Northfield's Red Kettle embodies community atmosphere

By Matt Dempsey
Norwich Guidon Staff Writer

Gloria Drown had prior experience as a waitress when she walked into the Red Kettle Restaurant one day in 1968 to deliver an order of farm-fresh produce. At 11:30 in the morning, the place was very busy and short on help.

After five ownership changes, Drown is still employed at the establishment on Route 12 in Northfield.

"They knew I had waitressed before, so they asked me to waitress. I really wasn't dressed for it, but I did it and have been here ever since," Drown recalled. " I suppose I've been here longer than anyone, now, including the owner."

Located about a quarter-mile from Norwich University, the Red Kettle is one of the more unique eateries in the Barre-Montpelier area, including Thursday night buffets, 13 specials, and Northfield's only salad bar.

When the current owner, Dan DeLina of Northfield, Vt., bought the restaurant in 1988, he wanted to keep the traditional feel to the restaurant by doing more than just adding the word "family" to its name. DeLina sees his business as a community service. Open every day, DeLina said that people come in even on holidays "just to get a donut or a cup of coffee."

"We are a community-minded family, so we get a lot of satisfaction out of serving the community," DeLina said.

Drown said she believes that people return because of the bonds that patrons form.

In the early morning, they meet many people they do not ordinarily see and are full of good humor as they discuss everything from current events to tall tales of hunting experiences.

"They're conducting town business in their own way," DeLina said. "They tell a lot of jokes. It's a good place to vent, a good place to open up the day. People talk about women's coffee clutches [as gossip centers]; well, you ought to come in and see the males--the gentlemen--talk; it's all gossip."

Some of the regulars filter in for coffee starting at 4 a.m., when the cook opens the doors, and Drown arrives by 6:30 to begin serving food. "Many keep their own mug at the restaurant, and when they arrive, their coffee or hot chocolate is ready for them by the time they sit down," Drown said.

"It's just so friendly here. We laugh and tell jokes and have a good time," said Mary Edson, a five-year patron from Barre, Vt. "You have the one-on-one service here, and they know what you like; they know our habits, and we usually stick to the same."

Edson had heard of the Red Kettle by word of mouth, which is their main method of advertising. Only recently did DeLina begin to advertise on radio.

When DeLina prepares the menu for the day, he keeps his patrons in mind. The foods he serves are traditional, family-style meals.

"I've tried a couple of Mexican dishes, but it just doesn't go here, because it's a very traditional New English type of place. But bring out the old chicken and biscuits, the Yankee pot roast, and you've got a hit," DeLina said.

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