Ask and you shall receive! Speak it into the universe! Manifest what you want! It feels like only yesterday I had been writing about all the still-closed-because-of-the-pandemic local spots I wished I could highlight here on Coffee & Chiffon during the Springtime- including but not limited to one of my favorite and famous places/shops- The Montague Bookmill.
Well, no sooner did I hit “PUBLISH” on that post when the Bookmill announced they were officially re-opening (at limited capacity) again! Given the on/off rain and thunderstorms we’ve been having over the past couple of days, I jumped at the chance to browse the selection of books/artwork, grab a coffee, and enjoy the most beautiful view of the Sawmill River in one of the coziest and most unique bookstores in the Pioneer Valley.
Originally Stone’s Gristmill in the 1830s- this former grain mill was eventually bought and converted into a bookstore in the late 1980s after changing ownership a few times over the years. Since then, it’s become one of the most beloved and popular year-round “must visit” locations for both locals and travelers passing through Western Massachusetts alike.
The first time I came to the Montague Bookmill was around the Summer of 2011, when Troy brought me to finally see/experience it after he’d found out I had no idea it even existed. It was love at first sight- and since then I’ve tried to stop by a couple of times each season to see what’s new, admire the view- or explore the surrounding outbuildings which have also been converted into a record shop and art gallery.
The Bookmill also houses an incredible restaurant, The Alvah Stone– which is open again for outdoor dining (with restrictions) and takeout. They make fantastic sandwiches and dangerously delicious cocktails- which are perfect to enjoy on sunny days on their patio overlooking the river.
With it’s long-awaited reopening- I’m excited to spend more time in the Bookmill- and I’m hoping I’ll be able to take more of my family and friends there once everyone is fully vaccinated. I know they’ll love it there as much as I do.
Now let’s get the Bridge of Flowers open again, too!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 