Eat
Places to visit eat in the Hudson Valley
Champetre
Situated along the quiet stretch of Pine Plains, NY, Champetre is a quaint establishment where the legacy of French culinary excellence continues in an intimate setting. Helmed by chef Michel Jean, renowned for his gastronomic contributions across the globe and notably in Manhattan's SoHo district, this eatery represents a shift to more personal dining experiences. Michel, alongside his wife, Patricia, aims to recreate the warmth of a French countryside kitchen, focusing on his roots in Provençal cuisine. There’s no flamboyant signage to mark its location, just a simple cursive 'Restaurant' over the door, yet inside, it’s a hub of distinctive French dining.
The couple opened Champetre in 2021 after parting with their previous venture, the historic Stissing House. They transformed the venue with a minimalist decor palette of black, white, and pale yellow, reflecting both modern simplicity and vintage elegance. Emilie, their daughter, brought in design elements like the banquettes from New York City’s The Roxy, tying the past to their current atmosphere. The small, shoe-box-sized kitchen allows Michel to prepare carefully curated menus that change with the seasons, spotlighting Hudson Valley produce and ingredients.
Champetre distinguishes itself with a focus on classic French dishes prepared with local ingredients, making it unique even among Hudson Valley's spirited food scene. Signature dishes include the escargots in a hearty garlic and herb butter sauce, and a bouillabaisse reflecting Michel’s southern French upbringing. The entrées range from a robust Hudson Valley duck confit paired with Castelluccio lentils to perfectly seared steak frites accompanied by a choice of peppercorn cognac sauce or classic Béarnaise. The dessert menu includes île flottante, a rarity with its soft meringue in a sea of crème anglaise, capturing the essence of French patisserie.
Parking: Ample street parking available around the vicinity
Vibe: Cozy restaurant emulating a French countryside ambiance
What to try: Escargots and the Hudson Valley duck confit
Who it's for: Fans of rustic French meals, intimate dinner settings
Hours note: Open Wednesday through Saturday
Chleo
Chleo stands out as a wine bar with a sincere community focus, crafted by culinary experts Hope Troup Mathews and Charles Mathews. Situated in Kingston’s historic Stockade District, you'll find a space that balances the rustic charm of Hudson Valley's landscape with contemporary touches, accented by local materials, such as hand-carved spalted maple, a tribute to the area’s artisanal roots. Its design, a joint effort with Brooklyn's Islyn Studio, draws inspiration from the elemental aspects of fire and nourishment.
Chleo’s open kitchen highlights a wood-fired grill, offering patrons a glimpse into the action as chefs prepare dishes centered on the bounty of local farms. The menu rotates with the seasons, yet consistently features vegetable-forward small plates, inventive proteins, and house-made pastas. Signature dishes have included grilled short rib accompanied by mushroom duxelles and a Bolognese Bianco featuring aged gouda. A commitment to natural wines is at the core of their beverage selection, emphasizing small producers and lesser-known varietals, curated to complement their culinary offerings.
What truly sets Chleo apart is its approachable fine dining experience—a deliberate step away from traditional formalities, enabling an atmosphere of genuine hospitality. The environment promotes long, leisurely meals where seating for just 30 guests ensures an intimate experience. Chleo’s role as a neighborhood fixture is not only amplified by its culinary offerings but also through its efforts to create a diplomatic space for connection and discourse.
Parking: Limited street parking available nearby
Vibe: Relaxed and communal, with a touch of rustic elegance
What to try: Seasonal small plates and natural wine selections
Who it's for: Couples, friends seeking a low-key evening with high-quality dining
Hours note: Walk-ins welcome, no reservations needed
Clay
Situated in the serene landscapes of Gardiner, New York, Clay stands as the signature dining destination within the exquisite Wildflower Farms. This sophisticated restaurant captures the essence of a farm-driven culinary philosophy, presenting dishes that celebrate seasonal New American cuisine. The kitchen, inspired by both local heritage and global techniques, crafts meals using vegetables cultivated right in the estate’s fertile, clay-rich soils, along with meats and seafood that are thoughtfully sourced. The menu is a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary innovation, with offerings that transition seamlessly from breakfast to dinner, ensuring each meal feels like an exploration of the Hudson Valley's agricultural riches.
The ambiance at Clay mirrors the thoughtfulness of its cuisine, designed to reflect a refined mountain lodge. With warm wood tones, open beams, and the soothing ambiance of fireside light, the space feels inviting yet upscale. Patrons can appreciate the open kitchen, a testament to Clay’s commitment to transparency and craftsmanship. Adding an organic touch, living trees within the dining space extend toward the ceiling, reinforcing the farm-to-table ethos and providing an enriching dining experience.
Clay distinguishes itself not just in its menu offerings, but through signature dishes that exemplify its unique culinary narrative. The "Hen in Clay" dish, a creative nod to the restaurant's very name and the fundamental element of its cooking—clay—stands out for its inventiveness and nod to the surroundings. Smaller plates, which are expressive of the kitchen’s creative spirit, offer a canvas for the chefs to display their skills. Local patrons and newcomers alike speak highly of the brunch offerings, especially the cinnamon rolls, rumored to be unlike any other in the region.
Rooted in the traditions of the Hudson Valley’s farmland, Clay has caught the attention of national audiences, garnering respect and acclaim within the upscale dining community. This recognition, while accompanied by premium pricing, underscores the establishment's dedication to offering a dining experience that is immersive, luxurious, and deeply connected to the regional landscape. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or a meticulously crafted dinner, guests are treated to a culinary journey that honors both the land’s bounty and the artisans behind each dish.
Vibe: Rustic luxury with a contemporary edge
What to try: Hen in Clay, renowned cinnamon rolls for brunch
Who it's for: Food enthusiasts, fans of farm-to-table dining, those celebrating special occasions
Hours note: Serving from breakfast through dinner; specific hours may vary
Parking: Check for availability nearby; parking may vary by event
Club Sandwich
In the heart of Tivoli, NY, Club Sandwich redefines the casual café experience with its focus on imaginative sandwiches and community spirit. Co-founded by Anna Morris and Lisa Farjam (of nearby Fortunes Ice Cream), whose backgrounds in hospitality and innovation bring a unique flair to this eatery, Club Sandwich invites locals and visitors alike to savor their culinary offerings in a welcoming and relaxed setting. With a menu that seeks to delight and surprise, this establishment combines classic charm with inventive twists, making it a must-visit in the Hudson Valley region.
One of the standout aspects of Club Sandwich is its commitment to both simplicity and creativity. Take, for example, the 'Breakfast Sammy'—a seemingly simple concoction that combines egg, cheddar, and spicy ketchup in a way that locals swear by. Then there's the 'Club Club,' a layered indulgence that elevates the notion of a traditional clubhouse sandwich. The café doesn’t just serve food; it curates an experience with ingredients often sourced from nearby farms, including partnerships with local suppliers to ensure every meal highlights the region's bounty.
Not just a place for dining, Club Sandwich also doubles as a market, allowing patrons to bring home the flavors they've enjoyed. This section boasts gourmet essentials and provisions from local producers—a testament to the café's dedication to its community. The space features seating options for those wishing to eat in, and a sun-drenched patio provides a delightful choice for diners on warmer days. The café's relaxed vibe makes it a perfect spot to gather, unwind, or even grab a quick bite on the go.
The vibrancy of Club Sandwich is further enriched by its beverage selection, offering a range of locally sourced beers, wines, and expertly brewed coffee, catering to various tastes and preferences. Future plans for pop-up dinners and social events signal Club Sandwich's intent to be more than just a dining destination but a pivotal part of Tivoli’s cultural fabric.
Parking: Street parking is accessible within walking distance of the café
Vibe: Casual, community-focused atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options
What to try: The signature 'Club Club' sandwich and the breakfast 'Sammy'
Who it's for: Residents, families, and travelers seeking local flavors with a twist
Hours note: Operational hours vary; best to check current schedules online before visiting
Cucina
Cucina has been a fixture of Woodstock’s dining scene since 2006, serving contemporary Italian cuisine from a beautifully restored farmhouse on Mill Hill Road. The restaurant is part of the culinary group led by Chef Gianni Scappin and partners Luciano Valdivia and Nick Brower—the team behind Market Street in Rhinebeck, Barbaro in Millbrook, and Fern in Lakeville, CT. Together they have shaped some of the region’s most beloved Italian restaurants, each grounded in tradition while reflecting the character of its town.
At Cucina, the menu celebrates the agricultural richness of the Hudson Valley through seasonal ingredients and thoughtful Italian cooking. Wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and vibrant vegetable dishes evolve with the seasons, bringing classic Italian flavors together with local produce and regional inspiration. The result is a menu that feels both rooted and fresh, inviting guests to return again and again as it changes throughout the year.
The restaurant’s setting adds to its appeal. Inside the farmhouse dining rooms, rustic details and warm lighting create a welcoming atmosphere, while the expansive wraparound porch offers a relaxed place to dine during warmer months. Beyond everyday dining, Cucina has also become a sought-after venue for weddings and gatherings, with its historic barn and scenic property providing a memorable backdrop for celebrations.
Parking: Plenty of street parking available along Mill Hill Road
Vibe: Rustic elegance with options for communal dining or intimate settings
What to try: Handmade pastas and the seasonal wood-fired pizza
Who it's for: Fans of Italian cuisine and those seeking a unique dining experience
Hours note: Open daily, with evening service starting at 5pm
Cups Coffee
In the quaint setting of Germantown, NY, Cups Coffee provides a much-needed break along Route 9G for travelers and locals alike. This coffee shop extends a warm invitation to enjoy fresh brewed coffee and an array of light bites. Its space is designed to be a welcoming spot where mornings begin with the scent of freshly ground beans. The coffee shop operates in a small, intimate setting that encourages relaxation and conversation, making it a cornerstone of Germantown’s community-oriented lifestyle.
Cups Coffee stands out by committing to a quality-first approach. Coffee aficionados are greeted with a menu that focuses on artisanal brewing methods and locally sourced pastries. Whether you're a regular needing your morning fix or a passerby exploring the Hudson Valley, this spot serves up a sense of familiarity alongside its offerings. The interior maintains a cozy vibe, with seating arrangements perfect for both solo visitors and small groups. Locals appreciate its role as a communal gathering space, and the coffee shop's presence is cherished in the tightly-knit fabric of Germantown society. Regular customers often mention the unique blend of coffees and the rotating selection of baked goods that fill the glass cases.
Parking: On-site parking available along Route 9G
Vibe: Intimate and cozy with a community feel
What to try: Daily pastry specials and the house-blended coffee
Who it's for: Coffee enthusiasts, local residents, and travelers passing through
Hours note: Open Thursday to Saturday from 7:30-2 and Sunday 8-2
Dandies
In the heart of Windham, NY, Dandies stands as a testament to modern dining within a unique architectural setting—a glasshouse that marries contemporary elegance with rustic charm. Part of the Eastwind Hotel, a reimagined hospitality concept, this all-day eatery delivers an innovative culinary experience spearheaded by chef Daniel Cipriani. At Dandies, guests are treated to a comprehensive menu featuring dishes that range from robust breakfast offerings to mouth-watering BBQ classics.
The idyllic Catskills surround the space, providing a breathtaking backdrop to savor the intricacies of each meal. The restaurant’s approach to dining is relaxed yet precise, emphasizing the quality and freshness of ingredients sourced from local farms and producers. Every dish is an exploration of flavors and textures, ensuring that guests leave with not just a meal, but an experience.
Uniquely positioned among eateries in the Hudson Valley, Dandies distinguishes itself through its beverage program and inventive menu. Collaborations with local craft breweries, such as Evil Twin Brewing, have resulted in exclusive local beers like 'A Little Bit Fancy' pilsner. This synergy extends to the dessert menu, where playful offerings like gelato and beer floats make for a delightful end to any meal. The atmosphere encourages connection and conversation, made cozier by the central carousel fireplace and an inviting biergarten that comes alive with the changing seasons.
Beyond its dishes and drinks, Dandies serves as a community anchor, where the Eastwind spirit of innovation meets comfort. The blend of culinary artistry and inviting spaces makes it a favored spot for both local residents and travelers seeking a taste of the Catskills’ allure.
Parking: Ample parking available at the Eastwind Hotel
Vibe: Stylish, airy setting with communal and cozy seating options
What to try: BBQ plate, 'A Little Bit Fancy' pilsner, gelato and beer float
Who it's for: Families, foodies, and those seeking a unique dining experience
Hours note: Open daily; hours may vary seasonally
Eliza
In the heart of Midtown Kingston, Eliza offers diners a fusion of European charm and Hudson Valley freshness in a setting that feels as familiar as your favorite local haunt. Located at 582 Broadway, this bistro is a creation of the talented team behind notable Kingston establishments like Ollie’s Pizza. The kitchen, helmed by Chef Chris Bradley, an alumnus of Café Boulud and Gramercy Tavern, brings a nuanced yet approachable menu that reflects its dual inspirations.
Dining at Eliza is an experience steeped in simplicity and elegance, eschewing pretension for a more refined authenticity. The menu features classics such as a half-roasted chicken and briny oysters, alongside a unique spin on fish and chips. Here, the fish is delicately coated with a blend of rice flour and corn starch, achieving a light, crispy texture that stands out from typical offerings. Beyond the food, the venue itself tells a story, with its preserved elements from the building’s previous occupant, Tony’s Pizzeria, mixed with modern upgrades like a newly installed skylight that bathes the dining space in natural light.
Eliza's connection to the community is not just reflected in the food but also in the ambiance. The interiors maintain a feel that's both reminiscent of the classic and fresh, with touches like vintage lighting and brightly colored Vitrolite glass tiles that give a nod to its historical footprint. Despite the modern renovations, the place retains a charming familiarity that's been described as homelike, making patrons feel welcome whether they're new visitors or neighborhood regulars.
Photography by: Josh Goleman
Vibe: Cozy bistro with vintage touches and a skylit dining room
What to try: The half-roasted chicken and briny oysters
Who it's for: Local residents, casual diners seeking quality, and visitors to Midtown Kingston
Good to know: Operates Wednesday through Sunday, with the kitchen open from 5-9
Parking: Street parking available along Broadway, subject to space
Eng’s Restaurant
Eng's Restaurant has been delighting patrons with its authentic Szechuan and Cantonese dishes since opening in 1927. Initially established during the harsh economic landscape of the Great Depression by Jimmi Eng, it was the first Chinese restaurant in Kingston, NY. Nestled on Broadway, this establishment invites you into a dining space rich with stories, echoing the laughter and conversations of generations gone by. Under the ownership of Tom and Faye Sit since the 1970s, Eng's has retained its commitment to offering a welcoming dining experience while maintaining strong ties to its community origins.
What sets Eng's apart is not just its storied past but its dedication to preserving traditional flavors while subtly introducing innovative tweaks. Classic dishes like chicken chow mein and Singapore chow mei fun grace the menu alongside lesser-known treasures that invite exploration. Eng's has carved out a niche by offering a banquet of flavors that include tropical drinks, making each meal here feel like a celebration. Moreover, the personal journey of Tom Sit, who emigrated from China and found not just work but a lifelong vocation here, infuses Eng's with a narrative of hope and resilience. This deep-rooted personal history transforms every meal into an immersive cultural experience.
Eng's is celebrated in the local community for its role in Kingtson's evolving tapestry and recently gained broader recognition with a feature in the acclaimed Apple TV series 'Severance'. Despite these cinematic nods, the essence of Eng's remains firmly grounded, serving as a testament to culinary traditions and community bonds.
Parking: Street parking available along Broadway
Vibe: Casual dining with a historical and familial atmosphere
What to try: Chicken chow mein, Singapore chow mei fun, and tropical drinks
Who it's for: Fans of traditional Chinese cuisine, history enthusiasts, community supporters
Hours note: Dining room open for dinner Weds to Sun, takeout available Mon and Weds to Sun
Fantzye Bagels
Fantzye Bagels brings to Kingston, NY a fresh twist on a breakfast classic: sourdough bagels. This local establishment is the brainchild of Elana Carlson, a culinary entrepreneur whose journey from Martha’s Vineyard led to the creation of this unique bagel stop. The space Fantzye occupies is itself distinctive—a quirky triangular brick building that perfectly matches the shop’s innovative approach to bagels. Frequently bustling, Fantzye pulls in locals and visitors alike, offering a wide array of hand-shaped, naturally leavened bagels boiled and baked to perfection.
The defining feature of Fantzye is its commitment to local and seasonal produce, a nod to the abundant agricultural landscape of the Hudson Valley. This is evident in the rotating menu, which includes Schmears made from fresh vegetables and breakfast sandwiches featuring locally sourced lion's mane mushrooms. Not to be missed is their lemon-caper lox, served open-faced—a true testament to their inventive spirit. Coffee and tea enthusiasts will also find their fix with selections from Parlor Espresso, complemented by a range of seasonal beverages.
Fantzye’s interior embodies a blend of Scandinavian-inspired design and community-focused touches. Custom woodwork and textiles create a welcoming atmosphere where regulars feel at home. The proprietor’s meticulous attention to detail extends beyond the kitchen—Elana Carlson’s hands-on involvement in space design ensures that every corner reflects her commitment to quality and community. Fantzye is more than a bagel spot; it’s a slice of the vibrant culinary resurgence happening in Kingston.
Parking: Limited on-street parking on Hasbrouck Avenue
Vibe: Quaint and inviting with a touch of local artistry
What to try: Sourdough bagels with seasonal vegetable schmear
Good to know: Established by a former Martha's Vineyard chef
Hours note: Check online for current opening days and times, subject to change
Feast & Floret
Feast & Floret, located in the heart of Hudson, NY, redefines traditional Italian dining with a unique farm-to-table approach, emphasizing local and seasonal produce. Housed in a 19th-century brick building that once served as a blacksmith shop and carriage house, this restaurant combines historical charm with modern culinary craftsmanship. Its prime location just off Hudson’s main thoroughfare, Warren Street, makes it an accessible culinary destination for both locals and visitors exploring the picturesque town.
One of the distinctive features of Feast & Floret is its focus on a collaborative menu, eschewing the traditional head chef role. This allows the kitchen team to highlight both cherished Italian dishes and new interpretations driven by seasonal availability from nearby farms in the Hudson Valley. Signature offerings, like the truffled egg toast, a decadent ensemble of bread crowned with a raw egg yolk and showered with fresh truffle shavings, embody this approach by blending simplicity with indulgent flavors. The restaurant’s setting, with a cozy bar on one side and a warm, wood-toned dining area complete with a hearth on the other, creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and savor their meals.
Notably, Feast & Floret diverges from its predecessor, Fish & Game, by adopting a more approachable and less chef-driven strategy. Partnerships from the local community are evident, backing the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and local economy support. The decor further mirrors this ethos, with dried floral arrangements and a nature-inspired mural adding to the serene, organic environment.
Parking: Street parking is available along Warren Street
Vibe: Cozy, rustic charm with historical accents
What to try: Truffled egg toast and chicory salad
Who it's for: Lovers of Italian cuisine and locavore enthusiasts
Hours note: Dinner is served nightly; lunch available Friday to Sunday
Fellow Mountain Cafe
In the heart of Hunter, NY, Fellow Mountain Cafe offers a distinctive dining experience with a focus on locally sourced breakfast and lunch favorites. Located at the bustling Main Street, this cafe has quickly become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors exploring the Catskills region. The cafe takes pride in its unique location, housed in a historic Queen Anne-style building that once served as an Odd Fellows hall. Inside, visitors are greeted by modern decor blended seamlessly with classic Catskills charm, featuring large windows, marble countertops, and even a vintage Acorn stove.
What sets Fellow Mountain Cafe apart is its dedication to fresh, local ingredients and a menu crafted by chef Rachel Lauginiger, who brings her expansive culinary background to the fore. From hearty egg sandwiches on rich cheddar biscuits to the variety of baked goods, including the must-try cinnamon rolls that sell out by mid-morning, the cafe remains committed to showcasing the best of local produce. Chef Rachel’s creations are inspired by the micro seasons of the Catskills, ensuring the menu reflects the freshest options available.
Visitors will also find a curated selection of grocery items that aren't readily available elsewhere in the mountain region. This includes artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and a range of craft beers and ciders. A small but appreciated touch is the availability of fresh-cut flowers, a weekend treat stemming from the skilled hands of the cafe's own gardener. Add to this the cafe’s scenic outdoor seating on a wraparound deck, offering stunning views that complement your meal.
Owned and operated by Escape Hospitality, which also manages Scribner’s Catskill Lodge nearby, Fellow Mountain Cafe extends its hospitality beyond dining. It’s a perfect pit-stop for urban explorers and mountain enthusiasts alike looking to start their day with a solid breakfast before hitting the trails or taking advantage of the nearby Hunter Mountain Resort.
Parking: Ample street parking available along Main Street
Vibe: Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with a touch of Catskills heritage
What to try: The renowned egg and cheese sandwich on a cheddar biscuit, and fresh cinnamon rolls
Who it's for: Travelers and coffee seekers seeking a cozy mountain escape
Hours note: Open daily from 8am to 3pm, with breakfast items available through lunch
Fermata Cafe & Roastery
Fermata Cafe & Roastery brings a slice of Italian coffee culture to Marlboro, NY, right along the bustling Route 9W. This recently opened establishment fuses traditional espresso bar vibes with a distinctly Hudson Valley twist, offering patrons a taste of both local and Italian flavors. The cafe and roastery is housed in a modern, welcoming space that encourages visitors to pause and enjoy their coffee moments. With a dedication to incorporating regional flavors, Fermata’s menu features coffee and tea alongside a variety of beverages and locally sourced pastries.
The team at Fermata applies a mixologist’s precision to coffee making. This approach lets them serve not just the familiar cappuccinos and lattes, but also unique specials that spotlight ingredients from the area. Their menu includes local treasures like honey from Mid-Hudson Hives in Marlboro, apples from Prospect Hill Orchards, and sourdough bread from Gardiner Bakehouse. Even the loose-leaf teas come from The Ridge in New Paltz, emphasizing their dedication to local sourcing.
Parking: Convenient parking available along Route 9W
Vibe: A blend of classic Italian espresso bar and Hudson Valley market
What to try: Local honey latte or a cortado paired with sourdough chocolate chip cookies
Who it's for: Coffee enthusiasts, local product lovers, and those seeking a cozy communal space
Hours note: Check Google Maps for current hours and updates
Fern
Fern brings contemporary Italian dining to the village of Lakeville, Connecticut, occupying the thoughtfully restored former Lakeville Fire Department building at the corner of Sharon Road and Route 44. The restaurant is led by Chef Gianni Scappin with partners Luciano Valdivia and Nick Brower—the team behind Market Street in Rhinebeck, Cucina in Woodstock, and Barbaro in Millbrook. Known throughout the Hudson Valley for their balanced approach to Italian cooking, the group brings the same blend of tradition and creativity to Fern’s menu.
Inside, the building’s historic character has been preserved while introducing a warm and refined atmosphere. Double-height ceilings and original glass doors echo the structure’s past as a firehouse, while blonde wood booths, soft lighting, and a central wood-burning pizza oven create an inviting space for dining. A spacious U-shaped bar adds a lively focal point, making the restaurant equally suited for casual drinks or a full evening meal.
The menu reflects the Italian belief that great cooking begins with great ingredients. Wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and rustic main dishes highlight seasonal products and careful technique. Starters like warm marinated olives set the tone, while dishes such as rigatoni butera, cavatelli bolognese, and braised pork ossobuco offer comforting depth. Paired with a well-chosen wine list, Fern delivers a relaxed but memorable Italian dining experience in Connecticut’s northwest corner.
Parking: Available directly in front and at a nearby municipal lot on Ethan Allen St
Vibe: Combining classic Italian aesthetics with modern elegance in a renovated firehouse
What to try: Monza pizza, Rigatoni Butera, Braised Pork Ossobuco
Who it's for: Fans of Italian cuisine, pizza aficionados, stylish diners
Hours note: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays
Flying Goose Tavern
Flying Goose Tavern, situated in the evolving setting of Kerhonkson, NY, stands out as a welcoming neighborhood bar infused with local history and the charm of community spirit. The tavern draws its name from the Lenape translation of 'Kerhonkson' — Flying Goose — paying homage to the hamlet’s rich cultural roots. This community bar serves as a crossroads for the blend of long-time residents and newcomers that Kerhonkson has embraced in recent years. Offering expertly crafted cocktails, an array of local beers, and a thoughtfully selected wine list, Flying Goose caters to a diverse patronage seeking quality drinks and genuine local camaraderie.
The tavern has transformed a historic building on Main Street, once serving varied roles including the town’s post office, into a warm gathering place designed with both heritage and hospitality in mind. Inside, patrons are greeted by a space that combines tradition with modern touches, featuring deep hunter-green beadboard walls and a white oak bar. The surroundings are further enriched by a hand-painted mural that captures elements of local history, fostering a sense of belonging among guests.
What truly sets Flying Goose Tavern apart is its ability to function as Kerhonkson's modern-day town square. More than just a bar, it offers a space for families and friends to meet up, seemingly bridging the gap between old and new residents. Regular pop-up food events add variety to the experience, with offerings like Southeast Asian street food from Eat Church delighting patrons looking for unique dining alongside their drinks. Additionally, the tavern extends into an inviting outdoor area by the Rondout Creek, perfect for enjoying warmer months with its native plants and informal setups.
Hours note: Open Tuesday to Thursday from 3-9pm, Friday and Saturday until 10pm
Vibe: Homely and historic, reflecting the welcoming nature of a tight-knit community
What to try: Local beer selections and signature hand-crafted cocktails
Good to know: Pop-up food kitchens enhance the menu with diverse culinary experiences
Who it's for: Community-minded locals, newcomers, and fans of cozy, rustic settings
Fortunes Ice Cream
Fortunes Ice Cream serves as a delightful testament to inventive dessert-making in Tivoli, New York. Established in 2019 by Bard College alumni Brian Ackley and Lisa Farjam (of nearby Club Sandwich), this ice cream shop emerged from their passion for bringing unique, freshly made treats to a community they cherish. Housed in a repurposed barn on Tivoli's picturesque Broadway, Fortunes offers a bright and lively space, complete with a striking yellow spiral staircase and abundant greenery, setting a convivial scene for locals and visitors alike to enjoy their dessert creations.
What distinguishes Fortunes Ice Cream is its unwavering dedication to quality and local sourcing. Each batch of ice cream is meticulously crafted by Ackley, who relies on dairy products from Ronnybrook Farm and fresh fruits from local growers like Montgomery Place Orchards, Mead Orchards, and Rose Hill Farm. As a result, each flavor bursts with the essence of the Hudson Valley's bountiful produce. Their menu features both perennial favorites and a series of innovative seasonal flavors, such as labneh sour cherry and rosewater pistachio, which capture the fleeting yet vibrant taste of summer and fall fruits.
Even their vegan offerings showcase this commitment to quality, featuring intriguing options like dark chocolate and honeycomb made with tahini and oat milk. Fortunes’ creativity has not gone unnoticed, earning a spot as New York's best ice cream shop by Food & Wine. Named after a local character remembered for his distinctive presence, Fortunes carries on the spirit of community gathering and warmth.
Parking: Street parking available along Broadway in Tivoli
Vibe: Bright, quirky interior with community-focused atmosphere
What to try: Seasonal flavors like labneh sour cherry and vegan dark chocolate honeycomb
Who it's for: Ice cream enthusiasts and those seeking unique flavor experiences
Hours note: Open Thursday through Monday, 12-10pm
Foxfire Bar Room & Restaurant
In the scenic landscape of Mount Tremper, NY, Foxfire Bar Room & Restaurant stands as a unique culinary retreat housed within the century-old Foxfire Mountain House. This rustic Catskills establishment blends local charm with a global palate, offering a dining experience that is both relaxed and worldly. Executive Chef Rob Escalante curates an adventurous menu that celebrates the best of regional produce, serving diverse dishes that reflect a commitment to seasonality and local sourcing. The setting is rustic yet inviting, providing a perfect backdrop for both casual dining and intimate gatherings.
What truly distinguishes Foxfire is its dedication to eclectic flavors and quality ingredients. The menu is a testament to creative culinary craftsmanship, featuring standouts like Fried Squid with yuzu kosho cocktail sauce, a nod to Asian influences, and Steamed Mussels in aleppo butter and white wine, offering a subtle Mediterranean flair. The Roasted Duck with farro, porcini, and morello cherries showcases a harmonious blend of earthy and fruity flavors, while the Iberian Pork Chop is paired with hearty braised lentils and vibrant chimichurri.
Beyond the enticing menu, the bar program at Foxfire enhances the dining experience with a selection of handcrafted cocktails, including a Maple Old Fashioned that pays homage to regional tastes and a Spicy Pomegranate Mezcal Margarita that transports your palate elsewhere. The curated wine list and selection of New York craft beers and whiskies further complement the menu, making the bar a destination in its own right. In addition to its culinary offerings, the inn's enchanting atmosphere, with communal fireplaces and cozy reading nooks, invites guests to stay a while longer.
Parking: On-site parking available
Vibe: Cozy and rustic with a modern twist
What to try: Fried Squid, Steamed Mussels, Chocolate Sesame Tart
Who it's for: Food adventurers and those seeking a unique Catskills experience
Hours note: Open for dinner Friday to Monday; happy hour from 4-5pm
GioBatta Alimentari
In the heart of Tivoli, NY, GioBatta Alimentari offers a blend of authentic Italian cuisine and an intimate market experience. Established by Chef Francesco Buitoni, a descendant of the esteemed Buitoni pasta family, this unique eatery draws from a rich heritage of Italian culinary traditions. The restaurant serves dishes that highlight the finest Hudson Valley ingredients while upholding the family legacy of Italian gastronomy. The space combines a cozy dining area with a market stuffed with gourmet selections like housemade pasta and imported Italian olive oils.
Chef Francesco Buitoni’s GioBatta Alimentari stands out for its dedication to both tradition and quality. Each meal is a homage to his family's culinary roots and the bounty of the local landscape. This dedication is palpable in dishes such as their handmade orecchiette with sausage and broccoli rabe, and the house specialty bucatini carbonara. The market section allows patrons to take home a taste of Italy, offering everything from freshly baked focaccia to innovative Italian sandwiches. Regulars and newcomers alike are drawn in by the vibrant, yet homely atmosphere, and the constant presence of Bard College students adds a lively dynamic to the street outside.
GioBatta Alimentari is noted for its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms, ensuring that each dish is both sustainable and of the highest quality. The restaurant’s menu evolves with the seasons, showcasing local produce in dishes from salads to hearty mains. The whole branzino, for example, is prepared simply to let the freshness of the fish and accompaniments shine. For those looking for something sweet, traditional Italian desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta provide the perfect finish.
Parking: Street parking available in Tivoli
Vibe: A mix of cozy Italian dining and casual market shopping
What to try: Handmade orecchiette with sausage and broccoli rabe
Who it's for: Those who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine and local produce
Hours note: Open Wednesday to Sunday with varied lunch and dinner times
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