Mellow Mushroom; a Hit or Miss Experience

A hot new spot recently opened up on Market Street in New Albany, the Mellow Mushroom has locals buzzing about having another sit down restaurant within the square, giving them another option other than Rusty Bucket- but is the craze mirrored by a great dining experience? I'd have to say that with my two previous visits, it is hard to tell due to inconsistent service, and what I've heard about other's experiences hasn't been too promising.

My first visit was a Sunday (Fun-day) at noon, and the place was relatively busy with most tables filled or filling up quickly as people filed in and the bar was packed with sports fans. We luckily had no wait and were seated immediately, our server arrived within 5 minutes to get our drink order, I had what they call a Moscow Mule- however, it was unlike any I had before, and that wasn't a good thing- while Jake had a beer (so no complaints there). It did take about 10 minutes to get our drinks, and as a busy restaurant they probably should have had another bartender to help serve more people so the order to wait (time) ratio was lower. Other than that, our service was pretty good besides the fact that our waitress seemed to forget quite a bit and had to return to our table to ask again, but being a busy Sunday, it was understandable since she was covering too many tables than a server should have, in my opinion. We shared the dough bite appetizer, which were balls of dough with three different dipping sauces, and they were rather scrumptious and well seasoned. Now to the main course: I had an artichoke pizza with white sauce, that was quite delicious but it could have used more artichokes and not have been so skimpy (because who wants to pay for a one topping with two pieces of the topping on each slice? Not me.)  The price is quite high for mixed drinks and I definitely would not recommend the mule, as it was very watered down and was not made like most mules (or put into a copper mug, which is how I expect one to be served!) It lacked mint and lime, two of the main ingredients and tastes needed to successfully pull of this drink! For the price, which I believe was close to $10 it came in a small glass, half filled with ice, and was not worth it.

Arriving on a weekday around 4pm, my mom and I were quickly seated, as we were the only customers in the building at this time. We were waited on almost immediately, and she continued to check-up on us until we were ready to order, and was very patient with us as we got carried away in our conversation. I debated on ordering a drink, due to my last experience, and decided that I would give it another try since I assumed it was Happy Hour (even though it is not posted anywhere on the menu or on the table signs). I ordered their margarita, which normally is $8. The server comes back to our table and says the bartender wants to know whether I want a strawberry garnish or a lime garnish, I say strawberry (thinking that it simply meant the GARNISH); she then returns again, asks if I want a salt or sugar rim, I reply, "sugar". She then brings me back a Strawberry margarita (which I didn't even see as an option under the margarita), but I don' complain since it already took 10 minutes to get it. Maybe it was wrong of me to assume, but when you order a margarita and you don't ask for it to be flavored, even if I ask for a different garnish since you gave me the choice, it does not mean that I want my drink order changed! Silly, silly error if you ask me.. It comes out in a small glass that is tiny at the bottom and expands outward as it goes up- therefore, I am already feeling ripped off thinking that this glass that just fits in my hand cost me $8- luckily, I later found out it was happy hour and it was $5, but still...If you enjoy a drink with your meal, this isn't the place to go, unless you drink beer and from now on that will be my choice of drink if we return. When you compare them to Rusty Bucket's cocktails, they don't even stand a chance, and Mellow Mushroom's are much more expensive! However, we were delighted by the bruschetta appetizer, as the bread was perfectly done and had an excellent buttery tone which complimented the bitterness of the balsamic. Our mega-veggie pizza wasn't my favorite, as it was missing some very basic seasoning that could have magnified the flavor profile of the pizza.

Overall, it was alright, but I was not wow'ed by this experience either; there is really nothing pulling me back to this restaurant. My brother and his friends had such poor service that he said it would be the first and last time they attempt to eat here, as it took 20 minutes to be seated (when it wasn't extremely packed, rather they were ignored), then after being seated it took another 15 minutes to get drink orders (just soda) and quite some time before they were brought out. Their pizza order wasn't taken until 40 minutes in, and in all they spent about two hours here, just due to the time they had to wait to order and receive their food. The ambiance and character is the one thing I think it really has going for it, as it is one of a kind. The painting's on the wall and the decor really stand out among the other eateries. If you're looking for a place for a good pizza and a beer, this may be a good place to stop in, and from my experiences I have learned to go for more of the normal and less unusual of the pizza combinations. For families with children it could make for a fun environment to have an enjoyable pizza night, as the kids can be amused by the tree and lighting in the dining room, along with the colorful characters painted on the walls.

German Village; One of a Kind Historic District

 German Village is overflowing with culture and rich history; it is no wonder why it draws so many people in, whether they choose to live here or stop through for a visit, there is no denying it's unique charm and architectural brilliance. The area was originally developed between 1840 and 1914 when it was settled by German immigrants, whose descendants made up around a third of the population in Columbus (germanvillage.com). A normal day in that time, after they finished a day at work, the storekeepers, brewery workers, carpenters, and other laborers would set off to their local bier gartens where relaxing was imminent. It was it's own piece of Germany to the settler's and to this day provides a rich experience of German culture through it's original building's that have characteristics all their own to the local restaurants that still capture the essence of the Village's ancestors.

It became known as German Village in 1960, when it was recognized as historic; however, the historic architecture of the neighborhood was almost destroyed in demolition, but thanks to concerned and caring resident's whom lobbied for a local commission that year, it was preserved and was left untouched.The German Village Society then petitioned for the area to be rezoned as a high-density residential zone, therefore eliminating industrial sites and severely limited commercial zones. These restrictions made in the 1960's were essentially what kept the heart of German Village thriving, and we are so very grateful that they did! The German Village Historic District was created after an ordinance passed through the Columbus City Council, giving the Commission authority to review potential designs of the buildings to preserve their historic standard; making it one of the rare and few historic districts with an architectural review board with the intent to keep the area's character alive.

"The German Village Society presently has nearly 1,000 preservationist-minded members who are dedicated to maintaining the historic quality of the buildings and neighborhood. As a result, German Village is currently considered one of the most desirable areas to live in the city, if not the premiere place in Columbus to live," (germanvillage.com).

The modest, but elegant, aesthetics of the neighborhoods with homes primarily of red-brick with tastefully, antique iron fences are truly a sight to see. You can't help but to take your time as you drive through this part of the city, on it's handsome brick paved streets, as it becomes a joy-ride instead of a rush to get to your destination. Most resident's and visitors make sure to take a few hours out of their schedule to park themselves at the Book Loft; slipping away into a novel and soaking up the fresh air. There are a surplus of events that take place starting in May and throughout the summer months until mid-December that attract people from all over Columbus:

Village Singers Concert – May 2-3, 2015

German Village Garten Club Jazz & Juleps – May 8, 2015

Jazz and Juleps is a signature event of the German Village Garten Club held the Friday evening before the Garten Markt. This is your opportunity to buy our fabulous selection of specialty plants, planters, trellises, garden art, jewelry, gifts for Mother’s Day, and other special items before the GartenMarkt opens to the public on Saturday. Enjoy a lush buffet, juleps and other beverages, the entertaining vibes of Jazz Mary and her keyboard, and mingle with your neighbors. Tickets are $30.

German Village Garten Club Garten Markt – May 9, 2015

GartenMarkt will feature exotic succulents, connoisseur perennials and annuals, vibrant coleus, herbs, tropical blooming plants, hostas from supersized to miniature, and lush hanging baskets and planters. In addition, GartenMarkt will have unique decorative items for your garden including stone carvings, iron plant stands, metal trellises, and bird houses. You’ll also be able to find beautiful hand-crafted jewelry, along with special gift items. Enjoy shopping for unique plants and garden décor with your friends and neighbors. Free admission. 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Village Valuables – May 16, 2015

More than 10,000 bargain-hunters from all over Central Ohio flood German Village for the city’s biggest yard sale day. Residents set up shop on the sidewalks, and in their yards and garages, selling their treasures: everything from housewares to antiques and plenty of one-of-a-kind items that make this an annual destination event. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m

Shakespeare in Schiller Park – Actors’ Theatre of ColumbusAll performances are on the Schiller Park Amphitheatre stage on Thursday-Sunday nights at 8 p.m.

“Captain Blood” May 21-June 21

“Richard III” June 25-Aug. 2

“The Miser” Aug. 6-Sept. 6

Haus und Garten PreTour – June 27, 2015

Haus und Garten Tour  – June 28, 2015 

Every last Sunday of June, German Village opens its doors and garden gates for the German Village Society’s annual Haus und Garten Tour. The 55th edition will welcome 5,000 visitors who flood the Village for the day-long celebration of renowned designs, enchanting gardens and award-winning restorations.  The contrast between 1870s exteriors and ultra-modern updates inside is stunning and memorable. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Art Crawl – July 18, 2015

This is the night we turn garages into art galleries, combining the historic fabric of German Village and its rich art tradition. Individual artists exhibit and sell their work and local musicians provide live entertainment while 2,500 ticketholders sip wine, nosh snacks and enjoy a magical July evening. 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Tea 43206 – August 22, 2015

Friends of Schiller Benefits – October 2015

Kindred Spirits, a Bourbon Tasting for men in support of Friends of Schiller: Please join us for a bourbon tasting for men. Monograms & Martinis, a sipping/noshing/shopping event for women: A benefit for women in support of Friends of Schiller.

Monster Bash presented by BOSS Fitness – October 17, 2015

Village Lights presented by Schmidt’s – December 6, 2015

Visitors from across Central Ohio kick off the holiday on the historic streets of German Village and discover a world of lights and holiday magic! Our 10,000 guests follow luminaries from shops to businesses and restaurants open late with holiday treats, discounts and special offers. Festive surprises are at every corner including carolers, live holiday music and a horse-drawn carriage. 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

(Annual Events List from the German Village Society: http://germanvillage.com/annualevents/ )

For those of you with four-legged family members, there are a couple dog parks nearby that your furry friends will love: Scioto Audubon Metro Park includes a dog park as well as trails for hiking, fishing, and even a climbing wall for the adventurous folks! Frank Fetch Park is another place to bring the dogs for some off leash fun to release some energy and socialize with others. 

Another park that may spark some fancy for you, is Schiller Park. It is located in the heart of German Village and is consistently bustling with joggers, people lost in their books, locals walking their dogs, or people simply relaxing and getting their dose of fresh air and nature. It is a gorgeous environment and provides a place of peace for many to escape to after a long, busy day. 

The median sales price for homes in this area from Nov. 14- Feb. 15 was $315,000 based on 21 sales; compared to last year during that time, the number of sales have increased 110% while the sales price decreased 15.3%, equivalent to $57,000. The average listing price from the week of February 18th for German Village was $722,683 compared to other neighborhoods including: Olde Town East at $254,942; Merion Village $161,100; Dexter Falls $178,913; Victorian Village $514,913; Somerset $220,000. 

Living in the village, you are never far from the trendiest, popular events and finding a tasty place to eat is hardly a challenge. Try these local food hubs: Lindey's, Thurman's Cafe (check out my review before going!), Barcelona, German Village Coffee Shop, and The Old Mohawk are just a few of your superb choices...

Whether you are raising a family, looking for a lively night life, or are interested in being a part of a united, close-knit community then this may be a place to consider calling home. Stay tuned for my upcoming article on Schumacher Place, as it sits on the outskirts of German Village, giving residents the best of both worlds with more affordable homes.

If you are interested in German Village, check out our website at www.grt-group.com and also search the Columbus MLS. I am more than happy to answer your real estate questions via phone, text, or email.

Trend-worthy Kitchen Updates

 Kitchen updates that are worth mentioning & can make all the difference in your homes aesthetics. Contrast is fundamental and key when choosing cabinets/ countertops/ and flooring. To make a statement, they have to stand out; that is what makes them all the more appealing to look at! The dark and light tiling (picture to the left) brings out the deep color of the cabinets, all the while tying in the light speckles within the granite.

The kitchen isn't all about the countertops and cabinets, the lighting can also make or break the room (e.g no one enjoys fluorescents or ducking under low hanging lights). Keep it simple, elegant, and maybe even antique-like. The drop-down lights are a magnificent feature that can make the ceiling look higher and more spacious. In the picture to the right, the light cabinetry really opens up the room as the light truly reflects off of them and the light colors throughout the room. The granite is a touch darker to really draw your eye to it; definitely a classy look. The glass display cabinets add a unique touch to the room, as long as you have something organized and neat to display behind them, of course! I would have gone for a deeper toned tile to capture the darker coloring within the granite, but this tiling does accent the cabinets well. (Tidbit of advice for sellers: cluttered kitchens distract from the counter space available and the room in entirety, you don't want to draw attention away from the main features of the kitchen; e.g making sure the refrigerator is cleared of magnets, pictures, etc).

This has to be one of my favorite looks: as it is modern, tasteful, and obviously clean. The butcher block countertops are extremely durable and easily maintained with the use of mineral oil.    The mint green accents add a sense of charm and "homey-ness", creating an eye-popping touch to the room. They have also wisely put to use the glass display cabinets while not overdoing it, it allows for just the right amount of decoration to the space. As you can tell, the mint door draws your eye through the space and compliments that rich, medium hardwood flooring. The hardwoods and butcher block are very well matched based on their tone, the warmth it creates really livens up the room even though it is surrounded by white.  The light bounces and reflects off of the white surfaces, brightening up the room, keeping it from feeling dark and dingy. This is definitely a kitchen where I would want to spend most of my time; even though I don't cook, it surely would make for a good excuse to use such a masterpiece of a kitchen.

 Now for a true definitive contrast kitchen... The deep, dark cabinetry draws you in, then takes your eye straight to the intricate backsplash of grey's and white's that tie into the countertop. These colors make for a truly balanced space. The rich cabinets also make the crown molding pop right out at you, as it screams sophistication and elegance. The flooring could go either way, a darker hardwood or light oak hardwood would make for a good addition to stay with a more cooler tone palette but the current hardwoods are complimentary in their own way.

They grey speckles in the granite are very obviously accented, to the T, in the backsplash. Matching color tones: whether they are warm or cool, can make any room or break it. The light tiling does bring out the natural lighting in the room. The recessed lighting visually adds height to the room and makes for a more open feeling when you enter the kitchen. A nice touch would be 2-3 drop down lights over the island, something with an industrial touch or more modern and clean appearance could escalate the rooms vibrancy and originality. BUT, I will caution you to not go too wild or taste-specific to your own-likings if you plan on selling your home with that light fixture. Certain pieces can take away from the overall appeal of your home if they are too personal.

 Another trending look in today's marketplace is the concrete countertop. With their natural, organic, and unique look, no wonder buyers are starting to include this into their design. Unlike most countertops, the concrete is made per order and is made especially for your home. For the more environmentally friendly, they can be made from recycled materials. They also come in a variety of shades and finishes to make it all your own- unlike the usual granite you will find in most homes- it definitely gives you an edge. If sealed correctly, they prove to be just as easy to clean as a normal laminated surface or you can use a pH-neutral natural cleaner, to be safe. There is an undeniable rustic charm created from the concrete countertop that is unmatched by any other material out there. With the original hardwood flooring, this kitchen has character all it's own.

Even a touch of colors in the cabinets can be elegant and soothing in appearance. The moss green, with a grey hint/tone, is modern, stylish, and is admiringly different. The marbled backsplash brings out more of the grey in the cabinetry and reflects the lighting around the room- keeping it bright and airy. It is a sheik, clean look; especially with the white quartz countertops. In a market where everyone seemingly has the same kitchen, it pays to stand out with these contemporary styles, and it certainly makes your home feel like your own, special escape. New builds are popping-up homes everyday with very similar kitchen designs, losing originality, and character; therefore, in my opinion, spicing up your home with a unique countertop, or trendy glass display cabinets, and even a trendy light fixture can take your home from drab to something wonderful! A rich, deep hardwood flooring would make an excellent touch to this room, but with the way it is now- there really is no downfall.

You can't go wrong with any of these looks, as these are trends that are going to be around for quite some time...

Hofbrauhaus: Cheers and Beers!

 Hofbrauhaus: a purely german experience for all to embrace and enjoy, regardless of an individual's heritage. The rich history behind the origination of the first brew house, shared on the back of the menu, will have you intrigued and (if you live in Columbus) will give you a sense of pride associated with being a part of this magical piece of the past, as it has only two locations in Ohio, and limited locations in the U.S!

If you're looking for some weekend excitement, this is the place you will want to stop in for a beer, or two. Check out their beer selection here: http://hofbrauhauscolumbus.com/the-bier/. If you like something with less of a hop taste, and have a sweet palette, try the Hefe Weizen Radler- my ultimate favorite beer- which I crave on the regular. It is filled with fruit flavors and has a light hop to it, but the mix of lemonade is really what makes this beer "Oh, so Fabulous".  This isn't your average bar scene, with family style seating (benches and long tables) and accordion players livening up the atmosphere, it is truly a one of a kind experience that will have you coming back as often as you possibly can! It can get pretty rowdy on those weekend nights, so leave the kids at home. Any other day, it can make for a great adventure; you're almost guaranteed to have loads of fun. The rowdy crowd makes the night as people begin to get up and dance on the benches and tables (all the while watching their step to avoid any food). On my next trip there, as long as there are 3-4 of us, we are certainly taking shots- they are served on a ski's (yes, snow ski's as in winter sports) and with some team work involved, everyone tips back and takes one back! Exhilarating, from what I can tell.

After eating this rich, heavy meal you will be looking to dance off some calories anyhow; or if you're like me, you'll be ready for a nap! If you aren't there to get bogged down with food, their appetizers are the perfect size for groups and will leave you more than satisfied. Be experimental: try out the "Yard" sampler, but do not leave without having some sauerkraut balls and potato pancakes with applesauce! I have only had one bad experience here and it certainly was not related to the food. Every time I go, I HAVE to have the Heidelberger Rahm Spatzle, even typing it makes my mouth water... if you intend on making several trips, at least try this out once. You may even feel the need to come back the next day and order some more, if your stomach can handle that. Jake is always raving about their sausages and I would definitely say it's within reason, they come in a variety of different styles and plate combos. The purple apple sauerkraut on the other hand was not too appetizing to us, that is. Our one bad service experience occurred on a Sunday, which we got there around the time the open and were seated immediately. Then another group was seated in the same area, and the server came to get their drink orders, before ours, and returned with their drinks before even acknowledging us. Rude. So after watching the waiter return, and hearing a group of servers and staff behind us just chatting it up outside of the kitchen, we decided to simply move to the bar, which was in our best interest. We immediately were taken care of, drinks came right up and we were able to place our orders on our time. Keep in mind, they were not busy at this time. This bartender has become our favorite and we usually try to sit at the bar on most occasions.

Another small complaint I have was from our last visit, on a relatively busy night with a seemingly packed house. As we ordered a round of beer, the server checks ID, taking a thorough look over Jake's (which I completely understand) then he takes mine, looks at it, looks back at me, then back at my ID... this happens a few times.. and I hope you can just picture the absolute awkwardness of the situation. I am turning 24 this month, I doubt to most people that I look younger than 21, but to him I must have. He then asks me if I dyed my hair, which in my ID pic from when I was 19 (since I had lost it previously and had to replace it) showed me with dark brown hair, a hideous-orange glow of a tan, and I had lost about 45lbs since that time, making a significant difference in my face, especially. I told him that I dyed my hair quite often (come on, what woman doesn't unless she has ridiculously beautiful locks already)... then he questioned my birth date, saying " March 26th..." and trailing off waiting for me to say the year. So I did, with some irritation showing in my voice. After that, he hands back my ID and says "OK"... five minutes later a security guard is standing next to our table with his back to us, but looks back over his shoulder as the server whispers into his ear. Jake and I had quite a laugh about the entire thing, but clearly people change, looks and all, I have never been confronted or asked about my ID until this night, and I took it as quite an insult. I would understand if I had been with a larger group of people or if I was being rambunctious but sitting there with my boyfriend on a Saturday night, I was just blind-sided.


Overall, it is an intensely welcoming place to soak in some German culture, take back a cold one (usually a liter at a time, if you dare) and make memories with good friends, family, and loved ones. If you have someone visiting from out of town who partakes in drinking a few beers and prefers to have a great time, then this is the place to take them! The less shy you are here, the better, and the more you'll really get out of the entire experience. Hofbrauhaus definitely has a community of it's own, go join in!

Granville; a Grand Piece of History to Call Home

 For all of those who have visited Granville and walked through the quaint downtown area, it truly makes an imprint on you, as it is such a remarkably charming place. It could be straight from a story book, where everyone walking through town knows your name, waves and says "hello", not a frown to be seen as you walk past Whit's ice cream or the Library. Even with Dennison neighboring the downtown stretch, it doesn't have the college "party" atmosphere that would describe communities surrounding The Ohio State University Campus in Columbus. With 31% of residents attending Denison, the rest of the community is made up of residents such as: young families, distinguished older generations, and certainly independent households.  It is an active town with a quiet environment meant to soothe over your soul. A favorite diner of my families is Brew's as we frequently have our "friday pizza nights" at this restaurant/bar, with its plentiful menu, I can assure you that there is a meal for everyone, even the pickiest of eaters.

In 1797, Granville was surveyed as part of the U.S Military District, which were the lands that were given to those who fought in the Revolutionary War. The Welsh were the first to truly settle, and claim ownership, of the land and to this day you can go by the Welsh Hills Cemetery and Philipps Cemetery where those original settlers have been buried. A group of settlers then moved in from Granville, Massachusetts and Connecticut; they would be the ones that founded and established the Village of Granville. The plans of the village were to resemble a New England town with a main town square that has churches at the corners, giving it an intimate space for the community that surrounded it; a place to feel safe and protected.

"Granville was the home to five schools in the early 1830's. Two of them, the Granville Female Seminary and the Granville Literary and Theological Institution (it later became Denison University), were both located in the area west of the Village green with Denison located on college hill above the Village center." (The Village of Granville, http://www.granville.oh.us/history_of_granville/)

The rich sense of history gives a more "homey" feeling to the village and would give anyone living here a sense of pride to be a part of the deep American heritage rooted here. Perhaps an even more fascinating piece of Granville are the various landmarks seen around the area, mainly throughout Newark, in the form of Mounds believed to be built by the Hopewell people from prehistoric times. The "Alligator" Mound is vicariously known by it's shape, however instead of it being true to it's name, Archaeologists believe it represents a panther or an opossum. On a warm, sunny day these historical sites can make for a great adventure for just about anyone who loves the outdoors and learning something new each day!

Granville has a high percentage of white-collar workers, with about 94% of the workforce employed in well-established, white-collar jobs- keeping them above the national average. The breakdown of employment is about 17% of citizens working in administrative support, 16% hold teaching positions,  and almost 11% hold management jobs. An outstanding number of artists and designer, or those working in media, reside here; more than 90% of other U.S communities. A note for anyone considering moving here, "Granville has a high rate of owner-occupied single family homes, which tends to reflect stability in the local community. Finally, Granville’s overall crime rate is lower than average for the country." (neighborhoodscout.com)

For these reasons, and for the pure fact that once you enter the Granville community it captures your heart and wonder, my family has made this beautiful, unique village their home; deciding to raise their children, build their business, and make their memories in this one of a kind location. If this is the place you decide to call home, you truly know that although you may be settling down, you definitely have not settled for less than the greatest.