+1 607-699-7474
Nestled in the charming town of Nichols, NY, Barstow House offers an authentic Italian dining experience that feels like a warm embrace from a long-lost friend. This inviting restaurant is a true gem, housed in a historic building dating back to 1823, where every detail—from the cozy ambiance to the attentive service—works in harmony to create an unforgettable evening.
Barstow House specializes in hearty Italian cuisine that delights the senses and satisfies both the adventurous palate and the comfort-food lover. Standouts from their extensive menu include the tender, melt-in-your-mouth Filet Mignon, cooked perfectly rare as praised by patrons, and the delightfully rich Chicken Francese, which dazzles with its delicate lemon-butter sauce. The Delmonico Steak served with Baked Potato and Green Beans exemplifies classic indulgence, while the Scallops glide across your palate with their fresh, buttery sweetness.
Italian specialties such as creamy Cannelloni, fresh Pasta Primavera, and the golden-fried delight of Cherry Pepper Poppers craft a diverse and satisfying culinary journey. Don’t miss their signature Barstow Bread or the irresistibly cheesy Garlic Bread with Cheese, perfect for sharing. For a touch of home-style authenticity, side orders like the Pasta Salsa Di Aglio E Olio, Meatballs, and Grilled Sausage round out the menu, encouraging guests to build their ideal meal.
The dining atmosphere is equally captivating—picturesque, intimate, and steeped in history. The ambiance is quietly enhanced by the knowledge that this house has stood since 1823, filled now with the aromas of rich sauces, freshly brewed coffee, and an unmistakable sense of home-cooked love. Visitors repeatedly mention the "pleasant ambience" and the "friendly wait staff" that makes every visit feel personal and cherished.
Barstow House has earned heartfelt praise from diners far and wide. Elyse Baker’s birthday dinner here blossomed into a dream of excellent food and staff, leaving her eager to return. Ron M attests to the undeniable warmth of the home-cooked cuisine and the perfect spice balance in dishes like the Cajun Blackened Chicken—an offering that firmly sets Barstow House apart from the generic chain experience. Sean Skywalker highlights the value of planning ahead with reservations to enjoy fresh, meticulously prepared food without rush. Even travelers like Joe H have found themselves captivated by the genuine hospitality and superior flavors, willing to make a nearly two-hour trip just for another taste.
Whether you’re a local or passing through, Barstow House stands as a beacon of classic Italian comfort elevated by genuine care and thoughtful preparation. It is a rare find in today’s dining scene—a place where every bite tells a story, every guest is a friend, and every visit is a memory in the making.
For an Italian experience that transcends the ordinary and invites you to savor the true art of home-style cooking, Barstow House awaits at 35 River St, Nichols, NY. Call ahead at +1 607-699-7474 to secure your spot in this treasured local institution.
My husband and I spontaneously decided to give this spot a try for my birthday dinner… and I’m so glad we did! Excellent food. Excellent staff. An overall lovely experience. I’m still dreaming of the food! We will definitely be back! A hidden gem.
Food was absolutely delicious got the filet mignon perfectly rare and so tender the bread also noteworthy
This is a hidden gem in this world of chain restaurants. Excellent food, friendly wait staff and authentic home cooked cuisine, not to mention the pleasant ambience of a house built in 1823. Full menu. I've never had a bad meal here. I particularly like the Cajun Blackened Chicken. Spicer than any chain will give you, but not super hot...just right. I cannot recommend this dining choice highly enough. Just excellent.
Well worth the drive if you're from out of town. The food is tremendous. Reservations are recommended, everything is made fresh so they can only accommodate so many patrons at a time while still ensuring timely service.
Probably one of the best places I've ever been in all my travels! What a wonderful small hometown place where the service & hospitality were on point & the food was spot on..... oh so good! I would drive the hour & 45 minutes back to eat here again!
The food is absolutely delicious. All 3 of us in our party really enjoyed ou entrees. And the house baked bread is so good.