[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 128 (Wednesday, July 30, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1617]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY WAYSIDE RESTAURANT AND BAKERY

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                            HON. PETER WELCH

                               of vermont

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 2008

  Mr. WELCH of Vermont. Madam Speaker, I come to the floor today in 
celebration of the 90th birthday of a well-known Vermont establishment, 
the Wayside Restaurant and Bakery.
  Located on the town line of Berlin and the city of Montpelier, the 
Wayside was built and opened in the summer of 1918 by the Ballou 
family. Located on Route 302, the Wayside has offered a convenient 
stopping place for travelers and locals alike for generations.
  When the Wayside was first opened, it did not offer a dine-in 
service, but rather functioned as a take-out restaurant. The size of 
the Wayside has grown considerably since 1918, and the restaurant now 
boasts a 160-seat dining room and a kitchen of equal size.
  Nearly all of the Wayside's food--including its renowned breads and 
desserts--are homemade, and produce from local farms is frequently 
used. The menu features traditional Vermont dishes like salt pork and 
chicken pie, and a wide-range of other country favorites.
  Serving an average of 1,000 customers each day, the Wayside caters to 
a diverse clientele. Primarily a place for local Vermonters to enjoy 
good company and food at affordable prices, the Wayside also attracts 
legislators, state employees, and tourists. The parking lot is always 
full, and for weekend brunch, the line runs out the door. Yet despite 
its incredible popularity, the restaurant maintains a relaxed and 
authentic atmosphere.
  Though recognized nationally by publications such as the New York 
Times and Gourmet Magazine, the Wayside remains a locally-oriented 
restaurant, embracing the surrounding community. When the Red Sox won 
the 2004 World Series, the Wayside's current owners, Karen and Brian 
Zecchinelli, joined in the local celebration by hosting a rally and 
rolling back prices to 1918. More than 3,000 customers visited the 
Wayside for the festivities. It is a true fixture in Central Vermont.
  I would like to thank Karen and Brian Zecchinelli for continuing to 
provide the Vermont community with exceptional food, service, and 
atmosphere. The Wayside is a wonderful Vermont institution. 
Congratulations to the Wayside on its 90th birthday. May it continue to 
serve our community for another 90 years.

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