With Troy having returned to California as of yesterday afternoon after a brief stay with me, and myself having taken a few days off of work this week to begin holiday preparations and start getting my Christmas décor out of storage, it seemed like the perfect time to share what has become one of my all-time favorite restaurants in Lee, Massachusetts since I was just there (again!) over this past weekend.
I’ve written about nights spent at 51 Park – located on Park Street in Lee – many times in the past. Troy first introduced me to the Victorian-house-turned-pub a couple of years ago while we were visiting with his Aunt who lives close by and preparing for a weekend trip to New York for a conference he was attending for his job. Not only was I instantaneously smitten with how beautiful the location is (which includes an indoor tavern, outdoor porch seating with firepits, and two floors of original hardwood flooring, stained glass and working fireplaces,) but the food and cocktails were incredible, too!
Since then, the restaurant has become Troy and I’s unofficial “date night” spot whenever we’re visiting with his family out in the Berkshires, coming back from a day at MASS MoCA, or just in need of quality food and well-made drinks from a menu that changes both seasonally and for special events. Earlier this year, 51 Park had a Super Bowl-themed specials menu and a ‘Harry Potter’ night – complete with new entrées and beverages for the occasions.
We grabbed dinner on Saturday night while on our way back from a day spent in North Adams and after popping by to say hello to Troy’s relatives. Right now, 51 Park still has their Fall menu going strong – and I enjoyed a fig & apple cider margarita, pan seared scallops and risotto served over a brie spread, and indulged in a few bites of an Almond Joy skillet cookie before I couldn’t move. As always, everything was phenomenal – and the staff is always so wonderful and friendly whenever we visit.
My only recommendation is that you call ahead to check on the wait times before visiting since the place tends to fill up quickly, and seating at the bar is on a first-come-first-serve basis. Troy and I were lucky enough to get a table shortly after our arrival, but more and more people showed up not too long thereafter that had to wait a while!
But it’s worth the wait for sure!
I’m thinking of taking my mom there a little later on this season, since I think she’ll really enjoy the food and the super cozy atmosphere – and I’m hoping they’ll have a holiday/Winter-themed menu by then so we can try a few new things!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 