By Leah Fassnacht
Director of Marketing & Communications, Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
My husband and I don’t travel as much as we used to or would like. With a 3-year-old in tow, what was once jetting off to somewhere warm with drinks in hand has become shoving snacks, stuffed animals and electronic devices in every nook and cranny while wishing we had drinks in hand.
And because that’s about as glamorous as it sounds, we often ask our families to travel to us. Luckily, my parents are all too happy to make the six-hour trip from Ohio. While Berks County might not be considered the most glamorous of places, it is full of businesses they insist on visiting every single time they are in town. Here are their top three, who all happen to be Greater Reading Chamber Alliance members:
Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery: Clover Hill’s Robesonia location is just down the road from our house, but even if it weren’t, it would still be at the top of their list. Their tasting menu is packed with full-bodied, dry reds that my mom prefers. They also have my dad’s favorite Concord, which recently was named the top-selling Pennsylvania wine by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. They buy a case every visit, because every day is an occasion to drink wine. Fun fact: My mom refers to their Pinot Noir as her “medicine.”
Boscov’s: Being from the Buckeye State where just about everything is taxed, my parents love not having to pay it here. I’ve lost count of the number of pairs of sneakers and bathing suits that have been purchased at Boscov’s over the years. They shopped there so much, they opened a Boscov’s charge account.
Say Cheese!: My mom frequently mentions her cravings for a salmon burger or crispy brussel sprouts and goat cheese salad from this West Reading restaurant. My dad, a creature of habit, orders the mac ‘n’ cheese regularly. Last time we were there, we also ordered the frickles – fried pickles – which were light and delicious. I have a feeling those will become a must order.
Luckily for my husband and I, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance is full of great businesses that make Berks County worth the trip. No snacks or stuffed animals required, but definitely a drink in hand.
(Note: This article originally appeared in the February 2020 edition of Berks County Living.)