Where to Eat in the Hudson Valley: 75 Dining Destinations

From Albany to Westchester, these restaurants are worth a trip.

In the Hudson Valley, we have no shortage of outstanding restaurants, featuring world-class chefs and fresh food from local farms.  Scroll down for just a sampling of some dining recommendations.

 

Albany

Most beer halls have a limited menu. That’s why CH Evans Brewing at the Albany Pump Station is a cut above, with bleu cheese burgers, chicken parm sandwiches on baguettes, and Blue Point oysters on the half shell, among other satisfying fare.

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19 Quackenbush Square, Albany; 518.447.9000

Sure, they’ve got Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, buttermilk biscuits with honey butter, and cheesy grit tots served on a bed of sausage gravy, but Cuckoo’s Nest also serves lighter fare such as marinated watermelon salad with arugula and mint and grilled swordfish with succotash risotto (a recent dinner special).

234 Western Ave, Albany; 518.650.7215

Chef Ric Orlando had local, seasonal ingredients at New World Bistro Bar long before it became a thing. Carnivores, vegans, and everyone in between can find something to love, whether it’s eggplant “meatballs” or brunch faves blackened salmon eggs Benedict and waffles with chipotle maple syrup.

300 Delaware Ave, Albany; 518.694.0529

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It’s tempting to just graze on appetizers like fried pork and shrimp spring rolls at Van’s Vietnamese. But then you’d miss out on grilled lemongrass marinated chicken sprinkled with crushed peanuts and fragrant and flavorful pho, the beloved rice noodle soup served with bean sprouts, lime, and all the traditional trimmings.

307 Central Ave, Albany; 518.436.1868

Why all the kudos for The Barnsider? Could have something to do with fresh cuts of filet mignon, NY sirloin, swordfish, and salmon grilled to order, not to mention diet-busting desserts like turtle cheesecake with hot fudge sauce and white chocolate crème brulée, so appealing with its fresh berry garnish.

480 Sand Creek Road, Albany; 518.869.2448

Every Albany beef lover knows about the signature dry-aged steaks at Angelo’s 677 Prime, but there’s also roasted cauliflower steak with five-grain rice pilaf, burrata ravioli bathed in black truffle sherry butter, fresh takes on salad like shiitake Caesar, and a 400-variety wine selection, with a long by-the-glass list.

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677 Broadway, Albany; 518.427.7463

Dramatically decorated with hardwood floors, brick walls, and industrial-chic lighting, Black & Blue draws the birthday and date night crowd. Try the oyster sampler, steak au poivre (peppery as you like it!), and the (very shareable) crab & lobster fondue.

1470 Western Ave, Albany; 518.313.7388

Columbia

Enjoy dinner at Carolina House, a long-running mainstay serving both tried-and-true favorites like veal marsala and grilled angus strip steak, and such popular signature creations as 1,000 spice Caribbean chicken (hot!) and fried goat cheese wontons.

59 Broad St, Kinderhook; 518.758.1669

Supplying Animal Welfare Approved grass-fed-and-finished black Angus beef from its own nearby farm, Grazin’ is a diner with a difference: fabulous coffee, organic cheeses, and a slew of burger options topped with jalapeño relish, creamy chèvre, and fresh greens.

717 Warren St, Hudson; 518.822.9323

Owners Nick and Sarah Suarez have scored a slam-dunk with Gaskins, a community-minded tavern focused on hyper-local produce. Menu standouts: anything salad-y dressed with house vinaigrette, and comfort classics like fish ’n’ chips and baked mac and cheese with breadcrumbs. Expect an amiable mix of locals and the second-home set.

2 Church Ave, Germantown; 518.537.2107


Wm. Farmer and Sons

Housed in an 1830s building with wide-plank floors and real working gaslights, this favorite of NYC weekenders has also won over the local crowd for its downhome food and top-notch bar, serving hand-crafted cocktails and Hudson Valley whiskey flights. From the get-go when the restaurant opened in 2015, Chef Kirby Farmer made his name with comfort food menu staples that reflect his North Carolina roots (e.g., buttermilk fried chicken and country ham board with biscuits on the side) and has since expanded to spotlight seasonally changing local vegetables — whether local greens dressed with a snappy vinaigrette or a selection of summer squashes paired with burrata. Weekend lunch and brunch are busy times: Nab a shrimp po’ boy, a double-stacked patty burger, or deep-fried French toast with mapled mascarpone and blueberry compote. For the full experience, there’s also a small inn with four-posters, claw-foot tubs, wood-burning stoves, and ticking duvets.

20 South Front St, Hudson; 518.828.1635


      

Wm. Farmer and Sons / Photos by Calena Cahill

For your day in the country, pop into Bartlett House, a restored 19th-century building turned café serving simple fare — shirred eggs, soups, salads, roasts, and skillet dishes. Bespoke jams in interesting flavors (blueberry rose, cherry apricot) enhance just-baked croissants and muffins.

2258 NY-66, Ghent; 518.392.7787

By now, every foodie within a 100-mile radius of Fish & Game has made the pilgrimage to enjoy the creative cuisine of James Beard Award-winning chef Zak Pelaccio. Intriguing culinary contrasts on the lunch and dinner menu include foie gras with honey-preserved husk cherries, chicories with ramp-kimchi dressing, and rice pudding with sake-preserved peaches.

13 South Third St, Hudson; 518.822.1500

There’s always something new and yummy on the menu at Blue Plate, a place to bring the kids for burgers and buttered pasta while you dine on such international choices as ginger shrimp with snow peas or Mediterranean baked cod. Jazz lovers frequent the downstairs lounge for inspired guest performances.

1 Kinderhook St, Chatham; 518.392.7711

Dutchess 

Catering to hipsters and the high-energy crowd, Baja 328 is a 130-plus variety tequila bar and southwest grill serving nachos, wings, flautas, and imaginative taco combos like scallops with sriracha aioli and chorizo with pickled red onion.

328 Main St, Beacon; 845.838.2252

Thank your lucky stars that world-class cooking school Culinary Institute of America is not only located here, but also welcomes the public to dine at its student-staffed restaurants. Walk-ins are welcome at the casual café Apple Pie Bakery and gastropub Post Road Brew House, but you’ll need to reserve for French brasserie Bocuse, Tuscan-style Ristorante Caterina de’ Medici, and locavore favorite American Bounty Restaurant. In the works: a sake brewery!

1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park; 845.471.6608

Enjoy a falafel burger with tahini sauce (not ketchup!) or the sonora, linguini with grilled steak topped with an earthy tequila-chipotle sauce at Fusion Bar & Grill.

260 North Road, Poughkeepsie; 845.471.4173

Buffalo chicken rolls, panko-crusted crabcakes, spicy vegetable curry, homemade key lime pie, it’s all at Double O Grill — not to mention margaritas, martinis, and other chill drinks.

1536 US Route 9, Wappingers Falls; 845.297.7625

The latest creation of Chef Brian Arnoff, Meyer’s Olde Dutch keeps it simple by specializing in burgers and craft beer. But don’t think ordinary: Burger choices include pork & bacon with chipotle BBQ sauce and  ’Shrooms & Nuts served with beet-and-sesame slaw.

184 Main St, Beacon; 845.440.6900

What’s not to love about freshly baked popovers with strawberry butter and Caesar salad served family style, included with all dinners at Hudson’s Ribs & Fish? Maryland crabcake sandwich with a creamy Dijon sauce, cedar-planked salmon crusted with a horseradish blend, and a BBQ baby-back ribs combo with baked stuffed shrimp also steal our hearts.

1099 US Route 9, Fishkill; 845.297.5002


The Amsterdam

Chosen as Hudson Valley Magazine’s Best New Restaurant East of the Hudson in 2017, this Rhinebeck addition with dramatic vaulted ceilings and an open kitchen is more than just a pretty space: It’s a year-round celebration of the seasons. Spring brings standout salads; perhaps friseé with pistachio cream and grapefruit. Summer nights call for dinner on the patio and whole grilled trout with cranberry beans or dayboat scallops served with warm corn salad. When the backyard firepit blazes in fall, red wine braised short rib and duck confit with gnocchi and Swiss chard are sure to appear. Patrons come out of the cold on winter eves for cozy steak pie with Dijon aioli and grilled broccoli, so perfect with a glass of velvety Malbec. If you’re partial to cinnamon buns, head over for weekend brunch and also dig into the bourbon French toast with cinnamon apples. Tequila-spiced hot chocolate topped with freshly whipped cream never disappoints.

6380 Mill Street; 845.516.5033


The Amsterdam / Photo by Liz Clayman

With its mesmerizing waterfall view and downtown location, The Roundhouse is one of those must-visit spots on everyone’s list. Signature splash, The Secret Garden (gin, cucumber, citrus), is heaven on the waterside patio.

2 East Main St, Beacon; 845.765.8369

Surprise plates like duck confit flatbread and buffalo-fried brussels sprouts join burgers, ribs, and other pub classics on the menu at Mill House Brewing Company. Cookie dough pie is a top dessert pick! Grab a four-pack of house-crafted Köld One or Cucumber Blessings to go.

289 Mill St., Poughkeepsie; 845.485.2739

Intimate ambiance, imaginative fare, and stellar service have earned Canoe Hill a glowing reputation. For a low-key evening out, dawdle at the bar over an apéritif and marinated olives, then take a table and enjoy small plates like smoked trout pâté, roasted fennel, and beet salad. Now serving brunch, too!

3264 Franklin Avenue, Millbrook; 845.605.1570

Housed in a stately Victorian decorated in bold hues with period wallpapers, Millerton Inn indulges with homemade yogurt and goat cheese, foraged fiddlehead ferns, and intensely fresh dishes like Mediterranean sea bream with fresh dandelion greens and braised rabbit pappardelle.

53 Main St, Millerton; 518.592.1900

McKinney & Doyle has long been Pawling’s go-to spot for a great breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Where else could you find homemade baked goods like strawberry-rhubarb pie and dinosaur cookies along with spinach grilled cheese sandwich, and char-grilled skirt steak with spring onions and Vietnamese caramel all under one roof?

10 Charles Colman Blvd, Pawling; 845.855.3875

On restaurant row in Fishkill, Il Barilotto is known for its homemade pasta, whether a plate of can’t-miss ravioli alla Gorgonzola at lunchtime or dinner pick pappardelle al ragu’ d’Anatra (pasta ribbons in a creamy Tuscan-style herbed duck sauce). Sea bass, salmon, lamb, and steak are all menu standouts.

1113 Main St, Fishkill; 845.897.4300

Greene

Accessed by land or water, casual Creekside Catskill draws an energetic lunch and dinner crowd. The seafood platter (haddock, stuffed shrimp, scallops) is a big draw, as is blackened salmon with homemade pico de gallo. All-American winners like wings, baby back ribs, and burgers are always in demand.

160 West Main St, Catskill; 518.943.6522


 

Prospect at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge

No matter what the season, you can’t go wrong at this ski country newcomer. In winter, take in mountain views from the floor-to-ceiling windows as you dine on small plates like tuna tartare, shrimp tempura tacos, and heartier steak, chops, and ribs. When the snowbanks subside, the menu features local produce and deck dining. Because it’s located in a lodge, the restaurant serves breakfast, so you can start your day with steel-cut oatmeal or granola drizzled with Catskill honey. Brunch offers this and more: Enjoy a sweet or savory tartine (open sandwich), such as grilled avocado with seaweed and egg. Though closed for dinner on Monday and Tuesday as of this writing, rest assured that the bar is hopping every night of the week, pouring seasonal libations and serving après ski savories that include oysters and a signature fondue blend of gruyère and melt-in-your-mouth challerhocker, accompanied by sourdough bread, apples, and radishes. Happy dipping!

13 Scribner Hollow Road, Hunter; 518.628.5150


Prospect at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge / Photo provided by venue

Start the day with fresh pastries and serious coffee at cute-as-a-munchkin The Windham Local, but let the menu be your guide at lunch time, when truffled grilled cheese, three-bean chili, and pierogi rolls compete for attention with short-but-sweet kids’ and dessert menus.

5410 NY 23, Windham; 518.750.8300

The darling of upstate, Gracie’s Luncheonette appeals for so many reasons: Freshly baked cakes and breads, breakfast-all-day specials like fried chicken and waffles, and classics such as grilled cheese and turkey club sandwiches are elevated almost beyond recognition by local ingredients.

969 Main St, Leeds; 518.943.9363

Orange

Whether you’re east or west of the Hudson, a Cosimo’s is likely nearby with outposts in Newburgh, Central Valley, Middletown, and Poughkeepsie. Wood-fired pizza with lush toppings ranging from smoked ham to herbed ricotta and roasted zucchini and Italian classics like spaghetti and meatballs and chicken parm make for a satisfying experience.

1217 Route 300, Newburgh; 845.567.1556

Tucked away on the riverfront, Pamela’s on the Hudson offers deck (and indoor) dining with a water view. Surf ’n’ turf combos like scallops with hanger steak and mushroom risotto are among the seasonal specials. Other perks: live music, themed wine dinners, and brunch with bottomless mimosas.

1 Park Place, Newburgh; 845.562.4505

A cozy European-style spot near Washington’s Headquarters, Caffe Macchiato whips up from-scratch muffins and pastries, seasonal soups, a weekend dinner that might include monkfish with butternut squash puree or poutine with pork confit gravy, and brunch classics like huevos rancheros.

99 Liberty St, Newburgh; 845.565.4616
Update 12/26/18: Caffe Macchiato is closed.

More than a chic Greek Revival B&B, Borland House Inn also offers a culinary journey. Try their fresh take on brunch: Pearl sugar waffles and poached eggs with creamed leeks are recent standouts.

130 Clinton St, Montgomery; 845.457.1513

Take your pick at Catherine’s: Kick back in the pub with a burger and California cab or head upstairs to the tin-ceilinged dining room and enjoy a multi-course meal. A must-order: warm goat cheese salad followed by cedar plank salmon with a medley of vibrant veggies from nearby Black Dirt country.

153 Main St, Goshen; 845.294.8707


Liberty Street Bistro

Haute cuisine at within-reach prices is a fantasy come true at this Newburgh culinary trailblazer in the heart of the downtown historic district. CIA-trained chef/owner Michael Kelly, who is originally from Cornwall in Orange County, offers two-, three-, and four-course French-inspired meals in accordingly priced tiers ($38-$61), with an option to add a wine pairing for each dish. This not only ensures that customers can always find something to suit their budget, but also embeds a sommelier experience right into the menu. Gastronomes order a procession of delicacies that include snapper crudo accompanied by poached oyster coconut vinaigrette, charred octopus with saffron couscous and pickled onion, and pork tenderloin Wellington. Mais oui, there is a dessert course with extravagances like coconut panna cotta, chocolate mousse cake, and even a cheese plate. Lunch is more low-key, featuring classics like croque madame (grilled speck and Emmenthaler with a fried egg on top) and chicken liver mousse with tangy cornichons.

97 Liberty Street, Newburgh; 845.562.3900


Liberty Street Bistro / Photo by Mary Kelly Photography

Expect the full Northern Italian experience at local legend Il Cenácolo, from the antipasti spread (grilled vegetables, smoked fish, cheeses, and breads) to the fresh pastas, hearty meat course (veal scallopine is a winner) and killer homemade desserts (flourless chocolate cake, tiramisu), plus endless nightly specials.

228 South Plank Road, Newburgh; 845.564.4494

The go-to spot for slices and tried-and-true plates like baked ziti and pasta carbonara, Leo’s Italian Restaurant got its start in Cornwall and added on locations in Newburgh and Wappingers Falls (near Dutchess Stadium). For lunch, grab a salami and provolone hero or a salad dressed with their famous house vinaigrette.

23 Quaker Ave, Cornwall; 845.534.3446

Part of West Point’s castle-like Thayer Hotel, MacArthur’s Riverview Restaurant is justifiably famous for its artistically presented Sunday brunch spread: a sea of cheese platters, fresh fruit, giant shrimp, smoked salmon, plus waffle and dessert stations and free-flowing champagne. Friday night seafood buffet is another high point.

674 Thayer Road, West Point; 845.446.4731

Though known for its brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, Brothers Barbecue also draws a crowd to scarf down fried green tomatoes, Down East poppers (cheese-and-bacon stuffed smoked jalapeños), and Southern sides like candied yams, collard greens, and cheese grits. Bring the whole crew for reasonably priced family combo meals.

2402 New York 32, New Windsor; 845.534.4227

Sit and stay awhile at Fetch Bar and Grill, a canine-themed Warwick eatery (with a Goshen branch) — heavy on doggie decor — whose menu faves include Mom’s Meatloaf with mushroom gravy, The Original Philadelphia Cheese Steak (hoagies shipped in daily from Philly), and Thanksgiving eggrolls loaded with turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. Kids adore ice cream served in dog bowls!

48 Main St, Warwick; 845.987.8200

Putnam

There’s lots to love about Hudson Hil’s, a cheery cafe that offers breakfast all day until 4 p.m. closing time. Eggs Benny, chocolate babka French toast, luscious quiches and crepes, and still-warm fruit pie are all on offer, along with Cobb and salmon salads.

129-131 Main St, Cold Spring; 845.265.9471

Hudson House is blessed with stellar river views from its dining room, but visiting this country inn is not just about the location. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, the restaurant earns kudos for French onion soup, lobster bisque, and surf and turf specialties, not to mention the cozy bar serving cocktail favorites.

2 Main St, Cold Spring; 845.265.9355


Ramiro’s 954

Latin American fusion fare jump-starts your taste buds at this Putnam favorite. Known for addictive appetizers like house-made guac and chips, ceviche, and crispy beef-and-goat cheese flautas, the restaurant explores the depth and breadth of dishes of the Caribbean, Mexico, the Americas, and Spain — all presented with cheerful flair. Tacos dorados, with smoked chicken or chipotle BBQ pork, are straight off a Mexico City food cart. Pernil con mojo (pork shank with tomatillo-avocado sauce) has a Puerto Rican spin, while ostras fritas (crispy oysters with plantain puree) melds Spanish tapas with Dominican flavors. Wash it all down with homemade sangria, a classic margarita, or even a jalapeño mojito. Homemade vanilla flan with caramel sauce and a chocolate cigar ends the meal on a light note. Attention parents: Jan’s Kids Loft offers on-premise childcare while you dine and will even serve little ones finger foods like chicken tenders and fries.

954 Route 6, Mahopac; 845.621.3333


Ramiro’s 954 / Photo by Ramiro Jimenez

Whether beef for short ribs or game for venison ragu, sustainable, locally raised meat is a focus at Clock Tower Grill. The Butchers Block comes with house-made sausages and pickles. Dessert specials might be the banana blood-orange meringue or a warm cookie topped by ice cream. Book the chef’s table for an intimate tasting experience.

512 Clock Tower Drive, Brewster; 845.582.0574

Ever-popular Cathryn’s Tuscan Grill continues to shine with an Old World Italian menu emphasizing rustic fare like sautéed guinea hen and olive-crusted wild bass paired with a top-flight wine list. The flower-filled patio is lovely for lunch.

91 Main St, Cold Spring; 845.265.5582

Always interesting Dish Bistro and Wine Bar attracts gastronomes and oenophiles for mix-and-match small dishes (check out the vegan-friendly crispy artichoke hearts and balsamic chili Brussels sprouts), international whites, rosés, and reds, and even whiskey-laced milkshakes.

947 South Lake Blvd, Mahopac; 845.621.3474

Rensselaer

Enjoy four seasons of fun at The Hill at Muza, an indoor-outdoor Polish beer garden with gorgeous views. Year-round, Polish, German, Czech, and craft American beers pair well with burgers and smoked meat/cheese/pickle platters.

79 Congress St, Troy; 518.662.4455


Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

This unique small chain with six locations in New York State serves arguably the best Southern-style spare ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken in the Northeast. The Troy location is special: For starters, it overlooks the Hudson River near the Green Island Bridge, and there’s outside seating to take full advantage. Plus, you’ll always snag a booth in this 400-seat titanic temple of BBQ that resembles a converted barn, owing to its use of reclaimed wood. Let’s talk favorites: Combo platters are popular samplers for chicken, ribs, pork, brisket, and sausage. Extra-meaty, slow-smoked, and char-grilled wings served with blue cheese dressing are also a big deal. Don’t think you have to be a diehard carnivore to come here: Vegetarians will be perfectly content with the crisp fried green tomatoes and a Sweet & Green Bowl (whipped sweet potatoes and salad fixings), with a big ole smoked portobello as its centerpiece.

377 River St, Troy; 518.308.0400


   

Disosaur Bar-B-Que / Photos by Daniel Kreiger

Peck’s Arcade continues to innovate with specials like orange BBQ glazed duck legs, Manila clams in dashi broth, and grilled escarole with spicy breadcrumbs. Look for the occasional pop-up appearance of the owners’ short-lived but sorely missed Donna’s Italian restaurant.

217 Broadway, Troy; 518.326.3450

Reliable, no-nonsense fishmonger and restaurant Off-Shore Pier offers a daily fresh-caught menu. Start with the clam chowder, then move onto the ever-popular seafood platter loaded with lightly breaded fillet of haddock, scallops, shrimp, and clams.

637 3rd Avenue Ext., Rensselaer; 518.283.9880

Rockland

Neighborhood gathering spot Communal Kitchen pleases vegetarians and carnivores alike with a constantly evolving menu. Look for mussels with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, lemongrass, and chili; Denver lamb ribs with root beer glaze, lentils, basmati rice pilaf, and almonds; or fried quail over collards.

162 Main Street, Nyack; 845.535.3133

Island fare like sautéed shrimp with plantains and patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with house made truffle aioli) rule the menu at Roost. There are also a slew of imaginative specials, whether baby scallops over arugula puree or seared Brussels sprouts with cured pork.

623 Main Street, Sparkill;  845.359.6700

At laidback Union Restaurant and Bar Latino, kick back with a Bubble Juice (champagne with guava or mango) while you decide what to order: maybe an omelet with Oaxaca cheese tostones, a ropa vieja sandwich of braised skirt steak with Manchego cheese, or salmon with corn salsa.

22-24 New Main Street, Haverstraw; 845.429.4354


8 North Broadway

Some call it a farm-to-table restaurant, but this convivial spot on Nyack’s main drag also owes a lot to our oceans for its Mediterranean-inspired menu. Acclaimed for its Oyster Nights and daily whole grilled fish special served with lemon potatoes and sautéed greens, the 65-seat, high-ceilinged eatery with warm brick walls also features steak kebabs and white wine broiled halibut on its daily menu.  Which is not to say you can’t also score a great meat dish here, whether scallion and turkey meatballs or grilled short ribs. Chef Constantine Kalandranis, a CIA alum, turns out a mean vegan falafel platter featuring an olive salad and grilled pita while also tapping into local produce for dishes like crunchy garden fattoush (a Middle Eastern salad highlighting tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons) and shaved kale salad with parmesan vinaigrette. Diners are encouraged to take their time and savor every bite, so feel free to chat the night away.

8 North Broadway, Nyack; 845.353.1200


   

8 North Broadway / Photos provided by venue

Weekend brunch is a real treat at Sixty5 On Main, a chic multi-room space. As an alternative to the usual fare, try the shakshuka: two eggs poached in a spicy tomato base and served with pita. Be sure to sample a few small plates at dinner, maybe short rib fritters, falafel and hummus, and shrimp dumplings.

65 Main Street, Nyack; 845.358.5200

Eat your way around the US and the world at Unoodles, where Southern-Mex yucca hush puppies and beef empanada with pickled Japanese vegetables sit side by side on a global menu. The ever-popular Piggy Bowl with ramen noodles and pulled pork makes a light meal. Fish tacos are another winner.

14 Main St, Haverstraw; 845.947.7625

For a taste of Greece and the Middle East, Dill Fresh Mediterranean Grill serves up all your faves like falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, and, of course, gyro. Build your own wrap, pita, rice bowl, or salad with tasty twists on toppings like kofte meatballs, Lebanese slaw, and Sicilian lemon sauce.

14 N. Main Street, New City; 845.638.3455

Ulster

Start with a cocktail made with whiskey from the famous distillery next door, and then settle down for a meal at Char 1788, an authentic gristmill serving appealing American fare such as rainbow trout, stewed rabbit, and Hudson barbecue pork.

 14 Grist Mill Lane, Gardiner; 845.255.1527
Update 12/26/18: Char 1788 is closed.

Glorious surroundings (a view of Esopus Falls, classic wood bar, soaring fireplace) initially attract diners to The Tavern at Diamond Mills, but the food keeps them coming back. Expect a full house at the multicourse weekend brunch, with temptations like ricotta pancakes and lobster omelet.

25 South Partition Street, Saugerties; 845.247.0700

Known for its imaginative use of home-grown produce, Henry’s at the Farm, the restaurant of Buttermilk Falls Inn and Spa, has a repertoire of hits like Caesar salad with spicy brioche croutons, spinach frisée salad dressed with Prosecco vinaigrette, crispy fried duck wings, pork sliders, and a signature burger topped with applewood smoked bacon.

220 North Road, Milton; 845.795.1500

Join the brunch bunch at Aroma Thyme Bistro, where freshly baked banana bread and the Milano (prosciutto and eggs) are in demand. Daily specials might be lobster mac and cheese, butternut squash and blue cheese pizza, or slow-smoked brisket. Expect loads of local mushrooms and organic leafy greens, nitrate-free meats, and an extensive beer selection.

165 Canal Street, Ellenville; 845.647.3000

Dine at Shindig at all hours and always find something new to love. Breakfast soothes with still-warm cinnamon buns and the eggy veggie scramble. For lunch and dinner, there’s classic grilled cheese, beef, lamb, and burgers, and twist-on-tradition grilled trout BLT. Grab a warm chocolate chip cookie before they sell out!

1 Tinker Street, Woodstock; 845.684.7091


A&P Bar

Uber-hip but unpretentious, this atmospheric watering hole is indeed housed in an iconic former A&P supermarket. But where Eight O’Clock Coffee once ruled, cocktails are now king. And, boy, do they have a mouthful: The 30-foot-long tiger-maple-topped bar houses an encyclopedic selection of spirits, including homemade bitters and syrups. Signature drinks include Dungaree (bourbon ’n’ cider), Bitter Me Bourbon (bourbon, apple, and vanilla bitters, Meletti Amaro, and Cinzano Bianco), and Perfect Lady (gin, Cointreau, and Grand Marnier with a playful twist of candied citrus). Oh yes, the food! There are bar snacks like mini chicken kabobs and Scotch eggs with pickled baby onions. Make it a meal with hearty steak frites, French lentil pie, or shrimp à la plancha with grilled veggies, capped off with chocolate pots de crème sporting edible flowers and biscotti. Weekend brunch surprises with poffertjes (small, puffy Dutch pancakes) and a classic English breakfast with eggs, sausage, bacon, and grilled tomatoes.

83 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock; 845.684.5395


   

A&P Bar / Photos by Jennifer May

Home-style Pakistani and Indian dishes star at Bluestone Tavern and Tandoori Grill.  Savory samosa triangles with chickpea curry, classic boneless chicken tandoori, and lamb shank curry are always spot-on. They do American, too, so go ahead and order fish ’n’ chips or filet mignon with a salad.

405 Old Route 32, Saugerties; 845.247.3015

Middle Eastern and Mediterranean favorites mingle at Garden House 12472, a culinary refuge with a dining porch and leafy patio. Mashed fava beans, hummus with lamb, and spinach pies are among the tasty appetizers. Choose from meat kabob plates and vegetarian specialties like Moroccan curried chickpeas and eggplant carpaccio. Try new tastes at the Wednesday night buffet.

4 Hardenburgh Lane, Rosendale; 845.658.3131

At La Charla, taco choices include refried beans, seared skirt steak, and beer-battered cod. You’re sure to love the guac, roasted vegetable enchiladas, and chicken in mole sauce with almonds and green beans.

127 Main Street, New Paltz; 845.633.8276

Deliciously different, Duo Bistro is known for such unusual brunch fare as bread pudding French toast and brekkie noms, a croissant sandwich with smoked salmon and pickled vegetables. Tuesday night burger and margarita specials draw crowds.

299 Wall St, Kingston; 845.383.1198

Located in a renovated boathouse on the Kingston waterfront, Ole Savannah conjures the South with stacks of sweet ’n’ tart fried green tomatoes, shrimp and creamy grits in aromatic brown gravy, and a succulent rib combo. Pecan pie and Key lime tart complete the feast.

100 Rondout Landing, Kingston; 845.331.4283                   

Westchester

The location alone is special: a glass-walled restaurant on a historic pier with gape-worthy Palisades views, especially at sunset. Happily, the food at Xaviar’s X20 on the Hudson is also topnotch. A contemporary American lunch and dinner menu showcases ribeye steak, seafood crepes, and to-die-for desserts that include chocolate praline tart and strawberry trifle.

71 Water Grant Street, Yonkers; 914.965.1111

Using produce grown on their on-site farm and fresh seafood, Purdy’s Farmer & The Fish takes surf ’n’ turf in a new direction. An extensive raw bar offers the usual choices, plus gingery seaweed. Salads and soups brim with lobsters, scallops, and mussels. Entrees include Carolina swordfish, Atlantic cod, and naturally raised beef.

100 Titicus Road, North Salem; 914.617.8380


The Cookery

Chef David DiBari unleashes his creativity at this trending Italian-meets-New American hotspot. While you’ll always find Italian comfort foods like outsized Heirloom Meatballs and homemade pasta and mozzarella, there is also an experimental undercurrent coursing through the menu: Examples include charred eggplant paired with garlic chips and parmesan and a lasagna dish incorporating squash and pumpkin seeds in an Italian-style béchamel sauce. A proponent of the nose-to-tail movement (dishes are sometimes garnished with Flintstones-style upright bones), the chef especially embraces the whole hog, from the doughnut (smoked pig’s head with barbecued onion) to pork osso bucco served on a bed of creamy white polenta with apple mustard. Expect twists at brunch, too, where the menu recently touted Poached Egg In a Jar with polenta and crispy pork, chocolate chicken liver pâté with cornbread, and waffles and bone marrow with date compote.

39 Chestnut Street, Dobbs Ferry; 914.305.2336


   

The Cookery / Photos provided by venue

Reclaimed wood decor, antique doors, and rustic details make dining at RiverMarket Bar & Kitchen a multi-sensory experience. Menu items like Hemlock Hill roast chicken and Highland Farm venison are sourced from humane, sustainable farms. Pasta and wood-fired pizzas and calzones get their oomph from specialty Neapolitan flour.

127 West Main Street, Tarrytown; 914.631.3100

Chef/owner Christian Petroni presides over an Italian-inspired Fortina mini-empire of restaurants in Armonk, Rye Brook, and Yonkers, the latest location. It’s all about sharing here: Split the arancini balls and fried mozz sticks, spaghetti and meatballs, and, of course, one of the famous pies like the Luigi Bianco, a three-cheese mix spiked with black truffles.

1086 North Broadway, Yonkers; 914.358.3595; 136 South Ridge Street, Rye Brook; 914.937.0900; 17 Maple Avenue, Armonk; 914.273.0900

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