OLD ROAD, NEW PATH

I am on a new path that happens to circumvent an old road as many in the countryside do. Do you know the roads I mean? They veer off slightly from the main thoroughfare to accommodate a setback for the stately country homes. They begin and then about half a mile down the road they end. If you aren't aware you say to yourself, “Didn’t I just pass that street?” That is where I am currently. It happens to be in New Preston CT.

left: 9 Main in New Preston, CT

I currently reside half of each week on a rock laden hill butt up against Lake Waramaug. My house reminds me of the houses that line the cliffs of Malibu combined with a spiffy tree house. Woodsy chic, with a spectacular view of the Lake. I am one with the birds and the chipmunks.

I’ve run into this lake before. As a tween I spent my summers at Camp Kent. Each summer we would spend one lazy August day hiking two and half miles from camp to Lake Waramaug for a day of swimming, BBQ and freedom. It was a very big deal that I never quite understood. I now understand! Lake Waramug is a very beautiful, well groomed and highly sought after. The homes are stately for the most part and the lake pristine. No algae, lily pads or anything unwanted dare to appear. It is a magnificent place to spend any season but mostly during the summer and fall. The population swells during these two seasons with city dwellers who have found their slice of perfection at the foot hills of the Berkshires. There are many roads that have led me here, so I decided to stay a while this time.

During one of my first visits I road through the two block town of New Preston I stumbled upon the town hub called 9 Main. I decided to stop and see if I could grab a cup of coffee and if lucky enough something yummy to satisfy my hunger. I walked in to this charming country catering take out shop located in a historic home. I was enchanted immediately. The stylish country details, the aromas, the carefree customers and the large picture window in the back framing the perfect autumn foliage. I practically had to pinch myself, but before a voice said, “Joann?” A familiar face and voice. Whitney Flood an ex-Tocqueville cook appeared. It turned out Whitney and his wife Julie, were just as enchanted as I was and decided to make New Preston their home and 9 Main, their business. It was a wonderful coincidence. This began my exploration of culinary aspirations of New Preston, Litchfield, Washington, Bantom and Kent.

I hope you will follow and me through my discoveries of all that is Culinary in Litchfield County.