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.
Chef Erica Allen explores what it means to be true to your heritage, one dessert at a time.
Whether you’re hosting a crowd, planning a cozy dinner for two, or simply looking to skip the stress of holiday cooking, the Berkshires has you covered. This year, a wide range of restaurants and local markets are offering Thanksgiving meals to-go—each with its own take on the classics.
Some new breakfast and brunch spots around the Berkshires will make you look forward to waking up in the morning.
Though he may be best known for his comfort food recipes and exuberant personality, Dan “Grossy” Pelosi’s creativity extends to his living space. His Hillsdale home is a joyful gathering place, filled with bright colors, patterned wallpaper, artwork, and an abundance of light, from dawn until dusk.
Celebrated chef David Israelow brings a reverence for food and finely tuned technique to his highly anticipated new restaurant in Chatham, New York. Here’s a sneak preview.
We asked three of our favorite foodies for their go-to restaurants. The result: this highly opinionated guide to the latest and greatest in the Berkshires and beyond.
Kevin West’s new book is an artful and practical guide to growing what you wish and savoring what you grow—rooted in wisdom, soil, and the simple pleasures of a well-tended life. Get a first look here.
Rafi Bildner creates an homage to southern Italy, the Berkshires, and the joyful chaos of family, all expressed through the art of pizza.
This edition of The B’s List explores the conversation among a selection of culinary professionals in the Berkshires. Read along as they discuss community, life in business, and the inherent agricultural ties in their own practices.
At the Neon Newt, chef/owner Olivia Pattison is living her best locavore life—and has created a welcoming community hub.
A century later, a dining car in Chatham still shines—and so do these four other retro gems.
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