O'Bryonville

Turning right onto Madison and leaving DeSales you will see many of the large estates that helped establish this neighborhood. Homes are set back on the property and boast large trees and open lawn areas. It's not a stretch of the imagination to picture what it was like in the late 1800’s early 1900’s when this area was a sample of country living at its best.   The closer you get to Hyde Park, the less flux in neighborhood stability is evident. For the most part, homes are in excellent condition, lawns lush and gardens are abundant. If you have time, a drive down Keys Crescent (to the right) is sure to please. A stone castle and impressive homes line this short street which will deposit you directly back onto Madison Avenue.

Annwood Park

To your left is Annwood Park, a quiet spot, popular with neighbor residents. The grotto at the back of the property is a unique feature.  You are now within eyesight of O’Bryonville, named after the O’Bryons who purchased 72 acres of land for farming. The family was one of the few to actually use the land for production and soon other Irish families came to work the rich soil.

In 1865, land south of Madisonville Pike (today Madison Road) was required to be broken into smaller parcels. This allowed smaller homes and commercial interests to gain a foothold in the community. Today, O’Bryonville is a hub of activity. Be prepared to share the road and sidewalk with runners and walkers who flock here to visit the best, the Holy Grail - Bob Ronker’s Running Spot, the place to get running shoes, clothes and training for races.  A lot of people jokingly ask if it required to be a runner in O’Bryonville, Hyde Park and Mount Lookout. No, but it is wise to lace on the shoes and head out for a regular run because we certainly do not lack in great places to eat!

After poking around a few local shops such as Ten Thousand Villages, The Art of Entertaining (great wines), Kismet (fun clothes) and my favorite, Indigenous (art, jewelry and garden décor- many  by local artists) quench your thirst at O’Bryon’s Irish Pub which offers a nice selection of beers and great food. I am partial to the Caesar salad with chicken and the BLT with egg- yummy!

Or, grab a decadent, rich, homemade pastry and steaming cup of coffee from The BonBonerie. Several charming rooms decorated with art and a light, airy touch are quite welcoming on a cold, muggy, hot, rainy…well, any day. The Café entrance is on Madison and the bakery is accessible through the café’s rooms, the outdoor sitting area and inside to the bakery and tea room. Watching the bakers spread homemade icing onto freshly baked cakes will melt even the strongest resolve. So give in and enjoy and sweet treat.

Next on our journey, Hyde Park and a little side jaunt.

For more photos from BBO go to my Piterest Page: http://pinterest.com/ayearinthepark/blue-blazing-ohio/