Still River Café

Pulling into the gravel driveway of the 150-year old renovated barn, nestled in the woods of northeastern Connecticut, one would never guess that this inconspicuous building houses a small but acclaimed restaurant featuring seasonal and local foods.  But entering Still River Café from the side porch is like walking into a fine dining establishment in any bustling city or town…only better.  The restaurant is light and airy with wall-to-wall windows and vaulted ceilings.  The tables are dressed with simple white linens; the cushy chairs a velvety pale gray.  Each table holds a simple vase with a soft yellow wildflower.  The view looks out onto the 27 acre farm, including two gardens where the restaurant grows some of their own produce.  To say the ambience was peaceful would be an understatement. 

My friend and I were promptly seated by exceptionally friendly staff.  Bread sticks were brought out and I selfishly ate them both just to taste more of the salt-flecked chive butter they were served with.  Next out was our appetizer:  Brigadoon Farm Kobe Beef Carpaccio.  Paper thin slices of smoked Kobe beef shaped into “dumplings,” paired with a slightly pungent wasabi foam and salad of micro greens.  It was sinfully good.  I am not a particularly religious person, but I would have gladly hailed Mary for another serving. 

Our lunch entrees were less inspiring, but tasty nonetheless.  I ordered the Amish Organic Free Range Chicken, my guest the Lobster Scramble. And of course, mimosas, because what’s Sunday lunch without a sweet and bubbly cocktail?!  My chicken was moist and juicy, nestled on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and drizzled with a slightly tangy mustard sauce.  The lobster scramble featured local eggs, light and fluffy, a fair serving of fresh Maine lobster, and a small lobster croquette.  Personally, I thought the bite-sized croquette was the best part- slightly spicy, crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside.  My friend’s only complaint with the lobster scramble was that there wasn’t enough. 

We both agreed that we would happily return to Still River Café if for nothing else than the relaxing atmosphere.  But I am also anxious to make it back and sample their seasonal dinner menu.  If you are curious about Eastford’s hidden gem, check out their website at www.stillrivercafe.com.