New crew at Pony Espresso

Judy and the crew over at Pony Espresso invite everyone to come in and take a look at their new menu options. Lunch items and soft-serve frozen yogurt are now being offered.

Sandwiches are made fresh on-site each day and are readily available to just "grab and go." Fillings include turkey, roast beef, ham and salami, as well as cheddar, provolone and swiss cheeses. All sandwiches come assembled in either rolls, croissants, or a wrap. Also included in the $3.99 price is a pickle, fun size candy bar and various condiments to dress your sandwich.

For just $2.50 you can enjoy a 12-ounce serving of fresh, homemade soup. Selections change daily and Judy has been having fun experimenting to determine the local favorites. Clear winners so far have been cheddar-broccoli, vegetable beef and chicken noodle. Stew and chili are also served on occasion.

Kosher beef bagel dogs can be purchased for $1.50 and chips to accompany your lunch are 50 cents. The Pony hopes to be able to offer salads in the future as well.

Now that the weather's warmed up, you may be in the mood for a cool treat. Pony Espresso is pleased to offer vanilla, chocolate and swirled frozen yogurt in either an 8-ounce cup ($1.49) or cone (99 cents). Toppings include chocolate chips, M & M's, Reese's Pieces, sprinkles, nuts or granola and can be added for 49 cents each.

Or, you may opt for a Fruit Tea Blast; a blend of fruit, green tea, vitamin C, gingko, ginseng, and guarana, all designed to help boost energy levels. There are a variety of flavors such as pomegranate-blueberry, pineapple-coconut, and strawberry sensation. Fruit Tea Blasts come in either a 16 or 20-ounce size and cost $3.95 or $4.25, respectively.

As always, the Pony offers their wide variety of homemade pastries, cookies, and hearty "Miner's Muffins," which feature flavors such as sausage or fresh chive. Fresh baked Danish and bear claws are new to the menu.

All of the above items, as well as all the other menu items, are available at the drive-through.

You may have heard about some of the local schools featuring poetry readings at Pony Espresso. With advance notice, the facility is able to accommodate gatherings ranging from baby showers to business meetings. Just call ahead and ask for Judy if you are interested in hosting an event there.

Pony Espresso is located at 795 Tillman in the Ranchos. Hours are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Their phone number is 265-1667.

-- Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com