A New Taste of the Berkshires

By Nancy Macy

The Berkshires have long been on the map as a destination for food lovers. Combining a long agricultural history, unique perspectives on classic cuisine, and farm-to-table authenticity, culinary excellence is a huge part of the Berkshire brand. Here are a few of the newest eateries in the region:

Berkshire Palate is a family-owned, farm-to-table bistro on Main Street in Williamstown, offering a curated menu of hand-crafted modern American cuisine made with ingredients sourced seasonally from area growers and food makers. Owners Paul Brassard and his three sons Zach, Nolan, and Aaron all play a role. Zach is the chef. Look for his personal touch on such mouthwatering offerings as the PB & J pork belly, house-cured salmon, herb-roasted Cuban, and his signature sliders (called ‘Little Buns’) featuring house-made jams and spice rubs.

Longtime local Pan-Asian favorite Jae’s Restaurant & Bar has relocated to the Hilton Garden Inn behind Guido’s in Pittsfield, serving up the innovative fare that loyal followers have come to expect from Chef Jae Chung. In addition to the extensive menu of Bento boxes, Korean specialties, sushi, and his famous pad thai, Jae’s offers juicy steaks, Kobe burgers, and a selection of vegetarian fare. A new breakfast menu is served daily. The renovated dining room features both table and bar seating; dinner and drinks are also served on the seasonal outside patio.

TOURISTS Welcome in North Adams has opened The Airport Rooms, a living-rooms-style cocktail lounge set in a 200-year-old farmhouse and former tourist accommodation. Reimagined with much of the building’s original character intact, the unique space is a cool mix of vintage furnishings and accessories that TOURISTS lead partner Ben Svenson says, make the rooms feel as “comfortable and foreign as possible.” Along with some of the best cocktails in the Berkshires, The Airport Rooms serves up a creative menu of approachable, affordable eats and frequent live music.

Whatever you’re craving, the flourishing restaurant scene in the Berkshires will feed your hunger. Be sure to #TasteBerkshires when you’re here!

Nancy Macy is a freelance writer and editor based in the Berkshires.