Pepperland Cafe has a big focus on locally-grown, organic ingredients, and this dedication to quality food was very apparent in every bite. The atmosphere was also very down-to-earth, with warm, welcoming colors on the walls.
To start my meal, I went with the Smuttynose IPA.
We also shared a massive plate of Pepperland's Sweet Onion Rings with Hot Mustard Aioli and Pepperland Ketjap ($7). I honestly ate about 10 of these - they were wonderfully crispy and lightly fried, and were the least greasiest onion rings I've ever had, which is a very good thing, in my book.
For another appetizer, Z and I split the Asparagus Soup ($4). We both love asparagus, and it was clear only fresh asparagus spears were used in this recipe. The soup was also very well seasoned.
Since we had also had some appetizers at my sister's house (we're a family that loves our appetizers), Z and I decided to split an entree. We opted for the House-made Porcini Pappardelle with Portobello Mushroom, Swiss Chard and Garlic, all smothered in a mushroom cream sauce ($17). Homemade pasta, cream sauce, and fresh mushrooms? Winner winner pasta dinner.
Like the ever-changing dinner menu, Pepperland's dessert menu also changes daily - what's for dessert is what the chef decided to bake that day. Luckily for us, the chef had made his famous Parsnip Cake on Saturday, and we all split a ginormous slice.
The cake was wonderfully moist, and reminded me of a lighter version of carrot cake (cream cheese frosting and all).
After dining at Pepperland Cafe, I can see why my sister and her husband are such fans of the place. I'll always support a local restaurant that appreciates local and/or organic food. A menu that changes daily means there's a chef in the kitchen who is innovative, dedicated and passionate, and that always comes out in their food.
What's your favorite restaurant that uses local and/or organic ingredients?
I love Stone Hearth Pizza for their local and sustainable ingredients!
ReplyDeleteNo joke - this looks like my dream meal! From the onion rings (my favorite!), to the asparagus soup, mushroom pappardelle (best noodle!), and parsnip cake (ok, never tried that...but it sounds interesting - and looks good!).
ReplyDeleteI love fellow vegetarian food bloggers. :)
Thanks, Aimee! Me too. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome cafe! I was in Portland last week and I saw signs on the highway for the Berwicks. I've never been but I totally will have to check it out next time I'm in Maine. Parsnip cake?! That sounds awesome, as does the entire meal.
ReplyDeleteSeriously one of my all time favorite places, EVER! That was the first entree I ever had there as well, and I was hooked for life. Stop by for Sunday brunch sometime and you'll want to move to So. Berwick for good!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tip regarding Sunday brunch - I will definitely have to check that out!
ReplyDeleteYou've also got to try the margaritas and, if you go for a sunday brunch their morning ritas. So good. As far as the chef goes - awesome guy! My daughter calls him cheffer. Heck that goes for all the staff there. They are amazing people.
ReplyDeleteI've been here a couple times and I love it too! Their chocolate martinis are to die for!!
ReplyDeleteOoooh, I'll have to go back for the chocolate martini. That sounds delicious!
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