Family Tradition
Hillside Friends and Family II
Sunday brunch is one of my
family traditions. My husband and I wake up late, brew some coffee, and slowly
get ourselves and the kids ready for a treat. We love to try new places, and
six years ago, prompted by the “Sunday Brunch: 10:30-2pm” sandwich board in
front of the stone restaurant, we wandered into Hillside Friends and Family II
(known locally both as Hillside and as Friends and Family II) on Route 209.
We were immediately welcomed
by the comforting atmosphere. It is like the downstairs of a charming rustic
inn. A warm crackling fireplace sets the tone, and a beautiful Christmas tree
seems to hug the air. The bar is stocked, and people are quietly talking at
intimate tables in the three conjoined dining rooms.
Besides the ambiance and the
good food, there is something that makes Hillside extra delightful—free
bonuses! Once we got our menus, the waitress brought out a basket filled with
warm baked goods including mini-bagels, mini-muffins, scones, and breads. This
regular complimentary treat is served with butter and jam. As if that isn’t
enough to seal your commitment to this eatery, they shortly return with a large
complimentary tray of fresh fruits—strawberries, grapes, pineapple, cantaloupe,
watermelon, and honeydew. By this time, I am nearly full. But, I’ve already
placed my order for eggs benedict with spinach. Their hollandaise is divine,
and the potatoes are nice and well done. My son orders the same thing every
time we go—Lobster Bisque; it’s his very favorite meal. My daughter has the
pancakes (chocolate chip if they have them, otherwise banana or strawberry),
and my husband gives a smile and thumbs up to the three-cheese omelet of the
day with spinach and mushroom.
Owners Salah Alygad and
Denise and Brianne McCarroll focus on serving unique, fresh, and high quality
food in a casual atmosphere. More than likely, Denise will come by to see how
your meal was and get to know you. After some pleasant conversation and several
coffee refills, I look down at my plate, surprised to see that I’ve eaten all
of my food. Feeling full and satisfied I pull my coat on and head into the cold
Sunday afternoon to travel back home for another Sunday family tradition…family
movie. If only every day could be Sunday!
–Alysse Robin
Posted by Chris Hewitt
on 1:08 PM.
Filed under
Food & Restaurant
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