FCVB Notes

Well, the sad news that the iconic Peach Tree Restaurant and Gifts is closing has made the social media rounds. For many, many visitors The Peach Tree was a part of every trip to Fredericksburg. For many locals, The Peach Tree was a part of our life — for me, personally, over the past 21 years.

Our sincere thanks to Hector and Cynthia Pedregon for starting their tradition of gracious hospitality and wonderful cuisine over 45 years ago, and to their daughter, Tina, for carrying it on. We wish all of their family and the staff at The Peach Tree the very best in the future.

We look forward to the new restaurant concept coming to that location.

And in the same general neighborhood, watch for the opening of Squeezed In, a new restaurant in the 100 block of South Adams Street, which will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., according to its website. Other locations of this restaurant are in California and Nevada. “Best omelets on the planet,” they say!

Speaking of restaurants, this week we welcomed back Bejas to Main Street, next to Burger Burger. Best of luck to Eric Bryla on the relaunch!

Did someone say “biscuit bar” at Emma & Ollie? I love fresh biscuits! And what about beignets? Oh my!

If you have not tried out Emma & Ollie, the new restaurant on South Washington Street in the old location of The Nest, you should give it a try. Rebecca Rather is at the helm as chef. They are receiving great reviews, and the restaurant supports local farmers. Parking can be tricky, so go early!

Speaking of establishments “coming back,” one new project has captured my attention.

How would you like to have a drink at the White Elephant Saloon? As some may know, the White Elephant Saloon opened around 1888 at 242 East Main Street. Plans for the proposed Albert Hotel would incorporate that historic building into the hotel project, and management would reopen the White Elephant Saloon. Now that is historic preservation in action!

At one time, Main Street had several hotels, including the Nimitz Hotel and the Central Hotel, located at 218 West Main Street.

The proposed Albert Hotel, if plans are approved by the various city commissions, would bring hotel lodging back to the central part of East Main Street. A very nice addition to the mix of businesses on Main.

The restaurant scene in Fredericksburg continues to evolve and change. So, we say farewell to one tradition, howdy to new restaurant partners and, hopefully, will welcome back a part of Fredericksburg’s long ago past in the form of the White Elephant Saloon.

www

Loeffler is the president and CEO of the Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau.