2 minute read
The Inn and Spa at Benicia Bay
–Tracee Varni
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Jeannine Mendoza, Ed.D
The venerable and historic B&B, the Inn at Benicia Bay, has persevered as a mainstay lodging and venue for gatherings and events since the 1850s. The residence was owned by the same family from 1859 until 1981. Originally, it served as a first home for a young sea captain and his wife, then a rooming house, and then a private home again until the last owner died in 1981. Intermediary owners built additions to the original structure, and opened it as an Inn in 1984, and later as an extension to the Union Hotel on First Street.
The most recent owners, local Benicians, Tracee and Dennis Varni, purchased the Inn in 2019 and built upon the solid workmanship done since 1984. During the pandemic, they have created peaceful areas on the grounds where flowering shrubs, trees and formal gardens are conducive to relaxing and interacting with others. They have concentrated on creating a venue where customers can stay overnight, dine, have meetings, weddings, and receptions. The Varnis have planned future events such as wine tastings, small concerts, and other gatherings. The Inn at Benicia Bay is mere steps from annual Benicia festivities like the Holiday Tree Lighting, the Torchlight Parade in July, the Halloween parade and other civic events. During the pandemic, the Varnis had the opportunity to fine tune improvements to the six guestrooms as well as the grounds. Important details were added, like ample outlets for phones and laptops. Extra blankets and fluffy towels also enhance each room. Service and comfort is of utmost importance to the innkeepers, and is evidenced by the repeat customers that frequent the Inn.
Tracee and Dennis Varni originally purchased the Inn to provide a location for their Italian friends, Chef Massimo Biatta and Sonia Giovanazzi to open their dream restaurant, Amore Bistrot. Intending to introduce the Italian concept of Aperitivo (Italian Happy Hour) to Benicia, Massimo and Sonia’s offerings of specialty Italian wines or soda with delicious cheeses, salamis, Italian breads, crackers and other finger foods would be pleasing to the public and available to the Inn’s patrons. Unfortunately, COVID ended gatherings of any kind, so the bistrot pivoted, working with the Varnis to offer pick-up meals and a shop to purchase authentic Italian groceries and wines.
All in all, the Inn at Benicia Bay and Amore Bistrot have enhanced the experience the would-be lodger will enjoy when they check in for a weekend or more. The Varnis are waiting to pamper you and your guests on your next visit. Come visit them soon!
