I've learned during my four years blogging that when one business recommends I check out another, I need to listen. Businesses know other businesses, especially when it comes to small family businesses. I've met some of the most wonderful people following such recommendations and so far, I've not once been disappointed. So when Char Brown, owner of the Garden Bug in Amsterdam, suggested we check out C.P.'s a while back, we knew a visit there would be a no-brainer. Last weekend we took a drive to visit Char on her seasonal opening day at the Bug and then took a drive to visit our local Amish community in the area. Soon we were starving and anxious to check out lunch in Hagaman, just a short skip away.
We arrived around 1:30 and although we were a little past the prime lunch hour, there were a number of diners. Char had mentioned that there would be fun things to look at and write about at C.P.'s and she didn't exagerate! C.P.'s is filled to the brim with model cars, trucks, trains, antiques and gas station memorabilia - everywhere - from floor to ceiling. There's also a train track overhead! At one point during our visit with a thunderous, "All Aboard," the train began it's trip around the track above us. I found myself sorry the grandkids weren't with us, what a thrill they would have experienced.
Of course, aside from visiting for the blog, our immediate intention was to fill our empty bellies and there was no problem doing that at C.P.'s. With an extensive menu and several recommendations from our friendly and enthusiastic server, Sue, we placed our order and did a little exploring while we waited. I ordered a cheeseburger. Sue mentioned they were a crowd favorite and the menu noted that they'd won the Gazette's, Capital Region Best Burger. I could see why! My burger was hand-formed into a delicious patty and grilled to perfection. Tasty and cooked to order, not overly large and overwhelming like the local chain restaurants, just delicious and easily devoured. I ordered the homemade macaroni salad as my side. It too was just like mom would make and was enough for both of us. John ordered the eggplant sandwich which came on a hard roll. The eggplant was sliced paper thin, breaded and fried to perfection with just the right amount of sauce so it was easy to eat without falling apart. Family restaurants are generally known for their homemade desserts so we saved room to try the Strawberry Shortcake. It was yummy - fresh berries on 2 homemade biscuits! I'm sorry to report I did not take photos of our food but the bill with tax came to $23.12. We did not order beverages.
Chuck and Carol Phillips have been running businesses for over 40 years and it shows. C.P.'s opened in 1983 and over the years the family grew as did the restaurant. It's easy to see this business runs on love and hard work and the customers love it too. If you're looking for a great meal at a great price where everyone will have a great time, I strongly urge you to take a drive to Hagaman (just 30 some minutes from Saratoga Springs or Clifton Park) and check them out. It'll be an adventure and a great meal you won't soon forget! Thanks Char for recommending C.P.'s Family Restaurant! We loved it and will definitely be back. For more information on C.P.'s (they're closed on Mondays), check out their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CPs-Family-Restaurant
Awesome blog about a wonderful Family Restaurant. We just finished a delicious Sunday meal from there a minute ago. A wonderful place to enjoy some great food, priced right. The photos you took are awesome!
ReplyDeleteBest place around to eat. When my mom was still alive it was her favorite place for me to take her. Miss going there. Now I live in Florida and can't get there. Miss it. Best people around and the so friendly.
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