Where to Eat on Homecoming Weekend

Homecoming weekend is full of fun things to do, whether it’s attending a sporting event, viewing a film screening, or just spending some quality time with your loved ones. But as packed as your schedule may be, it’s always good to reserve a little time for some quality dining, and Middletown offers some great options.

 Breakast/Brunch/Lunch:

1. O’Rourke’s Diner: O’Rourke’s is probably the most famous restaurant in Middletown. Established in 1941, it has been a Connecticut staple for breakfast and brunch for years. Be sure to try their hash, freshly baked bread, and egg dishes. Disclaimer: There will be a line, so come early or be prepared to wait.

   

   One of the many eggs benedict dishes at O’Rourke’s

2. First and Last Tavern: For only $20, First and Last offers an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch buffet with breakfast items, Italian specialties, and desserts. This is a great place for a big group, especially one with picky eaters, since everyone will find something they like. We particularly love the sweets (chocolate chip/oatmeal raisin cookies, cheesecake, and tiramisu). Reservations recommended.

   

   The cookies at Sunday brunch at First & Last

3. Ford News Diner: If you’re looking for an authentic, old Middletown experience that won’t put a hole in your wallet, definitely check out this little diner on Main Street. The service is exceptionally fast and the food is cooked right before your eyes. Go for something simple, like one of their satisfying breakfast sandwiches, which is served with some really awesome home fries. See full article here.

   

   Breakfast sandwich at Ford News Diner

4. Café 56: New to the Middletown restaurant scene, Café 56 is run by a chef and baker team that prepare everything they offer. Order at the counter and either sit to eat your meal or take it to-go. The food is “of the Americas,” so you’ll find an interesting fusion of Latin American and more continental ingredients and menu items. Try one of their delicious breakfast pastries or a tacandwich, a blend between a taco and sandwich.

   

   The tempting bakery counter at Cafe 56

5. Sweet Harmony Café & Bakery: This is one of our all-time favorite Middletown restaurants. The atmosphere is charming and complements their home-style American comfort food. We recommend any of their salads or sandwiches for lunch, and do not skimp out on dessert—it’s the highlight of the meal. Come with a small party and be prepared for a wait because space is limited.

   

   Cream puff cake at Sweet Harmony

Quick Bite to Eat/ Coffee:

1. New England Emporium: Chances are that you or your son or daughter have already been to the Emporium. It’s a Wesleyan staple, to say the least. The vibe is an interesting blend of modern and rustic, and the food options are fairly expansive, with several egg dishes, crepes, sandwiches, and salad options, in addition to a variety of specialty drinks and desserts. Be sure to try the chocolate rooibos tea and any of their spiced chai beverages. And you can’t go wrong with the crepes (especially the Havarti)! 
2. Brew Bakers: This is another hit among the Wesleyan community. The ambiance is bright and cheerful, with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s the most popular destination to get your bagel-fix, and their pastries are made by an award-winning Austrian chef. The grilled muffins are a satisfying snack, and we’re big fans of the omelet sandwiches.

   

   Chicken meatloaf melt at Brew Bakers

3. Neon Deli: Located right on Cross Street in the middle of campus, Neon is your go-to stop for a quick, inexpensive bite to eat. This is a great place to grab a freshly made sandwich for a picnic on Foss Hill. The Sussman Special is a personal favorite, a soft 6-inch roll with chicken cutlet, provolone cheese, black olives, pepperoni, and onions, melted to perfection and served by some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

   

   Fran, the owner of Neon, is one of the friendliest guys you’ll ever meet.

 Dinner:

1. Amici Italian Grill: Amici is a great choice if you’re looking for quality American-Italian dining. Come here with the whole family and split some of the huge entrees, such as the Mediterranean salad and the veal parmigiana. You’re sure to leave this place feeling stuffed. Reservations recommended.

   

   Amici Italian Grill

2. Esca Wine Bar and Restaurant: This is one of the more upscale options in town, with most of the entrees costing upwards of $20. The ambiance is beautiful and classy, and the menu is predominantly Italian fare along with some more continental choices. Go for any of the pasta dishes, especially the ravioli. Reservations recommended. See full article here.

   

   North Atlantic Salmon at Esca

3. Mikado Japanese Restaurant: Don’t be discouraged by Mikado’s somewhat hidden location; it’s actually one of the best spots to get high-quality sushi in Middletown. They also offer a good selection of  authentic Japanese hot dishes. If you’re not getting a sushi roll, try the Katsu-Donburi, which is a bowl of rice topped with fried pork, egg, and pickled vegetables. Reservations recommended.

   

   Spicy Girl Roll at Mikado

4. It’s Only Natural Restaurant: This is the only all-vegetarian (and practically all-vegan) restaurant in Middletown. We love the interesting atmosphere, which is enhanced by the local art hanging on every wall. Some must-eats are: the sweet potato fries, the pierogies, and the vegan cupcakes, which are made by the owner herself. Reservations recommended.

   

   It’s Only Natural

5. Anoho Asian Noodle House: Anoho is your one-stop destination for all things Asian. Their menu ranges from Chinese to Thai to Japanese and offers items including sautéed noodle dishes, noodle soups, sushi, meat- and fish-based entrees, and even dessert. But above all, you must try their Hot Almond Black House Special Blend Tea. It is almond tea with milk, sugar, and almond syrup, and it’s the perfect beverage to warm you up on a cool October evening. See full article here

   

   Noodle soup at Anoho

6. La Cantina Café Ristorante: You’re unlikely to find many Italian restaurants as authentic as La Cantina. Don’t come for the ambiance; come for the delicious home-style cooking. Like any genuine Italian dining experience, the portions are big enough to share. The menu is always changing but we’ve never encountered a pasta dish that we didn’t love. Reservations recommended.

   

   La Cantina

7. Thai Gardens: This is another Wesleyan favorite. Thai Gardens offers quality Thai food at very reasonable prices. Stick to the classics, like the chicken pad thai.

   

   Thai Gardens

8. Mondo Pizza: If you’re in a pizza kind of mood, Mondo is your place—no questions asked. Their brick-oven, thin-crust pies are available to be custom-ordered with a huge variety of toppings. One of our favorite pies is the Oozy Egg, which is  a white pizza made with fresh mozzarella, romano, prosciutto di Parma , egg, and truffle oil. Also, get a plate of eggplant fries for the table. Trust us, they’re worth it.

   

   Mondo Pizza

9. Osaka Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar: Osaka is the only place in town to offer Japanese hibachi-style cooking, where a chef prepares your meal on a huge grill right before your eyes. This is an especially fun experience if you’re with children or big groups. Reservations recommended.

   

   Osaka

10. Eli Cannon’s Tap Room: A long-time Middletown favorite, Eli Cannon’s is a mix between neighborhood bar and edgy, hip eatery. It’s a great place to grab a drink (their beer selection is renowned throughout New England) and the food is indulgent and delicious. We love the fried pickles, the nachos, and the Big E quesadilla, which is basically a Big Mac disguised in a flour tortilla. Eli’s doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared for a potential wait.

    

    The Big E Quesadilla at Eli Cannon’s

Sweets:

1. NoRA Cupcake Company: Even though NoRA opened only a year ago, it’s already established itself as a go-to dessert stop on Main Street. Their cupcake menu changes daily, but always includes fun and unique creations, such as the Irish Car Bomb, a chocolate Guinness cake with Jameson chocolate ganache and Bailey’s cream cheese frosting. They also always offer at least one vegan and gluten-free option. This weekend they’re sure to have some cool, new, autumn-themed selections, so be sure to check them out! See full article here.

   

   A few of the delicious options at NoRA

2. Fusion Bakery: Fusion epitomizes the concept of a neighborhood bakery. All their sweets are freshly made from scratch each day and are very reasonably priced considering their quality. You’ll find pastries, cakes, tarts, cookies and everything in between. Some of our favorites are the Italian rainbow cookie cake, the carrot cake, the scones, the cheesecake, the chocolate chip cookies… who are we kidding? Everything is phenomenal. See full article here. 
3. Froyoworld Frozen Yogurt Lounge: The trend of self-serve frozen yogurt stores, which is sweeping the nation, has finally arrived in Middletown, Connecticut. Some highlights of Froyoworld’s offerings this weekend include the salted caramel pretzel flavored yogurt, Thanksgiving pumpkin pie flavored yogurt, apple pie compote, s’more clusters, brownie bites, and the Lucky Charm marshmallow toppings. See full article here.

   

   Some of our personal Froyoworld creations

Unique to Middletown

1. Zen Roasters: This is the only coffee roaster in Middletown, Connecticut. The folks at Zen Roasters know their coffee and are great at preparing delicious, unique blends. Their location at 180 Johnson Street is about a five-minute drive from Wesleyan, but if you consider yourself a coffee connoisseur, you have to check it out. See full article here.

   

   Zen Roasters roasts all their own coffee

2. Middlesex Fruitery: This place has been around for almost 100 years and provides a true Middletown experience. Tell the employees what kind of fruit you’re looking for and they’ll hand select a perfect specimen from their barrels of produce. Disclaimer: This fruit can get pretty pricy, but based on the quality and experience, it’s probably worth it.

   

   Middlesex Fruitery

3. Jerry’s Pizza: We’re embarrassed to say that we’ve never been to Jerry’s Pizza, but their pies are nationally acclaimed. Their most famous dish is the white Sicilian pizza. Be sure to call ahead for this one though, because it takes an hour and a half for Jerry to perfectly prepare the dough.

   

   Jerry’s Pizza

4. Sweet Harmony Café & Bakery: This is one of our all-time favorite Middletown restaurants. The atmosphere is charming and complements their home-style American comfort food. We recommend any of their salads or sandwiches for lunch, and do not skimp out on dessert—it’s the highlight of the meal. Come with a small party and be prepared for a wait because space is limited.

   

   Cream Puff Cake at Sweet Harmony

5. O’Rourke’s Diner: O’Rourke’s is probably the most famous restaurant in Middletown. Established in 1941, it has been a Middletown staple for breakfast and brunch. Be sure to try their hash, freshly baked bread, and egg dishes. Disclaimer: There will be a line, so come early or be prepared to wait.

   

   Eggs Benedict at O’Rourke’s

6. Tschudin Chocolate & Confections: Featured on Food Network’s “Sweet Genius,” Tschudin Chocolates sells a variety of chocolate creations, as well as several made-to-order baked goods. Their products are top-notch. Whether you’re looking for gifts or simply a chocolate pick-me-up, you have to check this place out.

   

   Tschudin Chocolate

7. Eli Cannon’s Tap Room: A long-time Middletown favorite, Eli Cannon’s is a mix between neighborhood bar and edgy, hip eatery. It’s a great place to grab a drink (their beer selection is renowned throughout New England) and the food is indulgent and delicious. We love the fried pickles, the nachos, and the Big E quesadilla, which is basically a Big Mac disguised in a flour tortilla. Eli’s doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared for a potential wait.

   

   Big E Quesadilla at Eli Cannon’s

   This list is not representative of all the good restaurants in town; it is simply a collection of our favorite eateries to go to with our families. We hope it provides you with some insight on where to eat this weekend. Bon appetit!

   Ari & Alex

CALLING ALL NUTELLA FANATICS!

One of my all-time favorite pastimes is going on scavenger hunts in Neon Deli. Among their shelves, barrels, and freezers, I have found the most delightful selection of mass produced desserts.  Ben and Jerry’s Raspberry Fudge Greek Yogurt, Talenti Gelato, Pepperidge Farm cookies (try the Salted Caramel Milano Slices), Friehofer’s baked goods (I jump for joy every time I find the perfectly buttery and chewy chocolate chip cookies in the bread section), and old-fashioned candy are displayed in more obvious locations. Others are not so evident. One of my proudest moments occurred when I was pushing through piles of ice cream sandwiches and came across a container of Friendly’s Ice Cream Cupcakes. Today, my hunt resulted in a particularly exciting discovery, of a product I have yet to find anywhere else in America, let alone Middletown. Nutella Lovers beware. Neon Deli is now the proud vendor of “Nutella and Go”! This European-inspired item is truly phenomenal. It features airy, crisp “bread sticks”. They are perfect for dipping into the indulgent, generous portion of Nutella. The whole thing is adorably packaged in a two-sectioned container (hence “and go”), and makes a wonderful mid-day snack or dessert. I found the beauties sitting near the check out section, right above the candy and gum. The cashier told me that they just started selling them a week ago, and already they’re so popular that they’ve had to order more! I could not be more excited by this addition! Get ‘em before they’re gone!

-Ari Rudess

Goodies for Gluten Free Glutton

Gluten free lifestyles seem to be all the rage these days, with more people eliminating the grain food group from their diets, and gluten free alternatives— including pasta, bread, rice, and bars—popping up in restaurants and markets all over the country. The majority of gluten free people lead these lifestyles because they Celiac disease or other intolerances to gluten. Wesleyan’s student body is no exception, and as gluten intolerance grows, the need for gluten free alternatives increases as well. The question is, how can you enjoy the complete college kid experience without pigging out on huge bowls of pasta, devouring ridiculously large sandwiches, and stuffing cookies in your mouth at three a.m.? Not to fear, my gluten free comrades!

Our very own campus offers an impressive amount of options  for gluten-free eaters, not to mention the many restaurants that cater towards gluten free clientele in town. So regardless of what your taste buds are telling you, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.

“I think Bon Appetit Has done a lot–especially since my freshman year to accommodate gluten-free people.”, expresses junior Hannah Korevaar. “The staff have been extremely receptive to the need on campus and always want to know if more needs to be done. This year they are doing a much better job labeling food in Usdan and supplying the gluten-free section with various substitutes.” This was the general consensus among all three of the students I spoke with. Frankel informed me that “there is one staff member who’s in charge of gluten-free section and she’s super nice. I always see her in the section asking students what kinds of new foods they want to see.” Although not every dining option on campus is as gluten-free-friendly as others, it’s possible to find at least one gluten free meal or snack at every dining option on campus.

Meal Swipes:

Usdan Marketplace– Usdan Marketplace is probably the best option, especially if you have a condition that prevents you from eating anything that might have possibly touched gluten. The gluten free section, which is located directly across from the kosher section, is said to be on an upward spiral, with the variety and quality improving everyday. Student Gabe Frankel ‘15 raved about the baked goods, premade pasta dishes, and fresh blueberries and blackberries that are sometimes available.

As far as finding gluten free options in other sections of the marketplace is concerned, Erin Kelly, a graduate of 2012 states that  “It’s a kind of dangerous place because nothing on the floor can be guaranteed gluten free, but you can definitely get creative, especially if you use veggies from the salad bar to make sandwiches with stuff from the gluten free section.” Korevaar is a zealot for the salad bar as well “When I eat at Usdan, I get a lot of salad. The vegan is often gluten-free, so I eat that a lot. I get pretty excited about the spicy chick peas.” She told me. If vegetarian eating isn’t for you, don’t worry! Frankel, a self proclaimed carnivore, often gets the gluten free turkey burgers, as well as other meat products from the grill section, “classics”, and the kosher station. These make for great meals on their own, as well as good supplements to items located in the gluten free area. Frankel also advises that gluten free students keep their eyes peeled for the occasional gluten free specials offered in other stations, like stir fry in classics, corn tortillas on quesadilla night in Mongolian, or the occasional memorable special, like make-your-own-pizza with gluten free crust that was available last year at the front of the marketplace.

Be warned, however, that unless an item is in the gluten free section, it is not guaranteed not to have been contaminated.

Summerfields– Summerfields can be a bit tricky, since much of the menu relies on grain products. Hannah Korevaar ‘13 usually opts for a salad when she and her friends hit up Summies. Taqueria options are also doable, with corn tortillas available for students interested in making their Mexican-style meals gluten free.

Usdan and Pi Cafes– Frankel brings up an interesting point about American culture, which is particularly evident on college campuses. “The majority of snacks and quick lunches that we eat contain gluten.” He told me.  “Think about the last time you were on the run. You probably grabbed chips, cookies, pretzels, or some kind of breakfast bar.” When you think about it, you realize that he’s right!  Quick lunches are no different. The go to options are sandwiches, pizza, burgers, and fries. Even though Usdan Cafe and Pi don’t offer gluten free bread, it’s definitely possible to eat gluten free when you’re in a rush.

The marketplace has a to-go option during lunch hours. If you know what you’re looking for, you can grab a box, fill it with goodies, and skedaddle to your next appointment within five minutes. If that just won’t cut it, stop downstairs at the cafe. You can get a cup of soup and a salad (the fresh mozzarella and tomato is particularly delicious) or a sushi roll (try the teriyaki chicken for a very filling meal). As far as snacks are concerned, Ronnybrook yogurt and yogurt drinks are some of the freshest and most organic products you can find at Wesleyan. They also come in a variety of flavors, all of which are gluten free. If you’re not feeling dairy, Frankel highly recommends “NuGo Free” bars. These gluten free snacks are packed with healthy ingredients and covered in chocolate. “They’re amazing” he gushed. “You need to try one.”

WesShop– WesShop has a fair amount of gluten free offerings, but the traditional “WesShop lunch”, which can be purchased with a meal instead of points, is impossible for gluten free students. It’s pretty much a wheat-fest, with a sandwich, cookie, chips, and an apple. But coming from a gluten eater, you can take my word for it that you’re not missing out on much. The pre-made sandwiches are far from delicious, and I would substitute a sushi roll for one of those soggy masses of bread any day, meal swipe or not.

As far as groceries are concerned, WesShop’s selection is so diverse that you’re probably better off there than many places off campus. There are a variety of gluten free snacks, including chips, cookies, and bars, as well as gluten free granola, oats, pasta, macaroni and cheese, rice, bread, and a variety of frozen meals.

Frankel recommends the “Food Should Taste Good” tortilla chips, as well as the coconut macaroons. Kelly says that during her four years at Wesleyan, she often picked up picnic food at WesShop, like hummus, tortilla chips, and rice cakes. She’s also a big fan of the Luna Protein Bars they sell. I tasted a couple gluten free snacks to see if any of them were up to par with the gluten alternatives, and was highly impressed by Dr. Lucy’s Cookies. The cinnamon thins are particularly delicious. Also, the gluten free Annie’s mac & cheese, which substitutes rice noodles, is just as delicious as any of the gluten containing varieties!

Non- Bon Appetit on Campus

Red and Black Cafe– If you’re going to Red and Black for brunch, you won’t have any trouble, asserted every gluten free student I talked to. The egg dishes and smoothies, which make up the majority of the menu, are completely gluten free. Lunch and dinner, however, are a little tougher. After hearing woes from the interviewees about struggling to find lunch and dinner options in the cafe, I called Red and Black myself to see what they recommended for their gluten free customers. They told me that although sandwiches were not an option because they don’t have gluten free bread, they do offer gluten free soups, salads, and deli salads that are gluten free. Try making one of the delicious gourmet sandwiches into a platter. Take the Paisano for example, which combines fresh mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, tomato, and fresh basil with a drizzle of olive oil on ciabatta bread. Without the bread, this is just like a caprese salad, with the prosciutto adding some protein and uniqueness.

WesWings– WesWings is a little easier, especially for meat eaters, like Mr. Frankel, who frequents the eatery often and usually orders the honey-ginger wings. Meat dishes and salads can all be made without gluten, and any sandwich can be served without the bread. For a super healthy meal that’s gluten free to boot, ask for a piece of marinated grilled chicken without the sandwich, and get it with a small salad, hummus and vegetables, the veggie platter, or a cup of soup.

Off Campus– it seems like pretty much every restaurant off campus has something on the menu that doesn’t contain gluten. Additionally, many places will modify a dish to suit your specific dietary needs. For this list, I have compiled number of the most popular restaurants among the Wesleyan community that have a fair share of gluten free
alternatives.

Italian:
Mondo– Mondo is one of the best place for pizza in town. Its artisan, thin crust pies are incredibly delicious. Luckily, they’ll be happy to give you a gluten free crust. Korevaar raves about the pizza, which she says is probably her favorite meal out in Middletown. The toppings are sublime, with choices ranging from pineapple to gourmet cheeses to oozy egg to sausage. If you’re not feeling pizza, there are also several gluten free salads on the menu. 

Jerry’s Pizza– Somehow Jerry’s Pizza has seemed to hit every food blog on the internet, and yet remain fairly below the radar among the Wesleyan Community. Probably because it’s on South Main Street (across the street from the Athenian Diner), and requires a very tedious and inconvenient two minute drive. Well, if you’re into seriously good pizza, regardless of whether or not you can eat gluten, find a car and check this place out. Their gluten free menu includes pizza, meatballs, stuffed shells, ravioli, and eggplant and chicken parmesan.

Amici- Amici is one of the most popular Italian restaurants on Main Street. It’s especially good for birthdays, dates, and when parents are in town. If you’re gluten free, don’t worry! They have gluten free penne, and can modify several of their other dishes to fit your needs. 

Tuscany Grill– Although they don’t have gluten free pasta, Tuscany Grill stands out for their separate gluten free menu, which includes items like risotto, grilled salmon, and coffee encrusted pork tenderloin.

Fiore- If you’re looking for a meal that is more authentic, choose Fiore over Amici. They can make any pasta dish with gluten free penne, and will do their best to accommodate customers with regards to dietary modifications.

Esca- While still having enough pasta dishes to be deemed an Italian restaurant, Esca definitely leans a bit more towards the continental end than some other options in town.  Any item on their menu with a star next to it can be made gluten free, and gluten free pasta can be substituted in any noodle dish.

Mexican:
La Boca– At La Boca, gluten free customers have a small menu from which they can order. This includes enchiladas, cilantro green tortillas, roja sauce, fajitas, tacos with corn tortillas, and any burger or chicken sandwich without the bun. 
Iguanas Ranas- Similar to La Boca, at Iguanas, tacos, as well as other menu items, can be made with corn tortillas. One of the most popular gluten free dishes that they recommend is a corn tortilla with refried beans, cabbage, guacamole, cilantro, onions, and tomatoes.

Cafes:
Brew Bakers– Brew Bakers works hard to be gluten-free-friendly, especially to cater to the Wesleyan community. Any of their sandwiches can be made on gluten free bread and wraps, except for the paninis. Frankel recommends the smoked salmon and egg sandwich, and Korevaar agrees that the omelette sandwiches are definitely the way to go.

New England Emporium– There’s no need for gluten free students to jealously watch as their friends consume delightful crepe creations. The Emporium has a special recipe, so any of the large selection of crepes on the menu can be made gluten free! This is supplemented by the wide variety of salads, omelettes, and daily soups.

Javapalooza– Upon analyzing the menu at Java the other day, It became evident that this establishment too is very accommodating towards gluten free people. Any of their crepes can be made without gluten, and they also serve omelettes and salads.

Neon Deli– Unfortunately, our favorite almost on campus eatery has not yet jumped on the bandwagon. However, in a recent discussion with co-owner Fran Galle, I learned that the one thing preventing him from hopping on board is the fact that gluten free bread needs to be kept frozen, and therefore all sandwiches would need to be served toasted. “Would that bother people?” He asked me. As far as I’m concerned, as long are there are options for the gluten free eaters among us, people will be happy, but what do you think? Fran wants your opinions, so either come into the store or email him at frangalle@gmail.com, to let him know if toasted bread is a deal breaker for you. As far as eating gluten free at this point is concerned, there are still some options. Kelly recommends going for one of the bean and lentil combinations offered in the deli salad section.

Cafe 56– This new breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant is already getting rave reviews. It’s definitely a location to check out, and they’re  serving up gluten free bread for their sandwiches. They also have a wide selection of omelettes for gluten free customers.

Sweet Harmony Cafe and Bakery– Sweet Harmony also offers gluten free bread, meaning that all of their sandwiches can be made gluten free. The rest of the lunch menu pretty much consists of salads and chicken dishes, but if you came to Sweet Harmony  to satisfy your sweet tooth, don’t worry! See desserts below.

It’s Only Natural Restaurant– I.O.N, not surprisingly, does a lot to accommodate gluten free customers. Their offerings range from miso soup to sweet potato enchiladas to vegetarian fried rice, to a macrobiotic plate, to any sandwich served on a gluten free buns, or using lettuce instead of bread. Kelly recommends the Cali melt, which includes hummus, avocado, portobello mushrooms, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cheese.  They also typically have a gluten free dessert available. See dessert selections below.

Desserts: There’s more than just ice cream and frozen yogurt for gluten free people to munch on when that sweet tooth rolls around. Several of the bakeries in Middletown serve up exceptional goods completely free of the product!

Fusion Bakery– Fusion’s gluten free menu is on a rotating schedule, but they typically have at least three choices at all time. Popular selections include flourless chocolate cake, chocolate pot de creme, gluten free tiramisu, chocolate cupcakes, and coconut macaroons.

NoRa Cupcake Company– At NoRa, you can always find at least one gluten free cupcake. Recent offerings include “oreo” mudslide, chocolate mint, chocolate peanut butter explosion, and vanilla chai latte. 

Sweet Harmony Cafe and Bakery- Going along with the general theme, Sweet Harmony offers gluten free baked goods on a rotating basis. Popular selections include gluten free brownies and carrot cake.

It’s Only Natural Restaurant– I.O.N’s gluten free bakery is on a rotating schedule as well, with chocolate bundt cake posing as a regular on the menu. 

Grocery:

It’s Only Natural Market– If WesShop isn’t cutting it, The I.O.N Market is sure to have the gluten free products you’re looking for. As I walked through, I was highly impressed with the amount of frozen, canned, and packaged items. Frankel raves about Udi’s gluten free bread, and their double chocolate and blueberry frozen muffins, which he referred to as “the best things ever”. He also advised that no one leave without purchasing the frozen mini gluten free brownies by French Meadow bakery. 

Long story short, whether you’re looking for pasta, pizza, sandwiches, enchiladas, or baked goods, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings either on or off campus. The other good news? As gluten-free living plays a larger role in society everyday, more and more eating establishments are altering their menus to cater towards the increasingly prominent customer demographic. WIthin the next few years, we’re expecting to see a ton more options both on and off campus, so check back soon to get the scoop on what’s happening in Wesleyan and Middletown’s gluten free revolution!

-Ari Rudess

Are we missing anything? What’s your favorite gluten free restaurant or dish at or around Wesleyan?

Top 10 Middletown Must-Eats

Are you a freshman struggling to figure out how you’re going to feed yourself for the next four years? Or maybe you’re an upperclassman dreading the endless line for pastabilities?  Well, good news. We’ve assembled a list of some of our favorite restaurants in Middletown for you to explore.  All of these places are within walking distance from campus and offer some of the best deals and dishes in town, so be sure to check them out!

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1. Neon Deli

    If you haven’t been to Neon Deli, you are either living under a rock, or a freshman (It’s okay frosh. You’ll learn soon enough).  Neon offers typical deli fare–sandwiches, soups, salads–as well as some grocery items, for cheaper prices than WesShop. Just looking for a quick lunch? We recommend the Sussman special, a soft 6-inch roll with chicken cutlet, provolone cheese, black olives, pepperoni, and onions, melted to perfection and served by some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. For a guilt-free dessert, check out the Ben & Jerry’s Greek Frozen Yogurt (Raspberry Fudge is our fave). The one downside: they don’t take Middletown Cash. But for the awesome service, great food, and proximity to campus, we’d say it’s worth the cash.

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2. New England Emporium

    It’s no secret that there are several coffee shop/cafe-like establishments along Main Street, all with distinct personalities and menus. They each have their perks, but one of our favorites is New England Emporium. Calling this place cozy might be pushing it, as it’s one of the larger restaurants in town, but the comfortable couches, homey decorations, and casual menu give it a warm and friendly vibe. It wouldn’t be right to dub the Emporium a “coffee shop” because of its expansive menu, which includes a variety of breakfast options, sweet and savory crepes, soups, sandwiches, salads, gelato, and pretty much any drink you can think of. It’s definitely a great place to settle down with your books and indulge in a nice snack. Oh, and they take Middletown Cash!

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3. Mondo

    It’s 6 o’clock and you’re craving one thing and one thing only: pizza. Don’t be ashamed; it’s most college students’ meal of choice. The only thing you should be embarrassed about is ordering from Domino’s when there’s a fantastic pizza restaurant right down the street (literally… just walk down Church and you’re there). Be warned: it’s not your run-of-the-mill pizzeria, and you’re going to want to bring more than 5 bucks (or be prepared to use Middletown Cash). The thin crust pies are cooked in brick ovens, using only the freshest of ingredients. They come at a price (13.50 for a medium pie), but are incredibly delicious and big enough to share. But even if you’re not in the mood for pizza, you will definitely enjoy one of their other great offerings. Eggplant fries, anyone?

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4. O’Rourkes

    O’Rourke’s is probably the most famous restaurant in Middletown. People come from far and wide to go to this very established diner, so expect a line, especially on the weekends. We think its success can be attributed to its irresistible charm. The restaurant is tiny, probably not seating more than 30 people. After the long wait, the servers welcome you to your table by giving you a flower, and a little amuse bouche: a few pieces of their freshly made bread or muffins to hold you over until your main dish arrives. The menu is heavily influenced by the owner’s Irish heritage, so expect dishes like Irish soda bread french toast, bangers wrapped in pancakes, and several different varieties of hash (which were even featured on the Food Network program “Diners Drive-Ins, and Dives”).  Don’t stress too much about what you end up choosing, we guarantee that everything is delicious, but we’re somewhat partial to the egg dishes, especially the many variations of eggs benedict. At some point during your four years at Wesleyan, it’s absolutely essential that you check this place out for a truly unique dining experience.

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5. Anoho

    Fun fact: Anoho is short for Asian Noodle House. They have an option where you choose a type of noodle, meat/soy product, vegetable, and sauce, and they customize a dish for you (the customizable noodle soup is a go-to sick food). They’re also the only restaurant in Middletown to serve bubble tea! The food is considered Asian fusion, so you’ll find dishes from Japan, Thailand, and predominantly China. For appetizers definitely try the scallion pancakes and fried pork dumplings. If you’re not in the mood for noodles we recommend the General Tso’s chicken (it’s the best in Middletown, from our experience). Vegetarian/vegan? You’re in luck; they recently added several vegetarian substitutes to their menu to cater to our community. Almost every chicken dish has a bean curd substitute, not to mention a variety of tofu dishes. You’ll be happy to know that they take Middletown Cash and deliver (it usually takes about 45 minutes for them to get to campus.) The one downside may be the ambiance. What from the outside looks like a cool, modern, somewhat urban establishment, on the inside is simply a quiet Chinese restaurant, with gentle background music and Chinese art decorating the walls. But hey, it’s definitely not bad. Everything is clean and the service is very friendly, but don’t go in expecting a super hip party scene, unless your definition of a party involves Chinese elevator music and subdued Asian waitresses serving wonton soup in porcelain bowls (no judgement if that is your definition of a party). Anyway, Anoho offers great food at completely reasonable prices. Just go.

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6. It’s Only Natural

    In your time at Wesleyan, be it 1 day or 3 years, you have all experienced the onslaught of comments regarding the progressive, politically correct, “hippie” reputation of this university. We suppose that if there’s one restaurant in Middletown that best reflects this perception, it’s It’s Only Natural. This eatery (not to be confused with the It’s Only Natural Market which is a few blocks north) is the only completely vegetarian restaurant in Middletown. We’ve found it to be somewhat hit or miss, but mostly hits. The juices are delicious and fresh, but with a limited variety, and without a to-go area where you can get a drink for the road. The vegetable dumplings are absolutely delicious, as are the noodle bowl and the sweet potato fries. The dishes you should avoid are the chili, and anything that involves cheese as one of the key ingredients. Come for the vegan food and juices, the cool, laid back ambiance, and bring your wallet, because it’s not cheap (look at $14 for an entree). For health food products and vitamins, definitely check out the It’s Only Natural market. Although they don’t have as much variety as larger health food stores, you’ll definitely be able to find the basics, and the quality is very good.

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7. NoRa Cupcakery

    When we heard that someone was opening a cupcake bakery on Main Street, we literally jumped for joy, and rushed down to this adorable little bake shop as quickly as we could. Come on, who wouldn’t be excited about cupcakes? NoRa is a fascinating establishment. Located deep within the North End of Middletown, which has a stigma within the community for being lower-income and somewhat dangerous, the name “NoRa” refers to its location, north of Rappallo avenue, a choice the owners made in the hopes that the title will be universally adopted by the Middletown community, thereby changing the reputation of the North End neighborhood. Besides their social and political message, NoRa offers some delicious cupcakes. Every day they have different specials, always including one gluten free, vegan, and Weight Watchers friendly cupcake. One of their most interesting creations is called “pan cupcake & bacon” (with or without blueberries). Like the name suggests, this cupcake is made with pancake batter and bacon. The incorporation of bacon within desserts seems to be all the rage these days, so we like NoRa, because they are keeping up with the times, both socially and gastronomically. Check their Facebook for the daily flavors.

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8. Amici Italian Grill

    Got a hot date this weekend? Or is it just your parents coming to make sure you haven’t died yet? Either way, we’ve got just the place for you. If you’re into Italian food, you’re sure to find a solid meal at Amici. It’s not the most authentic European dining experience, and it might leave a gaping hole in your wallet, but their food is soooooo good. We suggest trying the Mediterranean salad, Veal Parmigiana, and Chicken Gnocchi. Also, don’t skimp out on the bread. It’s served with garlic cloves that you scoop out and spread on with a knife, which is kind of weirdly fun. Overall, Amici is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a more intimate, upscale environment.

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9. Praline’s Ice Cream (Lizzy B’s Sweet Celebrations)

    Praline’s is one of those incredibly cute ice cream shoppes that you just can’t walk by without stopping in… and unconsciously start frequenting every weekend for that perfect little dessert. It’s less of a one-night-stand and more like one of those “Oh my God I think I’m in love with you” kind of things, so don’t be surprised to find out that Praline’s is actually a pretty popular chain in Connecticut. Call us blasphemous but we actually rank it higher than Coldstone. It’s a little cheaper, has a more comfortable, “neighborhoody” vibe, and serves frozen treats that are really top-notch. Be sure to try the Beez Neez, Praline’s N’ Cream, and Cake Batter flavors, all of which are made locally with quality, fresh ingredients. So what do you say; are you ready to jump on the Praline’s bandwagon?

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10. Sweet Harmony Cafe and Bakery

    You may have scrolled through this list and thought to yourself “Aight yo, I might as well have created my own food blog. I’ve literally heard of all these restaur–wait, what the hell is Sweet Harmony and why does it sound like a bad soap opera?” Well, this is one of those hole-in-the-walls that definitely reinforces the hipster stereotype at Wesleyan. And even though it’s not the most popular, it definitely merits the elaborate description that follows…

Once upon a time, two hungry girls were meandering through the quaint streets of Middletown, Connecticut. As they stumbled along, they came across a tiny house, in front of which read a sign “Sweet Harmony Cafe and Bakery”. Somewhat timidly, they entered, only to be greeted by an adorable room, laden with trinkets and treasures of every variety. A kindly old woman sat them down at a miniscule wooden table, where they were served the freshest and most delicious of salads, most savory of comfort foods, and interesting, creative beverages. Then dessert arrived, and with one glance it was as if we had died and gone to heaven. What a thing of beauty it was. The strawberry shortcake, drenched in strawberry syrup and fresh fruit, and topped with the chewiest, creamiest scoop of vanilla ice cream and a perfectly thick dollop of whipped cream. The cream puff cake, doused in hot fudge, and embedded with a filling, was almost artistic in appearance and nature. After paying their bill, which was not by any means exorbitant, they left, completely satisfied, wondering, if perhaps the experience had even been real, or maybe they had been dreaming all along.

Okay so basically what we’re saying is that this is an absolute MUST eat in Middletown. Find a friend, preferably someone who appreciates joy, and bring them down to Broad Street for one of the most divine of dining experiences.

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Did we miss something? Comment and let us know your favorite places to eat in Middletown! We’ll be sure to feature them soon.

Ari Rudess and Alex Irace