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So I took a trip to visit a friend in New Jersey. After a night of partying like we’re teenagers, it leads to a late start the next day. Even though I enjoy cooking, the breakfast department is not my thing. Haha. Eating out is usually my friend’s first choice. The place we stopped in was cute and different. A place that sells hot food and antiques. Vastly different, that my friend was looking at me like a weirdo because I’ve never been in a shop such as this one. I was surely all over the place taking a few flicks.
Establishment
What will catch your attention is the numerous license plate from different states adorning the walls. There are tables in this area where you can enjoy a nice bright view. There were local items from vendors in the area being sold in the establishment. Of course I have to mention the various candies that are not accessible is vast amount of other stores. Once past the counter café area is the bench seating area. Your eyes become drawn towards the backroom, past the seating area. As this is where all the antiques are. Along with more out of production license plates. They buy and sell antiques along with collectibles. As you wait for your meal you can do a little sightseeing or shopping. There are items with a low-price tag of $2.
The Herbert family has operated this store since 1972. Starting out with the building being purchased by John and June Herbert. Ultimately later generations Jeff & Heather Herbert lead by dishing out “World’s Best Pork Roll Sandwich”…… Speaking for myself I can say it has a family friendly vibe.
Cuisine/Beverage
You walk right into the café area where you can order and grab your food items. My meal of choice, BLT (bacon lettuce and tomatoes) on sliced toasted wheat bread. The wheat bread was lightly toasted and spread lightly with mayonnaise. There is nothing fun about getting a heavy load of mayo in every bite. It’s like having a wet lettuce mayo sandwich. The lettuce was thinly shredded giving the sandwich that nice crunch texture once you bite into it. The tomatoes were sliced thin with the same thickness. The bacon was of edible texture as I enjoyed it. It was just right not chewy or overcooked to a crisp. To coat my palate a choice of a bottled Stewarts fountain classic cream soda for a beverage.
When it come to plating don’t expect anything fancy. The utensils won’t all be the same as if you’re entering fine dining. It is like going in your kitchen cabinet and pulling out the first dish. The food’s taste and appearance outweighed what it was being served on. The pricing for the meal was average and not overpriced.
Staff
Staff is attentive and friendly. You are greeted once entering the establishment. You’re not waiting long (no more than 2 minutes) to have someone take your order. Staff seems as though they work well together and are free of distractions.
Location
Country Café & Antiques: Allenwood General Store
3208 Allenwood-Lakewood Rd
Allenwood, New Jersey 0872
Phone: 732-223-4747
Website: www.AllenwoodGeneralStore.com
Hours of operation: Sunday 7 am- 3 pm , Tuesday to Saturday 5 am- 4 pm
Evaluation
The quality of the food and service was good overall. The ambiance of the establishment was relaxing. The exterior of course look like a general store. On the interior walking in is the front where you order your food. As you walk to the back there is a seating area. Proceeding pass seating area is a barge of antique that decorate the walls and are encased in displays. The cleanliness of the place was surprisingly good. Yes, in my opinion you’re getting the full monetary value for the food and beverage you purchase. And a little more since you can purchase an antique that may be something or gain a collectible to pass down to a loved one.
Recommendation
Rating for this place would be ⭐⭐⭐ 3 stars {79%}. It’s different since I’m not sure where you can purchase antiques and food in the same establishment. You get to admire the license plate hanging light fixtures. And you can find some goodie that’s not easily found in most convenience or general stores. I will return here at some point or another again.
