great Roadside Trip: Phoenicia Diner

© Doug Koh

At last we've arrived at the long weekend and just in time to enjoy the fall foliage. The city is always late to show its bright autumn colors but Upstate NY never fails to amaze around this time. If you have the chance to drive up this weekend, you'll surely see sights of gold and red just as the leaves slowly start to fall and fade. And don't forget to take advantage of the season flavors - pumpkin sugar donuts and apple cider are available at nearby markets and grocery stores. 

But if you are really craving for a fuller meal, we highly recommend this popular roadside joint. Off of Route 28, Phoenicia Diner is just the kind of place you'd imagine to find on a good 'ol fashioned American road trip. What we love is the creative mix of the nostalgic American diner atmosphere and new, thoughtful design. The menu has a  wide selection of breakfast favorites, sandwiches, greens, and more! All ingredients are from local farms and gardens. 

Make sure to come with an empty belly!

© Doug Koh

© Doug Koh

© Doug Koh 

© Doug Koh

Directions from New York City:

NYS Thruway 87 to exit 19 Kingston and first turn off the traffic

circle to RT 28W for approximately 22 miles. Phoenicia Diner will

be on your left  after the shopping plaza. Look for their logo on the

sign in front.

Other local food stop recommendations:

Adams Fairacre Farms
1560 Ulster Ave, Lake Katrine, NY 12449

adamsfarms.com

Wallkill View Farm Market

15 New York 299, New Paltz, NY 12561

http://wallkillviewfarm.snappages.com

Growing local

There is a trend right now in Brooklyn that is the coolest thing ever and it's rooftop farming! For decades people have been trying to recreate nature within their urban landscape by creating rooftop gardens and it looks like new yorkers are now more and more educated and ready to take it to the next level to actually grow their own veggies and green food.  We all know the benefits of buying and eating local.  Definitely a step in the right direction for urban life.

Not to mention that rooftops gardens and farms are such an eye candy for a city like ours!

If you wish to visit a (rather large) public rooftop farm, here is the list of the 5 top urban farms in NYC.