ABOUT
US
We are Doug and Laura Palmer, lifelong locals of the area; Laura a Walpole native, Doug having grown up on the other side of the Connecticut river in Westminster, VT, moving to Walpole 30 years ago. The tavern gets it's name from Alexander Watkins, who originally purchased the land in 1788 and began construction on the home shortly thereafter. Later in the 1800's the tavern served as a stop for stagecoach drivers on their journey between Rutland, VT and Boston, MA. We aimed to retain much of the historic charm of the tavern, while providing modern amenities to guests of the tavern and inn.We live in Walpole, we golf at Hooper, and we love this town. With the help of our Inn-keeper Melissa, we can't wait to share the charm of Watkins Inn & Tavern for a bite, a drink, or a night's stay!
Melissa Flessa-LaRoche serves as the General Manager and Innkeeper at Watkins Inn & Tavern. She is the friendly face who greets guests at check-in and ensures every visit feels comfortable, welcoming, and truly at home.After spending several years in the financial industry, Melissa decided to follow a long-standing passion for hospitality, an interest that began in her teenage years. When Doug and Laura offered the opportunity to join Watkins, it was clear this was the perfect next chapter.When she’s not at Watkins, Melissa enjoys spending time at home with her husband, Justin, and their children, Lucas and Layla. Walpole is truly home for their family, which is why Melissa is so dedicated to making Watkins a place where everyone feels welcome—whether settling into a guest room or enjoying something delicious from the kitchen.
For any questions about the Inn or Restaurant, please contact Melissa at 603-756-2520 or info@watkinstavern.com.
Meet the Watkins Team
Chef
Steph Carr
Chef Steph has spent 20 years in the food industry, bringing a deep passion to every dish she creates and every plate that leaves her kitchen. She’s often in the back, music playing, fully immersed in her craft—but every now and then she’ll step out front to greet guests with a smile. Thriving in the fast-paced chaos of a busy kitchen, she pours her heart and soul into each meal. The result? Dishes so memorable they keep people coming back for more.
Housekeeper/Server
Caila Wyman
Caila Wyman is a valued member of our team, working as both a server and housekeeper at Watkins. She works closely with our General Manager to help ensure the Inn is clean, comfortable, and ready for every guest’s stay. Caila loves the welcoming atmosphere at Watkins and the strong sense of community connection it brings to the town she calls home. She also says you can’t beat looking out the window at the beautiful Hooper Golf Course.
When she’s not at Watkins, you can usually find her cheering her two boys, Palmer and Tomlin, on from the sidelines at their sports games.