Stopped by Carol's Coffee & Art Bar as part of a recent visit to Owego. I'm definitely a fan any…read morecafe or similar space that integrates art into their environment, and there were quite a variety of lovely pieces at Carol's - many by the owner, but also included are other local artists. The menu, of course, also has "Carol's Favorite 'Comfort Food' Sandwiches" on the menu, all named after famous artists. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I'm a huge Van Gogh fan, so I ordered the "Van Gogh" sandwich that comes with oven roasted turkey breast layered on sourdough bread and lettuce, tomato, and mayo. The sandwich was good, but I have to say that proportions of the ingredients felt a bit off. I also noticed during the prep of my plate that the chips came from opening a bag (a bulk version similar to ripple chips you'd just buy at the store). In a cafe space like this, you can't necessarily expect people to be making everything from scratch... but I think it's just helpful to note to keep expectations in line. The drink that I ordered was made well (their beverage selection is at the very back of the menu). You can definitely tell that this is a community space, and it seemed like a number of locals filtered in throughout the lunch. There are notes on the tables that advise of a 90 minute limit for sitting at the table (not something I've ever actually seen before), and there's wifi available for use by customers. Perhaps an awkward experience was just related to the overall service? You grab a menu and choose your table if you're dining in, but you end up paying at the counter. Personally, if I'm going to sit down to eat then I'd prefer to have the check brought to the table and pay that way. The space is a bit cramped by the counter, so it seems like it'd benefit to minimize the foot traffic that has to wait there. And perhaps this is silly, but upon paying for the lunch, the server handed me my receipt and said "Just sign here", and then seemed to be somewhat... abrupt? I feel like I'm pretty low maintenance when dining out, but it just left me going "OH. Okay. Time for me to get out of the way" (it's worth noting that at the time, there was nobody waiting around, or to get to, the counter). Still, it was enjoyable to stop at Carol's Coffee & Art Bar. It's a more unique space with nice offerings.

No kidding here, you need to believe all you've heard of Carol's pies! I ordered a 12" peach pie…read morefor my husband and when I picked it up my first impression was it was SO BEAUTIFUL! Then I picked it up and I was surprised at how heavy it was. After my hubby took his first slice I saw why, it was PACKED with sweet peaches, just moist enough but not too much. The crust was buttery and flaky without a wet bottom. He enjoyed it thoroughly and then set about cutting slices to share with friends; he was so happy to be able to bring this lucious treat, and I am very proud of him Thank you Carol's for your hard work on this pie, I'll be sure to to come again!