When Kristin recently read about Batch in Good Food Pittsburgh, we decided to make Saxonburg our next Saturday destination. First of all, Saxonburg is a delightful place. Though there are many nice little towns in the day-trip radius of Pittsburgh, we've never found one with as much charm as Saxonburg. There are unique, often quaint, independent stores (from a general store to a fromagerie) and incredibly nice people in equal measure there, and we got the full welcome from the locals. If you are in the Pittsburgh area and don't know Saxonburg, it's worth your next day off for a visit!
Just as the whole town exceeded our expectations, so did our purpose for going, Batch. In keeping with the theme, the owners, Meghan and Jessica, were wonderful people to talk to and clearly much beloved by their stream of regulars. Their space, which they recently moved into from a smaller one down the street, is beautiful and just oozes warmth and character. Batch specializes in spreads, breads, and quiche, among other things, all homegrown and handmade in keeping with their motto. I can personally attest to the deliciousness of their apple Irish whiskey bread and rosemary cheddar soda bread. (In the middle of writing that sentence I went downstairs to have another piece). We also bought a few jams to bring home, so I'll be reporting on those soon, I'm sure. And if I haven't yet given you enough reasons to visit, there is also a wide array of other local handmade crafts and goods in the store from honey to plants to pottery from some of the most skilled makers in Western PA. All in all, it's a worthy destination if you like food, hospitality, and supporting local!