New businesses along BRaB cater to cyclists

 The weather here in north central Ohio has been unseasonably warm and sunny. The sun is shining in my window as I type this and the temp outside is 55 degrees. This means all around the Back Roads and Beaches route, you'll see enthusiastic cyclists and runners out getting ready for another great season! And local businesses are gearing up for them.

Oberlin worker installs Back Roads and
Beaches spur route signage

The city of Oberlin has its own dedicated Back Roads and Beaches spur route that leads riders from the main route easily into the downtown business district and back. This winter, several new businesses have cropped up that will excite and entertain cyclists wanting to spend some time getting some great food and/or bike gear.

We hope to report on a new bike shop, cheese shop and pizza restaurant very soon, as they open. Currently, there are two new restaurants open within the city of Oberlin. Both feature healthy, fresh menu items.

The door is open at Café Sprouts!

Fresh juices at Café Sprouts

Café Sprouts recently opened on East College Street, within the newly established East College Street project. The eatery features a wide variety of fresh, natural foods including organics, vegan and vegetarian offerings. Their juices, smoothies and mylkshakes appear to be especially popular. Their shelves were stocked with delicious desserts, wraps, veggies, spreads, teas and soups. The offerings here are very diverse, it would seem anyone could find something tasty and filling! You might also think about stopping here before going out onto Back Roads and Beaches and picking up a wrap to go. I can easily envision their sunny little corner filled with cyclists!

Aladdin’s Tabouli

Dining Room at Aladdin’s

Contractors put the finishing touches
on the canopy.

Right smack in the center of town, on the corner of College and Main Sts., is a shiny, brand-new Aladdin's Eatery. If you aren't familiar with Aladdin's, here is your chance to give them a try! Aladdin's mission is “to provide our customers with unique, natural foods and at the same time, cater to their increased awareness and concern regarding health and nutrition.” The huge menu features many, many Lebanese/American food, vegetarian options, soups, pita pitzas, salad pockets, juices and much more. Everything is fresh and free of preservatives. The spacious dining room is spotless, bright and inviting as is the staff who warmly welcome all their customers. And of course, there are bike racks right out front!