Time for dreams and business, not folderol

WESTTOWN — Stephen and Kristina Ernst have known each other since high school.

After high school Stephen Ernst pursued an education at Johnson and Wales University to expand his culinary skills. He then began his career as a chef and he and Kristina, who also worked in the restaurant business, were married in 1985.

They both continued to work but soon realized that the demands of the restaurant business made raising a family difficult. So they decided to pursue different careers to allow for family time but thoughts about owning a restaurant were always in their minds.

And that dream finally came true.

On Thursday, March 19, Orange County Legislator Paul Ruszkiewicz and members of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors joined the Ernsts for the official grand opening of Westtown Fare Restaurant, 795 Route 284, Westtown, in the heart of Hudson Valley's Black Dirt Region.

Ruszkiewicz also presented the owners with a "Distinguished Service Award" from Orange County.

Just a short drive, about 20 minutes, from the Village of Warwick or 15 minutes from Middletown, the restaurant serves traditional French, Italian and American cuisine, with fresh farm produce, meats and seafood while incorporating local products whenever possible. Meals are complimented by select wines along with an assortment of local beers and spirits.

A recent weekend menu, for example, featured a selection of entrees such as monkfish/shrimp/scallops in a brandy infused lobster and Duck Confit with duck breast/turnip and carrot mash/orange glaze.

The menu also offers a variety of appetizers, sandwiches and pub style food.

"This was a dream fulfilled for both of us and a way for us to work side by side to provide the community a place to dine, relax and enjoy," said Kristina Ernst. "And our cuisine is graciously served in a warm, contemporary-rustic style home."

Before opening the doors in late January, the couple also worked side by side for over five months renovating the facility that had formerly been the Folderol restaurant.

Weekend diners are also treated to live musical entertainment.

Richard Wiggins, a popular nightclub style singer/pianist who has performed at the Folderol as well as in Warwick, will be the restaurant's standing musician on Friday and Saturday nights.

Westtown Fare will also offer a special and extensive Easter Sunday menu including prime rib and loin of lamb. There will be three seatings at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

To make a reservation or for additional information call 683-1299 or visit: www.westtownfare.com and Facebook.

- Roger Gavan