The Bird & Bottle Inn

Imagine a place where the history of the American colonies comes to life: The Bird & Bottle Inn is a legendary restaurant and inn located near West Point, New York. Built in the Dutch Colonial style, the building is one of the oldest in the region and is recognized as an important historical monument in the USA.

Founded back in 1761 as Warren's Tavern, this establishment served as a key resting point for travelers following the old post road between New York and Albany. Today, it harmoniously combines authentic 18th-century charm with impeccable modern service and fine dining.

Following a meticulous restoration completed in 2022, guests can admire the original interiors: massive wide-plank floors, antique oil paintings, and classic light fixtures. This is not just a place for dinner, but a true portal to the past, preserving the cozy hospitality of bygone times.

To plan your visit to this historic site, you can use the following contact details. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

The main reason to visit is for the unique gastronomic experience in a historical setting. Chef Christian Meixner has created a menu where classic American recipes intertwine with modern culinary trends. Guests can try delicacies such as a short rib burger, duck wings, or tender Faroe Island salmon.

Special options are available for vegetarians and vegans, such as a fragrant spring pea risotto. The tavern's atmosphere, with its soft lighting and antique decor, is perfect for a romantic date or a cozy family celebration. During the warmer months, the outdoor area becomes a wonderful spot for al fresco dining.

In addition to restaurant service, the complex plans to host weddings and private events, offering guests not only an exquisite table but also the chance to touch living history. Soon, guest rooms will also be available for booking, allowing for full immersion in the atmosphere of an old country estate.

The The Bird & Bottle Inn is located at 1123 Old Albany Post Road in Garrison, New York. This picturesque spot in the Hudson Highlands region is situated about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of New York City, making it an excellent choice for a getaway from the city.

The most convenient way to get there is by car via Route 9 (Old Albany Post Road). This is one of America's oldest and most beautiful roads, connecting New York City and Albany. The drive from Manhattan typically takes between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

If you prefer public transportation, you can take the Metro-North Railroad (Hudson Line) to the Garrison station. From the station to the restaurant, it is best to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service, as the walking route can be difficult.

The history of this place began in 1761, when the building was originally constructed as a private residence. Soon after, Samuel Warren converted it into Warren's Tavern—a vital stagecoach stop on the route between New York and Albany. During the American Revolution, the tavern, renamed Nelson's Tavern, served as a rest stop for soldiers and was later confiscated by the Continental Army for use as a regional headquarters.

After a long period of closure, the establishment reopened in 1940 under its current name, The Bird & Bottle Inn. The name "Bird" was chosen in honor of the pheasants that were once abundant in the surrounding woods. In the mid-20th century, the inn became a magnet for the Hollywood elite: stars such as Joan Crawford and Veronica Lake vacationed here, drawn by its privacy and refined atmosphere.

The kitchen gained particular fame under its first chef, Lena Richard, a pioneering African American woman whose Creole dishes became legendary. Later, the famous gastronome James Beard helped shape the menu. In the 1960s, the establishment was owned by Skitch Henderson, the bandleader for Johnny Carson's Tonight Show.

Despite periods of decline late last century, new owners undertook a large-scale restoration in 2020. They successfully preserved the authentic 18th-century spirit, including the original wide-plank floors and antique fireplaces, breathing new life into this historic building.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine of The Bird & Bottle Inn, it is recommended to set aside about 2–3 hours for your visit. This will be enough time for a leisurely lunch or dinner, as well as for exploring the interiors of the historic building.

If you only plan to stop by the tavern for a cocktail or a glass of wine, 1–1.5 hours will suffice. In the future, with the opening of guest rooms, visitors will be able to stay for several days to fully immerse themselves in the peace and comfort of the New York State countryside.

The operating hours of The Bird & Bottle Inn vary depending on the day of the week. Please note that the establishment is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The schedule for the remaining days is as follows:

• Wednesday – Friday: 16:30 – 22:00
• Saturday: 12:00 – 22:00
• Sunday: 11:00 – 15:00 (Brunch) and 16:30 – 21:00

Before your trip, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official website or by phone, as hours may change during holidays or private events.

A visit to this historic tavern can be complemented by walks through the picturesque surroundings of the Hudson Valley. Numerous architectural monuments and museums are concentrated here, helping visitors learn more about the region's history.