The Middle Spoon Desserterie & Bar

After enjoying some of Halifax’s local brews at the Split Crow, we wandered down Barrington Street to discover this gem.  The Middle Spoon offers some amazing desserts and equally delicious cocktails.  I had the special cocktail of the night (of which I regretfully forget the name) and we split the Pumpkin Spice Mocha Cake and she got the suggested cocktail pairing. The dessert was light and sweet, not too heavy. It was just right in every way.  The suggested pairing, called “Put a ring on it,” was light and complimented the sweetness perfectly. My cocktail was a mix of pomegranate juice, white rum, basil, and other tasty ingredients. Each sip had layers: sour, sweet, basil.  None overpowered the other.  Going to the Middle Spoon was a great way to end our first night in Halifax.

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Mount Desert Island, Maine

Bar Harbor seen from partway up Cadillac Mountain
Bar Harbor seen from partway up Cadillac Mountain

I really enjoyed our half-day on Mount Desert Island: it was such a beautiful place! We bought a car pass to Acadia National Park at the Visitor Center, and were excited to learn that it lasts for 7 days, so we can use it again on our return trip.

If you’re driving in the area and don’t have much time, the view from Beaver Point was stunning, even from the car. Imagine golden rays of late afternoon sunlight illuminating the spray from waves smashing against granite cliffs…

I’ve heard that Cadillac Mountain is a must-see for its views of the island. (It is the highest point on the Atlantic Coast!) Today, it was enveloped in clouds, so as we walked around were completely isolated from the rest of the world. I think the mountain is a must see on a cloudy day just for that experience.

Sur de Mont hosts both a spring and a garden that showcases all the different types of plants that live in the park. I learned that the tiny Harebell flowers are in season. IMG_20140814_153459418

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The Zen Garden within the Azalea Garden.

Asticou Azalea Garden is a Japanese style garden on the island, and is a very peaceful spot.

Finally, I want to want to mention 86 This, a burrito place in Ellsworth which would be a perfect place to stop on your way there or back. Try the Yam I Am.