Need Ideas for Valentine's Day? Top Ten Things To Do in BrandyWine Valley @visitbrandywine #TravelTuesday #BVFoodie

Stuck for Valentine's Day Ideas? How about you both toss aside the drugstore flowers and chocolates in a tin for something a little more upscale, something that will allow you to leave the 'day-to-day' behind and take time focused solely on each other.

I had the chance to take a Food and Wine Bloggers Press Trip/Media Familiarization Visit to BrandyWine Valley, and thought I'd share a top 10 list of things to see and do, and ideas on where to stay of course!

This City Mouse/Butterfly enjoyed the charming Pennsylvania Countryside where I got to sample great food and wine, hit the sites and the shops and experience some time away from my crazy hectic life in New York City. While PA is not that far from NYC, I felt like I was a world away - and I mean that in a *GOOD* way!

The last time I visited Pennsylvania was on a church bus trip to Amish Country! I was super young (maybe I'll post an 'adorkable' Throwback Thursday if I can find those photos!), but I do remember it being such a stark contrast to my life in NYC. This trip brought me back to that first one. Especially while we were on the road and passed two young ladies horseback riding! (I so want to do that on my next visit! I have been horseback riding since I was very young, and it is one of the things I try to arrange to do when I am on personal/vacation travel.)

Where I stayed:

I stayed at Mendenhall Inn located at 323 Kennett Pike/Route 52, Mendenhall, PA - those of you following this butterfly on Instagram got to see my Instagram post showing my room and the neat swag that was waiting for me upon arrival! If you are not yet following Ascending Butterfly on Instagram, make sure to remedy that right now! (Sometimes Instagram Photos happen way before the full blog recap does so it's a fun way to share in what I am doing in the moment).

Room at MendenHall Inn

During our visit, there were several events/happenings going on at the same time (including several wedding parties!) and I have to say I was amazed at the fact that I didn't really hear any noise in the hallways. They also did offer breakfast, but as I was on a Press Trip, Breakfast was already planned for us and so sadly I didn't get to try Breakfast at the hotel. But everything looked great! It was a little crowded when I peeked in so I didn't get a chance to nab my own photos. (I didn't want to be that creepy lady with the DSLR snapping random photos of people eating breakfast! LOL) They offer Eggs (with or without cheese), bacon, sausage, sausage gravy, biscuits, make your own waffles or pancakes, oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, bagels, juice, coffee or tea. The hotel has quite a rich history and great overnight package specials that also include admissions to local attractions.

Swag Bag Upon Arrival!

By the way I had to share that I made Shrimp Puttanesca with the Puttanesca sauce from my swag bag when I got back home and it was really GOOD! 

What you might not know is that Brandywine Valley is a destination for Exotic Mushrooms, hence the mushroom kitchen towel that was included in our swag bag! It is behind the Breakfast in the Brandywine Valley Book so it might be hard to see. (It is currently being displayed proudly in my kitchen now as I love cooking with mushrooms - I hear they have a mushroom festival in BrandyWine Valley and I may have to time my next trip out there with that festival).

High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge Menu

We arrived in the late afternoon and headed out to Dinner at High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge in historical West Chester, Pennsylvania. Bringing a taste of my favorite place NOLA to Pennsylvania - they offer Cajun, Creole and Exotic Cuisine (Creole Fusion) that is truly delicious, but it's actually one of the 'cocktails' that rocked my world! I had no idea that what my Margaritas were missing in their life was BOURBON! Yes Bourbon!

The Bourbon St. Margarita at High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge was my favorite on their specialty drink menu it contains: Milagro Silver Tequila, Grand Marnier, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, OJ and a splash of sour and Bourbon. It really kicks a traditional margarita up in notch not just in terms of 'punch'/'kick' but flavor as well!

Bourbon St. Margarita Signature Specialty Cocktail

Needless to say I had to get a close up of it!

We were a party of Four and ordered a few Apps to share and different entrees and like the good Lifestyle Bloggers that we are, we stopped to take photos of everything! We also split everything - so we could 'taste it all'. Tough job my butterflies, but somebody has got to do it! :)

Above: Alligator Sausage - 'exotic cuisine' on the menu at High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge

Above: Blackened Red Snapper (tasted as good as it looks!)

Above: Lobster Ravioli with Blackened Sea Scallops

Above: This Jambalaya was definitely a taste of New Orleans!

Above: I always ask for Creme Brulee for dessert, even if I don't see it on a menu! It's one of those things I enjoy having when I am out but never make for myself! (Much like with Lava Cakes and Cheesecake too!)

Above: Cheesecake! The good thing about ordering different desserts in a group is you get a taste of everything!

Above: Proprietor of High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge, Donny Syracuse

ABOVE: After High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge we hit Boxcar Brewing Co. for some music and live entertainment!

I love that Boxcar thinks local!

Above: Looks like we arrived right on time for live entertainment!

Above: I ordered the 'Mango Ginger Pale Ale' - The sweetness of the Mango with the crispness of the Ginger made this a beer to remember!

Above: Shot of the upstairs Bar

Above: The next morning we bypassed Breakfast at the hotel and hit Hanks Place, had to nab a shot of this sign that reads: "Hanks Place Where Hungry People Eat and Friendly People Meet'.

The sign couldn't be more true, a great breakfast and great laid back vibe with very friendly people! I enjoyed Hanks Place and definitely recommend them.

Above: I love the warm welcoming entranceway!

Above: This steak and egg breakfast was just what the Doctor ordered after an evening out!

Above: After Breakfast we hit The Artisan Exchange.

The Artisan Exchange provides an affordable space for the exchange and discovery of local, sustainable, hand-crafted foods by some of the Philadelphia area's best artisans. This was definitely one of the highlights of the trip for me. As a digital entrepreneur I have great respect for my fellow creatives and loved the idea of a space where so many different types of businesses were able to reach a wider audience. And how one vendor would always recommend another when it matched your interests or complimented what you were purchasing. I got lost in the candle section and took a few home because I loved so many of the scents!

Above: Sweet temptations on display from Firehouse Donuts! Founded by lifelong fireman and EMT, Kevin Carney to raise funds to benefit his local fire company.

Above: Wish I hadn't been still stuffed from Breakfast, the burritos looked good!

Above: Sign reads: "Ask me about the samples today. Also please don't grab with fingers"

Above: Another fun stop was the booth of Diane Holtaway of Heirzoom Bakery who displayed her Fennome Pastries - an heirloom Hungarian Pastry Recipe that had been passed down in her family for generations - I'm pretty sure you could actually taste the love!

Above: There was even something for your loyal doggie furbaby - Veronica's Doggie Delights offered up Beef & Cheddar Twist and Bark-A-Que Twist, and Grain and Gluten Free Products for Dogs as well.

Above: Wynnor Farm in their own words 'is a working relic in Chester County, Pennsylvania with fun for all ages.' While we didn't get to actually visit the farm personally I do know they offer a corn maze, pumpkin picking hayrides, pedal Kart Races, they sell 100% wool yarn spun from their own sheep's fleeces (little known fact about me, I used to crochet when I was younger),  and they also sell Turkeys for Thanksgiving as well.

Above: Rebecca's Dumplings - Rebecca Li Jordan's family recipe became so popular among family and friends that a business was born, varieties include: Gluten Free Pork, Gluten Free Vegetarian, Bacon Egg and Cheese Dumpling, CheeseSteak Dumpling (I wish this sample had been available that day I have a weakness for Philly CheeseSteak!)

Chocolate Sea Salt Flavor Mompop

Above: While the price is not 'free' Mompops are FREE OF: Gluten, Dairy, Peanut, Soy, GMO Free, Low Calorie, NO Additives, No Preservatives, No Concentrates, are 100% Vegan AND Kosher! oh did I already say they taste good too? :)

Above: MacDougall's Irish Victory Cakes are made with all-natural ingredients, they buy ingredients from local farmers and use eco friendly and 100% recycled packaging. Their 'Massie's Sweet Butter Cake' utilizes their Great Grand Dad's Award-Winning Recipe - golden eggs, sweet butter and dairy - fresh from the farm (and a 'wee' bit of whiskey that is baked in) you add your favorite jam and fresh whipped cream. These were SO GOOD!

I spent so much time talking to the artisan I bought the candles from, I neglected to take pictures so when I light them I will take photos  and post them!

Below: After The Artisan Exchange, we were on to Levante Brewing - We got a chance to try one of their craft beers when we got there which was a nice way to unwind after power shopping at The Artisan Exchange Indoor Farmers Market. Shopping makes a gal thirsty!

Levante Brewing Co. 

Above: Get a load of what's on tap!

Above: "Elevate Your Craft" - the writing is on the wall baby!

Above: Eric Gillard of Levante Brewing led us on a tour of the Brewing Company and the facilities.

Above: A peek at where Levante makes their craft beers

Above: Levante uses Jack Daniels Barrels which helps to impart a unique flavor to their brews!

Above: #BVFoodie Crew in front of Levante Brewing Co. I wish it were warm enough for just a cardigan right now! :-)

Above: We had a brew on the way in and one after the Brewery Tour, there were folks playing Jenga others at the bar and I really liked the laid back vibe at Levante. (and it's proximity to The Artisan Farmer's Market can't be beat!)

Above: This leg of our itinerary was like sensory overload! Great Breakfast at Hank's Place, then The Artisan Farmers Market, Levante Brewing Co. and then we hit Talula's Table for a meet & greet. Talula's Table is a gourmet market in historic Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, a sort of modern 'general store' that offers specialty foods as well as imported goods from around the world.

Above: Check out the assortment of tasty scones! Mixed Berry, Pumpkin, Cranberry Orange White Chocolate - YES, PLEASE!

Above: From sweet to savory, Talula's Table has a little something for everyone! I just wish there was already 'smell-o-vision'!

Above: I LOVE a good sourdough bread! The best I have had was in San Fran, good to know there is some closer  to me than the West Coast!

Above: Talulah's Table co-owner and sole propietor Aimee Olexy also shared a bit with us about her 'Farm Table Dinners' which literally book 4 months in advance, this Chef's Table dinner offers an 8 course Tasting Menu ($108 per person) and you bring your own bottle ($25 Corkage Fee per table) there are no modifications made to the menu, which you can check out HERE before you book. If you can't visit PA anytime soon, you can also shop Talulah's Table online! I for one have my eyes on the 'grande gourmand' and 'truffle love' gift baskets!

Above: After Talulah's Table it was time for a late lunch at The Whip Tavern - a traditional English Pub in the heart of Horse country (hence the two young ladies on horseback I saw on the way there!).

Above: I ordered 'The Tavern Sandwich' A Thick Slice of Smoked Ham on Crusty Bread with Brie, tomato, and spicy honey mustard with crisps (that's chips for my fellow yankees, LOL) I started with the Mushroom Soup, my photo came out, but I'm not sure it really did it justice which is why I left it out! :-) (If I were 'superman' brie would be my cheese kryptonite - I definitely can't resist it!)

Above: Wine Selection for tasting at Chaddsford Winery. 632 Baltimore Pike (US Route 1) Chadds Ford, PA - 610.388.6221

Let's just say a day that offered both a brewery tour and a winery tour definitely required being fortified well, so it's a good thing that we ate well that day! :)

Above: Time for some serious tasting!

Above: First up a lovely 2013 Proprietors Reserve American White Wine

Above: Second up was the Chaddsford 2013 Chardonnay Barrel Select

Above: Third Wine on the tasting menu was the Chaddsford 2013 Proprietors Reserve American Red Wine

Above: The Fourth Wine we tasted was the Chaddsford Winery Club Series Red Wine (I wish it had been NY Yankees of course, but I have to admit it was good!)

Above: The Fifth Wine on the tasting menu was Chaddsford Winery Sunset Blush.

Above: The Sixth Wine turned out to be the biggest surprise. Chaddsford Winery Spiced Apple Wine was a totally pleasant surprise. While I do like apples, I didn't think I would like a Spiced Apple Wine (I am NOT a Spiced Cider fan) so when I tried this and I really liked it I was totally surprised. I immediately imagined all the ways I could integrate this into my cooking, particularly pork dishes.

Above: The Seventh and final Wine is Chaddsford's Holiday Spirit. I thought it was great to be able to try out their seasonal variety in addition to some of the more standard wines you expect to try at a typical tasting.

Above: Outside shot of Terrain (an URBN INC shop)

Our day was eventful to say the least, so we got a little down time between the winery and our late dinner at Terrain.

Above: Terrain's picturesque outside gives way to a warm interior, with seating that gets you very close to your neighbor.

Bread served in a Planter!

Above: Honestly you just need to taste this bread to find out why it deserves its own hi-res photo, yes it's THAT good!

Above: OK so if you haven't figured it out yet I'm a bit scallop obsessed! Drooling yet?

Above: This Fruit, Cheese, and Nuts tray was perfect - Terrain (like Tallulah's Table) is BYOB by the way!

Above: I ventured out of my seafood comfort zone and ordered the Duck.

Above: Since the day before was jam-packed it was a nice way to end our journey with lunch and a tour of Longwood Gardens.

There are things I consistently take pictures of while traveling - things that probably don't make much sense to anyone else - doors, doorways, pathways, churches, any building with 22 or 222 as a building address and so when I saw this door I had to stop and nab a photo. This fits with my 'zen' vibe perfectly!

Above: I took a picture of the sign so I could remember, it reads:

"This is the largest plant of its kind ever grown outside of Asia.

This Thousand Bloom Chrysanthemum has more than 1,400 equally spaced flowers blooming on a single plant. Out of the hundreds of cultivars of chrysanthemums, only a few are suitable for growing to this size.

Our horticulture experts have trained in Japan to learn the intricate secrets of growing the Thousand Bloom. From a single stem cutting, it has taken 17 months and more than 1,500 staff hours to nurture and train this single plant into a perfect blooming dome."

Above: Isn't the 'Miracle of a Thousand Blooms' beautiful?

I have a ridiculous amount of photos from Longwood Gardens alone, so I'll save some of those for a Wordless Wednesday series of photos when it's a bit closer to Spring.

MY TAKE:

What I loved about this trip is how well each experience flowed into the next, great food, great spirits, great people, great venues and great company, we were a small group which I was incredibly grateful for. I know the assumption is that bloggers are wildly social and love to 'live out loud', but some of us are actually pretty shy and the bigger the group the more intimidating it can be at times so for me having a small group made it much easier to socialize and not feel totally worn out at the end of the day!

It was the one-on-one interactions with proprietors like Donny Syracuse of High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge and Aimee Olexy of Talulah's Table that really stood out. Would I have loved those venues as much if I hadn't met them? Definitely, the passion they put into their establishments show through in the service and the quality and caliber of the meals. I love that they both wanted to bring the things they most loved to where they are. Vudu Lounge is such an amazing taste of New Orleans, the food was great so was the service and the vibe was comfortable and familiar - as a New Yorker because a lot of our restaurants raise the bar in that way, but I have also visited the beautiful city of New Orleans and it was fun getting a feel for being on bourbon street in Pennsylvania. If Donny's name sounds familiar he traveled the world playing with "Arcade" (Ratt and Cinderella) opening for Bon Jovi so it's not uncommon to see Tour Buses outside Vudu Lounge! Had Bon Jovi been out there that night I probably would have been totally star struck.

In stark contrast was Talulah's Table, it was more of an equivalent of a lower Manhattan/Village Vibe.

Boxcar with it's live entertainment and craft beers was fun also.

All the venues embraced a strong 'farm-to-table' culture which I truly loved.

There were a few excursions I didn't get to experience that I would love to go back for - Wintherthur, Herr's Snack Factory Tour and I definitely want to go horseback riding the next I am there.

If you are looking for an amazing Valentine's Day Weekend somewhat 'off-the-beaten' path, Brandywine Valley has got you covered!

Readers Sound Off: Which of these ideas appeal to you most for Valentine's Day? Is it a cozy weekend at an Inn? A Wine Tasting? A romantic Dinner? (And if you are single like me, make it a girls weekend with your single friends! or as the interwebs is calling it #GALentinesDay)

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FTC Disclosure:  This is NOT a monetarily compensated Post, however the trip was sponsored by BrandyWine Valley for Editorial Consideration. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.