tnt's tales from the h-d: An Autumn Ride to Patoka Lake

Anyone in this part of the country knows just how pretty it can be this time of year. It seems we just can't get enough of the beautiful trees, hills, and the fields in various stages of harvest. Add to this the large bodies of water in a place like Patoka Lake, and the mirrored views of all the foliage and surrounding hills and valleys make it a picturesque time indeed.

Who wouldn't want to enjoy that view from the Harley? So when Tom said, "Let's ride," I said, "I'll get my boots on."

After an enjoyable ride, we ended up at a neat little place on hwy 164 called the Wickliffe Plaza. Don't let the name fool you; it's a lot more cozy than the name would imply. We walked in and were met with a case of show-stopping pastries--I'm NOT kidding--SHOW-STOPPING. We decided whatever we ordered we'd have to bring home as leftovers so we could have dessert. They also offer a massive variety of coffees and teas, and, according to an ad in the paper, wifi! Be still our hearts! NOW for the food...

We ordered pizza and it was actually pretty! The cheese was a great color and looked almost like silk--no burnt edges, no discoloration--just silk. And the taste was equally as delightful. We ordered a supreme which was hand-tossed (we could hear our cook patting out the crust as we sat and enjoyed a cold draft). Needless to say, we smiled our way all the way through. (I forgot to mention we ordered breaded mushrooms as an appetizer--excellent as well.)

We went to the pastry case after tucking the remainder of the pizza into a to go box. We looked and discussed the serious decision facing us. Tom chose a cherry turn-over--picture perfect and, according to all the "mmmmmmmm" I heard, I believe it tasted as good as it looked. I chose a piece of baklava--I can assure you it was an "mmmmmm" experience!

Kudos to the cook in the kitchen...the food was such a treat! And kudos to our waitress as well who took great care of us during our visit.

Treat yourself and head to the Wickliffe Plaza...8150 W. State Rd. 164 a few minutes away from the Patoka Lake main gate.