The Old Mill: A real world Cheers experience

To expand the Coffee Straws reach we have begun looking at the unique places that lay outside of major urban centers. Good food and fun does not have to be situated within a bustling city all the time and the places soon to be reviewed are a testament to what can be found when you leave the hustle and bustle of city life. The first in this series of not so urban culinary locales is The Old Mill, a local favorite of South Egremont, Massachusetts. I should make a note of clarity at the beginning here that I have not had the pleasure of dining in the dining room but rather have chosen (each time that I have visited) to dine in the bar area. Why have I made this choice? Well first the menu is exactly the same (including the specials for the evening) and two the environment doesn’t just remind one of Cheers but rather makes Cheers remind you of The Old Mill.

Its bar and parlor area is managed by its amiable and hospital bartender who introduced me (on my first visit) to the extremely entertaining Times article which became the subject of a previous post. The scene of this old world parlor is reminiscent of the time Jack Finney’s character falls into when staying at the Dakota, a time when the expressions on our faces meant more than the superficiality of the modern world’s hello. Though the regulars dominate the bar area and the conversations at times can appear exclusive, this crowd of Massachusetts dwellers is anything but exclusive and are always looking to expand their dialogue.

Now with this truly neighborhood feel, and I know that we throw that word around a lot here but this time is a time when that word is defined more than used, we cannot ignore the eating aspects of this establishment. Its menu is representative of the classic American restaurant featuring numerous fish items as well as an excellent burger. In my most recent visit I sampled the grilled salmon which was topped with a pineapple salsa and served with a saffron risotto. On another visit I enjoyed The Old Mill Burger and on more than one occasion have enjoyed their established wine list and excellent selection of local draft beers.

The Old Mill will remain as a local favorite for South Egremont but it should also be known to the rest of us who live outside of Massachusetts as at least one reason to venture outside of the culinary empire that is New York City to find an enjoyable and delicious meal. Terry Moore, its owner and chef, has created an excellent treat which is neither over the top for the wonderfully rustic feel of the old mill it is housed in nor is it too simple for a more sophisticated pallet, it is just right.

The Ranking (for explanation, see “Review Key”):

Food: 3 Straws (can’t complain, its a good, classic meal).

Price: $$$traws, Expensive price (about $30 or an appetizer, main course, and a glass of wine).

Atmosphere: A community atmosphere, very welcoming. I cannot speak for the restaurant itself, but as the review describes its parlor scene is very much the definition of a neighborhood meeting place.

Overall: 3 Straws (If you are ever traveling on Route 23, through South Egremont this has to be on your list of places to stop to eat. It is a town favorite as well as a favorite for all of the New York weekenders).

The Details:

Website: n/a

Location: 53 Main St, Route 23, South Egremont, Massachusetts 01258

Phone: (413) 528-1421

Reservation: No Need (in the parlor at least).

Dress: Casual.

Hours:

Sunday-Thursday: 5:00pm-9:30pm

Friday-Saturday: 5:00pm-10:00pm