As I said in my previous post, my wife, Moonbaby and I lived in Metamora for over 30 years before moving to Morton in 2010. Today I thought we'd go back and visit some old haunts and also see what's new. And for those of you who weren't aware of it, they take their high school football quite seriously in Metamora.
Metamora Courthouse—113 E. Partridge St.
This is actually a pretty historic place. Abe Lincoln practiced law here back in his days and it even got a mention in the 2012 movie "Lincoln" starring Daniel Day-Lewis. It now houses a museum and the second floor courtroom is set up the same way it was back in the 1800s.
The Bandstand—The Middle of the Town Square
The bandstand in the middle of the square and the brick paved streets surrounding it are something Metamora residents will never allow to be done away with. They still have concerts here every Friday evening in the summer, along with ice cream socials. You read it right, ice cream socials. Take that, social media!
The Flame Family Restaurant—939 W. Mt. Vernon St.
This is a great place. Moonbaby and I came here a lot for breakfast. Good food, pleasant atmosphere, cheerful staff and Tony, the owner, is a super nice guy.
Historic Grounds Coffee and Bakery—101 W. Partridge St.
This is a brand new business in a very old building. I have to confess, I didn't go in. It was about 178 degrees out when I took this photo and I was in no mood for coffee. Talk around town says the coffee is great and that their cinnamon rolls are to die for.
Aztekita—128 N. Davenport St.
Another old favorite. Outstanding Mexican food, friendly folks and a damn fine margarita. We came here at least once a week when we lived here.
Hiccup's—104 S. Menard St.
This is also somewhat new. It kinda reminds me of Julie's Corner Store in Lacon. They have jewelry and accessories, candy, fudge, gifts, games and toys by Melissa and Doug. They also have a soda fountain where they serve up Green River, Hawaiian shaved ice and Nathan's Hot Dogs. Any place that sells Green River is okay in my book.
Sue's Place—518 E. Mt. Vernon St.
This is a great neighborhood bar. It holds a special place in my heart. I was one of Sue's very first customers back in 1983. Between this place and Rankinstien's I emptied enough bottles and barrels to fill the town water tower. Sue's a great lady and a good friend.
Home Turf Tap—104 N. Niles St.
For a long time this was Eaton's, where I began and ended my three month bartending career. Then for several years it was Rankinstiens. Then it became Horses and Harleys. Now it's the Home Turf Tap. They've really made some changes since I was in here. They knocked out a wall added a big room and a kitchen. And they make some pretty good grub in that new kitchen too.
That pretty much sums up our visit for now. I was very relieved to find out that I don't have any outstanding bar tabs. Now we're just gonna take a little ride outside of town so I can show you a special business. Most of you are probably familiar with their product, but have no idea where it comes from. It's down Hickory Point Road, which is about midway between Metamora and Germantown Hills. What is this mysterious place you ask?
Art's Tamales at 1453 Hickory Point Rd! How about that for a tamale surprise, Marty?
Happy trails everybody!
Further Reading: My Town, A Birthday Trip To The Zoo and The Turley Time Machine.
