Oldestone Steak House
- New Hope, PA
6 Baths
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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Tucked along the banks of the Delaware River, New Hope is a charming, historic village with a cheerful, slightly quirky spirit and a distinctly sophisticated edge. Long known as a haven for artists, creatives, and free thinkers, it has evolved into one of Pennsylvania’s most desirable communities—yet it has never lost the character, intimacy, and visual magic that first put it on the map.
Today, New Hope real estate attracts buyers from across the region and beyond who are drawn to its walkable streets, river views, and vibrant cultural life. World-class galleries, live performance venues, beloved restaurants, and one-of-a-kind boutiques line the town’s main corridors, creating an atmosphere that feels both cosmopolitan and warmly local.
Architecturally, New Hope is a study in layered history. Graceful colonial homes, converted farmhouses, and stone cottages sit alongside thoughtfully designed newer builds that echo traditional lines and materials. Even modern townhomes and condos are often crafted with historic sensibility in mind, lending the entire community an almost storybook quality. Whether you are seeking a tucked-away luxury estate, a low-maintenance townhome, or a riverfront condo, New Hope offers options that are rich in charm and design.
New Hope is a picturesque, globally celebrated riverside borough nestled along the scenic banks of the Delaware River in upper Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The local lifestyle is completely defined by a sophisticated blend of natural beauty, rich early-American history, and a legendary creative spirit. Residents enjoy an extraordinarily walkable downtown village packed with exceptional historic stone facades, premier independent art galleries, high-end antique shops, and nationally recognized cultural landmarks like the historic Bucks County Playhouse. The community is seamlessly linked via a charming historic pedestrian bridge to neighboring Lambertville, New Jersey, multiplying the fine dining, artisanal coffee houses, and boutique shopping options available right at your doorstep.
The luxury real estate ecosystem in New Hope commands premium distinction, featuring an exquisite stock of master-built colonial stone farmhouses, converted historic mills, and custom modern riverfront compounds boasting private docks and expansive architectural glass walls. In mid-2026, market data highlights New Hope as an exceptionally strong, high-value investment environment, holding a premium median listing price of approximately $1.5 million to $1.65 million. Home values are heavily driven by strict open-space preservation laws, architectural scarcity, and inclusion within the prestigious, top-ranked New Hope-Solebury School District—consistently rated among the absolute best public academic tracks in the commonwealth.
Active Client Infrastructure: To browse our premier tier of active estate listings, country properties, and off-market opportunities, visit our curated B&B Luxury Collection portfolio.
Regional Comparisons: Discerning buyers evaluating the high-end Bucks County landscape frequently contrast New Hope’s riverfront profiles with the stately historic enclaves found in our Doylestown neighborhood guide, or evaluate urban residential opportunities within our Philadelphia luxury real estate index.
Market Advisory: Turn to Caryn Black and the elite independent advisors at B&B Luxury Properties for unmatched, concierge-level representation. Our team applies hyper-local transaction tracking, data-driven underwriting, and complete professional discretion to navigate your next premium real estate acquisition flawlessly.
A quaint, picturesque riverfront community with an unmistakable artistic soul
Historic architecture, scenic streets, and a welcoming, walkable town center
A peaceful, small-town feel that still offers sophisticated dining, culture, and nightlife
An ideal escape from big-city hustle—yet within easy reach of major urban hubs
New Hope is one of the most sought-after communities in Pennsylvania, but it still feels intimate, relaxed, and unhurried. Residents enjoy a level of privacy and authenticity that can be difficult to find in high-demand destinations. The pace is laid-back, the locals are friendly, and the town’s creative roots infuse daily life with color and originality.
The sense of community here runs deep. Neighbors get to know each other in cafés, along the towpath, and at the countless events that fill the calendar each year. People choose New Hope not only for its scenery and architecture, but for the way it feels to live here: open-minded, inclusive, artistic, and quietly refined. For those seeking exceptional privacy, design, and setting, the market for luxury homes in New Hope continues to offer compelling opportunities, from secluded hilltop estates to architect-designed properties with sweeping river views.
New Hope’s culinary scene is one of the finest in rural Pennsylvania, with an impressive concentration of highly rated restaurants, destination-worthy bars, and cozy neighborhood spots.
Logan Inn
Established in 1722, Logan Inn is one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the United States and a cornerstone of New Hope’s dining scene. Its award-winning restaurant delivers an elevated take on New American cuisine in a setting that marries history with modern style. Dishes like verde-charred octopus, Berkshire pork belly with apple butter and burnt honey, and dry-aged duck breast showcase both creativity and impeccable technique.
Oldestone Steakhouse
Set within a stunning repurposed church, Oldestone brings a metropolitan steakhouse experience to historic New Hope. The Bar at Oldestone pours classic cocktails and inventive signatures, while the dining room and private spaces feature USDA prime steaks, chops, seafood, a raw bar, and refined sides. It’s the kind of restaurant that feels equally suited to a special occasion or a memorable night out.
The Black Bass Hotel
Just up the river, The Black Bass Hotel and its renowned restaurant are woven into the fabric of the community. With a rich history and an elegant dining room overlooking the Delaware, the menu leans into internationally inspired, seasonal cuisine—think sweet summer corn bisque, salmon stuffed with scallop and watercress mousse, or spice-rubbed grilled pork tenderloin.
Martine’s RiverHouse Restaurant
Perched right on the Delaware River, Martine’s is a beloved favorite for both locals and visitors. Its warm, welcoming dining room and riverfront views set the stage for creative, thoughtfully prepared dishes that reflect both the seasons and the chef’s passion for flavor and technique.
Karla’s & Zoubi
Karla’s, with its cozy ambiance and comforting menu, is a longtime favorite for brunch, lunch, and casual dinners—serving homestyle dishes that feel both familiar and elevated. Just around the corner, Zoubi offers a more intimate, Mediterranean-inflected experience, with inventive plates, lush flavors, and a charming outdoor courtyard that feels like a hidden gem on warm evenings.
Nektar
When locals want an elegant yet relaxed night out, Nektar is often at the top of the list. This stylish wine, beer, and whiskey bar features an impressive selection of pours alongside a menu of shareable plates and thoughtful mains—truffle ravioli, portobello fries, tuna tacos, and a signature goat cheese and smoked salmon sandwich, to name a few. It’s perfect for lingering conversations and tasting your way through the menu with friends.
Boutiques, galleries, antique shops, and specialty stores round out the experience, making New Hope an endlessly engaging place to wander, shop, and explore.
New Hope’s artistic legacy is both storied and alive. At the turn of the 20th century, the town became home to the New Hope Impressionists—artists such as Edward Redfield, Daniel Garber, and William Lathrop—who were drawn by the area’s light, landscapes, and creative energy. Their plein air paintings of the Delaware River Valley helped establish New Hope as a significant American art colony and cultural destination.
That spirit endures today. Galleries like Main Street Gallery, Gallery Piquel, and Topeo Gallery showcase a wide range of fine art, sculpture, and craft, ensuring residents are always surrounded by inspiration. Art walks, openings, and festivals keep the creative calendar full.
Bucks County Playhouse
Nestled along the river, the iconic Bucks County Playhouse has been enchanting audiences since 1939. Often described as “America’s most famous summer theater,” it has hosted major theatrical productions, premieres, and celebrated performers for decades. Today, it continues to offer a robust slate of plays, musicals, concerts, and special events, anchoring New Hope’s performing arts scene and drawing talent and audiences from across the region.
John & Peter’s and Havana
Live music is another essential thread in New Hope’s cultural tapestry. John & Peter’s, a legendary venue dating back to 1972, is a beloved institution where local and touring musicians play rock, indie, blues, and more in an intimate, unpretentious setting. Nearby, Havana offers a larger stage, indoor and outdoor spaces, and a lineup that ranges from high-energy cover bands to singer-songwriters and touring acts. Together, these venues give New Hope a nightlife that is far more vibrant than its size might suggest.
Art festivals, film festivals, and seasonal events ensure that, in every season, there is something happening that celebrates creativity and community.
Surrounded by rolling countryside, river views, and nearby parks, New Hope is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and leisurely walks along the Delaware Canal towpath, all within minutes of home. Nearby state parks and preserved lands offer additional trails and vantage points to take in the region’s natural beauty.
Farmers markets and local producers play a meaningful role in everyday life. Rather than relying solely on big-box grocery stores, many residents choose to shop directly from local farms and artisans, picking up seasonal produce, baked goods, cheeses, flowers, and specialty items that reflect the area’s agricultural richness. For those dreaming of creating their own retreat, opportunities for land and custom builds around New Hope allow buyers to bring their vision of country living to life.
New Hope is served by the highly regarded New Hope–Solebury School District, consistently ranked among the top public school districts in Pennsylvania. The district is known for strong academics, robust arts and music programs, and a supportive, close-knit school community.
Families also have access to excellent private options, including Solebury School, which has a national reputation for its progressive education model and deep commitment to the arts. This blend of high-performing public and private schools makes New Hope an attractive choice for families who prioritize education.
New Hope offers a rare combination of qualities:
Scenic riverfront beauty and historic architecture that make every walk through town a pleasure
A thriving arts and cultural scene, with galleries, theater, live music, and festivals throughout the year
Endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in one of the region’s most picturesque settings
A strong sense of community, with events and traditions that bring people together
Excellent schools, a low-key, safe environment, and a genuinely welcoming vibe
For many, New Hope is not just a place to live—it is a place to belong.
If you’re considering buying a home, exploring luxury properties, or investing in real estate in New Hope, B&B Luxury Properties would be honored to be your guide. From historic riverfront homes to modern townhomes, condos, and land for custom builds, we can help you find the property that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and aspirations in this extraordinary river town.
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