Blog / Dessert
Hot Plates
2022 has been a busy year for restaurants in Hampshire County! While we said goodbye to some old favorites, we also welcomed an exciting and eclectic group of new eateries to the area. From vegan cafes to wine bars, there is something for everyone in Hampshire County. Stop by one of these new restaurants on your next visit, and start finding your next favorite spot.
We’re Mad for Maple
Red Bucket Sugar Shack
Photo by Lynne Graves
As the last of the snow starts to melt, we’re all mad for maple, and seeking our fix.
What’s New in Hampshire County: Exit Here for Easthampton
Luthier's Co-Op
Photo by Lynne Graves
Easthampton is officially — a destination. And as more musicians, artists, foodies, and young families move into the community, it’s only getting better. Come for a hike on Mt. Tom, and stay for the incredible food, classic cocktails, and concerts on Mill Pond. Just don’t be surprised if you decide to move there.
Fall Recipes from Western Massachusetts Restaurants
Chicken & Dumplings | Photo Courtesy of Bistro Les Gras, Northampton
Our chefs in western Massachusetts really know how to take full advantage of our region's seasonal bounty. A leader in the farm-to-table movement for decades and home to New England's most productive farmland, you could easily spend days eating and drinking your way through our region. However, if you can't make it here this fall, check out these recipes to try at home from Bistro Les Gras in Northampton and the Northampton Brewery: chicken & dumplings featuring butternut squash gnocchi and a butternut squash cheesecake, a complete fall meal.
12 New Places to Eat, Drink and Shop in Western Massachusetts
Thornes Marketplace | Northampton
We usually reserve a post like this to celebrate a new year, but so many new and unique businesses have opened in our region lately that we just had to share now. Plus fall really is the most wonderful time of year in New England for exploring and trying new things. New businesses include BLDG 8 Brewing and the Florence Pie Bar as well as a handful of renovations and new stores in Thornes Marketplace.
8 Roadside Snack Shacks Worth a Stop in Western Mass.
Creamy Delights New York Style Soft Serve, Hadley | Photo by Lynne Graves
One essential element to any New England summer bucket list is the roadside snack shack, usually characteristic of any seaside destination. However, it’s not a phenomenon exclusive to the coast, and in fact there’s a pretty solid selection of roadside shacks in western Massachusetts giving any seaside spot a run for its money. Taste what all the fuss is about at places like Captain Jack's, Local Burgy, Scotti's Drive-In, and the Williamsburg Snack Bar.
Baked goodness in Western Massachusetts
Tart Baking Baguettes | Photo from Facebook
The local bakery has made something of a comeback in the last 20 years. In fact, you can get bread baked all or in part from wheat that is locally grown. Most local bakeries serve morning coffees and afternoon lunch so you aren’t limited to just what you can take home. And since our region in Western Massachusetts is known for its creativity, you’ll find way more than just sourdough, whole wheat loaves, croissants and some baguettes at places like the Henion in Amherst, Bread Euphoria in Haydenville, and Hungry Ghost Bread, Woodstar Cafe, and Tart Baking Co. in Northampton.