West Stockbridge Eatery Caters to Local Taste
 Photos by Jonathan DelSordo
The Nook and Cranny in West Stockbridge opened a couple weeks ago and offers affordable home-style meals. |
Located at 4 Albany Road, Nook and Cranny is shaping up as an alternative to some of the more expensive casual dining West Stockbridge has to offer.
"We want to service the people who are like us. Real people," said Jennifer Clark, the eatery's business manager. "The ones that have only a few dollars in their pocket and a smile on their face.”
Robert Cole, with more than 40 years restaurant experience, was hired as the head chef. He has spent the last 15 years as head cook at Frescos Pizza in New Lebanon, N.Y. "We're here for the people of the work force," said Cole. "The truck drivers, plumbers and support of the local townsfolk."
The Nook features homemade baked goods and soups, daily specials and an expansive breakfast and lunch menu. "I'm here 3 a.m. every morning," Cole said. "And everything is as fresh as it can be."
The diner opened nearly two weeks ago and has had a generous turn out of customers in just its first week. The flowery interior decorating gives the Nook a humble and welcoming atmosphere.
The Clarks, their two children, and Cole are Berkshire natives and remain stuck to the deep roots of Berkshire County. This is the Clarks' first venture in South County; they had also both worked at Frescos
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In the near future, Nook and Cranny's owners are considering the ideas of having lobster and clam bakes, barbecues and even renting out space for special occasions. The interior can hold up to 48 customers comfortably and there are possible plans to expand outside seating, which is still in the works.
The restaurant is open every morning at 5, serving up customer favorites such as omelets, thickly sliced French toast, Belgian waffles, pancakes and plenty of other breakfast specials. With breakfast and lunch prices varying from $3 to $8, the Clarks are offering affordable filling meals that will surely be followed by service with a smile.
West Stockbridge residents, most notably employees of Troy's Garage located directly across the street, lent a helping hand in getting the diner open. The Clarks were very humbled to see such aid in the weeks leading up to their opening in late June.
"It's just really nice to feel welcome in this town so quickly," said Jennifer Clark, a resident of Pittsfield for the majority of her life. "I can walk down the street comfortably, and I love the hospitality of the people that comes with it."
