Vicki's Diner

In New Jersey, freestanding diners--the art deco original-design kind--are a familiar sight. It's less typical to find such a gem tucked between shops on a busy downtown street. Vicki's Diner, on E. Broad Street, in downtown Westfield NJ, is a shiny example.
With gleaming chrome panels interrupted by bright red stripes, Art Deco signage, and red upholstery on the booths inside, Vicki's Diner is a popular destination for locals who know they can get pumpkin pancakes (in season), a warming bowl of chicken soup, wraps, salads, omelettes, takeout, and daily lunch specials. Breakfast is available all day, soups are fresh and homemade. Service is warm and personable at this family-owned downtown Westfield diner.

Westfield NJ a "Great American Main Street"

If you wonder why Westfield NJ appears as one of the Best Places to Shop & Walk, don't just take my word for it. Here's what the National Trust for Historic Preservation had to say when it awarded Westfield its "Great American Main Street Award" in 2004:


"For economic revitalization, enhanced downtown and historic preservation by Downtown Westfield Corporation."

Westfield was one of only 5 towns in the entire United States that won the designation. The other towns were Burlington IA, Encinitas CA, Paso Robles CA, and Rogers AR.

The Farmhouse Store

The arrival of The Farmhouse Store on East Broad Street (from its previous location on North Avenue) brings its cornucopia of home decor and personal accessories to the center of Westfield's downtown pedestrian walking district.



















This is a real one-stop-shopping sort of place, where you can find colorful accent rugs, throws, bird houses, pillows and planters along with attractive dinnerware, bowls, baskets, tabletop accents, candles, soaps and creams, lamps and side tables. If you're purchasing gifts here, you can buy accompanying cards to go with them.


The Farmhouse Store Barnwood Collection is a line of furniture that is "handcrafted using antique barn boards that have been carefully reclaimed from old barns and mills. This beautiful old wood is between 100 and 200 years old."


In the personal fashion category, there are charming tapestry-patchwork totes, several cases filled with artisan jewelry,


and sophisticated crafty handbags and backpacks.

Kiehl's Since 1851, in Westfield NJ

Kiehl's Since 1851 is known for skin and hair products made from natural ingredients.
What I didn't realize until I stopped in the Westfield shop on E. Broad Street, is that Kiehl's also makes products for children and babies.







Even more unusual is that it's a source for natural grooming products for dogs and horses! Did you know that? Here are photos of pooches with healthy coifs, courtesy of Kiehl's.











For women, there is a complete line of face, body, hair, sunscreen and fragrance formulations. Men can find natural shampoos, hair styling, and lip care treatments.