Foodies and history lovers rejoice as The Pink House welcomes those near and far to stop by for rich food and stories of old Nevada. With its eye-catching pink color and delicate white trim, it’s hard to believe that the building was actually once the area’s de facto town hall! Learn about the history of the fascinating restaurant known as The Pink House.
If these pink walls could talk! It’s said that the house is nearly as old as the town of Genoa. The house was built in 1855 by John Reese of Salt Lake City who came to the area during the gold rush era of the 1850s.
Reese built The Pink House next to his grist mill.
Surprisingly, The Pink House wasn’t always pink! That would come years later. However, the house played a major role in the newly established town of Genoa, Nevada.
When the government of Utah Territory wanted to create a new government in Genoa (formerly Mormon Station), there was no official town hall yet. However, people naturally congregated at The Pink House, and it became the de facto town hall.
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How did The Pink House get its namesake color? Almost twenty years later, J.R. Johnson bought the home in 1870. He had plans to move his family into the house and create an ideal home for them. As part of the renovations, he not only moved the house from its spot near the grist mill to its current location, but he painted it pink as well!
Since then, the house’s ownership has changed hands multiple times. Many owners continued to see the house as a home although some were known to sell goods or practice law from the house. One of the most notable owners was Lillian Finnegan who lived in The Pink House for 54 years!
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Current-day owners Dan and Lois Wray began restoring The Pink House with help from Douglas County Historical Society and the State Historical Preservation Office. Much attention was given to maintaining the historical significance of The Pink House. It had played such a major role in Genoa’s history!
Patrons feel as if they have stepped back in time at The Pink House. Inside the restaurant, find styles and décor to match that of the late 1800s.
Many locals and tourists flock to see the Gothic Revival architecture and pink structure for themselves. They are also greeted with wonderful artisanal foods and the professional hospitality of The Pink House’s staff.
The same quality goes into their Charcuterie selection as well! Choose from some of the finest preserved meats and selections to create your own custom Cheese and Charcuterie board. It’s a fun way to entice your palate with loads of flavor.
Attention to detail does not stop at the display case. Find the entrees to be just as mouth-watering with dishes like the Braised Short Rib or the Yellow Coconut Curry.
Guests love the Cheesemonger’s Grill Cheese served with three different kinds of cheese on herb butter-crusted sourdough. It’s absolutely delicious!
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Pair your favorite wine and cheese or discover new combinations with the help of The Pink House staff. They’re happy to assist guests find new and exciting pairings!
Whether you are stopping by for an event at The Pink House or for dinner, you are sure to be in awe of its living history and wonderful ambiance. The food is just as delightful, too! You don’t want to pass up a visit to Genoa’s The Pink House restaurant right in the center of town, and the center of its rich history.
