Starry Night Café opened in May 2000. It is situated within a collection of historic buildings, including a covered bridge, in a lovely countryside setting. The building housing the restaurant was originally a cider press, relocated to the site from southern Vermont. It was renovated to form what is now the front dining room, seating up to 25 guests with it’s unique antique bar. The vision was to blend art and food by utilizing artisan products such as hand-blown glasses, napkin rings and plates. The wooden tables and unusual bar stools were hand-made by local craftsmen. The wooden leaves decorating the framework of the bar each depict the leaf of the tree from which it was carved. Locally blown glass orbs fill candelabras illuminating the room with elegance. In the spring, summer and early fall seasons local flowers handpicked from Ferrisburg's own Garden Goddess fill the restaurant with warmth and beauty The spacious octagonal dining room, with picturesque views of the patio and surrounding countryside, was added in May 2001. With a seating capacity of near sixty guests this room is often used for wedding rehearsal dinners, live musical entertainment and other special events. Rotating shows of local artists decorate the walls through out both dining rooms with a unique flare of Vermont art. Every component from fresh local flowers to hand-blown glasses, locally crafted tables and chairs to warming music contribute to the uniquely cozy and intimate atmosphere .
The philosophy for the restaurant is to offer a wholesome, classic menu using seasonal products, organically grown when available, and naturally raised meats and fish. Starry supports local farmers and producers and is a member of the Vermont Fresh Network, above all, striving to provide a wonderful dining experience in an attractive, relaxed surrounding.
Hugo grew up working on farms in Vermont and following the examples set by his mother and grandmother, who are both excellent cooks, knew early on that he wanted to be a chef. He trained at the Culinary Institute of America, and since graduation, has worked in restaurants in Vermont, California, Colorado, San Francisco and Paris. He and his family returned to Vermont in 1997 and Hugo took up the position of Executive Chef at The Inn at Shelburne Farms. Hugo's dream of opening his own restaurant became a reality in January 2003 with his debut at the Starry Night Cafe.
Chef Krechel grew up in New Jersey and at an early age discovered the fascination cooking offered. Graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, he moved to Vermont in 1998, striking up a professional relationship and friendship with Hugo, first at Shelburne Farms and then at the Starry Night Cafe. What originated as simple friendship and a shared vision has in turn lead to Chef Krechel taking over as Starry's Executive Chef. He has since created his own unique flare of culinary artistry, which is more than reflected, in the ever-increasing number of loyal customers.