Rachel's Cafe & Creperie

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 06:00:00 -0500

I went to Rachel's one morning after one of Lancaster's big snow falls. The warm atmosphere of the café was extremely inviting after walking a few blocks through the piles of snow strewn about town. The décor in the small restaurant was just as I imagine a Paris café: clean black and white tiles, small cast iron tables, all consumed by the sweet smell of crepes and powdered sugar. I have a bit of an unhealthy love for Nutella, so when I enthusiastically ordered the small Nutella crepe the Taste the World coupon book provided my mouth watered - paired with their wide range of coffees, I was in heaven! When the crepe arrived, it was anything but small. The crepes are served on a round, flat tin that just adds to the French Café vibe. The smells I experienced when I walked in were true to the taste of this perfectly crafted dessert. I want to go back again and try some of their savory crepes but I am unsure I will be able to stay away from that Nutella!

Cocina Mexicana

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:16:00 -0500

I love Mexican food. The spice mixed with the fresh veggies is irresistible to me. However, going out for Mexican food in the north sometimes reminds me more of Taco Bell than Mexico. This is not the case as Cocina Mexicana. They have a very large menu filled with tacos, salads, burritos and even a vegetarian section. The very nice and enthusiastic woman who waited on me emphasized that the reason they have been a steady business for over seven years is because everything is homemade and fresh. When I used the coupon for the tamale she informed me that the tamales are made fresh on Mondays and Wednesdays and then heated to order. The taste of the tamale at Cocina Mexicana was unlike any Mexican food I have tasted. Although, when doused in one of the three homemade hot sauces they offer, your taste buds will believe they have taken a trip south of the border!

Spyro Gyros

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:00:00 -0500

I walked into Spyro Gyros on a very cold evening to grab some dinner with my roommate. We were frozen just from walking from the car but as soon as we walked into Spyro Gyros on Queen Street, the cozy and warm atmosphere of this Greek inspired restaurant eased our shivers. We sat at a very large booth and admired the very worldly décor on the walls, as well as local art for sale. We used the Taste the World coupon for the free tabouli with pita as an appetizer. One thing that I loved about this place was that they give you a choice of either white or wheat pita. The tabouli had just the right about of sweetness and spice and was a perfect appetizer for their very large falafel salad -- One salad is plenty for two people. Overall, good atmosphere and great food to warm you up!

First Stop: Colombian Bakery

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 -0500

The first place I visited was the Colombian Bakery on Queen Street. Just stepping foot inside this small, friendly bakery made me nostalgic of my time spent in Latin America. Everyone who came in seemed to know the next, greeting each other in Spanish.

I used the coupon for the free arepa choclo which is a baked yellow corn cake that for me, was the perfect afternoon snack. I could also see it as something quick to grab for breakfast on the way to work. Pair it with a delicious (and cheap!) cup of coffee and it is a great way to start the day. I will definitely be returning here!