I had wanted to share this post last Friday, but I was both recovering from a 24-hour cold (it always happens with the change in seasons, and I’m doing much better now!) as well as finalizing the last of my car repairs and maintenance as we approach the colder months here in New England. An ongoing issue with my starter and my spark plugs has finally been resolved – but I had a long overdue and much-needed rest before the weekend and didn’t get a chance to publish my newest “Local Loves” installment on time!
This edition recently took me a little ways out of state and just over the Western Massachusetts border into Ghent, New York – where Dan and I had traveled for a day of leaf peeping and foliage photography now that we are officially surrounded by the most beautiful red, gold and orange-hued trees for as far as the eye can see! Since we had gotten an early start, heading out just before the sun came up, I suggested we stop for breakfast and coffee at a historic building I’ve passed many times over the past couple of years when taking the back roads to NYC, New Jersey and most recently to Maryland.
The Bartlett House, located just off of Route 66, was a popular railroad hotel constructed only feet away from the tracks from 1870 until railway services were discontinued in 1954. After being closed and subsequently abandoned for decades, it wasn’t until 2016 when the beautiful brick building found it’s new purpose – and it’s place as a National Historic Site! – as a charming and cozy roadside café and restaurant.
Serving a wide array of absolutely delicious breakfast and lunch options, including entrées, freshly baked goods, coffees, teas and custom-crafted hot chocolate & milkshakes that can be enjoyed in their renovated interior that still pays homage to the former hotel’s history, or out on their gorgeous patio area – The Bartlett House is a must-visit stop for anyone on their way to Upstate New York or to the Berkshires. Their staff is so sweet and seem to genuinely enjoy what they do, and it’s a beloved location for locals and tourists alike. We ran into quite a few regulars ordering their favorites while we were there!
I enjoyed the breakfast quesadilla with an iced spiced apple latte, and then grabbed a signature Bartlett Hot Chocolate (with a homemade vanilla marshmallow!) for the road. It was just what I needed to start the perfect Autumnal day!
I absolutely plan on returning to Bartlett House (often!) in the future, especially since so many of their drinks and baked goods are seasonally-inspired. I can’t wait to see what they have on the menu around Winter and the holidays!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 