Killington
posted
Oct 4, 2012
Grist Mill property to be purchased by Killington
business owner Chris Karr
The landmark building in Killington that has been home to the
Grist Mill Restaurant since 1985 is changing hands and will reopen
under new management this November.
Killington businessman Chris Karr has entered into an agreement
with the owners of the Grist Mill Restaurant to purchase the
business and the building, and plans to reopen as a new, re-branded
destination dining experience in time for the 2012-2013 ski season.
Karr also owns the Pickle Barrel Nightclub, JAX Food and Games and
Scrub-a-Dub Pub on the Killington Road.
The new business will be called The Foundry at Summit Pond, and
Karr's plans include interior renovations, a reinvented menu, the
return of ice skating and other exterior enhancements, and a new
caliber of entertainment.
"Speaking for both myself and my wife Melissa, we are very
excited about having the opportunity to tap into the incredible
potential of this stunning property," says Karr. "Our management
team is looking forward to bringing some new ideas to the business,
plus re-introducing some classic activities."
The Foundry will also share some of the successful concepts Karr
has developed for the Pickle Barrel and JAX, such as the use of the
Barrel Rider, Pickle Barrel passes, and local yokel
passes.
The building was constructed in 1985 by Dan Graham for original
owners David Gouchberg and Ken Budzyna. The Grist Mill has a
rich history with locals and with the ski house crowd as the
establishment that originated and popularized the "Goombay Smash"
cocktail. Over the years it hosted many popular events, including
the Green Mountain Road Race and the Killington Tricycle
Race. Its central location on the Killington Road,
exceptional views of Killington Peak, and sunset vistas from the
porch overlooking Summit Pond have made it a favorite gathering
spot.
"We looked long and hard for the right person to acquire the
property," says property owner Bill Bauer. "We wanted someone with
the vision and the means to elevate the business into a resort
destination. Chris Karr understands the unique character of this
property, and has a long track record of innovation and success
with his businesses. This is a great thing for Killington."
