Explore Worcester’s Happening District

By Lauren Koblara

Chances are you’ve heard us at Pulse sing the praises of the newly revived Canal District in Worcester, located between Union Station and Kelley Square. You’ve read a restaurant review here or there or perhaps saw one of those “Free the Blackstone” bumper stickers on the back of someone’s station wagon. You might have even grabbed a bite to eat or joined a friend for cocktails at one of the hot new spots that dot the Blackstone Corridor these days. But do you know the whole story? What is really behind all of this Canal District fever?

Taking a bite out of the Canal

There is a lot to see while walking the Canal District. You are bound to work up a ravenous appetite. Lucky for you, you’re in the midst of some of Worcester’s best restaurants. And don’t you worry about counting calories. You’ll be burning it all off when you hit the clubs. Now, onto the food.

Block 5
One of the first restaurants to add fresh blood to the Canal District was Block 5, an American Bistro that “showcases an eclectic spin on comfortable American cuisine.” Simple and inviting while still trendy and chic, Block 5 has become a popular spot to gather and enjoy a great meal. Its extensive wine list and unique cocktails make it a great place to meet up for drinks. The menu has a crazy selection of burgers ~ and by crazy I mean a huge variety. Try Block 5’s White Pizza for something unexpected and experience a great atmosphere and top notch service every time you go.

Bocado Tapas Wine Bar
Once you eat tapas style, which is basically dining on small portions of a variety of foods, you’ll be hooked. Why commit to just one flavor when you can sample the entire spectrum? Bocado’s food is intoxicating and its ambiance is invigorating. The modern and cosmopolitan feel of the décor leaves you wanting to move in… and when you taste the food you’ll start packing up. It’s ideal for large groups (although a reservation is recommended) and absolutely perfect for a special, dare I say unforgettable, night out. It’s a bit pricey, but undoubtedly worth every penny. Go ahead… you’ll thank me later.

The Broadway
By no means is the Broadway new to Worcester ~ in fact, it is a staple of the city’s hungry throngs. The Broadway wears its Woostah-ness on its sleeve… well, technically, on its menu. Delicious offerings named for local places include the “100 Water St. Special” (a breakfast steak with all the fixings) and the “Kelly Square Klub” (a button popping three decker sandwich). The rumor on the street is that a Broadway’s breakfast is the cure-all for a hangover. The FDA, however, hasn’t confirmed these claims, despite the fact that many local college students have already participated in the informal study.

Castellana’s
Looking for a more international taste? Be sure to check out Castellana’s. Located on Harding Street, they’re famous for the Mediterranean and European dishes that restaurant goers love. It’s the unique take on old favorites that really makes dining at Castellana’s an experience. With a wine list that rivals the length of “War and Peace,” this is the place for self-proclaimed sommeliers as well as the run-of-the-mill wine lover.

The Center Bar & Grill
Formerly known as Blackstone Pizza, The Center Bar & Grille is enjoying its new home on Green Street. Under the same ownership as the pizza place was, The Center is now a small neighborhood bar and the menu, although still offering pizza and burgers, now has a Tex-Mex flair to it. The Center is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner and if you’re inclined to work while you’re at lunch, they have free Wi-Fi service so you can stay plugged in. The hi-definition plasma TVs make the Center Bar a great place to sip an ice cold beer and catch the game.

Emerald Isle
It’s hard to miss this Irish destination. Just search for the giant green hat on Millbury Street. Here you’ll find Emerald Isle. Once stepping inside, you’ll enjoy the decor. The pub offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with customer service as a top priority. Their burgers are some of the best in the city. Now under new ownership, expect even better things to come. The new owners look to make a splash with “The Event in the Tent” on August 28, 29, 30 and September 1. It’s music, food and fun for all!

Fresh Way Pizza
This is a one of the best places to go when you need a quick meal. Fresh Way has anything and everything you could want. Choose from pizzas, subs, wraps, salad, pastas and even Middle Eastern dishes. Located on Water Street, it’s right in the heart of the Canal District. Head on over after the bars close. They’re open until 2:30 a.m. Perfect for that end-of-the-night feast.

Hien Voung Restaurant
This little cozy nook offers some great Vietnamese cuisine. If you’re looking to expand your international cuisine, then look no further. Head on over to Green Street and enjoy the atmosphere. The family-owned restaurant may be small in size, but the service is something to appreciate. Be sure to check it out this special surprise in the heart of the Canal. It’s one of several Vietnamese businesses and markets in the area.

Jose Murphy’s Café and Bar
“One Part Cancun. One Part Dublin. One Mexi-Irishesque good time.” That’s how the Jose Murphy’s web site describes the restaurant’s just-crazy-enough-to-work concept. A pub, restaurant and nightclub all rolled into one, Jose Murphy’s is a self-proclaimed “cultural collision.” Just as popular as its Shrewsbury Street brother Funky Murphy’s, Jose is one party animal. The plasma TV is always tuned to the sports event of the season and Thursday through Saturday live music and DJs set the tone for the night. The margaritas are to die for and the menu will spice up even an ordinary Tuesday night.

Kenmore Diner
Sometimes all you want is some good home cookin’. That’s exactly what you’ll get at the Kenmore Diner. It’s got all the traditional diner foods, and the quick service to go along with it. Located on Franklin Street, it’s been a staple in Worcester for years. The best part? It’s open all night. Feel like grabbing a bite to eat after last call? This is your best bet. The breakfast items are their specialty. If you want something a bit heavier, try their burgers, chicken clubs and baked fish and chips. You won’t be disappointed with this old time diner.

Nick’s Bar and Restaurant
If you have a hankering for something German, you have to stop by Nick’s on Millbury Street. The old world atmosphere with tin ceilings and dark wooden bar is a welcomed departure from the norm. Plenty of German beers are at your disposal and can be perfectly paired with a soft pretzel or sandwich of your choice. To top it all off, you can enjoy some great eclectic music. Nick’s is the kind of place you’ll want to keep coming back to until the bartender knows your name and you develop a German accent.

Roma’s Pizzeria and Grille
Joe and Lanie Petrou are no strangers to the Worcester restaurant scene. Joe’s past establishments include Primo’s of Shrewsbury Street and the Restaurant at Union Station. His latest venture, Roma’s, is set for an August opening. It’s smack dab in the good ol’ Canal District. With Italian favorites and thin crust brick oven pizza taking up the majority of the menu, Roma’s sounds just right. The icing on the cake? How about the fact that Roma’s allows customers to Bring Your Own Bottle? Sure to be another Worcester hit for the Petrou family.

Takara Sushi Bar
At the Kelley Square end of Millbury Street, you can have a seat at one of the freshest sushi bars in Worcester. Takara has a full selection of sushi as well as classic teppanyaki style dishes. The large teppan (Japanese for “iron plate”) tables allow you to have a social dinner and watch your food be prepared on the sizzling griddle in the center. It’s an impressive performance with knives flying at lightening speeds. Takara is a great place to dine with large groups and when the Mai Tais and Scorpion Bowls start to flow, there is no telling where the night will take you.

Wings Over Worcester
Located right in Kelley Square, Wings Over Worcester is a shrine to the followers of the buffalo wing cult here in the city. With your choice of delivery, pick up or dine in, there is always an occasion for wings. You can even place your order online. While wings are obviously the focus, the menu also offers ribs, wraps and sandwiches. For the wing-aholics out there, you might have to spend some serious time here to sample all the sauces that they provide. The wings portion of the menu is astounding ~ over 15 different possible wing flavors and five degrees of buffalo heat: wimpy, cruising altitude, red alert, jet fuel and the afterburner. Certainly, the afterburners are not for the faint of heart. Be sure to keep a cold drink handy!

Drinking it all in

So you’ve eaten (maybe twice, and who could blame you, with all of those delicious selections) and you’ve walked the historical area taking in the sights. You’ve probably enjoyed the day in the Canal District so much that you text a few of your friends to come and join you. Thankfully, you have me ~ your Canal District tour guide ~ to give you some stellar recommendations.

3-G’s Sports Bar
This is a great hangout for all aspiring performers. Want to play guitar and have a chilled out evening jamming out? Stop by on Thursday and Saturday nights for a weekly jam session. Think you have a knack for the funny? The Comedy Showcase also on Saturday nights is a great way to try out your act. There’s also Karaoke Monday, which is always entertaining (in one way or another!). For some of the best local all around entertainment, it’s hard to pass up 3-G’s.

The Banner Bar & Grille
Boasting a horseshoe bar, the Banner Bar & Grille on Green Street has all the charms of your favorite neighborhood bar and enough New England sports spirit to rival even the largest big city sports bars. There’s an unbelievable count of nine plasma screens. Chances are that while you quickly check out that cute girl or guy in the corner you still won’t miss that game-winning play. Plus, if you like to multitask while watching the game, the Banner Bar & Grille has KENO and a pub style menu to keep you occupied. Monday is 10 Cent Wings Night while Tuesday is 50 Cent Pizza Night… leaving you plenty of green to buy that thirst quenching amber brew and make a few KENO bets.

Bar None
This happening spot on Grafton Street is the definition of chic and trendy. Hailed as “The Official Locale for the Mature and Sophisticated,” this place is a can’t-miss. Bar None caters to the work crowd looking for some relaxation after a long day at the office. Their specialty drinks like Lemon Drop and Forbidden Fruit help make the tiring work day just a memory. There’s also something for the party animals looking to dance the night away. At 10 p.m., the bass gets going with live DJs and the dance floor fills up. With a blend of new and old school tunes, it’s sure to be an exciting time. With theme nights like Sinergy Thursdays and Foreplay Wednesdays, how could it not be?

Blackstone Tap
Ah, the Blackstone Tap! It’s a favorite among the stressed out after work crowd here in Worcester. It’s equipped with a pool table, widescreen plasma and an outside patio area that really lets you unwind. There are always plenty of beer selections on tap and appetizers are available into late night. Head to Water Street, grab a cue and take out a week’s worth of aggressions out at the pool table.

Blu Ultralounge & Nightclub
If you’re ready for a wild time, then Blu Ultralounge on Water Street is the only place to go. One of the area’s premiere night clubs, Blu caters to the gay and lesbian community and hosts some of the most outrageous theme nights in town. With top alternative acts and fun contests, Blu will keep you coming back for more. Past events have included Foam Parties, Underwear Night and lip-sync contests. If you plan on joining in on the fun, check out the calendar of events on their web site ~ just so you don’t get caught overdressed on Underwear Nights, of course. Looking for a relaxing spot to hit before this wild night out? Head to the Male Box around the corner on Grafton Street. It’s a great place to grab a drink before a night of dancing.

Boiler Room Industrial Lounge
Interesting in trying something a little different? How about the Boiler Room Industrial Lounge. The name alone is intriguing! Located on the corner of Winter Street and Harding Street, finding it may be a big of a challenge. You’ll be heading downstairs to find this modern lounge. It’s the creation of owner Selim Lahoud. Although the renovation process is in the early stages, expect the Boiler Room to be a unique and welcomed addition to the Canal District.

Canal Cocktail Lounge
The newly opened Canal Cocktail Lounge is certainly creating a buzz among many residents of Worcester. There’s an awful lot to like about this fashionable spot, from the warm atmosphere inside to the trendy patrons who call it their favorite hangout spot. Be sure to check out their Tiki Bar. It’s one of the best features of the Lounge. It’s a great place for drinks and socializing after a long work day. When deciding on which place should be your fist choice of Canal District locations, it’s hard to pass up the Canal Cocktail Lounge.

Creegan’s Pub
Head over to Green Street and check out Creegan’s Pub. With over 45 kinds of bottled beer, 10 on draft and 100 bottles of liquor, they have something for everyone’s taste. It’s a sports fan’s paradise with plasma televisions, a dart league and a pool table. What else could you want? Be sure to check out live music on Saturdays and Luck of the Draw Tournaments on Sundays. There’s a $5 admission fee. Creegan’s is definitely “Where the Good Times Flow.”

Fiddler’s Green
Just off of Green Street on Temple Street you might have noticed the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Center. But did you notice that located right on the premises is the center’s very own pub? Fiddler’s Green is a traditional Irish pub where you can order your Guinness and feast on corned beef boiled dinners. The pub also has occasional live music events. At Fiddler’s, every day is St. Patrick’s Day. So head on over and celebrate your Irish heritage… even if you have to fake it! As long as you’re Irish at heart, you’re sure to enjoy Fiddler’s Green.

Fusion Lounge and Nightclub
Relaxing in the stylish lounge area with comfortable seating is the perfect way to warm up for a night at Fusion, next door to Blu Ultralounge on Water Street. Your night at the hotspot won’t end there in the lounge because Fusion’s nightclub section will be calling your name. With state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment, Fusion is the place to shake what your mama gave you. Don’t believe me? Check out what their web site says about this urban club, “A Promenade for dance that will captivate the hedonist and deviate the temperate…Your imagination is your only restraint.” Enough said, I suppose.

Greyhound Pub
Have a hankering for something with a little bit more of a kick? Make the Greyhound Pub (An Cu Liath) your next destination. This great Irish pub offers the best Irish and Scotch Whiskey in Worcester. It is a true Irish bar and the creation of Paul Curley. How authentic is it? It’s one of the rare places that offer European and Australian football and rugby. With Brain Freeze Trivia on Thursday night and the best eclectic music in the city during the month, it’s no wonder why this is one of the most talked about Irish pubs.

Hotel Vernon
Experience a more rugged night out with a stop by Hotel Vernon. You won’t have to stay long to appreciate the uniqueness of the bar area. You’ll feel like a renegade ruffian with the pirate décor. Their trademark is the large mural over the bar, originally painted by bartender Joe Mirdon with help from fellow artists Alfred Caplin and Walter Johnston. If you’re looking to dance up a storm, this isn’t the place for you. If you’re looking for a true bar experience with beer and conversing with the locals, head over to Hotel Vernon.

Lucky Dog Music Hall
Home of the legendary surprise Rolling Stones show in 1981, The Lucky Dog Music Hall on Green Street is the place in Worcester to catch your favorite live local music acts. You can get your rock on seven days a week. No two nights at The Lucky Dog are the same. From the weird to the wickedly awesome, it seems that everyone plays at The Lucky Dog at some point or another. Order your favorite beer, claim your space in front of the stage and enjoy the show.

The Salty Dog Saloon
What’s that you say? The only thing missing in Worcester’s Canal District is a mechanical bull? Not anymore! Kelley Square is the new home of the Salty Dog Saloon, opening in August. With one location already a huge success in Springfield, the Salty Dog’s web site promises the folks of Worcester that they “are not just gonna raise the bar, we are gonna beat you with it.” The saloon will also be hosting live music acts. So if you’re up for a quiet night out, this is not the bar for you. If you are keen on testing out your bull riding skills (and why wouldn’t you be?), there’ll be a seat at the bar with your name on it. For a good laugh, you should check out their dress code policy on their web site. Trust me.

Pics: Patrons at Bar None; Center Bar & Grill, Prifti’s Candies and the Banner Bar & Grille; & Lucky Dog Music Hall

Business is Booming

Naturally, the restaurants and clubs in the Canal District are a blast. But we’ve managed to unearth some pretty sweet businesses of other kinds in the area as well. After all, the Canal District is where all the cool kids hang out. And, no, I’m not just saying that because our offices happen to have a Canal District address. These places are so very tempting. Stop in and see for yourself.

Dzian Gallery
From its amazing space in the Brickyard Place building on Water Street, the Dzian Gallery is an international fine art gallery that spans just about every medium. Displayed throughout the Gallery you’ll find paintings, pottery, textiles and jewelry that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether your tastes are classic or contemporary, Dzian has it all. Realizing that art and community go hand in hand, the gallery also hosts events like Jazz Night and Ladies Night as well as art shows. If you’re looking for that perfect gift for an upcoming occasion, Dzian Gallery will help you find something just right. So right, in fact, that you may want to keep it for yourself… better get two just in case.

Harding Tire Company
The Harding Tire Company is a family owned and operated tire shop. For over 80 years, the folks at Harding have been delivering grade-A service and competitive prices on dozens of brands of tires. From the major makers to the nearly unheard of, you should be able to find the wheels of your dreams. While you’re there kicking tires, you might want to take advantage of their wheel alignment, shocks and brake services (to name just a few that they offer) . And before you get into your car with the balding tires to hurriedly drive over to Harding Street, you might want to log onto their web site for a $5 off coupon on any of their services. After all, you could use that extra $5 at one of the other shops in the Canal District.

Jeffrey Robert Salon and Spa
Another Kelley Square gem! Jeffrey Robert Salon and Spa is ready to go to work on making your stresses melt away. The full service day spa at Jeffrey Robert offers the complete spa experience. With a variety of packages and single services, there will be something to please everyone. Go all out with the Oasis Spa Package ~ a one hour massage with facial, manicure and pedicure. Or choose a three hour experience for $190. Or you could take the minimalist approach and get a muscle melting hot stone massage for $75. You could even arrange to have one of their stylists or cosmetic specialists come to you, making sure that you look just right for that special event. Whatever you choose, the experienced staff at Jeffrey Robert will help make your spa event blissful.

Prifti’s Candies
For the best chocolate in town, look no further than Prifti’s Candies. Located right on Green Street, the chocolate lover’s haven has specialty candy and handmade chocolates that are so good they’ll make you forget your name. Prifti’s offers a huge variety, including a sugar free line of confections. Let’s face it, there is always a good reason for buying chocolate and who better to buy candy from than a company that has been at it for decades? Besides, chocolate is rich in antioxidants, and that’s an important part of any diet.

Salon Nina Rafaella
One of the newest additions to the flourishing Canal District is Salon Nina Rafaella. Stylist and founder of the upscale salon, Nina Rafaella has studied the art of hair in Boston, London and New York and plans on bringing a bit of that big city glamour to Worcester. Salon Nina Rafaella’s Green Street location is convenient and the décor is understated chic and luxurious. The stylists at the salon use only the best tools and products and offer a lengthy list of services that will leave you running your hands through your hair all day. Treat yourself to a pampering experience and help welcome Salon Nina Rafaella to Worcester.

Table Talk Pie Company
Since 1924, Table Talk Pies has been a Worcester institution. From its headquarters on Washington Street, Table Talk Pies has been baking up over 20 pie varieties that are sold all over the country. If the name Table Talk isn’t ringing any bells, you certainly will recognize the iconic red and white boxes in which they’re packaged in. Every proper Worcester resident should have at least one favorite Table Talk pie filling flavor (mine is lemon). So if you haven’t taken a bite out of a Table Talk in a while, it’s probably time to pick up that fork and try one of each… at least until you pick a favorite.

Tom’s International Deli
For the freshest Polish and European goodies in Worcester, there is no place like Tom’s International Deli. The family run shop on Water Street is where you’ll find all those yummy international delights that you can’t find in the supermarket. Ordering up all of those tasty treats will surely get your stomach growling, so maybe ask for one of their freshly made sandwiches to go, because it’s never good to shop on an empty stomach.

Tush: A Denim Boutique
You know what it’s like. The worry, the anxiety, the rejection. It can be a daunting task, but eventually you know you’re bound to find the one. The one that makes you feel like a million bucks, ones that were made for you and hug you just right. I am of course talking about the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans. There is hope for the denim hungry citizens of Worcester and its name is Tush. Located on Green Street, Tush is a mecca for those of us who prefer to be “forever in blue jeans.” Browsing around the open space you’ll see neatly displayed clothes and take in the posh atmosphere. Once you’ve found the perfect pair of jeans, you can shop through an awesome selection of hoodies, tees, tanks and even jewelry. If you’re sick of what the malls are offering and want a more personal shopping experience, then head to Tush. You’ll be strutting your denim clad stuff in no time.

Weintraub’s Delicatessen
The best way to describe Weintraub’s Delicatessen is as a blast from the past. If you’re from Worcester, you’ve heard of Weintraub’s. The authentic Jewish deli has been a Worcester staple for over 80 years. The old neon sign outside gives patrons a glimpse into a more nostalgic time. The inexpensive and comfortable restaurant/deli makes their sandwiches piled extra high and everyone gets a half sour pickle, without which you can’t truly enjoy a proper Weintraub’s experience. While you’re waiting for your order be sure to turn your attention to all of the local paraphernalia that hangs on the walls, making it quite clear that Weintraub’s is a piece of Worcester’s history.

Widoff’s Bakery
Step into this Water Street bakery and you’ll think you’ve died and gone to pastry heaven. The most delicious selection of fresh breads and rolls will draw you in for sure and one look at their sweet cakes and pies will have you drooling where you stand. My sister has fond memories of going in with our father when she was little and the bakery counter workers would always give her a free cookie. I don’t know if they uphold the free cookie to cute kids policy these days, but the tradition of visiting Widoff’s Bakery is still a Worcester must.

Home is where the Canal is

Ok, so you’ve had a full day in the bustling Canal District. You’ve browsed the shops, picked up a piece of pottery from Dzian and had lunch in a local deli. You’re wearing your new jeans from Tush and sporting that hot hairstyle you just got at Salon Nina Rafaella. The evening will include dinner at your choice of amazing restaurants and a night out dancing and sipping cocktails with your nearest and dearest. After all of the clubs close, I suppose it’s time to head home…. Wait, you don’t want to leave the Canal District? Wouldn’t it be nice if you lived in the midst of all of this positive change? Thanks to the vision of several local developers you can carve out your very own home in the thriving social hub that is the Canal District.

With Union Station a mere five minute walk up the block, the Canal District promises to be an urban residential dream for the commuter crowd. Several of the amazing and historical buildings are being retro-fitted into lofts, condos and apartments perfect for the SoHo image that the area is developing. The best way to get a piece of this evolving renaissance is to move right in.

Winter Place Lofts
At the corner of Water Street and Winter Street, just at the end of Grafton St, you’ll find Winter Place Lofts. This brick structure was built around 1890 and once housed the Atlantic Burlap Bag Company (and also anarchist Emma Goldman’s ice cream shop in 1892) but now is the home of eight modern condos. Hardwood floors, fully loaded kitchens with top of the line appliances, and a convenient location are some of the perks those lucky enough to scoop up these spots will enjoy. These condos will be priced starting around $175,000 for a one thousand square foot space. As an added bonus, when you’re living upstairs from Bocado Tapas Wine Bar, which is on the ground level of the building, you will always know what’s for dinner.

Blackstone Lofts
Developer Selim Lahoud is tackling the job of turning the historic Heywood Building at Harding and Winter Streets into dozens of loft style condo units. The old brick building was built for the Heywood Shoe Company ~ as a matter of fact, the old faded painted sign is still on the side of the building (let’s hope it stays that way)! With an opening of a lounge in the basement set for September, a loft in Blackstone Lofts will keep dwellers at the center of the excitement with everything they need within a short walk.

Crompton & Knowles Loomworks Building
Dino Lorusso is the Millbury real estate developer with his hands on the Crompton & Knowles Building on Green Street. Built in the later half of the 1800s, the building was the site of a loom-making plant and had since stood empty for about 20 years. With the completion of Lorusso’s undertaking, the building will have both condos and rentals available and already is surrounded by the bustling commercial and retail spaces. Lorusso is working to renovate another building around the corner on Harrison Street, the top floor of which has already been converted into rentals.

All in all, you can be sure to expect more urban neighborhoods like these to develop in the area over time, simultaneously bringing new life and blood into the city while preserving parts of it that otherwise may have been demolished or dormant for decades. Rumors are flying that WINN Companies in Boston will be purchasing Chevalier Furniture on Water Street for housing. And with the development of the Union Station Garage, word has it the Bank of America is also looking to get in on the act. The repurposing of these brick and mortar giants are an important step in revitalizing this part of historic Worcester.

Area Landmarks

Union Station
We all see Union Station on our daily jaunts across the city and I am sure we can all agree that it is pretty to look at. The renovation of the building cost upwards of $32 million and brought the Station back to its original glory.

To turn back the hands of time, every detail was restored. Everything from the large stained glass windows, to the mammoth marble columns in the Grand Hall and even the mahogany wooden trim was addressed in the renovation plans. The city watched with anticipation as each phase was completed and when the exterior of Union Station was given its stark white finish, it was hard not to see how it would become the showpiece of Worcester.

The Station is still the place to come and go in Worcester. With commuter trains and Amtrak, inter and intra city bus lines, and a constant taxi carousel, you can pretty much get anywhere you want to go from Union Station. Another highlight of Union Station is the Grand Hall, which can be rented for private functions and has hosted many a magnificent wedding, magical high school prom, and black tie event.

Kelley Square
OK, so Kelley Square is somewhat of a reluctant local landmark and is usually brought up in a road raged induced conversation The intersection, for those of you not in the know, is where Harding, Green, Millbury, Vernon and Madison Street all cross each other at once. There are no traffic lights, there are a dozen concrete island dividers.

There are basically two schools of thought surrounding Kelley Square: those that see a trip through Kelley Square as an adventure and those who break out in a cold sweat at the mere thought of driving through it.

It’s amusing to see what visitors to Worcester think of braving Kelley Square. There are several YouTube videos devoted to the subject and I have come across a few online message boards where members divulge their Kelley Square nightmares. And one can only smile when imagining the Google Maps camera car as it made its way through the intersection.

Probably, what it all comes down to is the fact that Kelley Square works. It is just one of those quirky, inexplicable things that make Worcester home.

For a cool video of Kelley Square, check out www.youtube.com/watch?v=cC6PlBEepaE

Pics: Union Station; Kelley Square

A Look Back…

The Canal District is a historic landmark of Worcester. Take a look at some old time photos of how the area looked back in the ol’ days from the collections of the Worcester Historical Museum.

Pics: (from top to bottom): Harding Street (1956), Water Street (1948), Kelley Square (1975) and Green Street (1800s)

Diggin’ Down Deep
Runners and Walkers Unite
By Chris O’Leary

The Canal District is packed with upcoming events like CanalFest and Worcester Pride. Another event set to highlight the area is the second annual Fallon Community Health Care Plan’s Canal Diggers 5Km Race which will be held September 14 at 11 a.m. Runners will compete in the 3.1-mile race through the historic neighborhood. Other interested participants can take part in a one-mile walk.

“It went very well for us last year,” said Event Director Paul Collyer. “It was a good turnout. I can see it being a success this year too.”

Collyer expects a crowd of 800 to 1,000 to participate, topping the 600 that competed last year. Everyone who completes the race will receive a finisher’s medal. Winners of each age division will be awarded a bottle of the Canal District sponsored “Lock 48” wine (provided participants are 21). Fiddler’s Green on Temple Street will host a post-race celebration. There will be an Irish barbecue with an array of food options. Live music will be provided by 3 Mitts and a Mutt and the Brennan Brothers. Refreshments will be provided by Harpoon Brewery.

The race is one of many to highlight the surging popularity of the Canal District.

“People want to come down and enjoy the urban part of the city,” said Collyer. “It has become a place of entertainment and a place to live. It’s an exciting thing to be a part of.”

People interested in participating in the race can go to www.canaldiggers.com for more information and fill out a registration form. Fee for the registration prior to September 10 is $20, after that it is $22. The race will benefit the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Foundation.

Pics: Canal Diggers logo; Last year’s race (photo courtesy of www.telegram.com)

CanalFest Is Back
By Chris O’Leary

For the third consecutive year, CanalFest is set to take over Harding Street in the continuously growing Canal District September 6. The event has gained popularity since its introduction in 2006. Now, it’s an annual tradition in one of Worcester’s true neighborhood bright spots.

“I call it the nucleus of the city,” said Christina Andrianopoulos, one of the committee members for the public relations and marketing for CanalFest. “And add on to that the historic aspect of it and the cool people down there ~ the visionaries and the trendsetters.”

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The streets will overflow with music, dancing, children activities and food provided from local restaurants and vendors.

Keeping with tradition, a canal replica will be constructed along Harding Street. While the scene attracts attention, the festival is about something much bigger.

“In three years, that’s not the focal point,” said Andrianopoulos. “It’s really a street festival that has become multicultural. Since then, the whole neighborhood started having big parties. We feel that the whole neighborhood was injected with a lot of energy and excitement.”

The main attraction is the Canal District. Whether it’s the rich history or the prosperous future, there’s something to like about the neighborhood. While people come for the food, entertainment and activities, everyone leaves with a sense of how special this area is becoming.

“I consider it the first emerging neighborhood that is branding itself,” said Andrianopoulos. “I believe it’s the first neighborhood in Worcester in a very long time emerging as its own brand identity, and other people are following.”

CanalFest has only enhanced the popularity of the Canal District. In recent years, it has become the go-to place, whether you’re a business person seeking a new venture or a nightlife addict looking for the hottest spots. The popularity grew right before Andrianlopoulos’ eyes.

“Suddenly I saw this neighborhood as if it was a piece of SoHo in Manhattan here in Worcester,” she said.

The success of CanalFest is the result of a willingness to evolve with what the public wants. In three years, the event has constantly made changes to make a more enjoyable experience.

“It’s interesting how festivals evolve especially when you have no criteria initially other than putting a big party together,” said Andrianaoplis. “What we’ve seen evolve is that the cultural ethnic component was extremely important. It’s basically the whole cultural pot coming together.”

Other changes include adding children activities, expanding for more entertainment and extended the festival’s hours.

The future is limitless for this region. In the next 20 to 30 years, it’s anyone’s guess just how far the Canal District can evolve.

“I can see the Canal District becoming key real estate, for both commercial and residential, and attracting the people who are fashionable and trendy and cutting edge,” said Andrianapolis. “I see it growing to be similar to some of the trendy, fashionable, all-exclusive neighborhoods that we know and love really well in other parts of the country.”

Be sure to check out www.blackstonecanal.org for more info.

The Allure of the Canal
By Lauren Koblara

These days you can barely keep track of the new businesses and their entrepreneur founders that are making their start in the Canal District. It seems like the place to be if you want to start a business. But what is the attraction?

When Nina Rafaella decided to open her own upscale salon, she was immediately drawn to the urban and artsy atmosphere of the Canal District.

For Nina, it was the ideal place to start her business for a multitude of reasons. Just seconds off of I-290 and in the heart of the city, the location is convenient for her and her clients. Nina also said that she was attracted to the historic Crompton and Knowles Loom Works Building. The area had a special aura.

“The neighborhood has such a SoHo feel to it,” she said. It reminded her of her New Yorker days.

The success of other businesses like Block 5 and the Tush Denim Boutique, gave her confidence that she could make her business equally productive. When asked about the progress in the area, Nina thinks that the Canal District revival will prove that the “…people of Central Massachusetts will no longer have to travel to Boston to receive exceptional goods and services.” The improvement of the area and the new life that the Blackstone Canal Project is bringing to the neighborhoods “…will make Worcester a desirable city for young professionals to frequent,” Nina explained.

Another familiar face from the Canal District cheering section is Worcester native Christina Andrianopoulos. Christina is President of the Omega Group marketing firm and is on the committee for the public relations and marketing of CanalFest

Born and raised in Worcester, Christina Adrianopoulos lived in Manhattan for 15 years before moving back to her hometown in 2003. When she returned, she was impressed with the difference.

“I loved how Worcester was evolving and its potential… it reminded me of an evolving SoHo like it was in Manhattan when I first moved there in the mid-80s,” Christina said.

Mike Barley, owner of the Salty Dog Saloon, heard the area getting rave reviews. It was a major reason for him expanding the Salty Dog Saloon enterprise into Worcester.

“This area is just starting to pick up some steam,” he said. “There are just a lot of people looking to go out and have a good time.”

With such a large and diverse selection in the Canal District, competition between restaurants and bar is high. Everyone has something special to offer. It makes for an exciting time for the patrons. The owners and operators have a good time with it as well.

“My feeling is the more the better,” said Barley. “You want to be next to your competition. There are other bars that are by themselves and I think they suffer because of it. I think the competition is good. People want to be around other people.”

Whether it’s the great location, the invigorating spirit or the vast array of options, there’s something that Canal District has that other neighborhoods don’t. And that’s what keeps businesses, customers and party goers intrigued. It doesn’t look like it’ll be slowing down anytime soon.