Beauty and history converge at Massillon restaurant
The Romanesque 1840s Stone House mansion in Massillon intrigues passersby with its beauty and history that predate the Civil War. When patrons dine at the Social at the Stone House restaurant inside the 4,000-square-foot gem, they can satisfy that curiosity.
“They like to check out the house and look at all the floors in the rooms, which we encourage and love. I want it to be an experience,” says owner Sandy Doll, who previously ran an event center in the space and launched the restaurant in July 2021.
Her frequent global travels influenced her while redesigning the home in a swanky, upscale style that matches its elegant local sandstone exterior, wood-paneled foyer, hand-carved wooden grand staircase, circular gazebo and five fireplaces. She themed each room, including the third-floor Overlook Lounge with great views of Massillon, vaulted ceilings, Prohibition-era liquor cabinets hidden in the bench seating and a long wooden bar. A large patio with a fire pit and cigar lounge is set to open this spring. Doll says dining in the grand environment is a highlight.
“First it’s the house and atmosphere, and then it’s the food and service,” she says. “It’s a whole night out.”
The menu features eclectic global cuisine with elevated large and small plates, such as the tuna tartare avocado stack ($18) that’s served with kettle chips. Chef Jeff Herman dices tuna, marinates it in soy sesame oil and stacks it with avocado and green onions. A Sriracha drizzle adds heat that’s balanced by the avocado.
“It cools it down and makes it a little more refreshing and lighter,” Doll says.
A favorite Doll has been serving at events for years is the prosciutto and arugula flatbread ($14). The base packs a tiny tart punch from an artichoke bruschetta made of marinated artichokes, garlic, olive oil and Parmesan. It’s topped with a prosciutto and peppery arugula salad tossed in olive oil and lemon juice for a dash of zestiness.
“It’s a two for one. It’s a nice, light flatbread,” she says, “then you have the salad on top.”
The cocktails are stunners with artful garnishes such as the refreshing vodka lime gimlet ($12), which is topped with a cucumber ribbon.
While Doll is new to the restaurant business, her experience with charity work and event planning shines, as the environment, dishes and drinks keep piquing interest.
“I’m thrilled when somebody says, I’ve been two or three times,” she says. “That’s what keeps me going — how to be more creative and put different spins on things.” KP
824 Lincoln Way E, Massillon, socialstonehouse.com