WINTER'S HAPPIEST HOUR

When in this neck of the wood, one of the best kept secrets to us locals here is at 8 1/2 Coryell Street in Lambertville. And if I might be honest, one of my favorite winter time haunts.

 

As you may know,  the Mistress becomes a bit of a recluse in the winter, tending to cocoon in my marabou feather gown in the cold temps, but come Thursdays, my lovely dilettante friend and I , more than not, meet at the very hidden away Boat House for a very happy hour! Even when tourist find out about it, they still can't quite seem to find it. And today was no exception. With the temps falling fast again, around 10 and high winds, it was time to have my arm twisted for one of my favorite winter libations......

 

 

Warmed Espresso Martini. Like warming nectar of the Gods!!!!! Make no assumptions based upon the masthead either. It would be foolish for anyone to quantify through some formula of critical analysis the merits of a great tavern. Such an endeavor would be like rating the ability of the great houses of worship to fuel man's spiritual aspirations.The delightful bar is graced with a beautiful patina, old world bar tends, and many maritime and nautical memorabilia. All cocktails are delivered to you by way of server on a antique silver tray.

 

 

No need to worry here. the Mistress has regular room facilities here.

 

The most coveted perches are in the loft, with views outside, and a  iron wood burning stove to warm by.....

 

Food is not served at the Boat House. While some might consider this a drawback, I quite frankly find it refreshing not to have the somewhat frenetic aspects and scents of food service competing with the libation ritual. For those who insist on solid sustenance, there are many excellent eateries within walking distance. But in my opinion, food would only take up space from these delicious martinis.

 

 

When the Lad lived here, I would stay at his place on weekends in the winter, and we would often head there in snow storms. Words couldn't capture the beautiful moment, watching the snow fall,the Lad, candlelight, wonderful libations, a eclectic,quaint setting.... all conspiring to make an evening of enchantment!!So it was another wonderful happy hour in the winter tonight. Captured these last shots of the canal before driver came round to get me home.......

 

 

Ahhhhhh, I do love my espresso martini at the end of the day......just about as much as the ones I have in the morning!

 

Some Time at The Boat House

This past weekend was very relaxing, and probably the most quite one I have had in some time. I and the Prince Charming spent the weekend together. It was mostly filled with some cool outdoor walks, making sure the help got all my fall wardrobe at of the storage, some dinning,and we even managed to hit my new favorite watering hole, The Boat House, which is located in along the river in Lambertville. A river town, yes, but with an amazingly vibrant culture. Located on the Delaware River in Hunterdon County,New Jersey,this town has a completely engaging nature for both visitors and locals. I'm lucky to be from a smaller neighboring town, so the Mistress can consider myself a ‘local’. Lambertville has charming shops, outstanding galleries, classic antique stores, chic restaurants and cozy bars. The homes in the neighborhoods look historic, and they are. But let’s jump back to the cozy bars, shall we? There are few gems in this charming riverside enclave, but a favorite of many - and mine - is the Boat House at 8 ½ Coryell Street.



Yes, that address is right! If you have any interest in classic films, you’ll appreciate the ambiance of the Boat House. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a movie set here. I have a vast knowledge of mixed drinks, wines and beers, and I hear the Boat House has to turn people away on balmy summer weekends because there simply isn’t room because their cock-a-tails are THAT good and they are. One great drink, and my new favorite, is their gin gimlet - straight up honey!



But, back to the Boat House! Now where was I? Ohhhhhh! They make the best gin gimlet I’ve had. It’s smooth, icy, just enough Rose’s lime juice to hint of something faintly sweet, and fresh lime wedge to squirt. Flawless. The Prince's favorite is their Bloody Mary (virgin, yeah,right) with extra olives.Spicy but not too hot, and robust flavor. Even something about the rich, savory olives here makes this drink a standout he said. Some people linger, some stop in for drinks before walking to one of the many great restaurants in town. Either way you’ve got a great night!



The Boat House is a completely cozy, small, sophisticated bar that serves great cocktails in an enthralling atmosphere. The collection of art that covers the dark walls and pitched ceilings here is vintage nautical in nature, with classic overtones. There are fabulous framed periodical covers from decades past, and equally extraordinary watercolors, oils and photographs, many having a sense of intriguing nature. This atmosphere offers rare moments to take in a different time and space, all safely in the comfort of a nearby wood stove or comfy couch. Disclaimer…the wood stove makes it sound rustic, but it’s not. Remember that this place is sophisticated.



The staff is completely knowledgeable and courteous, and the head bartend, Kenneth is younger and aware, but old-schooled in his performance just like the Mistress prefers.Purrrrrfect! Next time any of you are visiting lets meet for a drink at the Boat House shall we? I promise to be on good behavior and use my rain bonnet for severed purpose. Tootles!