Monthly Favorites: January 2024

January was all about the food! Erie Restaurant Week (ERW) takes place in January, which was a very welcome distraction from the bitter cold weather. For the past two years, ERW has been a really fun aspect of my job. Not only am I trying delicious food, I also have the opportunity to interview local restaurants and capture content for digital marketing. I never thought I would have a job where part of the work involved trying delicious food and getting to know the owners and chefs behind the unique flavors and menu items. I love my job!

So, without further ado here are some of the best bites and beverages I had in January.

Bar Ronin is handsdown one of my favorite restaurants in Erie. This Japanese restaurant offers classic items with modern flare. Whenever I ate here I have to get the XO Noodles and/or the Lucy Burger. The flavors coming out of this kitchen are next level. I recently tried their famous cocktail, the Empress Rickey. Not only is this drink beautiful but it is also delicious. Made with gin, citrus and soda, these simple ingredients combined together are heavenly.

Pressed is an adorable coffee and book shop. Their specialty drinks are always changing and always so tasty! The baristas are incredibly friendly and talented. That latte was almost too pretty to drink. 

Bro Man's Sammiches has been a big hit in our house. My husband is addicted to their birria tacos. During restaurnat week, I tried their Smash Burgers for the first time. This burger offered so much flavor and a light, buttery bun. Topped with lettuce, pickles and cheese, this classic burger is a must-try from Bro Man's.

Lucky Louie's has such a fun atmosphere, a huge variety of craft beers, and insane hotdogs. These are not your normal hotdogs, these are hotdogs on steriods! Brandon and I stopped here for lunch during ERW. An hour later and we each ate 2 dogs, two beers and funnel fries. The Ash Street Greek dog hit the spot! If you ever stop in, you have to try the funnel fries. They are the perfect sweet treat.

I can eat ice cream anytime of the year and my favorite local spot to satify this craving is The Straw Hat, specifally the location inside the Flagship City Food Hall.  Their ice cream is so rich and creamy. I am a sucker for classics like Cookies and Cream, Butter Pecan and Cookie Dough. During ERW I tried a raspberry fudge concoction and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. The raspberry swirl was a refresh fruity flavor against the rich fudge pieces and vanilla ice cream base.