Considering how cute the town of Amherst is, it always amazes me that there is only one brunch place that is walking distance from campus. Of course, I am referring to Lone Wolf. Freshman year, I went there every other Sunday (my personal favorite is the Challah French Toast). Unfortunately, this habit is not kind to your pockets (or your health for that matter), so I have not been able to continue the tradition this year. However, this has not stopped me from occasionally trying out new places. I took a drive down Route 9 and came across quite a number of brunch options.
Sylvester’s
111 Pleasant Street
Northampton, MA 01060
http://www.sylvestersrestaurant.com/
Located in Downtown Northampton, Sylvester’s is hands down my favorite brunch place in the area. Made from local ingredients, Sylvester’s food is always fresh and delicious. Personally, I almost always order the Special French Toast, which changes on a daily basis (shown here is the special, made out of cranberry-walnut bread). Also depicted are the Chocolate Chip Pancakes. Sylvester’s has a great assortment of omelets as well as lunch options. Afterwards, you can walk off your food baby and go shopping at Urban Outfitters, Thornes Marketplace, or Cathy Cross. Sylvester’s is the perfect place to hit on a lazy Sunday.
Esselon Café
99 Russell Street
Hadley, MA 01035
http://www.esselon.com/
Another restaurant that supports local farmers, Esselon Café not only has great coffees and teas, but also amazing food. From the Smoked Salmon Benedict to the Three Egg Omelet to the Breakfast Burrito, Esselon Café is sure to have something that will satiate your palate. They also have gigantic cookies that are great to snack on while on the road. I always have a hard time resisting stopping by and picking up a Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie. With an outdoor patio, Esselon Café is the ideal spot for a sunny spring day.
Stables
326 Russell Street
Hadley, MA 01035
Located right off of Route 9 not too far from Amherst, Stables offers inexpensive, delicious country-style breakfast foods. While they may not boast all locally grown ingredients, they are known for their homemade breads. Their food is great for curing hangovers, as long as you do not mind waiting in line. However, like a real hometown diner, Stables only accepts cash but it is well worth the trip to the ATM.