Nestled in the heart of Nevada City, California, Stone House is more than just a restaurant—it’s a living piece of history. Built in 1857, this historic building has stood the test of time, evolving from a Gold Rush-era brewery into one of the region’s most celebrated farm-to-table restaurants and cultural hubs. Over the years, it has transformed to reflect the spirit of the times while preserving the rich heritage of the Gold Country.
At the height of the California Gold Rush, Nevada City flourished as one of the most prosperous mining towns in the state. Stone House was originally constructed as a brewery and storage facility, catering to the influx of miners and settlers searching for fortune. The solid stone walls, sourced from local quarries, provided a cool refuge for storing beer and provisions, making it a crucial stop for travelers and workers alike.
Fronting Sacramento Street and bounded by Boulder Street to the north and Rough and Ready Ditch to the south and east, the old Nevada Brewery was a 2.5-story structure made of quarried rough-cut granite with Erne mortar. The north portion of the building was originally constructed in the mid-1850s, but it reached its distinctive form in 1882-83 when it was expanded into its present configuration. The original facade remains largely intact, retaining much of its historic charm. Although a second-floor balcony on the north side was removed, and a lean-to addition was later added at the rear, these changes did not significantly alter the building’s historical integrity.
A significant moment in the building’s history occurred in 1881, when the adjacent Temperance Hall burned to the ground. This fire damaged the southern half of the brewery’s main roof and destroyed the roof over the second-floor balcony. While some structural elements were lost, remnants such as iron ledger brackets from the former roof remain visible in the stone wall today. Following the fire, Mr. Gehrig began construction of a new brewery building in 1882, expanding the site while preserving much of the original 1850s stone structure, which still remains a part of Stone House today.
The original structure, approximately 29 feet wide and 41 feet long, was three levels in height with a simple wood-frame gable roof. The west elevation along Sacramento Street had four openings—two at the main level and two symmetrically located at the second level. The south wall had three openings, while the north elevation originally had none at ground level but featured two second-story windows. The east and south walls still show evidence of their original exterior status, as iron pintle hinges remain in place.
In 2017, visionary entrepreneur Jonathan Rowe took ownership of Stone House, breathing new life into the space with a commitment to sustainability, culture, and community engagement. Recognizing the potential of the historic landmark, he embarked on an ambitious renovation and restoration project, expanding and revitalizing the space while maintaining its original character. This renovation included expanding the downstairs interior door between the tavern and the stage room, refurbishing the original wood floors upstairs, and building out the stunning slate bar on the upper level.
In 2020, Jonathan continued his work by refurbishing the third floor into a luxurious three-bedroom suite. This space now features a full chef’s kitchen, spa-like bathroom, and beautifully restored architectural details, offering an elegant and comfortable setting for private stays and special events.
Beyond the kitchen, Stone House has evolved into a multifaceted venue, offering live music, cabaret-style dinners, and private event spaces. The Cave, Patio, and Penthouse Suite provide unique settings for weddings, gatherings, and intimate celebrations, making it a beloved space for both locals and visitors alike.
Additionally, with the launch of Stone House Farms in 2024, the restaurant has deepened its commitment to regenerative agriculture, growing a diverse range of organic produce, herbs, and specialty crops to supply its ever-evolving menu.
Today, Stone House stands as a bridge between past and present, honoring Nevada City’s rich history while pioneering a sustainable and innovative future. With its commitment to quality, community, and cultural connection, Stone House remains a gathering place for those who appreciate fine food, live music, and the timeless spirit of a place where history continues to be written.
We invite you to experience Stone House—where the past meets the present, and where every meal is a story worth sharing.
Book your table or learn more at www.stonehouse.io.
