The Ponds Restaurant – Good Food & A Fun Time In East Meredith

The Ponds Restaurant is a charming farm-to-table restaurant and brewery located in a beautifully renovated Amish barn in East Meredith, New York. Established in 2019, it is widely appreciated for its picturesque surroundings, featuring lush gardens, intricate stonework, and genuine ponds inhabited by ducks, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere for guests.

The restaurant emphasizes using ingredients from their own farm at Natural Gardens whenever possible, complemented by products from nearby local producers. They freshly grind all pork and brisket and smoke their meats in a dedicated smoker. All pasta, soups, pizza dough, sauces, and condiments are made in-house. Moreover, the brewery focuses on producing traditional-style ales using hops also grown on their farm!

Popular menu choices include the Windy Hill Farm Burger made with local beef, Carolina Barbecue Wings with bacon jam, and Homemade Fettuccine with basil cream sauce. The menu also features vegetarian and gluten-free options, like cauliflower crust pizza. At The Ponds Restaurant, the gourmet pizzas are a standout, with dough and sauces made fresh in-house from ingredients grown on their own farm. Their pizza selection mainly includes 16-inch gourmet pies.

The restaurant offers a scenic, family-friendly environment with both indoor and outdoor seating. During warmer months, guests can enjoy a wrap-around porch and an outdoor area featuring a fire pit and games like cornhole, horseshoes, and darts. There is an on-site microbrewery producing “old fashion” ales (such as Koi Ale and Pond Water) using farm-grown hops. The bar features over 120 whiskies and a variety of New York State spirits and wines. The venue includes a private rental space for parties, weddings, and rehearsals.

The servers are frequently praised as being among the best in the industry, consistently attentive even during the busiest peak times. They are also recognized for having excellent personalities that enhance the overall guest experience. For private parties and rehearsal dinners, the service is described as truly phenomenal, characterized by high levels of coordination. The staff often go above and beyond by proactively clearing plates and refilling drinks, ensuring guests feel well taken care of at all times.