I Love York City

Necklace from Cherie Anne

We set out on a downtown shopping trip on Thursday, this time with baby in toe (not mine, a friend’s). Special note: York sidewalk’s are not a toddler’s friend. After a couple trips and stumbles, we were finally on our way to some of York’s boutiques. I think that if I learned to knit/crochet I would save a ton of money. In general, I wish I were craftier. I saw some gorgeous handmade clothes, scarves, hats, and jewelry – all of which had to be put on the back burner for now. 



I parked on Philadelphia Street, luckily right in front of Cherie Anne’s (otherwise I may have passed it by). The ‘handknits’ caught my eye, but the jewelry drew me in. I fell in love with an adjustable ring, much like the one pictured to the right, seen on Etsy. For people that are more DIY than myself, they also have plenty of yarn and whatnot to choose from, as well as teas and herbs. I also recently found out that they have a small courtyard to enjoy those teas and herbs, which looks absolutely adorable (like a sister Cherry Lane). 


We also stopped at Sweet Melissa’s Dream. Due to work and, honestly, the inconvenience of downtown on a workday, I really only find myself on Beaver Street at night when heading out for some local brews and grub. I’ve often found myself window shopping but never really had the chance to go in. I finally did and can honestly say it was a treat. I fell in love with the lace, eyelet, and crocheted sweaters and dresses. They were exactly what I’d been eyeing up in stores but with more attention to detail and a more true-to-vintage feel. The photo at left is taken from their Facebook page and gives a real idea of what can be found in-store. 


Finally, we made our way to Market Street and to the York Emporium (luckily they have a parking lot) where we browsed the multitude of books. I left with a few classics: Howard’s End, Tess of the D’urbeville’s, and Vanity Fair, as well as my favorite Rebecca in a worn and ‘vintage’ hardcover copy to replace my tattered paperback. I really hope the Emporium does not follow library rules. The toddler was a chatterbox the whole way through. The York Emporium has always been one of my favorite haunts. I have purchased many a favorite and spent many hours perusing their full stock of books. They really have something for everyone. 


Seeing as it was a market day, we ran through market where I bought plenty of pastries to ruin my diet from The Copper Crust and the YBI Student Run Bakery. The Copper Crust has amazing croissants, but what really gets me drooling is their Paris Bun. Similar to a sticky bun (they also have a version with nuts), only flakier (like a croissant). The Student Run Bakery is hit or miss but for the most part is definitely well worth the money – you really can’t beat the price. I love to stock up on their frozen pizza dough – for $2.50 it definitely beats anything you get at the grocery store. I would also recommend their Potato, Cheddar, Chive bread and their Everything bagels, which include sea salt – surprisingly hard to find in this area. For a healthy and surprising twist, I grabbed some lunch at Simply Soup where Joy left me sample her four delicious soups before settling on the Beef and Shrimp Oriental – yum! I ca’t say I’ve ever gone wrong with her soups. They’re always guaranteed fresh and she never goes overboard on salt or seasonings, which also means healthy. 

Yet another successful Market Day in downtown York. Living near DC/Baltimore may sound exciting, but in reality I would choose my hometown any day!

The “Best” of York County

The Best of York County is out (at least for a sneak peek) and I am yet again disappointed in York. I get it: York isn’t exactly the epicenter for high culture. But you’d think that at least the newspaper could gather up some energy to try to inspire the people of York to move beyond Texas Roadhouse. And maybe clear them up about the differences between  insurance providers vs. insurance agencies (State Farm is a company. Insurance Services United is an agency.)

Admittedly, a few of the recipients did deserve their awards. But when “Best Italian” is given to Olive Garden, you know you’re in too deep to dig your way out. Yes, Victor’s came in at #2 but I just can’t possibly fathom how it came in under Olive Garden. And Sam & Tony’s wasn’t even an option? Ugh. Texas Roadhouse came in with a total of 3 awards (while not always first). I worked there – and it’s not that great. I haven’t been back because I try to “eat local”, which should also be encouraged by the ‘local’ paper. Best of York County: The New York Times. I really just adore The New York Times.

My suggestion? Make the Best of York County locally focused by forcing it’s residents to actually eat in truly local restaurants. No franchises. No chains. That way Victor’s will have a chance at coming in at #1 – because with Olive Garden in the running (which has a long wait every single day of the week) they don’t have a chance. York Country residents don’t like to step out of their comfort zone and try something new. So by saying, “Hey, look! There are local options that will blow Olive Garden out of the water! We want you to try them out and let us know which one is the best!” You are giving your readers an option.

Just saying.

So here are some local dining suggestions that didn’t make the cut:

Mudhook Brewing Co.

The Cove

Festive Board Deli & Bakery

Maewyn’s

Bistro 19

First Capital Dispensing Co.

Sam & Tony’s Italian

Marino’s Italian

Anything located in Central Market