Horse and Hound Inn

The Horse and Hound, located in the rugged White Mountains of New Hampshire, first opened in 1946 as a tasteful inn, tavern and restaurant. With three fireplaces and knotty pine paneling throughout, the inn welcomed everyone from Hollywood stars to local outdoor enthusiasts and quickly established a reputation for great food, elegant lodging and warm hospitality.

Now celebrating its 65th anniversary, the Horse and Hound was closed for seven months until June 2011 to undergo a comprehensive restoration to its classic lodge style. Under new ownership, the fully restored inn, consisting of a cheerful tavern, gracious dining room, elegant lobby, handsome library/lounge, and ten restful guest rooms once again invites you to unwind and relax after an active day in the Great Outdoors.

Ron Homer and Ken Adler both had legal careers in separate states prior to purchasing the Horse & Hound. Ron remains a partner with Conway, Homer & Chin-Caplan in Boston, America's most experienced vaccine injury law firm. Ken was the Assistant Administrator, and an administrative law judge, with the State of Wisconsin, Division of Hearings and Appeals in Madison. Ron left Boston, and Ken left Madison to begin this venture in the White Mountains.

For Homer and Adler, the opportunity to purchase the Horse & Hound was compelling. For years both of them had created many great memories in the rugged White Mountains, as the area was a family vacation destination during childhood. In recent years, they both spent more time in the area - downhill and cross country skiing at local resorts and hiking the Presidential Range as members of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC). Moving to Franconia became a dream realized. The community generously welcomed Ron and Ken, and provided unprecedented support as they restored the Horse & Hound. This reception was both unexpected and heart-warming, and they sincerely thank everyone who made this venture possible.

The land on which the inn sits previously functioned as a farm as far back as the 1830s. During the early part of the 20th century a greenhouse on the property provided fresh vegetables to the Profile House Hotel located in Franconia Notch. It is with recognition of this prior function that the menu for the inn was created. The dining room, tavern and library/lounge serve both food and beverage. The emphasis of the dining experience is delicious, simple ingredients gathered from local producers, thoughtful preparation and memorable presentation in an inviting setting. To honor this philosophy, the kitchen was completely renovated, including restoration of its original 1946 metal cabinetry and butcher block counters. A garden is planned to provide fresh vegetables and herbs.

Stephen Wells is Executive Chef and Ron Homer will assist. Steve previously served as chef at the Horse & Hound during the 1980s and has significant restaurant experience. They both bring extensive skill and passion to the kitchen. Together they have built a menu with an emphasis on local produce, respect for the land and a thoughtful relationship between people and their food.

The area around Franconia creates the potential for a wonderful farm-to-table menu. The Connecticut River valley is lush and productive. As we become more aware of our food and its source, we become more committed to attempts to make our dining as local as possible. Our food, our health and our environment are all interconnected. It is with this recognition the Horse & Hound proudly claims it is dedicated to the Food, Sport and Stewardship of the Great Outdoors.

Open from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Our cheerful Tavern is located at the heart of the inn. With pine paneling, the original 1946 bar back, a cozy fireplace and French doors opening the backyard patio, the Tavern is a welcoming place both summer and winter. Drink mixologist Susan Champy anchors the bar and has been crowned the Drink Diva. With a keen interest in the classic era of American cocktails, Susan prides herself on the ability to mix a perfect drink - or to create one that you've never tried. The Horse & Hound is fortunate to have this Diva, and we believe you will agree.

The Horse & Hound Inn has much to offer guests visiting this incredibly beautiful area. Whether you are into hiking, kayak, skiing, scenic bike trails, or memorable trips to popular attractions such as The Flume, Clark's Trading Post, The Cog Railroad and much much more... you and your family will cherish the memories for a lifetime. Each season brings unique possibilities - many from right out our front door. At the end of the day The Horse & Hound brings you back to classic New England Inn. Enjoy gourmet dining with our Farm to Table menu, relax in our Tavern or enjoy a nightcap. Enjoy scenic drives, active sports, family attractions or just sitting in our Library with a good book, we will do everything possible to help you make the most of your precious leisure time.