The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Garrett County Department of Business Development, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, to celebrate the grand opening of The Mountain Grape Tavern in Grantsville,
Nestled along the scenic Casselman River at 146 Casselman Road in Grantsville, Maryland, The Mountain Grape Tavern blends the warmth of Appalachian hospitality with the bold, timeless flavors of the Mediterranean. Owned and operated by Emily Newman-Edwards, Mayor of the Town of Grantsville, and Paul Edwards, Chair of the Garrett County Commissioners, the tavern carries on a local legacy in the same historic space that formerly housed The Cornucopia Café, a beloved Grantsville staple.
Under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Martin Galloway, The Mountain Grape Tavern offers a menu that celebrates both regional and international traditions — from locally sourced ingredients and rustic pastas to handcrafted desserts and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
Beyond its inviting cuisine and elegant riverside setting, The Mountain Grape Tavern is deeply committed to community connection. The owners and staff take pride in sourcing from local farms and purveyors, creating jobs, and offering their venue as a gathering place for neighbors, visitors, and special occasions. From intimate dinners to full-service weddings and private events, the tavern embraces the spirit of shared celebration that defines Garrett County.
With its warm atmosphere, exceptional hospitality, and deep community roots, The Mountain Grape Tavern is more than a restaurant, it’s a new chapter in a cherished local tradition. Guests are invited to savor the blend of old and new, to raise a glass to the people who make this region special, and to experience the wonderful things happening in the heart of Western Maryland.
The event was led by Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats. Dignitaries in attendance included Maryland State Delegate Jim Hinebaugh; Delanie Blubaugh, Regional Director for Western & Mountain Maryland for U.S. Senator Alsobrooks; Annaston Cree, Grants Director and Field Representative for Representative April McClain Delaney; Commissioners Larry Tichnell and Ryan Savage; Business Retention & Expansion Representative Andrew Sargent with the Maryland Department of Commerce; Director of Planning and Community Development Steve Kelley; Business Development Manager Kim Durst; Grantsville Town Councilmember George Edwards; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Shawn Bender and Ben Riegsecker; and Chamber President Nick Sharps.
Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Kim Carter, Anne Davidson, Stephanie Filsinger, Tracy Kelley, Patty Manown Mash, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, Sarena Rodeheaver, and Kristin Skeweris also took part in the celebration, presenting owners Emily Newman-Edwards and Paul Edwards with a First Dollar of Profit Certificate and assisting with the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
“Congratulations to the Edwards family on the grand opening of The Mountain Grape Tavern in Grantsville,” said Norman. “Your dedication and vision have not only brought a new gathering place to our community but also helped grow the spirit of connection and hospitality that makes Grantsville so special."
“Emily and Paul, congratulations on bringing this grape idea to life,” said Sharps. “I’ve heard along the vine that your blend of local charm and bold flavors has made this place the toast of the town. On behalf of the Chamber, we raise our glasses to your success. May your business flourish, your tables stay full, and your spirits never run dry. Yamas to The Mountain Grape Tavern!”
Article and photo courtesy of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.
