Patterson, NY
I’ve driven by a bunch of times. Always liked the building. So, one day last week my son and I were at Patterson Library for a children’s program and we decided to get lunch afterwards. Pizza is always a kid-pleaser, and we were heading down Route 22 so we pulled into Rocco’s Family Restaurant & Pizza. The fact that sealed the deal for my son was that it was a nice, warm day (for March) and there were two outside picnic tables.
The building is one of those old-style, silver diner designs. Inside, you can sit in a booth or at the diner counter. We ordered our pizza, and talked to the folks working there. They were, however, a bit surprised we wanted to eat outside because there was still snow.
The pizza was hot, the crust was crisp. And if you sat real still you could feel the sun heating up your body. After the winter we’ve had, and are still having, it was a great feeling. You know, when you understand what the phrase ‘spring fever’ means.
Given a choice, I’ll pick a mom-and-pop restaurant over a chain. Any day. The experience sitting with my son seemed more authentic and memorable than if we were sitting in a national chain. Plus, it feels good to support local business and the local economy.
Rocco’s is located at 2908 Route 22 in Patterson, NY. They can be reached at 845/878-7900. Their website is www.pattersonroccospizza.com. If you go, tell ’em you read about them on AdventuresAroundPutnam.com.
