Hidden Gems Of Connecticut

TOLLAND, CT — This week's trip to a Hidden Gem in Hartford and Tolland counties takes us on a winding, undulating country ride along state Route 74 to a spot about halfway between the historic Tolland Green and the Connecticut State Police Troop C barracks.

There stands the aptly named Country Butcher at 1032 Tolland Stage Road.

The Country Butcher is an old-fashioned butcher shop and retail store that also provides catering for any occasion.

Here's a recent offering for a steak Caesar salad kit:

• A marinated flank steak
• 2 pounds of chopped romaine lettuce
• shredded parmesan cheese
• croutons
• Caesar dressing
• A half baguette
• A lemon

Other popular offerings are:

• Certified angus beef prime ribeyes and N.Y. Strip steaks
• Fresly made burger patties
• German frankfurters
• Rolls and & American cheese

The Country Butcher also offers baked goods and hosts the Tolland Farmers Market.

It's also a short jaunt from the University of Connecticut.

The artifacts at the store are even worth a look. The include an old washing machine and horse and buggy.

See more on The Country Butcher Facebook page.

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The Hidden Gems series features out-of-the-way mom and pop restaurants, small specialty stores you may have never heard of, little-known historical markers or beautiful nature spots that may be a bit off the beaten path, all located within Connecticut.