Welcome to the Valley Inn Restaurant, where history and exceptional cuisine come together. As Joe Occhi, the proud owner, I'm thrilled to share our unique story. The Valley Inn, situated on the historic site of the Cornell family's 17th-century homestead, is not just a place to dine but a portal to a fascinating past.

Our story begins in 1957 when my father, Ennio “Mario” Occhi, an Italian immigrant and skilled chef, purchased the property from a Cornell descendant. The restaurant's current structure, built in 1892, echoes the original Cornell farmhouse design and stands as a tribute to the past. The Cornell family plot, where Rebecca Cornell is buried, lies behind the restaurant, adding a layer of mystery to our establishment's rich history.

One of the most intriguing aspects about the property is its connection to a legendary ghost story. In 1673, Thomas Cornell was hanged for the murder of his mother, Rebecca Cornell, after his uncle, John Briggs, testified that Rebecca's ghost had revealed her murder in a dream. Some believe her restless spirit still lingers, with guests claiming to occasionally experience unexplained phenomena.

Beyond the ghostly tales, Valley Inn offers a warm, old-world European atmosphere. Our interior features stone walls, a wooden barrel-arch ceiling, and repurposed materials from historic local buildings. The dining area is an addition to the original building and was all built by Ennio himself shortly after opening for business in 1957. The ambiance is complemented by our family recipes, passed down through generations, including our famous French onion soup and stuffed quahogs (which are served with every entree).

At the Valley Inn, we are proud to serve delicious meals with a side of history and a dash of mystery. We invite you to join us and perhaps experience a bit of the paranormal along with your meal. See you soon!!