We Are Upstate NY With Stewart House Proprietor Lois Ballinger
If you’re looking to experience one of the grand historic hotels of the Hudson Valley, the Italianate-style Stewart House in the charming village of Athens, New York strikes the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. Just two hours from New York City, this 19th century architectural beauty has been welcoming guests since 1883. Nestled on the banks of the Hudson River surrounded by majestic willow trees, Stewart House has been meticulously restored as a boutique luxury hotel featuring nine elegantly appointed guest rooms.
Guests entering Stewart House are greeted by its classic 1883 Tavern, an authentic farm-to-table restaurant with a stunning Art Deco bar from a bygone era. The adjacent Captain’s Table room, adorned with the works of local artists, offers private dining for up to twenty people. It is ideal for holiday parties, small weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, business meetings, and corporate retreats. The inviting outdoor River Grill, a popular spot for al fresco dining right on the Hudson River, provides superior waterfront dining for hotel guests and the public, to the weekend accompaniment of local bands and musicians from spring through fall.
Be in the know! Movie buffs will recognize the building from the 1988 film Ironweed, based on William Kennedy’s novel, starring Jack Nicolson and Meryl Streep. It can also be spotted in several ferry scenes of Steven Spielberg’s War of the Worlds in 2005.
Let’s get to know more about Lois Ballinger and about her journey acquiring and running this fabulous Hudson Valley hotspot.
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INSIDE+OUT: Where are you from, and how did you wind up in the Hudson Valley?
Lois Ballinger: We (my husband Lon and I) are both Canadians. After selling Webster Hall in Manhattan, we thought about getting a little farm upstate to keep us busy. Our real estate agent insisted we look at the Stewart House, which had been on the market for some time. It was love at first sight.
You and your partner Lon were associated with the iconic Webster Hall in New York City for over 30 years. What was that like, and how was it shifting from a music venue to running a historic hotel? Tell us about your journey!
Our family has been in the hospitality business for over 50 years. The Stewart House is a labor of love for me on a much smaller scale than any other project. It was fun to restore and decorate, along with the help of local designer Tim Albright. Running the bar and restaurant has been challenging, but I’ve learned a lot. Fortunately, the business came with a solid staff, some of whom are still with me. Audrey Lent is our GM, and I could not have done any of it without her.
Tell us about Stewart House. What drew you to this project and inspired your vision for the property?
As soon as I walked in the door, I knew I wanted to take on the project. It seemed like a place that had been forgotten in time—so full of charm and character and so much potential. All she needed was a little sprucing up, which, of course, ended up being a lot more than that, such as a new roof, HVAC, windows, etc. The first floor has retained its old-world charm, while the nine hotel rooms upstairs are brighter and more luxurious.
What can guests expect from a stay at Stewart House?
We offer a welcoming atmosphere, comfort, relaxation, and convenience. Guests can have a great dinner and drinks downstairs in our 1883 Tavern and just climb the stairs to their beautiful room.
Let’s talk about food. In addition to this beautiful building, Stewart House has two seasonal restaurants. First, tell us about the 1883 Tavern: food, signature drinks, atmosphere, and seasonal hours.
Hand-painted murals and tin ceilings adorn the Tavern’s Art Deco bar and dining room. Acclaimed muralist Nora Johnson painted the walls 25 years ago and has since returned for restorations. While the decor is stunning, the food steals the show. Farm-sourced dishes comprise an ever-evolving menu that typically changes monthly, complemented by locally distilled spirits, craft beer, and delicious wine flowing from the bar. The Tavern is a destination in the Hudson Valley for live, often local music and weekly menu specials like the Thursday burger + beer special, Friday martini + oyster night, and the Sunday Bloody Mary + Sunday Roast menu.
Next, tell us about The Captain’s Table for private events. Is it open year-round?
The Captain’s Table is our private dining room, available year-round. It seats 10 to 22 people and has its own entrance and restroom. It’s the perfect spot for a friend’s get-together, birthday dinner, family reunion, or even a small wedding or rehearsal dinner. If you don’t want to order off the menu, Audrey and our chef will work with you to ensure your satisfaction.
When things warm up, there’s the River Grill. Tell us about the restaurant, your schedule, and your menu.
The River Grill is open Memorial Weekend to Labor Day, Thursday to Sunday. Because we are directly on the Hudson River, we have docking for boats or kayakers, and the village dock is next door when we run out of space. The Hudson Ferry Co. runs between Hudson and Athens plus offers sunset and sightseeing cruises with pick up and drop off at the Riverfront Park. Plus, every Friday night during July and August, there is a free concert in the park, brought to you by Athens Performing Arts Corp. We have lots of seating and can accommodate large groups. The stage area gets put to good use every Thursday and Sunday afternoon, plus the occasional special night. We feature all types of music, from ragtime to bluegrass to honky tonk. Our grill features our famous burgers, wagyu hot dogs, tacos, and our specialty handmade cocktails and local craft beers.
What types of events, if any, do you host? Is there live music?
Yes, we have live music weekly in the 1883 Tavern and at River Grill. We also host special pop-up events with other local businesses, special holiday dinners, and our famous annual Oysterfest in springtime.
What impact does Stewart House have on the community?
We are a place where everyone is welcome, and you can always count on a friendly atmosphere, great food, and cocktails.
What are you most proud of when it comes to Stewart House?
When I see a local chatting with an out-of-towner at the bar or in the dining room.
Photos courtesy of Stewart House
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River Grill (Memorial Weekend to Labor Day)
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