More Than a Meal: Baystate Hospitality Group’s Commitment to Food, Community, and Growth

The Berkshires in Massachusetts is known for its breathtaking landscapes, charming small towns, and rich history. This picturesque region, full of outdoor activities and cultural attractions, is also home to a thriving culinary scene featuring farm-to-table dining. Nestled in towns throughout the scenic hills and valleys of the Berkshires, farm-to-table restaurants are deeply committed to sourcing local, sustainably produced ingredients.

This commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients is at the heart of many restaurants in the Berkshires, including those operated by the Baystate Hospitality Group. This family-owned business has been serving the Northern Berkshires since 1986. Siblings Colleen and Sean Taylor, who grew up in the region, are committed to supporting and building relationships with local farmers and businesses. Their company owns several popular establishments, including the Freight Yard Pub & Restaurant, Trail House Kitchen & Bar, Craft Food Barn, and Berkshire Catering Company.

Colleen Taylor, a long time supporter of 1Berkshire as well as 1Berkshire board member, recalls her first experience in the culinary world. “I was in high school when I went to work at a country club with my brother, helping with catered events. I never left the restaurant business.” She continued working as a server throughout college and, after graduating, entered a hotel’s food and beverage training program. “That program made me realize that I wanted to pursue restaurant management.”

After launching a few successful restaurants, the Taylor siblings founded Baystate Hospitality Group, combining their passion for great food and warm hospitality. Their first restaurant, Freight Yard Pub & Restaurant, is a local favorite, offering gourmet pub fare and steakhouse entrees. Expanding their culinary vision, they opened Trail House Kitchen & Bar, which serves upscale farm-to-table American fare. For those craving a quick and delicious meal, Craft Food Barn serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a variety of ice cream specialties for take-out or delivery. Rounding out their portfolio, Berkshire Catering Company provides complete catering services for weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations.

While other businesses were closing during the pandemic, the Taylors opened Berkshire Catering Company, filling a gap in the local catering industry. “Caterers in our area were either going out of business or retiring,” said Taylor. “There was a lack of caterers; we saw an opportunity and thought there would be a demand for our services. When word got out, the business grew steadily and kept growing.” Their success led them to invest in unique mobile offerings, including a wood-fired pizza oven, handcrafted steel BBQ grill, an ice cream cart, and a converted horse trailer bar.

Taylor stressed the restaurant’s commitment to its table-to-farm philosophy through its collaboration with local farms. “Our local farms inform us about what’s left after a day at the Farmers’ Market, and our chef purchases some of their remaining fresh, seasonal produce. It’s a nice partnership that benefits both sides,” she shared. “They also keep us updated on the produce available in the coming weeks, which allows our chef to incorporate these fresh ingredients into the menu.”

Inspiration for new menu items comes from a variety of sources. “Food is fascinating—there are endless ways to prepare a single dish,” Taylor said. “When I try something new, it might spark an idea, or I may want to create my own version of something I love.” The creative process extends to her team as well. After visiting a wellness resort, one of her chefs was inspired to incorporate more healthy options into the menu.

Fostering relationships with other local restaurants and businesses is a core value for Taylor. “I believe that all ships rise in a high tide,” she said. “Even though we may be competitors, we are also neighbors.” This collaborative approach builds a sense of community that strengthens the region’s food culture.

Taylor emphasized the importance of community partnerships. “We receive requests regularly to support fundraisers and sports teams. We all need to support each other,” she stated. “I also give back by volunteering my time.”

Beyond Baystate Hospitality Group, Taylor plays an active role in strengthening the community through various leadership positions. She serves on the Foundation Board of a local college, helping to raise funds for educational initiatives. She is also a Board member of North Adams Partnership, a volunteer organization focused on economic development in the area, and the 1Berkshire Alliance Board, which works to support and enhance the economic, civic, and social well-being of Berkshire County. Through her involvement, Taylor remains deeply committed to giving back to the community that has fostered her business’s success and that she proudly calls home.

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Written by Angella Arndt

Angella Arndt is a freelance writer and photographer. Her articles have appeared in several publications, including Women’s Edition magazine, Nebraska Sunrise News, Foodie Flashpacker, fyi50+, Rovology, and Travel by Vacation Rental. When she is not writing, Angella enjoys traveling, reading, cooking, and embracing new experiences. She lives in Omaha, NE, with her family.