Four Columns Inn

After several prior visits where the Tavern was not very busy we went back on Sunday evening August 2. The pub area was full and it appeared the outside dining area was very busy as well. Previously we had been pleased with our visits. Our party of three ordered one beet salad, and two roast beef entrees. The beet salad arrived and we were told the other dishes would be out shortly, so we invited her to begin eating the salad. Soon thereafter the roast beef orders arrived without steak knives; the server promised they would arrive shortly. In the meantime, it proved impossible to make any dent in the roast beef with the standard table knife. She then came back to our table with a beverage. I reminded her that we still needed steak knives. Feeling rather ignored, about 10 minutes after the beef entrées arrived the steak knives were provided. Immediately it became clear that the steak knives were not going to help. The beef was room temperature and essentially inedible. About 15 minutes later we were asked about our entrees and we made our displeasure known. The server advised she would tell the chef. So we made a few more attempts at the beef, but mostly just ate the side dishes. Our server came back and asked if she could get us “something else”. Since the beet salad had been finished; we requested a price adjustment from the server who said that again she would speak to the chef. An offer was then made to provide a dessert instead of the entrées. The bartender stopped at our table and we also told of our disappointment. By that time, we just wanted to get out of there. While our interactions with the staff were polite, they were firm on what they would and w ould not do. When we again suggested they could make an adjustment to the bill, or provide some sort of scrip for a future visit, we were told that was not possible. There was no choice but to pay the entire bill and we left feeling we had not been treated fairly. Several attempts to reach management have resulted in no response.

My husband and I stayed here Valentine's Day weekend and we couldn't have asked for a nicer place! The Inn is gorgeous with rooms decorated old style but upgraded with gas fireplaces (some rooms have them) and comfy beds and walk in showers. The staff was so nice and helpful and the tavern and restaurant is beautiful with farmhouse style decor, lighting and a huge fireplace. They had live music on Saturday and we ate there again on Sunday (there are not too many restaurants to eat in Newfane, but we liked our two dinners at 1882 tavern in the B & B). It was very romantic, quiet and exactly what we were looking for! We would definitely stay again when we go back to Vermont.

Our original overnight reservation was in August, but my mother-in-law passed unexpectedly. I e-mailed Four Columns Inn who allowed us to reschedule to a later date in November which we did, also adding a second night stay. The Inn was spotless, all the staff extremely friendly and helpful, and dinner both nights was beyond our expectations! I had the salmon and steak frites, and my wife the chicken marsala. We also had breakfast at the Inn on the Sunday of our departure. The new owners have "raised the bar" with customer service and with the restaurant. I cannot say enough positive comments about Bridget, the Inn manager who always checked on us to assure our stay was the best possible.

We absolutely loved this place! Off the beaten path in a small village in the mountains of Vermont. Our room (Sting suite) was fabulous with a double-sided fireplace in the bedroom and bathroom with a huge jacuzzi. The food at The Tavern was good as well and perfect after a couple of drinks by the fire pit. Strongly recommend this place if you’re looking for a quiet romantic get away.

We were in Newfane for a wedding celebration. Stayed at the Four Columns for two nights. Bridget and the staff were excellent. The facilities were clean and the room was very comfortable.