Hyeholde's story began with a promise William Kryskill made to his bride, Clara: he would build her a castle on a cornfield crest.
This dream, built with their own hands over seven years, became Hyeholde. The original half of the building started in 1931, intended as both a restaurant and living quarters. The couple spent summers operating Clark Studio Tea Room in Connecticut and returned each fall to work on Hyeholde. By 1938, they served their first meals, and it quickly became a success. The beautiful materials for Hyeholde came from the old Stonesifer barn. The Kryskills used every bit of it to create their dream. For 36 years, they served guests in an elegant yet simple style.
Pat Foy and his family took over next, transforming Hyeholde into a sophisticated restaurant with an elaborate menu and fine wines, without losing its charm. In 1987, they expanded Hyeholde, adding a new entry and converting a contemporary residence into the Cabaret, a night club until 1991.
The third chapter began in 1991 when William Kryskill’s daughter, Barbara, and her husband, Quentin McKenna, repurchased Hyeholde. They built on its beauty and history to create their own magical castle. After Quentin's death in 2003, Barbara and her excellent staff continued to maintain the high quality their customers expect.
Chef Chris O’Brien became the executive chef at Hyeholde in 1997, before returning in 2021 and ultimately becoming Hyeholde’s new owner in 2023. Under his leadership, Hyeholde’s epicurean spirit has bloomed into a true five-star dining atmosphere, offering a sanctuary for the senses in a rustically-elegant, American cottage-style escape. The chef-driven menu evokes a sense of nostalgia; Chef O’Brien expertly modernizes culinary techniques from bygone eras, like cassoulets, housemade foie gras, and a strong emphasis on game meats, always reflecting the seasonality of the moment and respecting the integrity of the area’s freshest ingredients.
Hyeholde now includes the Round Room, a stone and glass sanctuary perfect for business functions during the week and private events on weekends. The Chef’s Table in the kitchen offers a unique dining experience, while the grounds are ideal for picnics with chef-prepared baskets. "Q’s" is a cozy room for business dinners or private gatherings.
Each season and time of day brings a special tranquility to Hyeholde, making it a timeless venue filled with charm and history.