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| - I wish I could do two separate reviews for Mapleside. I guess I could, but I'll just tell you everything in this one.
On a regular week day, I would give this place a 4 star review. It's quaint demeanor, naturally grown produce, and home made delicacies really bring the "farm" feel to life. Not to mention the beautiful view over the apple orchards when the sun is setting. The scenery alone is worth heading up there, but be sure to stop and get a buckeye caramel apple. That's right, an apple covered in caramel, peanut butter, AND chocolate. YUM! They make an array of products from pastries to hot sauce and it's all delightful. A tad on the expensive side but so is all organic style produce. The bar in the Orchard House restaurant has a dazzling tree chandelier with glass apples and the comfort food menu compliments the farm motif. It's modern meets country in a style that seems to work for this family business.
Now, all that being said, the festivals are a one or two star rating at best. It is insanely crowded and generally geared towards children. I understand that it's a business that caters to family fun but I was hoping that the Medieval fair would have an "adult" draw as well. For someone who doesn't have kids but still enjoys a good fall festival, it's extremely disappointing. I wouldn't even mind the outrageous traffic on Pearl Rd if I was able to enjoy a good joust or sword fight.
I'd love to give this place a great rating, but if you add it all up, it just falls short. Go on a weekday and avoid the festivities.
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