Berkshires Getaway—The Old Inn on The Green

Summer in the Berkshires is in full swing. Whether you are visiting for dance, symphony, art, good food, or just a getaway from the hustle and bustle of our frenetic loves these days, this area of the east is a beautiful spot to recharge and un plug.  I recently had the pleasure of staying at what I would call a hidden gem of the area-The Old Inn on the Green in New Marlborough, MA.  It’s a few miles off the beaten path of the regular loop in western Massachuttes, but I find that just adds to the charm of this delightful inn.

I grew up in an old farm house and we currently live in a Victorian built in the 1870’s;  the beauty of an old building brought tastefully into the modern world is not lost on me.  My admiration goes out to current owners Peter Platt and his lovely wife Meredith Kennard for creating such a pleasing atmosphere at the Old Inn.  They have magically combined the best of old and new with an aesthetic that I can only call dreamy. Floors are slighted sloped as you would expect, and have developed a wonderful patina with age. Antique carpets and furniture are everywhere.

It’s been called the “Best of the Oldest, No. 1 Historic Inn, New England” by Yankee Magazine for good reason. Nestled in the heart of Old Marlborough, the 1760 destination is the centerpiece of the small village and only a 15 minute scenic drive from Great Barrington. The eleven rooms, in two historic buildings, are authentically restored and modernized.  Earthy, traditional touches of flowers and period crafts decorate nooks and crannies.

The rooms are spacious and the bathrooms modern and bright.  Soaking tub, rain-head shower fixture, separate bidet; it was complete and  spa like in feel. Many of the walls have been left with raw plaster exposed, giving an overall glow to the space. The working fireplaces must be wonderful in winter. Internet and HD TV are a nod to the new world.

Three intimate dining rooms, lit only from the glow of candlelight and fireplaces, are where the magic rally takes place. Diners take a seat in the past and enjoy the best of today’s local, seasonal flavors.  The Zagat rated and 10 year Four-Diamond award winning restaurant is regularly listed on not to miss spots for foodies. A superior American food menu, with a wine list to match, is a delight for all the senses. Even the plates, made by local artisan Michael Wright are special with gold and silver jewel like touches.

Their are several choices for dinner: a Mid Week Welcome Menu, a Tasting Menu and Prix Fixe on Saturday.  The restaurant is closed Tuesday night.  Vegetable soups, like the roasted cauliflower soup with chive oil  above let the ingredients shine through with flavor . In season, a tented area overlooking the back greenery is another area to dine. It is where we chose to eat from the bountiful buffet breakfast, early risers trying to get a hike in before we left town.  Of course, this was not before the freshly baked basket of pastries arrived hot from the oven.

The Southfield Store, a few miles away is another venture of the Inn’s owners.  The large space houses a store and cafe with a bakery {responsible for the delicious morning delivery}. It was the perfect place to order a takeout lunch for the end of the visit and rest and relax before we got back to reality.  A spot to savor one more bite of the charm this area has to offer.

The 411

The Old Inn on the Green is at 134 Hartsville/New Marlborough Road in New Marlborough, MA.  {413}-229-7924.  Dining room is closed on Tuesdays. The Prix fixe meal is $75 per person: a three course tasting meal Sun/Mon/Wed//Thurs is $35. A la carte dinners are served every day except Tuesday.

Their midweek dinner and lodging special {starting at $249.00} available Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, is in my humble opinion, one of the best bargain in the Berkshires.