Culture and Cuisine
West on Warren Gallery + Grill Incorporates Original Artwork in Its Dining Concept
Writer & Photographer / Ali Snyder
Nestled in the quaint town of Middlebury, you will find a charming restaurant named West on Warren Gallery + Grill. It is located in the heart of downtown and offers a truly unique dining experience to locals and visitors alike.
The focal point of the restaurant is a range of clean, locally sourced and seasonal menu options, along with beautiful and original artwork showcased throughout the building. As a locally owned and family-operated business, West on Warren focuses on showcasing their boutique restaurant to friends and families looking for a special dining experience. However, don’t let the size of the building fool you. The rich history of this location dates back to 1926 when it was first used as a Standard Oil Company filling station. Fast-forward to today, through a few changes in ownership, and you will find a lovely restaurant environment.
The menu is full of flavorful cuisine, including fresh appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, large plates and bowls. Some of the most desired dishes include the Clams Casino, Pork Belly Burger, Pecan Crusted Snapper, Flat Top Ribeye and Seafood Scampi. Whether you are looking for seafood, fresh baked goods, high-quality beef or regional vegetables and fruits, they have something to offer every palate. As you finish your meal, be sure to ask your server about their house-made, seasonal desserts.
Owner Carrie Boyer, a self-proclaimed “Middleburyan,” completed college and had the desire to be in the restaurant industry. After working with the Middlebury Chamber of Commerce and Vibrant Communities, it was clear to her that Middlebury needed a particularly special dining location incorporating artwork. Hence, West on Warren Grill + Gallery was born. Co-owner Brittney Lehman and Boyer had a vision that they brought to light as they renovated the beautiful building into what it is today.
“Our customer base is pretty diverse, although we obviously have a lot of locals,” Boyer says. “It is becoming more and more common for me to come in and not know anyone dining. Since I grew up here, that is pretty amazing to me. I would say our regulars come in from an hour’s radius.”
The gallery side of West on Warren was created to showcase meaningful artwork. As you browse through the restaurant, you will find local works of art from the community along with pieces from abroad. You can find current exhibition pieces and featured artists on their website. There is even an Artist Form to fill out online if you would like to be featured in the gallery. The artwork surrounding the dining room adds a special touch to the dining experience, while also creating a space for talented artists to showcase their creative side.
As you continue throughout the cozy indoor dining room, you will find a beautiful outdoor seating section. The two-story patio is a great place to gather with friends and family to enjoy live music, great food, friendship and even a delicious drink. The live music is offered in the summer months from May to mid-September, one to two times per week. An up-to-date schedule can be found on their Facebook page under Events.
Feeling thirsty? You can find a drink menu full of tasty beverages such as white wine, red wine, beer, cocktails and a selection of nonalcoholic
drinks. Some of the favorite cocktails among customers are the Mezcal-rita, Old Fashioned, Coconut Daiquiri and Vanilla Espresso Martini.
“We do a lot of craft drinks, squeezing our own juices and using craft spirits,” Boyer says. “We alternate our house drinks seasonally as well. We try to keep a variety of local craft beers on tap as well.”
They have a large following on social media, where you can be the first to know about specials, seasonal menu items, events and more. Find them on Instagram and Facebook @westonwarrengrill. They also offer gift cards that can be shipped anywhere in the country or purchased in person.
Next time you’re looking for a great place to gather with friends, look no further than West on Warren Gallery + Grill. It is located at 200 West Warren Street in Middlebury. You can find a full drink and food menu at westonwarren.com. For carry-out or dine-in information, email info@westonwarren.com or call 574-358-0045.
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