[ August 01, 2022 ] "It was d?j? vu all over again" for old and new Pickens residents as the historic Woodbridge Inn, now Tavern, opened Saturday, July 16th with a packed crowd. "We wanted to introduce our menu, specialty drinks and let the community experience the beauty of our renovated dining area," stated a gleeful General Manager Rob Jarrett.

The reservation only event featured several menu Starters including Cannon Balls which are dates stuffed with cream cheese wrapped with bacon. Waffles and chicken, Pork Roll, Burger Slider, Shrimp Cocktail, Meat balls and fresh fruit and veggie tray highlighted the "good eats."

The food was tasty but the new bar was the highlight of the evening! Patrons were lined up two deep ordering a Woodbridge Bourbon Old Fashion or a Red Brick Chimney Manhattan. The drink menu lists 11 Specialty Cocktails.

Dawson Faith is the Executive Chef and describes the menu as "southern style with an elegant twist." He mentioned the "Pickens Classic" as an cuisine example which is a take on Marsala boneless chicken (grilled or fried) with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted brussels sprouts.

Doug and Janet Flint are the new Woodbridge owners. She said, "We just wanted the Inn but the history of the building spoke to us to continue a place of good food and good times." Mrs. Flint added, "We included Tavern in the name to honor the historical significance of the establishment." Ed Lenning began the Hotel in 1880 with the Rueffert family beginning the Woodbridge Inn in 1976. Harmony Henderson operated the Inn a short time before the Flint?s purchase.

Long time Woodbridge diner Steve Kern said, "We are elated that the restaurant is open again because it is such a special place." Mr. Kern and wife Ann are planning to eat dinner one night, stay in the corner bedroom upstairs and eat brunch the next morning.

The Woodbridge Inn and Tavern is open Thursday-Saturday from 11:30 am-3pm (lunch) and 5pm-9pm for dinner. The Sunday schedule is 10am-3pm for brunch and 5pm-9pm for dinner. Reservation requests can be made by visiting woodbridgeinnjasper.com or calling 706.253.8500.