Leslie’s The Tavern at Rockingham

Chef owned and operated. Leslie’s The Tavern at Rockingham: Serving Vermont inspired cuisine since 1986 inside a historic two hundred year old tavern. Check Facebook for weekly specials, Dinner served Thursday – Sunday.

This building was erected during the administration of President John Adams, circa 1790.

Rockingham was at one time called the “Village of Seven Taverns”, and this tavern was located on the busy new “Post Road” (1795). Young Enos Lovell built the main structure, perhaps at first for his growing family, later as a tavern, and it was a successful endeavor for him. The tavern furnished food, shelter and conviviality to the public arriving by stagecoach.

This tavern has seven fireplaces. The fireplace in the back dining room has pothooks and a built-in oven at one side, as the room once served as the kitchen. The “keeping room” as it was called, undoubtedly was a busy place with travelers, Enos, his wife and nine children. Enos Lovell moved to Grafton and converted his house into what is now the Grafton Inn and Phelp’s Barn. Leverett Lovell bought the parcels in 1910 once owned by his grandfather, Enos. Lovell Park was established across the street and featured sulky horse racing.

The Marston Family, John and Leslie purchased the tavern in 1985. They turned it back to a working tavern in 1986 and are very proud to continue the tradition that is The Tavern at Rockingham.

Beautiful house, gardens, restaurant and tavern: https://youtu.be/5-lptBp_ikw

Categories: Dining

Tags: cocktails, family owned and operated, fine dining, historic building, minutes from 91, restaurant, tavern