October 2007 Issue

Mapleside Farms

There’s no better way to celebrate autumn’s arrival than dining over a country-inspired, home-cooked meal with that special someone, while viewing the stunning backdrop of apple orchards at Mapleside Farms in Brunswick.

Ever since they purchased the farm in 1927, the Eyssen family has shared their bountiful crop of apples with travelers and local residents alike. In 1984, they opened the restaurant, which takes advantage of the farm’s specialty. 

My companion and I felt the warm, old-fashioned hospitality from the moment we arrived. A friendly hostess led us to a candle-lit room filled with appetizing aromas. While we perused the menu, our waiter brought us Mapleside’s famous sticky buns, brushed with a caramel glaze and topped off with nuts. Accompanied by a glass of merlot, they satisfied our appetites before the main course.

The view of the orchards prompted me to order the pork medallions with apples. The thin slices of meat were served with a fresh cream and apple whiskey sauce and topped off with slices of Mapleside’s fruit. The assortment of mixed vegetables, plus a hearty baked potato, completed the entree.

My companion ordered the ribs and chicken combo. The half-slab of ribs and breast of chicken were glazed with an apple-butter-based barbecue sauce that was as delicious as it was messy. His  biggest mistake was letting me try the country stuffing that accompanied the dish. Its light texture and herb flavoring were so good, I couldn’t resist sneaking second and third forkfuls.

Our meal wouldn’t have been complete without Mapleside’s specialty: apple pie. One bite of this delicious dessert brought back memories of family gatherings during the holidays. 

As dinner concluded, the sun started to set, providing the perfect opportunity to walk through the apple orchard grounds, where we sat next to a pond and admired the scenery — a perfect ending to a meal in the country.

 

BRUNSWICK
Mapleside Farms 294 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, 330/225-5576. www.mapleside.com. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted. Dinner entrées $10.95–$20.95, CR, 3