Eat
Places to visit eat in the Hudson Valley
Lost Fox Tavern & Restaurant
Set within the scenic bounds of Litchfield, CT, The Lost Fox Tavern offers a refined dining experience that blends historic charm with modern culinary innovation. Situated within the Lost Fox Inn which dates back to the 1740s, the tavern boasts colonial-era fireplaces and carefully curated interiors, making it a destination for those who appreciate both heritage and gourmet cuisine. Under the expertise of chef CJ Barroso, who brings influence from esteemed New York establishments like Aquavit and The Finch, The Lost Fox Tavern presents a seasonal menu that expertly matches local ingredients with global flavors. Menu highlights include dishes such as fire-roasted mussels and kimchi-braised lamb, promising diners a thoughtful twist on comfort food.
Distinctive for its inventive offerings, The Lost Fox Tavern sets itself apart with a menu that showcases both mastery in execution and creativity. Noteworthy items like the Spanish octopus with gnocchi reflect a culinary imagination that appeals to the gourmet enthusiast. Complementing these offerings, diners will also enjoy house-made pastries and warm seeded bread, crafted in-house to enhance the culinary narrative. The beverage list is equally considered, providing a comprehensive range perfect for pairing with meals or for enjoying a relaxing moment at the bar.
Practicalities abound in the thoughtful layout of The Lost Fox Tavern. Set over two floors, the dining space offers intimate tables ideal for romantic dinners or celebratory gatherings. While reservations are recommended—especially for the exclusive private dining experience in the Lost Fox Club Room, located on the second floor—walk-ins can savor the inviting atmosphere throughout the charming interiors. The tavern operates primarily on weekends, with hours extending from Thursday to Monday. Whether you're savoring a long brunch or an elegant dinner, the inn provides a warm welcome to anyone seeking an authentic blend of tradition and taste in the heart of Litchfield.
Parking: Ample parking available at the inn
Vibe: Historic elegance meets contemporary dining
What to try: Spanish octopus with gnocchi
Good to know: Reservations recommended, especially for private dining
Hours note: Open Thursday to Monday; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Maker Cafe & Restaurant
Situated in the heart of Hudson, New York's vibrant Warren Street, the Maker Cafe & Restaurant offers a culinary journey through the seasonal bounty of the Hudson Valley. Nestled inside the historic Maker Hotel, this eatery is spearheaded by Executive Chef Alex Napolitano, renowned for his skillful integration of Italian culinary techniques with local ingredients. The restaurant, housed within a striking glass conservatory, provides a serene, plant-filled setting where guests can savor dishes that celebrate simplicity and depth of flavor.
This venue distinguishes itself with its commitment to quality and community, observed in every aspect of its operation. The bakery selections come straight from Bartlett House, known in the region for its dedication to fresh, daily-made baked goods. The atmosphere recalls the charm of iconic European coffeehouses, where guests can enjoy expertly brewed coffee alongside freshly baked bread and pastries. The all-day menu offers a range of appetizing choices, perfect for a leisurely brunch or a quick takeaway. The Lounge adds character and contrast, situated in a stately converted 19th-century carriage house, providing an inviting backdrop of leather-clad walls and a grandiose fireplace.
Patrons visiting The Maker Cafe & Restaurant can expect not just a meal, but a full-bodied experience reflecting the cohesive design-forward ethos of the hotel. Whether opting for a quiet moment over a morning espresso, a casual afternoon lunch, or crafted cocktails in the evening, this destination maintains a harmonious blend of sophistication and comfort. The dining areas play a pivotal role in the local scene, welcoming both travelers and community members with a distinctive take on hospitality rooted firmly in the locality.
Parking: Street parking available along Warren Street
Vibe: Elegant dining with a warm, communal atmosphere
What to try: Sandwiches crafted with Hudson Valley seasonal produce
Good to know: Inside The Maker Hotel, collaborating with Bartlett House
Hours note: Cafe daily 8-3pm, restaurant dinner 5pm-9pm
Market Street
Market Street has been a cornerstone of Rhinebeck’s dining scene since opening in 2012, bringing contemporary Italian cooking to one of the Hudson Valley’s most beloved towns. The restaurant is led by Chef Gianni Scappin alongside partners Luciano Valdivia and Nick Brower, the team behind Cucina in Woodstock, Barbaro in Millbrook, and Fern in Lakeville, CT. Across their restaurants, the group is known for blending classic Italian techniques with a modern sensibility—an approach that defines the experience at Market Street.
At the heart of the menu is a commitment to simplicity and quality. A wood-burning brick oven turns out thin-crust pizzas inspired by traditional Neapolitan methods, while seasonal pastas, vibrant vegetable dishes, and thoughtfully prepared meats reflect the abundance of the Hudson Valley. The cooking feels both timeless and current, allowing great ingredients and careful technique to take center stage.
Inside, the restaurant balances rustic warmth with understated elegance. Large windows fill the space with light, while antique fixtures and reclaimed materials create an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and refined. Whether dining inside or on the porch-like patio, guests experience the lively yet welcoming energy that has made Market Street a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Parking: Limited street parking available around Market Street
Vibe: Modern, chic setting with rustic Italian influence
What to try: Signature Neapolitan pizzas from the wood-burning oven
Who it's for: Couples seeking a stylish dinner spot or foodies in search of authentic Italian cuisine
Hours note: Open 7 days a week with brunch served weekends 11am-3pm
Matilda
Matilda is a culinary love letter to the Catskills – an elegant yet grounded restaurant where fine dining meets the region’s natural abundance. Led by acclaimed New York chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabián von Hauske Valtierra of Wildair and Bar Contra, Matilda captures the raw beauty of its mountain surroundings through food that’s both comforting and quietly daring. Set within The Henson, a lovingly restored 16-room inn, the restaurant extends the hotel’s philosophy of thoughtful hospitality—where every detail, from design to dining, reflects a deep appreciation for place. Golden light filters through garden windows, soft fabric lamps glow beside a limewashed fireplace, and guests linger in a space that feels both contemporary and timeless.
The menu celebrates the Catskills’ rhythm and seasonality, drawing ingredients from a close-knit network of local farmers, foragers, and producers. Dishes like steelhead trout with nori purée and sea beans, slow-grilled chicken with tomato béarnaise, and the playful potato and strawberry mousse reflect both the chefs’ city-honed precision and their reverence for the land. Each plate is designed to surprise and delight in equal measure – “comforting and challenging,” as co-owner Ely Franko describes it. The beverage program mirrors this sensibility, with a 40-bottle wine list spanning the old and new worlds, alongside refined cocktails such as the Iron Goddess and Grannies on Acid crafted in collaboration with Dave Arnold.
Ultimately, Matilda is more than a restaurant, it’s a celebration of connection. Between the people who grow the food and those who prepare it, between travelers and locals who gather at its tables, and between the timelessness of the mountains and the creativity of those who call them home. Whether you come for a date night, a lingering dinner with friends, or cocktails on the sunlit porch overlooking the garden, Matilda invites you to savor the moment and rediscover what dining in the Catskills can be.
Vibe: Elegant dining with a warm, communal atmosphere
What to try: Steelhead trout with nori purée and sea beans
Hours note: Opens Wednesday to Sunday, from 5:30 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Reservations are recommended due to limited seating
Who it's for: Ideal for food enthusiasts looking for a sophisticated Catskills experience
Mighty Donuts
Located in Red Hook, NY, Mighty Donuts stands out as a beacon of local passion and creativity on Route 9. This specialty donut shop offers an array of handcrafted donuts, meticulously made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Beyond just donuts, Mighty Donuts boasts a robust menu featuring breakfast and lunch sandwiches, alongside freshly brewed coffee and espresso. The shop is both modern yet nostalgic, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and retro-chic interior design. Owners Rhianon Jones and Dennis Kanuk, who bring diverse backgrounds from filmmaking to law, aimed from the beginning to create not just another donut shop, but a community hub where locals and new visitors can mingle over baked treats and rich coffees.
What sets Mighty Donuts apart is the commitment to adventurous flavors and innovative creations. Offering unique varieties such as blueberry green tea and lemon rosemary, the shop pushes the boundaries of what one might expect from a typical donut experience. The donut shop, however, isn't just about sweet indulgences. They also feature savory offerings like brioche sandwiches and hand pies stuffed with fresh, seasonal ingredients—a testament to their relationship with local producers. The establishment's connection to the local community is palpable; initially, before opening in Red Hook, their products were popular features at local events around the area, extending from Lasting Joy Brewery collaborations to sales at gourmet shops. This connection to both Red Hook and neighboring areas is compounded by plans for further expansion into nearby towns, utilizing their thriving business model to reach a wider audience while staying true to their locally-focused ethos.
Parking: Nearby street parking available on Route 9
Vibe: Retro-modern setting with plenty of natural light
What to try: Blueberry green tea donuts and savory brioche sandwiches
Good to know: Ingredients are locally sourced from Hudson Valley farms
Hours note: Can get busy on weekends; arrive early to secure your favorite treat
Mirador
Stepping into Mirador is like embarking on a vibrant journey through the heart of Andalusia, right in the center of Kingston. This tapas bar captures the convivial spirit of Spanish tabancos with its intimate setting and expertly curated menu. The bright yellow storefront hints at the warmth within, where dark wood accents and plaster arches evoke a classic European tavern. Co-owners Harry McNamara and Nick Africano have exquisitely blended their passions to create a place that is equal parts immersive and indulgent.
Nick Africano brings his rich expertise as a sherry educator, introducing patrons to the diverse, often underappreciated, world of sherry wines. Whether you’re savoring a tasting flight or trying the house martini with a sherry twist, each drink is a testament to his enthusiasm and deep knowledge. The wine list, almost exclusively Spanish, complements a tapas menu that celebrates both Spanish traditions and Hudson Valley produce. Dishes like lightly cured Spanish mackerel or patatas bravas, using local fingerling potatoes, exemplify this fusion.
Esquire's recognition of Mirador as one of the best bars in America underscores its unique allure—here, you’ll find more than just a place to drink and dine. It’s a lively hub for cultural exchange, where conversations weave through the intricate tapestry of food, drink, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a sherry aficionado or a newcomer, you’ll leave Mirador not just with a satisfied palate but with a story to share about your taste of Spain in the Hudson Valley.
Vibe: Classic Andalusian tavern meets lively local gathering spot
What to try: House martini with sherry or patatas bravas
Highlights: Esquire - one of the best bars in America
Hours note: Café opens Friday and Saturday mornings, dinner from 5 PM
Good to know: Offers Spanish wines almost exclusively
Morningbird Cafe
Morningbird Cafe in Kinderhook, NY, is the local gathering spot known for its expertly crafted coffee and inventive breakfast and lunch menu. Situated within the historic Kinderhook Knitting Mill, the cafe serves the community from Thursday to Sunday with a commitment to quality and local partnerships. The space combines the rustic charm of a 19th-century textile mill with modern culinary expertise, offering a warm welcome to both locals and visitors alike.
The cafe sets itself apart with its signature mochi donuts and lemongrass-pork sausage breakfast sandwich, both of which have garnered a devoted following. The kitchen, helmed by distinguished chefs, focuses on Southeast Asian-inspired flavors, adding a unique twist to classic cafe dishes. Gotham Coffee provides the espresso for Morningbird's custom drinks, while drip and iced coffee options come from Coffee Project, ensuring that each cup not only supports local producers but also offers a narrative rooted in community empowerment.
Beyond its staple items, the menu features dynamic lunch options such as vegetable green curry that appeal to the adventurous eater. A detail treasured by patrons is the intimate setting; the cafe’s limited seating encourages early arrival, especially on weekends when Kinderhook’s farmers market draws in larger crowds. Whether you’re sipping a unique espresso drink or biting into a flavorful sandwich, Morningbird offers a distinct culinary experience in the heart of Columbia County.
What to try: Mochi donut and lemongrass-pork sausage breakfast sandwich
Hours note: Open Thursday to Sunday from 8am to 3pm
Vibe: A cozy cafe with a modern twist in a historic setting
Highlights: Specialty Southeast Asian-inspired breakfast and lunch menu
Good to know: Walk-in only; menu varies based on seasonal ingredients
Old Chatham Country Store
An integral part of the Old Chatham community since 1787, the Old Chatham Country Store is both a historic landmark and a modern eatery. Nestled in the heart of Columbia County, this multi-functional space serves as both a bustling café and a market filled with local treasures. Known for its warm hospitality and commitment to local sourcing, the store invites locals and visitors alike to savor fresh ingredients and regional flavors. From creamy soups to vibrant salads, and sandwiches featuring homemade focaccia, the daytime menu captures the essence of the Hudson Valley's rich produce.
What truly distinguishes Old Chatham Country Store is its dedication to celebrating local abundance in creative ways. Owner Caroline Jacquiss, who took over in 2023, continues the tradition of community-focused dining with a modern twist. Her vision expands beyond serving delightful meals; through initiatives like the Chef-in-Residency program, the store hosts guest chefs who introduce fresh culinary perspectives. These special events are a testament to the store's role as a culinary hub where innovative dishes highlight the versatility of local ingredients. Seasonal dinner menus feature shareable plates that showcase the finest Hudson offers, while the wine list is curated to complement every meal.
Beyond the enticing meals, the store serves as a local shopping destination where patrons can find an array of regional products. Market shelves stocked with fresh produce, artisanal meats, and dairy offer a one-stop spot for those looking to cook at home with premium ingredients. The availability of specialty grocery items and home goods from local artisans further enrich the shopping experience. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch, a luxurious dinner, or to pick up gourmet groceries, the Old Chatham Country Store embodies the heart of the Hudson Valley's culinary and cultural spirit.
Highlights: Long-standing community cornerstone with deep local ties
What to try: The rotating dinner menu and fried chicken sandwich
Hours note: Lunch served from 8:30am to 3pm, Dinner Friday and Saturday till 9pm
Vibe: Cozy, communal atmosphere with historic charm
Good to know: Hosts seasonal events and Chef-in-Residency dinners
Ollie's Pizza
Ollie’s Pizza in High Falls has become a beloved destination in the Hudson Valley for wood-fired pies that balance rustic charm with culinary precision. Founded by Innis Lawrence, Sophie Peltzer-Rollo, and Ilan Bachrach—later joined by chef Chris Bradley—Ollie’s has grown from a pandemic-era passion project into one of the region’s most talked-about pizzerias. Their 14-inch personal-sized pizzas are known for their blistered, airy crusts and creative topping combinations, all made with top-tier, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s welcoming vibe, seasonal menu, and community-oriented spirit have helped it build a loyal following and a reputation that stretches far beyond High Falls.
Despite its laid-back atmosphere, Ollie’s is rooted in serious culinary pedigree and an uncompromising commitment to quality. The team’s expansion into Kingston with Ollie’s Slice Shop, Fletcher & Lu, and Eliza reflects their ambition to grow thoughtfully and sustainably. Even as their footprint expands, Ollie’s Pizza remains the heart of the operation—a place where farm-to-table values meet the casual joy of sharing a really good pie. With business up 25% this year and a string of record-breaking days under their belt, Ollie’s Pizza is proof that when you do things right, the community shows up hungry—and keeps coming back.
Photography by: Josh Goleman
Ollie's Slice Shop
Ollie’s Slice Shop is the newest chapter in the growing culinary story of the Ollie’s Pizza team, bringing their signature attention to quality and sourcing to a fast-casual format in the heart of Midtown Kingston, NY. Located in a historic Broadway building—formerly home to Tony’s Pizzeria—this reimagined slice shop is one arm of a larger, three-part venture that also includes Fletcher & Lu, a provisions market, and Eliza, a wine bar and bistro. With classic New York-style slices, 20-inch pies, and hearty sandwiches like a meatball parm on housemade semolina, Ollie’s Slice Shop is poised to become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike seeking quick, crave-worthy comfort.
While the slice shop offers a simpler menu than its High Falls sibling, the ethos remains the same: high-quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a sense of place. Expect crispier, more traditional slices baked in an electric oven—cheese, white, vodka, and tomato—alongside plenty of topping options and extras like garlic knots and Caesar salads. With limited seating and a beer and wine license for those who want to linger, it’s designed primarily for grab-and-go dining. But behind the scenes, a shared commissary kitchen connects all three businesses, allowing the team to maintain quality, reduce waste, and create a vertically integrated ecosystem that supports the broader evolution of Midtown Kingston’s food scene.
Parking: Options available on Broadway and nearby streets
Vibe: Casual dining that feels energetic and bustling
What to try: Generous meatball parm sandwich and classic New York cheese slice
Who it's for: Fast-casual diners, pizza lovers, people looking for quick quality meals
Hours note: Check their website or call before visiting to confirm operating hours
Photography by: Josh Goleman
Olsen & Company
Olsen & Company is a daytime cafe and nighttime wine bar located in downtown Saugerties, NY offering a curated selection of gourmet products and a full menu for lunch and dinner. Visitors can expect a range of high-quality cheeses, charcuterie, and pantry staples, coffee and espresso, and a selection of wines and craft beers.
Phoenicia Diner
Phoenicia Diner is a classic roadside eatery offering a traditional dining experience in the heart of the Catskills. The diner is situated conveniently along the NY-28 corridor, making it accessible for both locals and travelers exploring the Hudson Valley region. With a menu of classic diner dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Phoenicia Diner is a must see attraction for a quick and tasty meal.
Pretty To Think So
Pretty To Think So is a charming wine bar in Rhinebeck, NY, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of wines alongside small plates designed for sharing. With a warm, intimate atmosphere, it's a space where guests can unwind, explore unique vintages, and enjoy carefully crafted food pairings that highlight seasonal ingredients.
Whether stopping by for a casual glass or settling in for an evening of discovery, Pretty To Think So provides a relaxed yet refined experience. Focused on quality, hospitality, and a love for great wine, it's a welcoming destination for both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Ravenwood
Ravenwood is the result of over a decade of collaboration between chef Chris Lanier and artist and designer Dana McClure, who together sought to merge their creative lives in Brooklyn with a deeper connection to the land and community in Upstate New York. In 2010, the pair purchased a four-acre former cow pasture in Olivebridge, NY, envisioning it as a small vegetable farm. What began as intimate dinners in a Brooklyn loft soon evolved into a broader endeavor: a renovated barn in Kerhonkson, NY, that now serves as a gathering place celebrating seasonal food, art, and the creative spirit of the Hudson Valley. Ravenwood has become both a physical and cultural bridge between urban and rural life, fostering connections among farmers, makers, and artists through shared meals and events.
Chris brings years of experience from acclaimed kitchens such as Café Boulud and WD-50, as well as his time as a private chef and food stylist, to his work at Ravenwood. His farm-to-table approach allows him to not only source but also grow the produce that inspires his seasonal menus. By cultivating the land himself, Chris has created a dining experience that is deeply rooted in place, reflecting the flavors and bounty of the region. Meanwhile, Dana’s career in art and design—spanning graphic design, filmmaking, teaching, and creating hand-printed textiles—infuses Ravenwood with a rich visual and cultural sensibility. Together, they have built Ravenwood into a space where creativity, community, and the pleasures of the table come together in meaningful and memorable ways.
Through dinners, gatherings, and collaborative events, Ravenwood embodies the couple’s vision of uniting two worlds—Brooklyn’s vibrant, diverse creative community and the Hudson Valley’s longstanding tradition of artisanship and agriculture. It is a place that invites people to step away from their studios and farms, to meet, exchange ideas, and share in the simple joy of a thoughtfully prepared meal.
Restaurant Kinsley
Restaurant Kinsley sits at the vibrant corner of Wall and John Streets in Kingston, serving as both a neighborhood anchor and a culinary destination for visitors exploring the Hudson Valley. Conceived by restaurateur Taavo Somer (Freemans), developer Charles Blaichman, and chef Zak Pelaccio (Fish & Game), the restaurant brings together seasonal New American fare with an emphasis on local sourcing, pickled elements, and bold, expressive flavors. From whipped ricotta-laced lamb ragu to tangy turnips with the depth of preserves, each dish is crafted with precision and originality. It's a space where the energy of Kingston flows seamlessly between hotel guests and locals sharing drinks, bites, and conversation.
Housed within the historic Hotel Kinsley — a reimagined 1860s bank building — Restaurant Kinsley is as visually compelling as it is flavorful. Burnt orange velvet banquettes and original artwork, including a mural by Happy Menocal, set a tone that’s refined yet playful. The open kitchen hums beneath a George Harrison portrait, while cocktails are meticulously served with distinct ice formats and thoughtful detail. Whether you're stopping in for a celebratory dinner, weekend brunch, or an artfully crafted drink at the bar, Restaurant Kinsley offers a warm, stylish, and community-centered dining experience that continues to shape and elevate Kingston’s cultural landscape.
Restaurant Manor Rock
At the top of Hudson’s Warren Street, Restaurant Manor Rock offers a refined and quietly luxurious dining experience. Opened by partners Zack Nussdorf and Ivy Nallo, the restaurant showcases ingredients from their nearby farm in East Taghkanic, where they’ve spent years regenerating soil, raising animals, and growing produce with flavor and ecology in mind. The result is a menu that shifts with the seasons and elevates each ingredient without excess — a confident, modern take on continental cuisine in a fine-dining expression. Its menu illustrates Manor Rock’s signature balance: technique-forward, but grounded and deeply satisfying.
The space reflects the same ethos. Designed in collaboration with Charlap Hyman & Herrero, the interiors are a study in accessible opulence — midcentury-modern touches and sculptural elements that honor the building’s layered past. With a courtyard oasis tucked out back and a sculpted server station that’s elegant enough to double as an art piece, the setting feels as intentional as the food. Cocktails named after the farm’s animals add a touch of whimsy, while the wine list and zero-proof options reflect a serious commitment to craft. Whether you’re sipping a smoky mezcal aperitif or enjoying dessert like tamari ice cream with buckwheat crumble, every detail is thoughtful and exacting.
Manor Rock is more than a restaurant — it’s a living expression of a larger vision. What began as a shared passion for food and wine has grown into a dynamic ecosystem of farm, kitchen, and community. With a team that includes talent from New York City’s top kitchens and a menu that speaks to both place and possibility, Nussdorf and Nallo are crafting a new kind of upstate dining destination: one where elegance and sustainability aren’t just compatible, but inseparable.
Photography by: Lucia Bell-Epstein
River & Post
River & Post is a quietly confident gem in Staatsburg, NY, offering a seasonal, farm-to-table dining experience rooted in hospitality, heritage, and the rich bounty of the Hudson Valley. Though the town itself may be easy to miss, this restaurant is impossible to forget. Led by Sergia Rebraca and his mother Patricia Panarella—veterans of acclaimed establishments from NYC to Rhinebeck—River & Post carries forward a family legacy of deeply satisfying cuisine and warm, welcoming atmospheres. The ever-changing menu features refined comfort food, like the beloved buttermilk fried chicken and tender beef short rib, alongside seasonal dishes that strike a balance between soulful and spa-like.
The setting is as thoughtfully designed as the menu: mid-century modern touches meet rich, earthy tones in a space that feels both stylish and unpretentious. Chef Antonio Cerón, a longtime collaborator of the family, brings finesse and heart to every plate, while bartender Matt Hoffman elevates the bar program with rare spirits and sophisticated cocktails. True to Rebraca’s vision, River & Post isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to unwind, connect, and return to, again and again.
Rosie General
Blending an Italian general store with a Jewish deli, Rosie General offers freshly baked breads, pastries, and house-made sandwiches in Kingston's historic Rondout district. Founded by Michelin-starred chef Anthony Sasso and run with his sisters, the shop celebrates high-quality ingredients, house-smoked meats, and thoughtfully curated provisions. More than just a deli, Rosie General is a gathering place where handcrafted details and a market stocked with local produce, smoked trout, and pantry staples create a welcoming, community-driven experience.
Join Our List
Subscribe to our list and get occasional updates to your inbox.