10/24/2023
It is with a heavy heart, but much excitement for the future, I share some news with you all, part of the greater Picnic family we have amassed over the last 7+ years.
It has become increasingly difficult operating any business in this day and age, as many of you know. A small independent eatery, in this place at this time, has proven difficult on the better days. I have had to depend on the hard work of my entire family, much more than I would have ever hoped, and even then, the wait times run over anything I feel is reasonable to ask people. For this I apologize.
My family has for some time, been resigned to end our tenure at Picnic. I have been looking for ways to end it, and to move on. Meanwhile, next door, The Binnekill Tavern has experienced similar problems. Phil has graciously offered me a place on their team, so I am happy to report that I am the new Executive Chef at the Binnekill Tavern!
We are hoping with combining our efforts, resources, and hospitality expertise, that the end result will be a place that services our community in a manner to pay respect and homage to Walter Keller, Kari Blish, Chef Doug and all of the other great hospitality professionals that have long made Margaretville a place that was indeed small, but with great food and service, and how they have touched our hearts and filled our bellies along the way.
Excuse me to wax poetic, but this is a very emotional message for me to convey, as I was never disappointed in the love and support our community has shown Picnic along the way.
I am always sorry to disappoint these folks in return, and I am both flattered and saddened as messages have been flooding in that this news has made many sad.
I look forward to seeing many of your faces at The Binnekill Tavern, as we work to polish that restaurant into a place that both locals and visitors are happy to enjoy.
There are too many people to thank. Great customers, hard working employees and other support services that truly would have made our jobs impossible without. Thank you allโค๏ธ
Thank you to everyone who ever chose to spend a hard-earned dollar at Picnic. When we wake early in the morning, and work into the night, know, serving you all has sincerely been one of the greatest joys of my life. I'm sorry if that wasn't always apparent.
I hope that you will join us soon at the Binnekill. I hope that you enjoy the changes that we are making. I am always happy to take your suggestions, as many of you know. The Binnekill had always been chef-owned, but in a lot of ways, belongs to Margaretville.
Sorry to be long-winded.
The last day of service for Picnic will be Saturday October 28th. Hours will be normal up to. And yes, I am making more Seafood Bisque tomorrow๐
(It will also be the house soup at the Binnekill, along with a changing seasonal soup)
Binnekill Tavern will be reopening November 9th. Can't wait to see you there!
Thanks again for your understanding and as always, for your Supportโค๏ธ