Grain House Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Basking Ridge, NJ
Grain House Restaurant At the Olde Mill Inn
225 Route 202
Basking Ridge, NJ
Grain House Restaurant: Highlights
Fare: American Traditional
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Well-executed menu. Prepared with locally sourced, organic ingredients, and sustainable seafood directly from domestic fishermen.
Service: Attentive and friendly, without feeling rushed.
Ambiance/Decor: Historic with a cozy fireplace in the main dining room. Walls are adorned with historic pictures of George Washington
Overall Rating: 2 1/2 Stars
Note: Four-star Rating System from no stars = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: History buffs, couples, families, and holiday diners
Not Recommended For: Trend-seekers or those preferring avant-garde cuisine
Recommended Dishes: When available, The Berkshire Pork Chop with spinach spaetzle, bacon braised red cabbage, whiskey pan jus: The center cut Petite Filet Mignon with grilled asparagus, Yukon potato gratin, port demi-glace; and The Sauteed Brook Trout with snow pea shoots, wild rice pilaf, peas and carrots, toasted almond sauce.
Liquor: Good selection of reasonably priced wines and specialty cocktails.
The Grain House Rrestaurant blends Revolutionary-era charm with modern farm-to-table dining, making it a standout destination for historic ambiance and seasonal American fare.
🏛️ History & Vision
Nestled on the 10-acre estate of the Olde Mill Inn, The Grain House began as a grain barn in the 1760s, serving American Revolutionary soldiers. It was relocated and transformed into a restaurant in the 1930s. Today, it’s owned and operated as part of the Olde Mill Inn hospitality group, with a vision to preserve its colonial heritage while offering elevated, locally sourced cuisine
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
The Grain House specializes in American traditional fare with a contemporary twist. The menu is crafted using organic, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable seafood from domestic fishermen
Signature dishes include:
- Grilled Atlantic Salmon with seasonal vegetables
- Braised Short Ribs slow-cooked to perfection
- Farmhouse Chicken Pot Pie, a nod to rustic comfort
Preparation emphasizes freshness and simplicity, aligning with farm-to-table principles. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, and the kitchen is known for its well-executed plating and flavor balance
👨🍳 The Chef
The Kitchen is run by Executive Chef John Benjamin, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. He later honed his culinary skills collaborating with famed chefs Thomas Keller, Charles Palmer and John Halligan. and restaurants Aureole in New York, The French Laundry in California, and the Hyatt Regency in Connecticut.
🌿 Ambiance
The Grain House offers a rustic, colonial aesthetic with original beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces, and historic décor including portraits of George Washington. The vibe is warm and elegant, ideal for romantic dinners or family gatherings. Highlights include:
- Fireside dining
- Seasonal patio seating
- Casual dress code
- Background music is subtle and complements the historic setting
🤝 Service
Service is described as welcoming and knowledgeable, with servers offering menu insights and wine pairings without being intrusive. Staffing is consistent, even during busy weekends and holidays.
🍷 Other Features
- Alcohol/Bar Service: Full-service bar with 10 beers on tap and casual cocktails at the Coppertop Pub
- Child-Friendly: Yes, with a kids’ menu and family-friendly seating
- Recommended For: History buffs, couples, families, and holiday diners
- Not Recommended For: Trend-seekers or those preferring avant-garde cuisine
- Parking: Ample free parking on-site
- Dress Code: Casual to business casual
- Holiday Hours: Open for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day with special menus
🔧 What Could Be Improved
- Noise levels can be high during peak times
- Menu variety could expand to include more global or fusion options
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
The Grain House stands out for its historic setting, organic sourcing, and seasonal menus. Its unique blend of colonial architecture and modern hospitality offers a dining experience that’s both nostalgic and refined—perfect for guests seeking more than just a meal.
Updates October 2025
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
