Albert Einstein stayed in The Peacock Inn while his house was being finished, according to Inn lore.

And, to celebrate all the future Einsteins from Princeton University’s Class of 2025, The Perch at the Peacock Inn, 20 Bayard Lane, will be open on Monday, May 26, to celebrate all grads. The dinner is a special Monday service, with valet parking available. (The restaurant is normally closed Monday; Princeton University Class Day is Monday, May 26.)

Here is information on reservations.

Take a look at the menu here.

The Princeton landmark has received a prestigious 2024 AAA Four Diamond Award for the eighth year in a row, one of only 14 AAA Four Diamond Award-winning hotels in New Jersey, and the only hotel in Princeton to earn this prestigious distinction. It also won a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

The Peacock Inn dates back to the 1700s, when it was built on the corner of Main Street and Railroad Avenue, now Nassau Street and University Place. Jonathan Deare, a member of the Continental Congress, purchased the property from Thomas Stockton in 1779, and offered members of the Continental Congress rooms with fireplaces, breakfast, tea, and dinner, according to its written history.

The Peacock Inn was moved to its present location in 1875 when it was purchased by the Princeton Hotel Company, whose president, William Libbey, a Princeton University graduate and professor, is credited with establishing black and orange as the University colors. In 1911 the Peacock Inn was purchased by Joseph and Helen O’Connor, and named after an inn in Midland England. It is believed that the basement area of The Peacock Inn, also known as “Peacock Alley,” was used as a Prohibition-era speakeasy. It was completely renovated and refurbished in 2010.

Congratulations graduates!