By Delainey Muscato
St. Bonaventure University
Stockton Hotel in Stockton, New York is one of the most unique features the town has to offer. This hotel turned restaurant has a long history that only adds to its charm and character. I spoke with Ginger Bulger, General Manager, about what Stockton Hotel is like now. She also shared the history of the hotel with me.
The town of Stockton was originally known as Delanti. Its main industries were agriculture and forestry. It was renamed Stockton after U.S. Navy Commodore, Robert Stockton. He was also a signer of the Declaration of Independence. In 1812, Abel Thompson purchased 178 acres of land, including the land where the current Stockton Hotel resides. He built a log cabin. Some of this original infrastructure is still part of the building standing today. The building changed hands twice more until Levi V. Miller rebuilt the hotel to include twelve guest rooms, a parlor, a dining room, and a kitchen. This is the Stockton Hotel of today, with a few modifications to now function as a restaurant.
Today, Stockton Hotel hosts many different events and serves many different customers. Bulger said, “We cater to all walks”. She also mentioned that while their menu does not change much throughout the year, the majority of their menu is made from scratch. As they are open year-round, they incorporate a few dishes to accommodate each season or holiday. In the past they have had special menus for holidays like St. Patrick’s Day and New Years Eve. They also refresh their menu once a year. Stockton Hotel has a very versatile menu with options ranging from Chicken Fingers to Honey Bourbon Shrimp and Scallops. One of their most popular menu items is their Beef on Weck. Another popular dish is their Buffalo sampler which includes Beef on Weck sliders, fresh cut French Fries, and hot wings. Stockton Hotel is also well-known for their beer-battered fish fry and delicious seafood options.
Stockton isn’t great just for their food. With their renovated upstairs area, Stockton is able to host large groups of people for banquets or other events. Bulger told me about some of the events held in their banquet, “Most events were weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, Christmas parties, Bikers yearly breakfast buffet, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, and annual Sheriff’s retirement dinners”. In addition to these bigger events, they also have live entertainment twice a month, themed event nights, or karaoke. Past live entertainment has included acoustic acts or small bands. Their most recent themed night was 90’s night.
Stockton Hotel is unique to other restaurants in the area because of its rich history and the role it has played in shaping the town. Bulger also spoke on Stockton Hotel’s family friendly atmosphere that seeks to welcome anyone and everyone who walks through the door. She said, “We have built a great clientele. Most of our business is word of mouth that travels from here to Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Ohio, etc.”. This word of mouth includes comments of the friendly staff, the inviting atmosphere, and the great food. Lily Dale, a large spiritual community, is just three miles down the road from the restaurant. Stockton Hotel sees a lot of business from this community as well as a lot of people from Chautauqua Institution in the summer.
So, whether you’re looking for a place to eat good food or a historical setting to enjoy, Stockton Hotel has more than enough to offer anyone. You can visit their website for their full menu and join their mailing list to get more information about their events. Their Instagram page also displays pictures of their incredible food and any special event menus. Be sure to check it out!