Visiting North Central Massachusetts Goes Hand in Hand with Good Eating

by Christopher Coyle

Visiting scenic North Central Massachusetts goes hand in hand with good eating. Great restaurants in the area promise and deliver fine dining experiences. Many are quite close to some of the region’s most interesting places to visit. Some of them even offer a farm-to-table meal featuring area foods.

The state’s agricultural producers have long encouraged North Central Massachusetts restaurants to serve locally produced foods. Although Massachusetts does not lead nationwide agricultural production, Massachusetts agriculture produces well over a hundred million dollars annually in direct sales. The farm-to-table concept features use of locally sourced fresh ingredients, often through direct acquisition from the producer. The result — fresher, more nutritious produce — supports local farm production. Restaurants proudly offer local foods and proclaim their use on menus and in advertising.

The Lazy Bubble

The Lazy Bubble in Pepperell offers an intimate dining experience centered around its scratch kitchen philosophy. This chef-owned establishment crafts international cuisine using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The ever-changing weekly menu reflects both seasonal availability and culinary creativity. Open primarily for dinner service with the addition of Saturday lunch, the restaurant welcomes both dine-in guests and those preferring takeout. Its location makes it an ideal stop after exploring nearby conservation areas or enjoying outdoor activities along the Nashua River.

The Bull Run Restaurant

The Bull Run Restaurant in Shirley began serving food and drink in 1740 as a stop on the Boston to Albany stagecoach route. The restaurant offers seasonally available ingredients, many from area farms. Diners enjoy not only a well-prepared meal in a cozy atmosphere but top quality foods harvested nearby.

Kimball Farm

Kimball Farm in Lancaster not only serves meals but sports a terrific gift shop. After stopping at Kimball Farm, nearby Trustees of Reservations properties are just asking to be visited, including Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, Farandnear Reservation in Shirley, and Doyle Community Park in Leominster.

Roots Natural Foods

Roots Natural Foods in Leominster combines a natural food store with a welcoming café that specializes in organic, sustainable fare. The locally owned establishment’s kitchen creates fresh smoothies, homemade soups, crisp salads, and hearty sandwiches for lunch. Their commitment to serving and selling responsibly farmed, organic, non-GMO, and local products makes it an ideal stop for health-conscious diners. The café’s takeout options are perfect for those planning a picnic at nearby conservation areas or community parks.

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston not only offers a wonderful collection of outdoor gardens, walking trails, and indoor conservatories but also dining at Farmer and the Fork, the onsite café offering locally sourced dishes.

The Old Mill Restaurant

Headed west for further sightseeing and exploring, travelers might stop to dine at The Old Mill Restaurant in Westminster, located in a former sawmill that began serving meals in a quaint, cozy atmosphere to the public in 1946. Visits to nearby state parks such as Wachusett Mountain State Reservation combine nicely with a meal before or after.

The Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House

The Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House offers foods sourced from local producers and also offers up to fourteen of their own beers. Certain nights feature live music. A short distance west of Gardner are Doane’s Falls, Jacobs Hill, and Tully Lake Campground, all in Royalston.

Museums and other indoor places to visit in North Central Massachusetts offer easy alternatives to outdoor activities during days of inclement weather. Many are located near fine restaurants, and some offer their own cafés as well.

When planning a trip to the region, visitors should consider sightseeing activities that include a meal at one of the area’s eating establishments. Additionally, many area restaurants and stores offer takeout food which might be enjoyed at a scenic vista.

Rail enthusiast, historian, and retired UMass research technician, Christopher Coyle lives in Athol.