GREENWICH, Conn. - --Jan. 7, 2002-- For those who have already visited Homestead Inn and restaurant Thomas Henkelmann in Greenwich, Connecticut, it will come as no surprise to learn that this special place has become part of the esteemed Relais & Chateaux group. For those who have never been here, the award will instantly make clear how very much you have been missing. Membership in the association, accorded only to those properties that meet the extremely high Relais & Chateaux standards for "courtesy, charm, character, calm, and cuisine" (the famous five C's), is among the most prestigious acknowledgments of excellence that a hotel can receive. (The Relais & Chateaux group, founded in France, and still

Homestead Inn Theresa & Thomas Henkelmann, Proprietors In 1997, Chef Henkelmann and his wife Theresa purchased Homestead Inn and founded restaurant Thomas Henkelmann in Greenwich Connecticut. The restaurant was awarded the prestigious 4 star Mobil Award for 2000. Classic French training, a German background and time spent in France, Germany and Switzerland�s finest 3 star Michelin restaurants, inspire his menu.

On entering Homestead Inn, whether for an inspired meal or a refreshing weekend, the elements that earned it the recognition of this distinguished group are immediately obvious. This is a hotel not quite like any other. Though more than 200-years-old, it is not only an historic inn, but a vibrantly contemporary one. Each of the nineteen modern chambers and suites are fitted out with designer furniture and Frette linens, the decor in every one a reflection of proprietor Theresa Henkelmann's singular and impeccable taste.

While Theresa's decorative mark can be felt in every detail of the rooms, the immensely appealing country porch, the welcoming lounge, and the lovely restaurant, her husband Thomas Henkelmann's influence can be felt in every detail of his cuisine. Classic with contemporary inflections, and completely distinctive, it has been garnering rave reviews from customers and critics since the restaurant, which bears Thomas's name, was opened in 1997.

Although a native of Germany, Thomas Henkelmann is a master French chef who reveres his art. Trained, among numerous other places, at France's famed three-star Michelin rated Auberge de l'Ill, and the equally famous Aubergine in Munich, Thomas went on to become first, the head chef of the renowned restaurant Maurice at Le Parker Meridien and then executive chef of the acclaimed La Panetiere in Rye, New York. But, in time, the wish to have his own restaurant and inn became his primary focus, a way to serve the dishes he wanted to create, each here a joyful reminder of what food can be.

Homestead Inn and restaurant Thomas Henkelmann make an uncommonly fine pairing. Now Relais & Chateaux has paid tribute to their unique accomplishments.