Through a Washashore's Eyes

Its Goodbye to Cape Cod for Some Friends

But for many others it will be until I can return again.

Old Cape Cod

If you're fond of sand dunes and salty air,
quaint little villages here and there,
you're sure to fall in love with Old Cape Cod.

If you like the taste of a lobster stew
served by a window with an ocean view,
you're sure to fall in love with Old Cape Cod.

Winding roads that seem to beckon you.
Miles of green beneath the skies of blue.
Church bells chimin' on a sunday morn
remind you of the town where you were born.

If you spend an evening you'll want to stay,
watching the moonlight on Old Cape Cod bay.
You're sure to fall in love with Old Cape Cod.

You're sure to fall in love, in love, in love.
You're sure to fall in love, in love,
with Old Cape Cod, Old Cape Cod.

Written by Claire Rothrock, Milton Yakus and Allan Jeffrey

From the time that Patti Page first recorded that song in 1957 for Mercury Records and way beyond the edge of time. It will always be the timeless song that echoes the feelings of so many people who come to visit here on the Cape. Despite the crazy traffic at times,  its a vacation for the family. Here one can find peace and connect with nature. Its not long lines in big amusement parks although the minature golf courses can draw quite a crowd. Its a less stressful vacation when plans can be flexible according to weather and there's always a chance for a stop  that will include a day at the beach. Families bond and memories are made as people begin to reconnect. In many ways  I believe we should continue to keep it simple here and not become too commercialized . Keep those high rise hotels away and support those smaller motels. Try those local restaurants or pack up your picnic baskets  and head out to the beach, the bike trails,the lake or camp in the beauty of nature. Visit the local playhouses and enjoy a play its a great change from a movie now and again. The Cape has lots to offer and much to be explored. So while others leave to return to their jobs and their lives across the bridge. I hope others will return to share in the beauty this island of Cape Cod has to offer.

P.S. Hope you enjoy the video I made on You Tube its my tribute to Cape Cod.

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Looking for Hamburger Heaven

I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a Hamburger today.

Popeye's old buddy Whimpy was always looking for that perfect hamburger or two. But hey I'll pay today to get a great juicey flavorful burger today or any day. I'll even do the unthinkable for some and go over that bridge for a good burger and I have. One place that never disappoints me and always has me and my friends smiling is found in Wareham and Plymouth and its name is the  Red Robin (www.redrobin.com). It is here that Whimpy would be in hamburger heaven. The burgers are big, cooked fresh to perfection served in a basket with paper wrap to ensure that you are not wearing all that goodness prepared on the bun. If you want to combine breakfast with your burger try a  Royal Red Robin Burger which is crowned with a fresh fried egg, topped with three strips of hickory smoked bacon, american cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato and mayo. I know that you might feel your arteries clogging at the sound, but what to heck if you don't do it all the time a little cheat is good for the soul. They have lots of great choices and my secret goal is try each and everyone of them, but dam they keep adding more to the menu. Their Guacamole Bacon Burger is a favorite with a homemade zesty guacamole, three strips of hickory smoked bacon, melted swiss cheese, onion, lettuce, tomato and mayo. Also of note don't miss their towering onion ring appetitizer served with a creamy ranch sauce and spicey "campfire" sauce for dipping. And what burger would be complete without a blast from the past milkshake of  your choice if you dersire. They really know how to do them good.

Barbyann's ( www.barbyanns.com ) of Hyannis is also a great place to enjoy a good juicey burger with some good choices. If you are brave and bold you should try the Big Bear Burger topped with corned beef, honey ham, bacon and melted swiss cheese. You can even have the chef cook up a como burger of your choice. All burgers are served with steak or spicey fries and a dill pickle.             

The Old Jaihouse Tavern ( www.jailhousetavern.com ) of Orleans serves up a great charbroiled burger of your choice served with frimps (seasoned fries) and a dill pickle. My personal favorite is the mushroom and swiss cheese.

Clancy's (www.clancysrestaurant.com) of Dennisport also serves up a memoriable half pound Black Angus burger cooked to perfection on a onion roll with a dill pickle and topping of your choice. They also offer a great choice of sides from Clancy's fries, Red Bliss Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Rice, Vegetable,  to House Potato or Baked Potato (after 5:00pm) .

If its the view you crave and a no frills burger, head out to a secluded area on the harbour in Dennis called the Secuit Harbour Cafe ( www.sesuitharborcafe.com) If you don't mind picnic tables and paper plates you'll like this location for casual dining and great scenery. 

But if its really something unique you want try the Northside Restaurant in Brewster and order the Oregano Burger its is by far one of the best experiences that I ever had. The Restaurant is quiet, casual and tavern-like.

So many places out there and when you want something alittle different than the fast food kind.......Where do you go ??????????????? (or is home the best and what's your recipe ? )

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Does something wicked this way come ?

Weather has been crazy lately
Are we due for the "Big One" ??

Seventeen years ago the cicadas were around and seventeen years ago on this day of August 19, Bob hit the Cape. As I sit on this fairly quiet and carefree tuesday afternoon I watch the weather reports to see just how Florida is doing in the wake of the hurricane Fay's landfall. My weather alert radio warns me of an approaching storm headed  along the coast.

The sun remains bright and off in the distance are the rumbling sounds of  a thunderstorm. Within a matter of minutes the sky grows darker and rumbles of an approaching storm sound louder. Soon the rain follows and I watch for ever increasing puddles that could develop quickly into flooding waters. But almost as quick as it began it is done and the sky returns to blue and the weather warmer. I marvel as I watch nature unveil her canvas in front of me. Smoke appears from the pavement of my parking lot as the cool soaked ground becomes warm again by the sun's rays. It's amazing to see all this steam coming off the pavement. And I wonder if this is just a glimpse of things to come.

Seventeen years ago Bob hit Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts as a "moderate" category 3 hurricane. It came ashore over Block Island before striking Newport ,Rhode Island on the afternoon of the 19th. Bob moved through eastern Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts,the center passing over Fall River and Plymouth,then passing just off the tip of Cape Cod near Provincetown. The storm produce significant damage in many areas of the Cape and Islands. It is thought that if a larger part of the eastern side of the storm crossed over land structural damage would have been extensive. Those of us who lived through the storm are well aware of the damage left along the path it took through our lives. And now often I find people talking about the  crazy weather and wondering if we are due for another storm.

Are we ready ?

Can anyone truly be ready ? 

It doesn't hurt to be prepared and hope for the best. 

• See NOAA
• See Red Cross
  

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Hungry for Breakfast

But do I always have to stand in a line?

There's nothing better to start off the day right than a good wholesome breakfast. And Although the lines may be long, some places are worth the wait. For that all around breakfeast that ties the present with the past there's the  Hearth 'n Kettle in Hyannis.

With  sunrise specials during the week they try to make breakfast affordable. And with a fresh pot of coffee on the table I'm not always looking for a waitress to refill my cup. There are other locations in Falmouth, South Yarmouth and Orleans. 

And when you're feeling a little adventurous there's Persy's Place on Main Street in Hyannis and on Route 28 in Mashpee.  Plan to spend some time as the menu choices are more than you ever thought possible. From Belgian Waffles, Nebraska Buttermilk Pancakes filled with sweet corn, to Cape Cod Pancakes with cranberries and walnuts, just to name a few. There's Rainbow Trout, Catfish or Fiddan Haddie if you're really daring. The choices for eggs will leave you lost for words.  S.O.S will bring memories back with lean corned beef in a rich creamy white sauce over a choice of toast, pancakes or biscuits and served with beans and homefries.  Also a favorite is Eggs Theodore which is grilled ham topped with maple sauteed bananas with cottage scambled eggs served with corn bread and baked beans. Whatever your choice you won't be disappointed.

And on Route 6A in Dennis there is Grumpy's with inventive blackboard specials and colossal muffins sure to make everyone happy.  They keep this girl going back and I'm never disappointed.

Good Morning Cafe, Ann and Frann's  and Heavenly #2 in South Yarmouth are all great and serve great home style cooking food.

But if it's a breakfeast sandwich fix beyond the fast food choices head to Cup a' Joe in Hyannis and Yarmouth where the sandwiches are made fresh with awesome choices.  The only problem is deciding on your favorite and getting you mouth around it.

Keltic Kitchen in West Yarmouth or Wee Packet Restaurant  in Dennisport will  soothe those Irish blues. If you love Irish sausage as I do you'll be in heaven at either location.

So these are just a few of my favorites.

What are yours ???

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It's more than just tacos

South of the Border food on Cape Cod
Which is YOUR favorite Mexican restaurant and why?

Discovered too late and gone too fast I will miss Ay!Caramba Cafe in Harwich for a long time to come. But as always my search for delicious food is always on my mind.

Sam Diego's in Hyannis(www.samdiegos.com)  is always a good choice when you want to treat yourself to a Mexican fiesta. Their crisp nacho chips and slightly spicy salsa blend have you begging for more Margaritas and Dos XX (a great Mexican beer).  If you're on a budget visit them for the taco bar buffet which includes two kinds of soups, chili, taco fixings and a salad bar all for $ 6.95 (11:30am to 3pm Mon-Fri). Don't miss the Hollerin' Jalapeno Pretzel stuffed with pepper jack cheese served warm from the oven with a cool Dijon dipping sauce. The Mexican pizza is my favorite with a thick crust and loaded with cheese, chilies, olives and beef. Whatever your choice is, I am sure that you'll be pleased at Sam's.

Acapulcos in West Yarmouth (www.acapulcos.net/home.htm)  also offers a wide variety of choices like Sam's . Their refried beans are the best I've had down here on the Cape. And I almost feel like I'm in Mexico. 

Gringo's on Main Street in Hyannis is good for outdoor dining and local spying. Their salsa and chips are addictive with fresh cilantro hints that awaken your taste buds and you find yourself trying to duplicate the recipe in your head for a later date  at home.

If burritos are your addiction try BurritoBistro (www.burritobistro.com/Menu/menu_v2.htm ) in Hyannis. The various version will have you wanting to try them all from Southern, Texan, Hawaiian, Caribbean, Thai, Santa Fe, and Baja just to name a few. Don't be afraid of the fish tacos if you love both this combination is so good.

Black Bean Cafe in Hyannis offers  an American attempt on burritos with simple fresh flavors.  And while their choices are some limited when compared to B52 their cook is willing to please.

So my search for a Mexican restaurant with empanadas and fresh Mexican food will continue. Is there anyone out there who loves Mexican food as I do? What are your favorite Mexican dishes and do you have a favorite Mexican restaurant?

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Summer is almost over

 Weather is getting cooler and the beaches not as full

I always hated the commerical for Countrytime Lemonade. You know that one that reminds you that the good days of summer will soon be gone and just a fleeting memory.

It went something like they'll be draining the pools soon. Kids will be sadly going off with their with their parents to shop for school supplies. The days will get a little shorter and the nights cooler.

For some of us who started way too slow because of unforeseen problems it feels like another summer has gone down the drain. But is the glass half full or half empty.We can sit around and whine about the days that have gone by. The ones lost forever or we can pick ourselves up and drive into the Dog Days of August.

For many August is their last hurrah for a chance to enjoy the sun,sand and cool breezes found by the ocean. Cape Cod offers beach views at just about any turn or road venture. Shopping is always around the corner with quaint gift stores,rustic antique shops,designer boutiques,flea markets,family yard sales and the ever present Christmas Tree Shops, just to name a few.

While there are no big amusement parks there are the playful theme golf parks or ever challenging golf courses. Its not really about rushing around .We do that enough in our daily working lie .Its about slowing down and enjoying what nature has to offer at the sandy beaches or rolling bike trails. Its about doing what makes us happy and taking time to breathe.

So although I feel slow as long as there is sun there always time for fun.

Get out there and enjoy even though the traffic might be a little heavy in some areas. Venture out there and explore. Break away from the traffic if its too much and try a different path. I hope you find something new and precious. 

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Pizza Pizza...Where is the Best Pizza ??

 Pizza on the Cape

Do you have A Favorite Place?

Some like thin and some love it thick. I love it both ways and that explains why I must must push myself away from the table to avoid tipping that scale too far.

I gather my information from friends whom always seem to steer me off in the right direction. For that thick flavorable almost focaccia texture with rich tomato sauce and lots of melted cheese its  Jack's in Hyannis.

My friend Dawn the Queen of Take Out turned me on To Mike's of Hyannis. For a great homestyle pizza with a flavorful crisp crust and lots of Imaginative creations Mike's does it for me. The Buffalo Chicken is so spicey and good. The White Spinach Feta is to die for if you love feta. At first glance I was alittle reluctant but after one bite I was hooked. The Villa Pollo is awaresome with a rich garlic Alfedo sauce and fresh broccoli and tender chicken. And don't forget the Mexican with chili and cheese then topped with crisp lettuce,tomatoes,olives and lite cheese. It sooooooo spicey good. Whatever your pleasure I'm sure Mike's will please.

If you over on Route 6A don't hestiate to pull into Village Pizza with a crisp flavorful crust and any choice of pizza will be a memorable experience.

But what about those who have gluten allergies and can't eat pizza.  BzPizza of Dennisport (http://bzspizza.com/glutenfree.html)  has come to your rescue and does so with a flair that has me loving it.

So once again my friends I would like to know what your favorite places are.

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Show me the Good Seafood

Where are some of your favorites????

Living by the sea we must seek the freshest, best seafood, right? I'm sure there is a select few that order that chicken pie at the local restaurant. But when near the water and especially after a good day at the beach, I want to top my day off with some delicious fresh seafood.

With a name like Seafood Sam's(http://www.seafoodsams.com) how can you can wrong?  I especially am willing to travel to the Sandwich location for an order of Salmon Bites. A dish of delicately battered Salmon bites served as a side dish but can be combined with anything  you choose.  It's a great change from the old standard choice of fish and chips. I also love their Lobster Corn Chowder which is a nice bisque stock with flavorful bites of potatoes, corn and lobster.

Their combo plates are great for those of us who can't make a choice between scallops and whole belly clams. My waistline is expanding already with just the thought, but damn, does it taste good.

Captain Frosty's ( http://www.captainfrosty.com)  is always worth a drive for some great fresh seafood but my only problem is deciding on just one thing.  Their clam cakes are always a must and they make it a part of a lot of the menu selections.           One would think living on the Cape we would have more of a choice for great Clam Cakes but for me it is limited to just two places, Captain Frosty's and Bob's Sub and Cone in Wellfleet just off the bike trail.

But back to Captain Frosty's--their Fried Clams are awesome and their fish sandwich is more than a mouthful.  If they had a better tasting tartar sauce it would be heaven.

With seafood at every turn where are some of your favorites????

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Where does one find Good Chinese Food??

Help this Washashore find the best

I have been living here for about five years now and searching for that one special restaurant that serves all my favorites is hard. DragonLite is  (www.dragonliterestaurant.com)   awaresome with a very flavorful Vegetable Fried Rice with bean sprouts and fresh green peppers, spring rolls laced with shrimp and California Rolls for those who want the taste of Sushi without the raw fish. White Coral and Jade is a delightful blend of scallops and broccoli.

I love their Egg Foo Young and many other dishes but their Chow Mein misses my favorites from back home as do many other chinese restaurants.A little blend of my fried Chow Mein Noodles from the oriental Chow Mein Company might help me retrun to my past.But each restarant offers a special favorite to many people. I often ask people who is their favorite with hopes...of learning where are other favorites and new discoveries.

Shrimp toast at Shanghai are a one of a kind experience. It has a light shrimp mixture spread on quarted slices of bread and deep fried.Try it and you'll be suprised.  Its hard to find but oh so good. 

So what are your favorites and where do you go????

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Where the Road Begins

A friend once told me that since I spent so much of my free time on the Cape, I should just move here.  But to get here I had to leave a comfort zone I had created over twenty-something years.  The first few steps were the hardest and now the rest has become like breathing.

Breathing a little heavier at times in endless miles of traffic, and suddenly I'm on Cape Cod time or so I've been told by natives.  "We can't always get to our destination on time.  We just have to learn to make allowances for traffic."

It seems everyone understands that there are going to be days when you can't make that appointment on time.  Maybe more of us should take this into consideration as we go about our daily routine.  Since I have been here there hasn't been a day that doesn't go by when you read about someone losing control of their car and getting into an accident.  Are these people in a rush to get to their destination? Is it that there are just too many flavored liqueurs for us to try? Or is it that we are just too tired from our daily struggle to make ends meet to survive this high cost choice of a peaceful existence ?

Fact is everything is more expensive once you cross that bridge.  But is the trade off worth the price we pay? I am sure people ask this question to themselves at least once or twice during their existence here.  And their answers are personal and varied.  For me, I survive at the moment with just one job.

But I no longer wait for hours in line at my bank with a clerk who acts like they have never seem me before.  My waits are shorter at the bank with a friendly greeting by someone who remembers my name.  Most of my chain restaurant choices are replaced by family based businesses where meals are planned and prepared that day from local recipes.

Now I dread going over the bridge

Wherever I drive there's a beach close by to find my peace with an ever changing view.  Once I would have driven anywhere for a bargain.  Mileage, gas or time didn't hinder my search for the perfect deal.  Now I dread going over the bridge.  But I've found local bargains and have met new friends along the way.  The woman who sells me the curtains that I could have gotten cheaper had I crossed that bridge, helps me save money by creating a new way to hang the curtains.  This is my trade off with a bonus.  I am seeing more plays that I could ever afford back home and the quality is that of  any Broadway production.

And beside me sits a patron who shares their history on the island and past plays not a someone who is afraid to even touch my elbow.  It's a trade off once you cross that bridge.  Life isn't always as fast as we would like it to be at times. We are often slowed by traffic and most often snailing our way to some destination.  But within that slow pace We often have the opportunity to catch a different view that we might have missed altogether.  Perhaps maybe in that time we can plan out our day more wisely or experience a view we might have missed rolling down the highway.  Yes everything changes once we crossed that bridge but it is each of us that must decide whether the price often set by others is worth the benefits.

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