Hello Frosty and All:
(a nod to Nealhe, i think i got the font color wrong but whatever, lol )
There's really just limited terrain around here for that sustained aerobar flat sections that i'm sure you'd all love, just ain't built that way 'round here. The terrain forces mental engagement too, which generates a fatigue all its own. But still, it's some very nice riding and about as New England'y as you're going to get. Embrace the hills! :)
Restaraunts, here's an idea for a quickie off the beaten path choice:
New Morning Market -
http://www.newmorn.com/general/home.php Decent sized organic market with an eat in section, check for hours.. take out certainly an option vs sit down dinner out, open until 8pm. They do have in store dining too, about 20 tables or so.
Or, dine while watching airplanes land at Oxford Airport, a rural airstrip 3miles from race site -- 121 Restaurant: -
http://121group.com/...oxford-airport/about Decent brick oven choices last i checked, it's a legit wood fired oven and food is decent. Atmosphere is great too.
Mexican - Senor Panchos in Southbury:
http://www.senorpanchos.com/ -They make their salsa fresh each day, it is fkng amazing! Andy the owner genuinely cares about quality, cares about people in general. They're quick and efficient, food is always well prepared.
And, believe it or not: Crowne Plaza Southbury! If you're staying there, they actually have decent food!! I have no idea how they staff for a pair of busy pre race eves loaded with ravenous diners, but they normally do a solid job of food choices and prep. They are the host hotel for the Pat Griskus Triathlons too, but I'm not just blowing smoke here, I live on their food for a few days surrounding my 2 events at Quassy, and they never disappoint, seriously!
So there's a few, hopefully you'll find the info helpful, good luck this weekend all!
http://www.PatGriskusTri.com USAT Certified Race Director
2024 Races: USAT State of CT Age Group Championship/State of CT HS Champs/ CT Club Championship - Sat June 15th (Oly/Du/Sprint) Hopkins Vineyard Tri at Lake Waramaug Saturday July 13th
http://www.HopkinsVineyardTri.com