This place has so much going for it, a gem off the beaten path. But there are a few things that had me dropping a star.
First the greats: beautiful setting and barn. Wonderful, friendly reception by the staff. Arrive a little early for your reservation, check in and grab a beer. Walk around the grounds, be sure to wear farm-ready shoes if you do this and watch your step as this is a real farm. Picnic tables are all around, grab a seat, review the menu and listen to the music. When it is time to for your reservation head back in and order at the register. You will need to pick your table in advance letting them know the table number at time of ordering. Your food will be delivered to your table.
The food is very, very good. We had the pizzette as an appetizer and the wood fired crust was perfect. For dinner we chose the pasta and pork entrees. Large portions, great flavors, perfectly cooked and presented. They only serve Maine beers which is also wonderful. We shared a bottle of wine, it was reasonably priced. The frozen dessert was delicious. Dinner could not be better.
Now the less goods. Cover charge. We had beers, appetizer, 2 entrees, a bottle of wine and dessert. What is the first charge I see on the bill? 2x$15 cover charge. Who ever heard of such a thing for a restaurant? Not good. If live music is a must for the venue, Increase your food prices, have a food and drink minimum or charge the cover to those who are only drinking and listening to music. After what we just dropped on dinner seeing a cover charge was not cool.
Table hunting. We had a 6:15 reservation on a Saturday night. It was touch and go as to whether or not we could get a table for two in the dining room. If you can't get a table you may have to sit at a larger table and share space with others or be in bar area or outside. Would be nice to know you have a table without the stress.
I am not adverse to this type of seating but it feels more brewery-like than restaurant-like.
Overall this is a great place. Really good for small group or family. Not your special anniversary, quiet table kind of place. But this is a must do place when thinking about places to bring visitors or just a casual night out for two. Parking can be tricky so leave the big truck at home and bring the small car.
For those thinking this is a replacement for The Lost Kitchen. It is not. Both TLK and TPF are wonderful but they are not interchangeable experiences. But, it is waaay easier to get a reservation at TPF and the food is terrific so put it on your summer dining list. read more