New Restaurant Opens at Weston Playhouse

This summer, Ludlow's acclaimed Downtown Grocery turns five. To celebrate, chef/owners Rogan and Abby Lechthaler are bringing its seasonally-inspired, bistro vibe to Weston. Guests will enjoy top-flight food as an accompaniment to Weston's world-class theatre in the brand new West Town Eatery, located downstairs at the playhouse. "It is such a perfect opportunity," says Abby Lechthaler, "to expand our reach, and to serve a community that's near and dear to our hearts."

Chef Rogan, a Weston native, cut his culinary chops at prestigious venues likes Boston's Ritz Carlton and Mistral, while his Downtown Grocery cuisine has received accolades from the Wall Street Journal, GQ, and Yankee Magazine. At the West Town Eatery, Rogan's passion for locally-sourced and house-made ingredients will combine with Abby's irresistible southern charm to make a perfect opening act.

With some modest but calculated renovations, the West Town experience relies upon an engaging, knowledgeable staff and a menu that meets the caliber of Weston's performances. "Dinner before a show should be a positive, energetic, creative, and memorable experience."

The chef's cuisine can be described as light, bright, seasonal, from scratch. "There couldn't be a better time to introduce a new menu to the Weston Playhouse restaurant," says Abby. "The summer produce is gorgeous and our focus will be on what's of the moment - creative, exciting, and light enough to leave guests feeling ready to take their seats."

And when the curtain comes down, there's cabaret: an hour of stand-up comedy and live music, featuring Young Company actors and MainStage talent. "A bit raucous and cheeky, with an affordable admission," entertainment will be accompanied by Rogan's delicious desserts and savory late night snacks, with a selection of large format beers, carafes of wine, and specialty cocktails. Yankee Magazine calls it the "best place for a nightcap" in Southern Vermont and the Lechthalers will meet that mark, and more.

Dinner seatings are available from 5:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday, in accordance with Weston's MainStage performance schedule. Special events include three Sunday suppers, and the cabaret. All reservations can be made through the Weston Box Office by calling (802) 824-5288. This season's performance schedule is available at westonplayhouse.org.