Living in Fairfield County means I am not only surrounded by the amazing restaurants of New York City, but also a host of truly wonderful restaurants right out my doorstep. To celebrate my birthday recently, my husband and I decided to try the new local spot, The Tavern at GrayBarns, and I have to say that this is truly one of the best local dining experiences I’ve ever had. The menu changes all the time, but I highly recommend the lamb ribs and the truffle pasta!
The restaurant and hotel sit within a beautiful property in the heart of the quaint Silvermine neighborhood in Norwalk. As you are guided towards the establishment you weave through quiet country roads and bubbling brooks— hard to imagine that just beyond is a hospitality gem! The Colonial style Inn greets visitors upon arrival, and you immediately know you are about to embark on a wonderful night.
Rich in history, the property has had several iterations. Originally it was a textiles factory, built at the turn of the 19th century. In the 1920s, the factory (which is now the tavern) became a speakeasy, and in the ’30s the inn was introduced. As the 50′ and 60’s rolled in, so did the celebrities— Elizabeth Taylor, Arthur Miller, and Lauren Bacall to name just a few from their guestbook.
Because I have only visited the restaurant (so far….) I’ll give a tour of just that space for now (images courtesy of GrayBarns, One King’s Lane and Mackenzie Horan), but I highly recommend that any locals jump at the chance to visit themselves.
Just beyond the Inn is the Tavern, where you are greeted by the most rustic-chic (if ever there was a due term) hostess stand. Leaving your coats behind on the shiplap wall of traditional coat hooks, you head into the 60-seat restaurant.
The open layout of the restaurant allows for every table to feel special, although I have to say we were seated in likely the best seat of the house, right in front of the roaring fireplace. Chairs are draped with ivory sheepskins, and you settle into the space knowing that you are about to enjoy not only a wonderful meal, but also an interior designer’s dream atmosphere.
Every nook and cranny of The Tavern is well thought out and designed with impeccable detail. Even a stairway leading to the kitchen is adorned with vintage artwork and mirrors. If you take a deep look, you’ll notice the portrait at bottom left is “repaired” with a Band-Aid, love it!
The talented group behind GrayBarns is the Glazer Group, a family-run development firm of Andy and Marsha Glazer and their daughter Nikki. Listed in 2015, the Glazer’s saw the property as a diamond in the rough, and purchased it with the intention to restore the buildings. Not only have they succeeded in their mission, but they have also provided us with a remarkable dining experience. I look forward to future visits, and can’t wait until their shop GrayBarns Mercantile opens in 2019!
Bring the beautiful GrayBarns look to your own home with the links below!