The Castle Restaurant
In 2021 James retired and sold the Castle and it is now The Castle Cantina, a Tapas Bar and Restaurant. The original Castle has a long and proud history. The Nicas family started the operation of the restaurant in 1950. They are joined by the staff of the dining room, many who have been at the Castle for many years and take great pride in their service. A brigade of chefs from the finest culinary schools and some who are actively participating in the American Culinary Federation Apprenticeship Training Program also welcome you.
The Castle has been the benchmark for fine food and impeccable service for over fifty years. In 1981, The Castle won the coveted Ivy Award, securing it as one of the finest restaurants in America. In 1997, the Nicas family received the DiRona award, further securing the restaurant’s reputation as a Distinguished Restaurant of North America. The restaurant has been featured in several reviews including television’s Phantom Gourmet and many others.
The Castle wine cellar is also one of the finest in the country. The wine list has won the Wine Spectator’s Grand Award of Excellence each year since 1985. Maitre d Hotel and cellar master, James Nicas, is eager to assist both the connoisseur and the novice with wine selection. The Castle also hosts seasonal series of wine tastings promoting the education and enjoyment of fine wines.
Located on peaceful Lake Sargent, the site has been a home to many historic structures. In 1722, the site hosted the first grist mill built by Joseph Parson. Other enterprises following the mill included the Sargent card clothing manufacturing building, a schoolhouse, a hearse house and a power station, a restaurant and two trolley barns owned and operated by the Worcester Street Railway, (demolished in 1933). In 1937, the present building was erected of field stone resembling the Morro Castle in Havana, Cuba. In 1966, an addition was built by the Nicas family with stones and lumber from the former Worcester Public Library, the Worcester YWCA, and the Elks Home of Worcester. The addition included a massive stone patio overlooking the lake. The Castle offered seasonal waterside dining and a Sunday Jazz series in July and August.
The Castle was also a member of:
- Members of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association
- National Restaurant Association
- American Culinary Federation
- American Academy of Chefs
- Les Amis D’Escoffier Society
- Confrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs
- Member of the Honorable Order of the Golden Toque
- International Wine and Food Society
- Massachusetts Culinary Association
- Commanderie des Cordon Bleu de France
- Compagnon de Bordeaux Society
