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Riverside Public House: New Eatery Becomes Dalton Community Hub

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. use-new-eatery-becomes-dalton-community-hub.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 3:09 GMT by Berkshire Eagle
      Locales: Massachusetts, UNITED STATES

DALTON, MA - February 12th, 2026 - Dalton's Main Street is buzzing with activity thanks to the recent arrival of Riverside Public House, a new eatery rapidly establishing itself as more than just a restaurant - it's becoming a focal point for community engagement and a champion of locally-sourced ingredients. Located at 77 Main St., the Public House opened its doors earlier this week, promising a dining experience centered around connection, quality, and support for local businesses.

The venture is spearheaded by siblings Ryan and Megan Smith, familiar faces to local foodies through their previous successful operation, the mobile kitchen "The Wandering Wok." Their transition from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar establishment signals a significant expansion in their vision - a move from simply serving the community to building a dedicated space for the community.

"The Wandering Wok was fantastic for building relationships and understanding what our neighbors wanted," explains Ryan Smith. "But we always dreamt of a place where people could linger, connect, and really feel at home. Riverside Public House is that place."

The menu at Riverside Public House reflects this ambition. While wood-fired pizzas are a cornerstone - and already garnering rave reviews for their crispy crusts and inventive toppings - the kitchen team emphasizes seasonally-inspired entrees that prioritize fresh, local produce. This commitment extends beyond simply listing local suppliers; it's woven into the very fabric of their operation.

"We actively seek out partnerships with farms within a 50-mile radius whenever possible," says Megan Smith. "Supporting these businesses isn't just good for the local economy, it also results in superior quality ingredients. You can taste the difference." This dedication to sourcing locally mirrors a growing national trend, driven by consumer demand for transparency and sustainability in the food system. Several other restaurants in the Berkshire region have adopted similar strategies, creating a burgeoning 'farm-to-table' network.

The experience gained from operating The Wandering Wok proved invaluable in navigating the challenges of launching a full-service restaurant. The food truck served as a crucial testing ground for menu concepts, allowing the Smiths to refine their offerings based on direct customer feedback. It also provided a foundation of loyal customers who eagerly anticipated the opening of the Public House.

"We weren't starting from scratch," Ryan Smith admits. "We had a built-in community already, which made the launch much smoother. We learned so much about menu preferences, service styles, and the importance of consistently delivering a great product."

Beyond the food, the ambiance of Riverside Public House has been carefully curated to foster a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The interior features warm lighting, comfortable seating, and a substantial bar area designed to encourage socializing. The Smiths envision the space as a destination for everything from casual weeknight dinners to celebratory gatherings.

Early indications suggest they are succeeding. Since opening, Riverside Public House has seen a steady stream of customers, drawn by both the enticing menu and the promise of a genuine community experience. Local residents have praised the restaurant on social media, highlighting the friendly service, high-quality food, and inviting atmosphere.

The restaurant is currently open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays for brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Smiths are already considering expanding their hours and offering additional events, such as live music and themed dinners, to further enhance the community aspect of the Public House.

Riverside Public House isn't just adding another dining option to Dalton; it's investing in the fabric of the town. It exemplifies a growing movement towards mindful consumption, local economic support, and the revitalization of community spaces. As the Berkshire region continues to attract new residents and visitors, establishments like Riverside Public House will be crucial in maintaining its unique character and fostering a vibrant, connected community.