It’s new, but what is it? Coffee Shop? Bar? Local Hang Out? It’s the rebirth of The Old Haywood Filling Station at 5664 NC-191 in Mills River, NC. And after spending quite a bit of time there yesterday with my pal Barrie, I can answer . . . Yes!
Rather than demolishing the tired old building and build new from the ground up, owner Max chose to rebuild, saving as many of the original features as possible. I especially like the original floor and ceiling beams. The stories that floor could tell! Owner Max told us about local old-timers showing him where they’d gather around the wood stove in the original 1958 Gasperson’s Grocery & Gas Station for warmth and, I’m guessing here, telling some whoppers. You’ll know exactly where that stove was when you look up and see the soot-stained beams that were right above it. From the beginning, Max envisioned the Filling Station becoming a gathering place again.
Casual Fridays (might be weekly or monthly?): They’re casual and fun with Sommelier John. There will be multiple wine pairings with snack foods available each time. For instance, BBQ potato chips with Pinot Noir, Kit Kat bites with a Cabernet, Cotton Candy with Prosecco, Buttered Popcorn with Chardonnay (stainless steel), etc. And Beer pairings like Nacho Cheese Doritos with a Double IPA. He recommends, “sip, snack, sip”. COST: pay for the glass of wine or beer, snacks complimentary.
I know a little about wine and what I like and don’t, but admit no matter what I’m told to expect to taste with wine pairings, it just doesn’t happen. And I can’t tell you what sub-region the grapes came from, whether it has notes of tobacco, wood, or dirt either. So, I was wide-eyed surprised when I actually tasted what John suggested I might taste with the Banshee Pino Noir and Kit Kat combo. Definitely got the strawberry flavor.
Themed Wine Tastings (with distributers as announced) Free: The first one is set to be “A West Coast Road Trip” – wines from Washington, Oregon, and California. No date set yet.
NOTES:
- I’m embarrassed to say I didn’t recognize Chef Brooke Crider behind the counter. She was totally justified in calling me out. It’s okay, Brooke. I’m so glad you did! 🙂 She’s a fabulous cook and baker and does private catering out of a commercial kitchen! The last time I saw her was when she was cooking at the Dugout during the February, 2018 Hendersonville Restaurant Week. Everyone in the Media group I brought to town to preview Restaurant Week menus was basically dumbstruck. Everything was top notch! She followed that up by competed in the 2019 NC Restaurant and Lodging Association statewide Chef Showdown. So good to see you again, Brooke!
- Although Brooke’s in the house, there are very limited food options. They just don’t have the facilities or space at this time.
- That’s why a rotation of Food Trucks will be on site regularly soon.
- Notice in the Gallery, there aren’t TVs anywhere. There’s a hookup, but Max told us he wanted people to talk to each other rather than staring at a TV. I like it and it worked. We talked to a bunch of people while we were there.
- “The Old Haywood Filling Station is more than just a coffee, beer, and wine venue. It’s a place where people can come together, share ideas, and create meaningful connections. We believe that every cup of coffee or glass of your favorite beverage has the power to bring people closer, and we strive to create an environment that fosters community and inclusivity.” – The Old Haywood Filling Station
- The Filling Station’s Grand Opening is planned for February 8th, Noon to 8pm.
- Ask Sommelier John, who is on staff, for a wine recommendation if you can’t choose. I hear he’s very good at it.
- Max wants all wines offered to be “a step up”, but approachable, so expect a nice selection.
- They JUST got the espresso machine a few days ago, but pulled (pun not intended) off a nice latte for me.
- There’s plenty of room for expanded seating if needed.
- There’s a nice deck with party lights out back. It overlooks an expansive open lawn area. Max plans on keeping it open for additional seating, games, etc. Corn Hole anyone?
- Find them on Instagram @oldhaywoodfillingstation or their website: https://oldhaywoodfillingstation.com/
