“Let us be your Guest Room!” –Tracee Varni
The venerable and historic B&B, the Inn at Benicia Bay, has persevered as a mainstay lodging and venue for gatherings and events since the 1850s. The residence was owned by the same family from 1859 until 1981. Originally, it served as a first home for a young sea captain and his wife, then a rooming house, and then a private home again until the last owner died in 1981. Intermediary owners built additions to the original structure, and opened it as an Inn in 1984, and at one point, it was an extension of the Union Hotel on First Street.
The most recent owners, local Benicians, Tracee and Dennis Varni, purchased the Inn in 2019 and built upon the solid workmanship done since 1984.
During the pandemic, they have created peaceful areas on the grounds where flowering shrubs, trees and formal gardens are conducive to relaxing and interacting with others. They have concentrated on creating a peaceful venue where customers can stay overnight, dine, have meetings, weddings, and celebrations. The Varnis are anticipating holding future events such as wine tastings, small concerts, and other gatherings. The Inn at Benicia Bay is mere steps from annual Benicia festivities like the Holiday Tree Lighting, the Torchlight Parade in July, the Halloween parade and other civic events. During the pandemic, the Varnis had the opportunity to significantly improve the grounds and complete the commercial kitchen, bistrot, and fully handicap-accessible guest room. Extra blankets, coffee, tea, chocolates, and fluffy towels, and plenty of outlets also enhance each room. Service, cleanliness and comfort are is of utmost importance to the innkeepers, and as is evidenced by the repeat customers that frequent the Inn.
Tracee and Dennis Varni originally purchased the Inn to provide a location for their Italian friends, Chef Massimo Biatta and Sonia Giovanazzi to open their dream restaurant, Amore Bistrot. Amore enhances The Inn experience by providing an Italian breakfast for The Inn guests, as well as serving delicious Italian food to the public every day.
For yourself or a family member, for a night, a weekend, or more, The Inn at Benicia Bay promises to pamper every guest and make them feel at home. Visit The Inn for a tour, and let The Inn be your guest room!
