Batavia’s Gammon Coach House was a local, comfort food favorite

BATAVIA – The Gammon Coach House in Batavia closed Feb. 26 after almost 13 years.

Batavia Economic Development Manager Anthony Isom said the restaurant, 3 S. Batavia Ave., was a staple in the community, known for its comfort food and friendly staff.

“It had a community-type feel,” Isom said. “They did comfort food. They did really good burgers and salads, tater tots – really good food. They had a good turnout with their outdoor dining.”

Isom said owner Jon With would reopen in late spring with a new concept with a similar vibe.

Lori Holm, a manager at Gammon, said With confirmed there were plans for construction and rebranding.

“I actually do not know the plans for what will come next. It will be something else. It will not be the Gammon Coach House any longer,” Holm said. “Jon will remain the owner.”

Before the announcement of the closure on Facebook, Holm said With had individual conversations with the 11 staff members.

The restaurant took part of its name from being inside the actual coach house of a large home just to the east at 9 S. Batavia Ave., Holm said.

The large home built in 1885 is now Bee-Attitudes Antiques, according to property records.

“We were literally working in an old barn where the carriage and the horses were kept,” Holm said. “It’s a very intimate place with two rooms inside and beautiful dark wood on the walls ... and a lot of beer stein collectibles on the walls.”

The restaurant was open for lunch and dinner and had a following for its straightforward menu and craft beer. It also featured poutine – french fries and cheese curds covered in gravy or a pork chop.

“Parents would come and eat here before they would watch the homecoming parade,” Holm said. “In the summertime, the patios would draw people ... and on beautiful days, it is full.”

The Facebook announcement drew many kind comments, Holm said, and it was gratifying to know how much the eatery meant to people.

“We’ve literally watched families grow up and brand-new babies brought in,” Holm said. “It was a home away from home for me. We’ve had a lot of really good times here. ... Just before the pandemic kicked off in early January 2020, my husband and I celebrated our 30th anniversary here with friends and staff. And they treated us like the king and queen.”