Concord Restaurants Welcome Guests Back

By Jennifer Schünemann

With hospitality ranging from curbside pickup, to dining al fresco, to indoor table service, restaurants have pivoted with lightning speed to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations as they reopen their doors and their kitchens to eager diners. We caught up with a few of our favorite spots to find out more about what they are offering guests this summer.

CONCORD’S COLONIAL INN

It’s just not summer without cocktails and dining on the gorgeous wrap-around porch at Concord's Colonial Inn. Distancing regulations mean fewer tables (although they have created space on the front lawn as well) and seating is first come, first served. If you prefer to enjoy their delicious food at home, the Inn is offering curbside pickup from11:30 am - 7:30 pm throughout the summer. Updates at www.concordscolonialinn.com

"We are very excited to see our guests again - and we are working hard to keep our guests and staff safe by following the guidelines carefully. We want to thank everyone for their patience as we navigate our way to our 'new normal'."

THE CHEESE SHOP

This bucket list worthy destination for delectable cheese, artisanal foods, and perfect pairing wines has been serving the community with curbside pickup throughout the pandemic and will continue to do so all summer. The Cheese Shop is now inviting customers into the shop – five at a time – with safety guidelines that include face masks and requiring hand sanitizing upon entering.

“We are a close-knit group who love to serve great foods and wines. We look forward to welcoming you.”

Find more information – including details on the creative specials such as Friday Night Dinners or holiday-themed promotions - at concordcheeseshop.com or on social media.

FARFALLE ITALIAN MARKET CAFÉ

Owner Gina Nasson continues to offer curbside pickup all summer – and even has a few outdoor tables (properly distanced) to allow people to enjoy their takeout or one of the delicious Giovanna Gelatos that are made to order especially for the café.

"The amazing support of our local customers is the reason why we are still here after 13 years! Please come back and see us often." Fresh salads, paninis, delectable desserts, and easy to reheat-at-home meals are all staples of this wonderful gem of a market café. Find out more at farfalleitalianmarket.com

FIORELLA’S CUCINA

Fiorella's

Distanced dining at Fiorella's Cucina in Concord Center

©Pierre Chiha Photographers

Shouts of joy rang out in Concord when the beloved Fiorella’s reopened for curbside pickup, which will continue all summer. They even include a little bottle of lemon scented hand sanitizer in your to-go bag. The option for family sized meals is a welcome addition, so watch for promotions throughout the summer. The amazing staff at Fiorella’s have worked hard to ensure total compliance with state guidelines – placing the safety of their crew and their guests before everything. Whether you dine indoors, or pickup to go, you’ll always be greeted with a smile. Find out more at fiorellascucina.com.

SALTBOX KITCHEN

There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh and inspired cuisine of Ben Elliott and his team by stopping by Saltbox Kitchen in the heart of West Concord. CSA bags can be picked up at the restaurant, along with prix fix meals, a la carte treats, or catering for family gatherings. As of press time, outdoor dining plans were still being formed. Check for more information at saltboxkitchen.com.

TRAILS END CAFÉ

Trail's End Cafe

Trails End Café remained open for delivery and curbside pickup throughout the pandemic, and plans to continue offering both services all summer. They are thrilled to open their outdoor patio – replete with bistro lights – to welcome guests for a full meal or a coffee and a snack. They now feature gourmet frappes and ice cream prepared by their in-house pastry chef. Book a reservation to be sure to get one of their outdoor tables. More information at thetrailsendcafe.com.

“Our staff has worked hard to make the restaurant part of the community over the past almost ten years. We are so grateful for the support we’ve received over the past few months as we’ve offered takeout and delivery. It has been a difficult time. But we are excited to be able to have people back at the restaurant for table service.”

WOODS HILL TABLE and ADELITA

Woods Hill Table

These two restaurants, together with owner Kristin Canty, are pillars of the West Concord community. While Adelita offered curbside pickup of their fresh tacos and Mexican-inspired cuisine throughout the crisis, diners are delighted to hear that sister restaurant Woods Hill Table is – at last – open again. Both restaurants now offer curbside pickup as well as al fresco dining on expanded patios that reach into the parking lots to better serve a community eager to eat well once more! As of press time, both restaurants are open 5-8pm, Tuesday through Saturday. They hope to expand their hours soon, so check woodshilltable.com and adelitaconcord.com.

“The support from the community has been tremendous the past few months. Thank you to everyone who continues to support us during this time. As we all have seen, restaurants are a vital part of so many industries. The relationships we have cultivated over the past years with small farmers, fishmongers and mushroom foragers, have not grown distant but stronger. This crisis has brought us closer to our partners and communities.”

Concord Restaurants with Outside Seating (as of July 1st)

80 Thoreau, 99 Restaurant & Pub, Adelita, Concord’s Colonial Inn, Farfalle Italian Market Café, Haute Coffee, Karma,Concord Asian Fusion, Main Street’s Market & Café, Papa Razzi, Trail’s End Café, Woods Hill Table

State guidelines are constantly changing, so please check your favorite restaurant’s website or social media for updates.