Marsha Brown sells Old Stone Church to local entrepreneurs

The Old Stone Church, named more than 20 years ago, when the former New Hope United Methodist Church moved to Solebury Township, is changing hands.
After 18 years as Marsha Brown’s restaurant, it is changing hands again and will reopen in September as The Old Stone Church of New Hope.
“Since the restaurant was closed down due to COVID-19 in March of 2020, I, like so many, have experienced a number of personal challenges,” Marsha Brown said in an email statement. “The most eye opening, and heart wrenching is the declining health of my sister who lives in New Orleans. She is in the critical stages of the brutal disease of Parkinson’s. This situation needs to continue to have my focus and full attention for her care and comfort.”
The restaurant on South Main Street in New Hope, known for its Southern-style menu and warm hospitality, will open under the leadership of partners Wilfer Naranjo, Michael Sklar, Gaspar Ferrara and Vincent Ferrara.
Wilfer has worked at Marsha for many years. “He played a key role and was a valued team member when the restaurant first opened in 2003,” Marsha Brown said.

“The restaurant must reopen as it plays a key role in the energy and vitality of New Hope,” she said. “I have overwhelmingly adored serving you for the past 18 years and sincerely treasure the Old Stone Church building, it’s warmth and character that joyously chime from the church steeple.
“It saddens me to say that I am unable to give the restaurant the attention it so deserves and needs with my present family situation.”
She called the new ownership … “a marriage made in Heaven to continue the legacy of the restaurant into the future serving diners well and proud.”
Her primary home is in Lumberville, a few miles up River Road from New Hope. She expects to retain ownership of that home.
When the restaurant opens, Marsha Brown gift cards will be honored, she said.

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