Birch & Vine, Tuftonboro

[tis]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

Oh my... segregating the snowmobilers!!

I kind of had that thought too.... But with all the heavy clothes, it might be a good idea.

[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by tis

I kind of had that thought too.... But with all the heavy clothes, it might be a good idea.

Honestly it makes sense and I have seen it done this way in many other places. Snowmobilers when stopping need to remove layers of clothes, gloves, helmets, GPS units, etc, etc. A little extra room or room designed to accommodate snowmobilers and their gear would be very welcome I would think. I say kudos to them for making special accommodations!…

Dan

[Lakegeezer]

Off topic but on tangent, Haffner's Gas station (where 603 Fuel used to be on RT 25, across from Lake Kanasatka) is also setting aside eating areas for snowmobilers, with extra hooks on the wall for gear. Sounds like a good trend.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

Honestly it makes sense and I have seen it done this way in many other places. Snowmobilers when stopping need to remove layers of clothes, gloves, helmets, GPS units, etc, etc. A little extra room or room designed to accommodate snowmobilers and their gear would be very welcome I would think. I say kudos to them for making special accommodations!…

Dan

I also think there's a different culture/expectation between everyday diners and groups of snowmobilers—I know whenever I go ATVing we've got...energy.

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[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

Oh my... segregating the snowmobilers!!

Kind of makes sense with the bulky clothing and boots, etc. Maybe at some point she makes that area a casual bar area? It sounds like she is trying….,

[baygo]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

Oh my... segregating the snowmobilers!!

Can you please give directions to there by sled from Tavern 27

[VitaBene]

I'm OK with having extra hooks and such but if you're trying to keep the "dirty" sledders or bikers out of the main dining area, that is different.

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

I'm OK with having extra hooks and such but if you're trying to keep the "dirty" sledders or bikers out of the main dining area, that is different.

I’ve entered restaurants as a “sledder” at the pizza barn on rte16 and as a a guy in a jacket going to a nice dinner in Boston. Same person but different dining needs at different points in time. Thus, I don’t think it has anything to do with “dirty sledders” but rather what type of experience a particular patron is seeking at a particular meal. She is trying to offer both types of dining experiences. I think that is good.

[tis]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

I'm OK with having extra hooks and such but if you're trying to keep the "dirty" sledders or bikers out of the main dining area, that is different.

I think because of people talking about how stuffy she has tried to make it compared to what it was, is the reason we wonder if a separate section is degrading. It probably is not meant that way at all.

[joey2665]

Nothing wrong with a restaurant having a casual section and finer dining section to cater to both patrons.

Canoe does this by generally seating parties with children downstairs.


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[watrskir]

Originally Posted by secondcurve

I’ve entered restaurants as a “sledder” at the pizza barn on rte16 and as a a guy in a jacket going to a nice dinner in Boston. Same person but different dining needs at different points in time. Thus, I don’t think it has anything to do with “dirty sledders” but rather what type of experience a particular patron is seeking at a particular meal. She is trying to offer both types of dining experiences. I think that is good.

I totally agree. And even with todays "clean fire" snowmobiles, your snowmobile gear smell like snowmobile... What might be ok for the group your with or other riders around you. Might not be appealing to others that don't ride.

[WinterHarborGuy]

Originally Posted by joey2665

Nothing wrong with a restaurant having a casual section and finer dining section to cater to both patrons.

Canoe does this by generally seating parties with children downstairs.


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Also Woodshed does this with pub vs. dining room, and does it well, I think.

[tis]

Originally Posted by joey2665

Nothing wrong with a restaurant having a casual section and finer dining section to cater to both patrons.

Canoe does this by generally seating parties with children downstairs.


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Absolutely nothing wrong with that. But, you do have a choice. Can the snowmobilers go into the dining room if they want to?

[nplbw1]

My wife and I decided to look for a new restaurant in the area tonight so we went to the "Winnipesaukee Forum" for restaurant advice. After reading all the bad things people were saying, we decided to check out the Birch & Vine for ourselves. When we arrived, we were greeted by one of the waitresses coming in to work who held the door for us. We sat at the bar and the hostess came over and said she needed to go over the evening meals with the staff and apologized that there would be a short wait to place an order. The bartender came over right after, was friendly and said she had to go to a short meeting about the dinner menu and quickly got us a drink. We sat for awhile, looked over the menu and decor with concern from what this forum had presented. The place was immaculate (including the bathrooms) and the menu had a nice variety of choices. We ordered an appetizer and while i tried to decide on which beer on tap to have, one of the waitresses gave her opinion on a couple which was very much appreciated and I enjoyed. We ordered our entrees which were very good and we had great conversation with some of the other locals. When the dinner check was delivered, we thought it seemed reasonable. Is this a burger joint? NO. Is is a clam shack? NO. It's a decent restaurant with fair prices (have you been to the new Woodshed?). I'm not sure who thinks this place is way over priced but we found our new place to go. BTW, the hostess was the owner and she seemed to welcome several customers by name. If you haven't been, check it out for yourself.

[jetskier]

My wife and I dropped in for dinner last weekend.

We were politely greeted as we entered and given the option of seating at several open tables. It was early, but the restaurant filled up quickly.

My wife ordered "lobster soup" as an appetizer which was actually lobster neuberg (including 2 full claws) with a puff pasty cap. She was delighted with the dish and wished we ordered two - I had the shrimp cocktail.

For dinner, I had the duck and she had the scallops. Both were terrific.

The food overall was some of the best that we have had in the lakes region and our only disappointment is that they had sold out of most of the desserts. We had been told that the desserts are exceptional.

I can't speak to the history of the restaurant, but we found everything to be great and we will certainly be back.

Jetskier

[Billy Bob]

Originally Posted by nplbw1

My wife and I decided to look for a new restaurant in the area tonight so we went to the "Winnipesaukee Forum" for restaurant advice. After reading all the bad things people were saying, we decided to check out the Birch & Vine for ourselves. When we arrived, we were greeted by one of the waitresses coming in to work who held the door for us. We sat at the bar and the hostess came over and said she needed to go over the evening meals with the staff and apologized that there would be a short wait to place an order. The bartender came over right after, was friendly and said she had to go to a short meeting about the dinner menu and quickly got us a drink. We sat for awhile, looked over the menu and decor with concern from what this forum had presented. The place was immaculate (including the bathrooms) and the menu had a nice variety of choices. We ordered an appetizer and while i tried to decide on which beer on tap to have, one of the waitresses gave her opinion on a couple which was very much appreciated and I enjoyed. We ordered our entrees which were very good and we had great conversation with some of the other locals. When the dinner check was delivered, we thought it seemed reasonable. Is this a burger joint? NO. Is is a clam shack? NO. It's a decent restaurant with fair prices (have you been to the new Woodshed?). I'm not sure who thinks this place is way over priced but we found our new place to go. BTW, the hostess was the owner and she seemed to welcome several customers by name. If you haven't been, check it out for yourself.

We also have had a great dinner here !
Never , never ever , pay attention to forum reviews of new / changed establishments that are in the same location as a old standby establishment. Especially if the new restaurant charges a dime more then the restaurant that went under or if they attempt to make changes. The locals can’t handle change

[knowit]

Just don’t go in your work clothes. They will ask you to leave.

[tis]

Originally Posted by knowit

Just don’t go in your work clothes. They will ask you to leave.

That is just horrible!!!!! I saw this: This is not going to help this restaurant at all.

"A pretty sad day when a member of our small community, who is one of the most honest and hard working people I have had the privilege of knowing and growing up with, is refused service and asked to leave because of the work clothes he was wearing"

[Mr. V]

Originally Posted by tis

"A pretty sad day when a member of our small community, who is one of the most honest and hard working people I have had the privilege of knowing and growing up with, is refused service and asked to leave because of the work clothes he was wearing"

It depends on the work and the clothes.

Cops and attorneys cool.

Aromatic sewer workers: not cool.

[barefootbay]

The haters just won’t quit will they !

[WinterHarborGuy]

Originally Posted by tis

That is just horrible!!!!! I saw this: This is not going to help this restaurant at all.

"A pretty sad day when a member of our small community, who is one of the most honest and hard working people I have had the privilege of knowing and growing up with, is refused service and asked to leave because of the work clothes he was wearing"

What is the source of the quoted text? Is that a Facebook post?

If true, yes…a very bad look, is this a “I heard this happened” story, or a named person said it happened to them?

[tis]

Originally Posted by WinterHarborGuy

What is the source of the quoted text? Is that a Facebook post?

If true, yes…a very bad look, is this a “I heard this happened” story, or a named person said it happened to them?

It was on a Tuftonboro forum and posted by someone I know very well and know that he would not post something that was not true. I heard by rumor mill who was not allowed in. I have no dog in this fight and don't care either way but I certainly don't feel banning people will help this restaurant.

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by tis

It was on a Tuftonboro forum and posted by someone I know very well and know that he would not post something that was not true. I heard by rumor mill who was not allowed in. I have no dog in this fight and don't care either way but I certainly don't feel banning people will help this restaurant.

The lakes region is a pretty casual place. I can’t imagine anyone being turned away for clothing unless they were dressed like a vagabond. There must be more to the story.

Thanks

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

Oh my... segregating the snowmobilers!!

How did the winter go for Birch and Vine? Were the snowmobilers OK with the separate area? Any accommodations for full time residents over the winter? Updates would be appreciated.

Thank you

[WinterHarborGuy]

Sadly, the landlord is forcing Birch & Vine to close next month. I've enjoyed the place for the 3 years it has been open.

I *believe* that the structure will be razed and that condo's are coming. That's not going to go over well.

[Newbiesaukee]

Originally Posted by WinterHarborGuy

Sadly, the landlord is forcing Birch & Vine to close next month. I've enjoyed the place for the 3 years it has been open.

I *believe* that the structure will be razed and that condo's are coming. That's not going to go over well.

We were there last week and were told the same. We really enjoyed our dinners.

Sad news.

[sky's]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

Honestly, that just looks like every other restaurant in the area now. I really loved how the Pine Cone was old-fashioned country-store NH as there aren't many places left like that.

*sigh*

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agree here Pine Cone was a great place

[lakewinnie]

Although I have eaten at both the Pine Cone and Birch & Vine and I always preferred the Pine Cone, I would rather see Birch & Vine at that location than a bunch of condos.

[tis]

Originally Posted by WinterHarborGuy

Sadly, the landlord is forcing Birch & Vine to close next month. I've enjoyed the place for the 3 years it has been open.

I *believe* that the structure will be razed and that condo's are coming. That's not going to go over well.

I believe a hotel and cabins to the right as you look at it. If it's allowed.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by WinterHarborGuy

Sadly, the landlord is forcing Birch & Vine to close next month. I've enjoyed the place for the 3 years it has been open.

I *believe* that the structure will be razed and that condo's are coming. That's not going to go over well.

This reminds me of the 80's condo craze, condos going up everywhere, then everything went to *****!

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by tis

I believe a hotel and cabins to the right as you look at it. If it's allowed.

It was a motel with cabins years ago, wasn't it?

A couple of things give me pause here:

I don't understand how a restaurant opens without at least a 5 year lease with options on another 5 or 10 after that. That was a large investment without any time to get a return.

Condos and/or hotel will have very low value without the waterfront across the street. Melvin Village is not exactly the hottest spot on the map. Does anyone know how the owners are using the waterfront now? Looks like a large home

[tis]

Originally Posted by FlyingScot

It was a motel with cabins years ago, wasn't it?

A couple of things give me pause here:

I don't understand how a restaurant opens without at least a 5 year lease with options on another 5 or 10 after that. That was a large investment without any time to get a return.

Condos and/or hotel will have very low value without the waterfront across the street. Melvin Village is not exactly the hottest spot on the map. Does anyone know how the owners are using the waterfront now? Looks like a large home

Yes it was. Carl Hansen built it as well as his own house in back. And airport I might add. He also had property right to the lake which I think was cabins and then he built a house for himself there also. There IS a large home, maybe a couple cottages are still there?

[gokart-mozart]

Sad for Patty, she poured her heart into that place and we always loved it.

However.

The Pavilion (Wolfeboro) is closing this weekend, the chef/owner is throwing in with the Lake Winnisquam five star project (no comment), so maybe Patty can land on her feet and wind up back in town.

[TheTimeTraveler]

I haven't eaten at the Wolfeboro Inn for many years because the menu and the quality of the offerings became so poor. I know Wolfeboro Inn is now Corporate owned and it would do them very well if they turned over the Restaurant operation to someone who could make a positive impact in their food operation.

Let's hope the current owner of Birch & Vine ends up making a good turnaround somewhere. She is too young to throw in the towel! It would be great if she turns up again somewhere in the Town of Wolfeboro.

I don't recall ever reading someone's posting from their Restaurant experience while eating at the Wolfeboro Inn. I wonder why?

[gokart-mozart]

When Hoke Wilson was the chef the food at the Inn, especially Sunday brunch, was really good, but after he left it changed in a big way.

My family and I don't go there anymore, and I don't know a lot of locals who do.

[LoveLakeLife]

Originally Posted by gokart-mozart

When Hoke Wilson was the chef the food at the Inn, especially Sunday brunch, was really good, but after he left it changed in a big way.

My family and I don't go there anymore, and I don't know a lot of locals who do.

I stopped in a couple weeks ago but didn’t get anything to eat. I had heard about renovations so I just went to see what was done. So far as I could tell, they removed the tables and booths from the front dining room and put in a pool table, which is a tight fit. I don’t know how the food is or even if it’s a new
menu.


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[Flotnjr]

So today was the last day for Birch and Vine. We wish Patty and crew well and they will be missed. Hope she finds a place to land- we will be visiting!

[barefootbay]

Great little restaurant ! They will be missed !

[TheTimeTraveler]

A very simple thing to say about Birch & Vine:


.............."Gone but not forgotten"................




Patty; Best of luck wherever you end up! We'll follow you to your new digs! Let's hope something new comes to fruition!