Oldestone Steak House
- New Hope, PA
The distinguished structure now home to Oldestone Steakhouse began its life in 1873–1874 as the New Hope Methodist Episcopal Church, later known as the New Hope United Methodist Church. Built on land purchased for $600, it stood between two other historic landmarks—the Logan Inn and the Crook home, now the Mansion Inn. Designed by architect James Bird and constructed with the stonework of mason Peter S. Naylor, the building was valued at $14,000 upon completion. Its Gothic sandstone façade, soaring ceilings, and intricate stained glass windows made it an architectural treasure from the day it opened.
The church replaced an earlier wood-frame Methodist church on Mechanic Street, which had fallen into disrepair. While no photographs of the original structure are known to exist, its cemetery remains adjacent to the municipal parking lot. For 125 years, the building served as a spiritual center for New Hope’s Methodist community. Its congregation included both African Methodist Episcopal members in the early 1800s and white Methodist groups by the 1830s, reflecting the religious diversity and energy of the Second Great Awakening, a revival movement that swept America between 1795 and 1835. The final service in the building was held in 1999, after which the congregation relocated to Solebury.
Following its closure as a church, the building entered a new chapter as Marsha Brown’s, a Creole-inspired fine dining restaurant that operated for nearly two decades. Known for its dramatic ambiance and refined cuisine, Marsha Brown’s became a dining destination in New Hope before closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, the space was reimagined as Oldestone Steakhouse, a modern metropolitan steakhouse that honors the building’s architectural grandeur while offering USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails. Many of the original features remain intact, including the stained glass windows, repurposed church pews, a striking 30-foot mural titled Redemption by Russian artist Valeriy Belenikin, chandeliers featured in John Wick 3, and a speakeasy-style jazz lounge on the third floor.
New Hope itself has a rich history dating back 10,000 years, when the Lenni-Lenape Native Americans settled along the Delaware River. In the early 1700s, William Penn authorized land sales that led to the founding of the town. Originally known as Coryell’s Ferry, the area became a vital crossing point on Old York Road, the main route between Philadelphia and New York City. George Washington lodged in New Hope the night before his famous crossing of the Delaware River in 1776 and later ordered the ferry destroyed to prevent British pursuit. The town endured shelling during the Revolutionary War, and some buildings are still said to contain unexploded ordnance in their rafters.
In the 19th century, the opening of the Delaware Canal in 1832 transformed New Hope into a thriving trade hub. Officially incorporated in 1837 after a devastating fire destroyed Benjamin Parry’s mills, the rebuilt town was seen as a “new hope” for the community, giving rise to its name. The 20th century brought a cultural renaissance, with New Hope becoming a haven for Pennsylvania Impressionist painters such as Daniel Garber and Edward Redfield, and the Bucks County Playhouse, opened in 1939, attracting theatrical luminaries including Helen Hayes, George C. Scott, and Robert Redford. In 2002, New Hope made history again by becoming the first borough in Pennsylvania to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Today, the building at 15 South Main Street remains an integral part of New Hope’s living history. Preserved through the work of the New Hope Historical Society, it stands as a testament to the town’s evolution from a colonial ferry crossing to a vibrant cultural and culinary destination. Its transformation from church to celebrated restaurant captures both the spirit of preservation and the creativity that defines New Hope.
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Charming historic community with a cheerful and quirky atmosphere.
While this unique village was once a haven for young artists and creatives from around the country looking to settle down in a relatively affordable area, New Hope real estate has now become one of the most desirable and attractive communities in Pennsylvania. Holding onto its artistic roots, New Hope is filled with world-class art galleries, entertainment venues, beloved restaurants, and boutique shops for residents to enjoy.
The community’s rich historical past has resulted in a plethora of architectural styles throughout the area. Colonial homes and converted farmhouses are especially popular. Even the more recent builds tend to incorporate a more historic styling to fit in with the rest of the community, giving the area an almost storybook-like quality that residents absolutely adore. Buyers interested in townhomes in New Hope or New Hope condos for sale will also find options that reflect this same charm and design sensibility.
Quaint and charming community
Historic sensibility and welcoming atmosphere
An ideal escape from the big-city hustle and bustle
New Hope is one of the most popular and attractive communities in the state. However, despite this high level of desirability, the neighborhood has maintained a quaint and peaceful atmosphere, offering homeowners a level of privacy that can often be difficult to find in such highly sought-after areas. The relaxing, laid-back lifestyle gives the community a welcoming ambiance and small-town feel that residents work hard to preserve. For those seeking exceptional privacy, design, and location, the market for luxury homes in New Hope continues to offer compelling opportunities.
The dining scene in New Hope is, without a doubt, one of the best in rural Pennsylvania, with numerous highly-rated restaurants and popular eateries calling this community home.
Logan Inn is undoubtedly one of the most popular dining destinations in town. The Logan Inn, located in the charming town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, has a rich and storied history that spans over three centuries. Established in 1722, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continually operating inns in the United States. Originally known as the Ferry Tavern, the inn served as a crucial stop for travelers crossing the Delaware River. This award-winning restaurant offers an elevated approach to New American cuisine. Its menu includes exceptional dishes such as verde charred octopus, Berkshire pork belly with apple butter and burnt honey, and a mouthwatering dry-aged duck breast.
Located in a stunning repurposed church, Olde Stone Steakhouse is a metropolitan steakhouse experience in historic New Hope. The Bar at Oldestone serves authentic cocktails and offers a first-rate menu; while the refined dining and private rooms of Oldestone Steakhouse inspire with USDA prime steaks, chops, seafood, raw bar, salads, sides and appreciably more.
The Black Bass Hotel is another key feature of the New Hope Community, and the restaurant in this historic hotel is one of the best in town. Their internationally inspired menu includes sweet summer corn bisque, scallop and watercress mousse stuffed salmon, and spice-rubbed grilled pork tenderloin that guests adore.
Martine's Restaurant located on the Delaware River in the charming River Town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, is a culinary gem that delights both locals and visitors alike. Martine's offers a memorable dining experience in a welcoming and elegant setting. The restaurant is known for its exceptional cuisine, expertly crafted by Chef Martine, who infuses each dish with creativity and a passion for culinary excellence.
Karla's and Zoubis are two beloved eateries in the vibrant town of New Hope, Pennsylvania. Karla's offers a delightful dining experience with its charming and cozy atmosphere. Known for its delectable comfort food and homestyle cooking, Karla's serves up dishes that are both comforting and satisfying. From hearty breakfast options to mouthwatering sandwiches and classic American favorites, Karla's menu caters to a wide range of tastes. On the other hand, Zoubis is a popular spot for those seeking Mediterranean flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. With its lively ambiance and authentic cuisine, Zoubis takes diners on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean region. From flavorful kebabs to fresh salads and tantalizing mezze plates, Zoubis delivers a feast of Mediterranean delights. Both Karla's and Zoubis add to the diverse dining scene in New Hope, offering locals and visitors a taste of deliciousness in a warm and welcoming setting.
When residents are looking to enjoy a fun yet elegant evening out on the town, they’ll definitely head over to Nektar. This beautiful wine bar has become the talk of the town, with a vast wine, beer, and whiskey selection that highlights the region’s bounty. They also have a fantastic food menu that includes sharable plates like truffle ravioli, portobello fries, and tuna tacos, as well as larger dishes like their goat cheese and smoked salmon sandwich, which pair perfectly with the spirit selection on hand.
New Hope’s ideal location, paired with the vibrant and lively community itself, ensures there’s something for residents and guests to do at all times. For inspiration, check out these things to do in New Hope, PA.
The Bucks County Playhouse is constantly putting on high-quality shows with nationally recognized artists. A historical staple in the theatre and music community, this wonderful playhouse attracts some of the biggest names in the business. The Bucks County Playhouse, nestled in the charming town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, is an iconic theater that has enchanted audiences since its opening in 1939. Situated along the scenic Delaware River, the playhouse holds a special place in the region's cultural history. Over the years, it has hosted countless theatrical productions, including Broadway hits, original works, and renowned performances by celebrated actors. The playhouse's intimate and inviting atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to artistic excellence, creates a memorable experience for theatergoers. With its rich heritage and vibrant artistic community, the Bucks County Playhouse continues to be a beloved cultural institution, captivating audiences with its world-class productions and contributing to the thriving arts scene of Bucks County.
The community's artistic roots continue to play a significant role in the overall aesthetic of New Hope. Highly rated art galleries such as Main Street Gallery, Gallery Piquel, and Topeo Gallery ensure that the community has access to the highest quality art possible, highlighting the critical role art plays in day-to-day life.
Music at John and Peters and Havana's in New Hope, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant and integral part of the town's lively nightlife and music scene. John and Peters is a legendary venue that has been hosting live music since 1972. It has become a haven for local and touring bands, offering a diverse range of genres including rock, indie, punk, blues, and more. With its intimate atmosphere and a stage that has seen performances by renowned musicians, John and Peters is a favorite spot for both musicians and music enthusiasts.
Similarly, Havana's, located in the heart of New Hope, is a popular destination for live music and entertainment. The venue features a spacious indoor stage as well as a vibrant outdoor patio area where patrons can enjoy the performances under the stars. From energetic cover bands to talented singer-songwriters, Havana's showcases a variety of musical talent, making it a hotspot for locals and visitors alike.
Both John and Peters and Havana's contribute to the vibrant music culture of New Hope, bringing a diverse array of artists and genres to the stage. Whether you're seeking a night of dancing to live bands or discovering emerging talent, these venues provide an exciting and dynamic atmosphere for music lovers to enjoy unforgettable performances in the heart of this charming town.
Set in one of the country’s most bountiful landscapes, Farmers Markets also play a tremendous role in the daily life of New Hope residents. Rather than heading down to a local grocery store, many locals will pass by any one of the area’s farmers markets to find the freshest seasonal produce available, purchasing directly from the producer.
New Hope is part of the New Hope-Solebury School District, one of the highest-ranking public school districts in the state. However, there are also many nationally recognized and respected private schools in the area, including the Solebury School, which is highly regarded for its dedication to music and the arts.
New Hope, Pennsylvania, has long been a haven for artists and has played a significant role in the history of Impressionism in America. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a group of artists known as the New Hope Impressionists settled in the area, drawn to its picturesque landscapes and vibrant artistic community.
Inspired by the works of French Impressionist painters, these artists embraced the use of light, color, and brushwork to capture the beauty of the surrounding countryside. They often painted en plein air, directly observing and capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere on their canvases.
Notable artists associated with the New Hope Impressionist movement include Edward Redfield, Daniel Garber, and William Lathrop, among others. Their works celebrated the natural beauty of the Delaware River Valley, depicting scenes of lush landscapes, charming riverside villages, and idyllic countryside.
The artists of New Hope played a pivotal role in shaping the art scene of the region. They established the New Hope Art Colony, which attracted fellow artists, art collectors, and patrons, turning the town into a vibrant cultural center. The Colony's annual exhibitions and art sales drew national attention, further solidifying New Hope's reputation as an artistic destination.
Today, New Hope continues to embrace its artistic heritage and serves as a thriving hub for the arts. Galleries, art festivals, and cultural events pay homage to the legacy of the Impressionists and showcase the work of contemporary artists who are inspired by the beauty and spirit of the area.
The history of the Impressionists and artists in New Hope, Pennsylvania, is a testament to the town's enduring artistic legacy and its ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression. The influence of these artists continues to shape the town's identity and attract visitors who seek to experience the rich artistic heritage that New Hope has to offer.
FIRST: New Hope is a beautiful town located on the banks of the Delaware River. The town is steeped in history, with many of its buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The picturesque streets and charming architecture make it a pleasure to walk around and explore. If you're considering a move, you may want to read more about buying a home in New Hope, PA.
Secondly, New Hope has a thriving arts scene. The town is home to several art galleries, theaters, and music venues. There are also many outdoor sculpture exhibits and public art installations throughout the town. If you're an art lover, you'll find plenty to inspire and delight you here.
Thirdly, New Hope is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is close to several state parks and nature reserves. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and boating, among other outdoor activities. The Delaware River is particularly popular for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing. For those interested in building their dream home, there are also opportunities for land for sale in New Hope.
Fourthly, New Hope has a strong sense of community. The town hosts many events throughout the year, such as the annual New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival, the New Hope Automobile Show, and the New Hope Film Festival. These events bring people together and foster a sense of camaraderie and shared experience.
Lastly, New Hope is a great place to raise a family. The town has excellent schools, a low crime rate, and a safe and friendly environment. There are also many family-friendly activities and attractions, such as the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the countryside.
In conclusion, New Hope is a town with much to offer. Its beautiful surroundings, thriving arts scene, outdoor activities, sense of community, and family-friendly environment make it a great place to call home. If you're interested in the latest trends, discover why New Hope is capturing global attention or learn more about investing in real estate in New Hope, PA.
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