Culinary
by Lisa Machac
Hi restaurant lovers, welcome to Table Talk, peak summer edition. One of my friends says she knows it's summer when it's impossible to turn left onto Park Street. Sure enough, after a slow start, this summer has brought the droves of tourists that our hospitality industry relies upon. While working in the hospitality industry in a tourist town can be exhausting, welcoming the stranger is a key component to building community that lasts long after their departure.
This issue, we're highlighting three spots well suited to passers-through. In just one short year, Sunflower Coffee has become a must-stop spot on the way into or out of town. Situated in the parking lot of Spur Line and Woods Rose, the bright yellow coffee drive-through offers excellent coffee and seasonal special beverages. Their breakfast menu includes locally baked bagels from BagelWorks, fresh homemade breakfast sandwiches from Pinky's, and sugar cookies from Elle's Belles. It's truly impressive that a tiny hut can offer up so much goodness via drive-through service. The owners of Sunflower Coffee are grateful to everyone who has made year one a success.
Another local business catering to tourists and locals alike is The 1900 event venue. The addition of several new venues in Paradise Valley has made Livingston a top spot for destination weddings. The 1900, housed in a historic two-story building on Main Street, has capacity for up to 200 people, making it the perfect place to host weddings, rehearsal dinners, and welcome parties. If you live in town, you've likely noticed a lot of activity lately, since the venue has been fully booked for wedding season this year. But not to worry! Locals can still book The 1900 for a birthday dinner, business meeting, or holiday party so reach out now if you’re looking for a place to host a celebration.
Finally, what would an article about tourist season be without mentioning the GOAT when it comes to hosting visitors? The Murray Bar has always been a place where tourists and locals can share a dance floor, and the owners report an uptick in food sales this year thanks to the delicious and speedy service from the adjoining Gil's Goods restaurant. Another improvement this year is an upgrade to the back patio area, thanks to local contractors Alex Hurt and Chris Iverson. You'll now find a new concrete walkway where the old grating (the one that caught many a high heel worn by this author) used to be. Look for more menu items featuring local food and updated merch featuring a local designer, coming your way this fall.
Though it's not restaurant related, I have to quickly mention one other group of tourists we're welcoming this summer: the fairies of Wishberry Hollow. If you haven't yet, walk the Myers’ River View Trail and check out the fairy encampment. It’s a source of inspiration and a reminder that living in this little town truly is magical. In the meantime, be sure to support our local businesses... and leave a big tip for your servers.