Patch Q&A: Melody Kettle of Hot From The Kettle

Melody Kettle of Hot From The Kettle is always on the go. Right now, she's planning Montclair's own scheduled May 4 and 5, 2013. (Tickets go on sale here today!) This week, Patch asked Kettle five questions. Here they are:

1) What do you like about living in Montclair?

I love that Montclair is very walker-friendly. Whatever I want or need I could pretty much walk to and get it. Whether it’s sushi or a crepe, or a manicure, a book, or a hammer, or a doctor. I drive, but I prefer walking when I can—plus, I don’t have to park.

2) What’s your favorite place? Is it a restaurant?

Curiously enough, my favorite place isn’t a restaurant. I love Anderson Park. When my kids were younger I would push their double stroller through that park every day ... while sipping a latte, of course. 

3) What's been your favorite vacations?

Easy: Stowe, Vermont. It’s pure detox for the soul—I should really consider living there permanently. The restaurants are great, and the cheese, too. There’s a whole lot of artisanship. And it’s in this breathtaking setting. There’s just so much air, so much green and so many exhiliarating things to do—for free! Like, hiking for example, which my kids really enjoy. It’s a great place—my favorite.

4) Do you have a favorite secret place in Montclair?

Well, there is this somewhat secret spot my kids and I like to hide in. It’s near ... 

5) What are you excited about that's coming up?

Lots of things—especially the Montclair Food & Wine Festival which is launching. We’ve  been developing the idea for about a year now, and it’s been a lot of work, so I’m happy to see it coming to fruition. I’m also excited about the changes happening in what I call “Walnut Village.” There’s a whole new energy happening there which is nice to see.