I’ve gotten a lot of flack for living in Trenton, and to be fair, I gave a lot to my wife (who was raised here) before we moved here in 2006, but since coming here, I’ve realized there really are a lot of great things going on in Trenton. We have more than our share of problems for a city of our size, but it’s amazing the things you can find when you look past the grimy outer appearance of the Capital City…
Recently I stumbled upon a website that showcases just a few of the great things in Trenton. Hidden Trenton gives reviews on some local businesses and helps advertise upcoming local events. Many of the items I already knew about, but some I didn’t – so for all you Trentonites (I hate the Trentonian newspaper so much, I’m trying to get a new term put out there), and everyone within driving distance of the city, take a few minutes and see what you’ve been overlooking!
Everyone knows De Lorenzo’s famous tomato pies, but have you eaten at the Kabab House? Settimo Cielo is becoming the go-to venue for political lunches and a great alternative to long Friday night lines at chain Italian restaurants! My wife is a big fan of Cafe International too!
Hidden Trenton also lists some services that many people overlook on their commute to and from the burb’s. It’s a shame what sprawl has done, not only to our design and construction, but also in our expectations of businesses. Most people now think that waiting in line for an hour to get a table at a chain restaurant that serves so-so food and being served by a high-school student is better than a small place with a real chef and a professional serving staff. Check out the other services listed (a real barber, an auto mechanic, and a body shop) that don’t fit the chain store expectations (and I mean that in a good way). Also, I can list at least one really great architect in Trenton!
If you like “designer” ice cream, you’ll love Halo Farm – an independent dairy that has dozens of flavors at a super cheap price (3 pints for $4) – and as I found out for my nephew, there’s no high-fructose corn syrup in it! It’s all real. The retail location on Spruce Street is right next to a great Farmer’s Market too.
So come downtown, find a place to park (some garages are free on the weekends), and explore the city in which I work and live!
Tags: trenton