Some characteristic features are its stout cupola, long windows, and a blue and white symmetrical front.

[6] In 1983, a review in The New York Times praised the Mad Batter for its lychee duck and snow peas, introduced after Kulkowitz visited Thailand and brought back a chef.

[2] He did major renovations on the hotel in 1985, introducing air conditioning, refurbishing antique furniture, and adding a bathroom to every guest room.

[6] In 2016, Kulkowitz's son Mark and his wife Pam Huber, who currently own the hotel and restaurant, renovated the front porch to become a year-round gathering spot.

The oatmeal pancakes were praised by the Boston Globe as "simple, hearty, and a trusty companion to any breakfast drink.