Practical Makes Perfect
August 24, 2026
The ‘DIY and iterative’ restaurant Paige’s Place turns out food that’s better than good
Savor the flavors of the Berkshires—discover restaurant features, chef spotlights, recipes, and local dining experiences worth tasting.
The ‘DIY and iterative’ restaurant Paige’s Place turns out food that’s better than good
For your dining pleasure, a tasting menu of new restaurants, pop-ups, food trucks, and more—impeccably curated by one of our favorite food writers
These five Berkshire restaurateurs have stood the test of time. You’ve probably been to one (or more) of their places, and you’ll likely be going back again. Here, they tell us why.
An ice cream obsessive has the scoop on the best ice creams of the Berkshires
Discover the story behind Chocolate Springs in Lenox, where chocolatier Joshua Needleman layers artistry and passion into every creation. From Earl Grey truffles to on-site production, this beloved café is a Berkshire destination for locals and visitors alike.
You’ll fall for Tommy B’s Slice Shop in Craryville—it’s a taste of NYC right here.
At the Apple Tree Inn, Baladi offers fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes to linger over on weekend mornings.
Come for the fried chicken, stay for the DJ and dancing.
Discover Northwest Connecticut, where the Litchfield Hills meet the Appalachian Mountains. Explore waterfalls, scenic trails, charming towns, art, shopping, and dining—perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Kelly and Bryan Binder’s boutique hotel, Doctor Sax House, is a stylish spot meant for relaxing—and maybe even dancing.
We tagged along with some hungry shoppers to see what they pick up at their local farmers markets.
Lidey Heuck, local author of “Cooking in Real Life,” shares some of her go-to recipes for simple summer entertaining.
There’s nothing better than sliced summer tomatoes with a sprinkle of salt and drizzle of oil—except maybe this recipe for tomato galette.
The talented Chef Xavier Jones owns two popular local restaurants and is launching a new business—but his journey hasn’t been easy. What you need is for one person to believe in you, he says. He explains here, and his story may just inspire you to be that one person for someone who needs it.
A few words about Heirloom Lodge from our contributing editor says it all.
Klocke Estate—a new brandy distillery, farm, and culinary destination—is putting down roots in Claverack, New York, and building a brand that will just get better with age.
How Matt Rubiner became the “Cheese Boy” of Great Barrington
Since putting down roots in Williamstown a decade ago, Tu Le has taken on many roles: farmer, chef, florist, designer. Everything he does is about creativity and community—and this summer, he’s everywhere.
There’s an art to making it look easy—meet the servers who never spill, forget, or stop caring
No more schlepping around for Haema’s Hannah Wong and Sarah McLaughlin
Summer is the loveliest—and also hands-down busiest—season, especially for those whose jobs are in the culture sector.
Great Barrington’s Sprout Brothers Nurture a Family Legacy
When you want all the flavor, but none of the buzz. With zero-proof drinks catching on, we asked three local experts—wine and spirits purveyors
Everyone can sip in style with the rise of delicious craft mocktails.
Doctor Sax House may be new to the scene, but with its chic setting and welcoming events, it’s catching on fast.
This dinner was plant-forward in more ways than one:
More than a café, Wander Berkshires is dedicated to creativity and connection.
Discover Berkshire Cider Project in North Adams, where champagne-style ciders meet local flavor. Taste at Greylock WORKS or join the Cider Club for seasonal bottles shipped nationwide.
The Osofsky family has been in the dairy business for three generations—and counting. The story of Ronnybrook Farm is as rich as the fresh milk they sell in their glass bottles.
Chef Stephen Browning has opened his own restaurant—and he’s done it his own way.
A serene spot plus a packed lunch equals a perfect day. Many of our local cultural institutions have gorgeous grounds that you can enjoy for free—and we’ve suggested six of them with places to pick up food on your way.
A meditation on cooking—quite literally. Our writer contemplates the process of making, and the joys of sharing, a pot of stew.
Cello’s co-chefs create a new menu each day, drawing on ingredients from local farms and seasonal foraging. They also offer two savory twists using maple syrup—one a bright vinaigrette, the other a bold glaze or marinade for vegetables and meats.
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