Photo by Andrii Lysenko
Looking for unique date night ideas in the Hudson Valley and Catskills? From romantic dinners with stunning views to adventurous hikes followed by delicious meals, this guide offers a variety of options to suit every couple. Explore charming towns, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories with your loved one.
hop a town
Take a walk around town and top your date off with a delicious meal at one of these popular restaurants. Or do what we call a hop: apps one place, entrees another spot, cocktails another, then dessert at our last stop. Of course, this can only be done in a walkable town if drinks are involved.
NEW PALTZ: After a day of hiking the Gunks, head down to New Paltz, walk to town or shop the quaint Water Street Market, and start with drinks at JAR'D WINE PUB, a lively bar with a great selection of craft cocktails and local beers and small bites. Then enjoy dinner at PARISH RESTAURANT, featuring New Orleans-style cuisine, with a great vibe and the best view in town. Or indulge in dinner and dessert at RŪNA, a cozy French-ish bistro with a seasonal rotating menu, including unique small plates, inspired mains, delectable desserts, and a great wine list.
RHINEBECK: Walk and shop the beautiful town of Rhinebeck, then mix it up between our faves: start with TERRAPIN, a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce; choose between the bistro or more formal dining room. Next, enjoy classic and innovative Mediterranean cuisine made with seasonal ingredients at GIGI TRATTORIA. Finally, savor fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine at GABY’S CAFE, featuring dishes that range from traditional to their own interpretations.
Sportsman's
The Phoenician
PHOENICIA: Hike the Catskills, then come enjoy the quaint town of Phoenicia with the mountains as your backdrop. Go for drinks and apps at SPORTSMAN'S ALAMO CANTINA, a lively Mexican restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide selection of tequilas and margaritas. Then enjoy a phenomenal dinner at THE PHOENICIAN STEAKHOUSE, with great steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes offered in a classic yet unpretentious setting. Or head to BRIO’S for delicious pizzas from their wood-fired oven and phenomenal house-made desserts.
Mill & Main
Flying Goose
KERHONKSON: Take a walk or bike on the rail trail and end your trek with dinner at MILL & MAIN, a cozy restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and focus on seasonal American fare with Latin, Caribbean, and Italian influence. Then head right next door to enjoy more yummy drinks at THE FLYING GOOSE TAVERN, known for its unique cocktails, craft beer selection, and lively vibe. They also serve pop-up dinners, so check their socials for details. Both spots have friendly staff that make you feel right at home.eafood, and pasta dishes offered in a classic yet unpretentious setting. Or head to BRIO’S for delicious pizzas from their wood-fired oven and phenomenal house-made desserts.
Seconds
Stewart House
River Grill
TOWN OF ATHENS: Visit the Hudson Athens Lighthouse and Athens Riverfront Park, and then head to SECONDS RESTAURANT, a casual spot serving delicious continental and Mediterranean dishes. Or try THE STEWART HOUSE’S 1883 TAVERN, a charming farm-to-table restaurant in a historic Italianate building that was once a boarding house. Or in the warm months, choose THE RIVER GRILL, their outdoor spot on the waterfront with a laid-back vibe, cocktails, local craft beer, small bar menu, and live music.
Hudson River Cruises
Osprey Marine
The Cornell
KINGSTON AREA WATERFRONT: Walk along the Rondout Creek by foot or get out on the Hudson with Kingston’s HUDSON RIVER CRUISES or OSPREY MARINE, across the river in Connelly. Then enjoy dinner at THE CORNELL, formerly Ole Savannah, a new modern dining concept that blends innovative global fusion cuisine with the comfort food staples we loved from Ole Savannah.
Photo by Melissa Walker-Horn.
Photo by Social Cut.
of Yum Yum Noodle Bar.
laid-back fun
Unwind and connect with your partner at these casual spots with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying tasty food and drinks; many have live music.
• HIGH FALLS CAFE, NORTH MARBLETOWN: A casual and relaxed family style restaurant and bar with classics like house-made burgers, great salads, and delicious wings, often accompanied by live music.
• THE RDI BAR & ROADKILL GRILL, NAPANOCH: Lively local dive bar and lunch and dinner spot with a laid-back atmosphere and a diverse menu offering American classics with a dash of daring.
• STELLA'S STATION, SAUGERTIES: Casual restaurant and bar with a relaxed vibe offering patio dining, an exciting menu, and a wide selection of beers.
• COLONY, WOODSTOCK: Enjoy dinner and a show at this legendary Woodstock institution, known for its eclectic menu and live music performances.
• BRAVE THE FLAMES, TANNERSVILLE: Offering a seasonally driven menu of well made American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, a great spot for a relaxed night out.
• HICKORY BBQ, KINGSTON: Savor delicious barbecue in a casual and friendly setting offering a wide variety of smoked meats and classic Southern sides.
• ASIA, STONE RIDGE: Enjoy pan-Asian cuisine with a lively and friendly atmosphere at Asia, offering a range of dishes from Thai to Japanese.
• YUM YUM NOODLE BAR (three locations): Quick and casual with a focus on delicious and affordable Asian fare, offering a variety of noodle dishes, dumplings, and other sian-inspired favorites.
day date
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez.
Photo by Davey Gravy.
Start your day with a romantic breakfast or lunch date at one of these charming local spots. Enjoy sweet conversation and delicious food in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
• CAFE MIO, GARDINER: A cozy American cafe known for its classic breakfasts, lunch, and brunch all day, with only the best farm fresh ingredients. From eggs to burgers, this spot does it right.
• KINGSTON SOCIAL, KINGSTON: Lively shop and café with a vibrant atmosphere, providing an authentic European café experience, where you can sit down and spend quality time with someone while enjoying great coffee, savory pies, gelato, or pastries.
• OLSEN & COMPANY, SAUGERTIES: A great space with a complete day menu and now a night menu for Thursday and Friday until 9. Thursday is Weenie & Tini Night: a hot dog and martini for $14. Sounds like a date to us.
• BALL & CLAW COFFEEHAUS, PORT EWEN: Shop antiques together, share a smoothie and a snack, and then try a couple of their amazing espresso drinks.
• SAUNDERSKILL FARM, ACCORD: Spend a leisurely morning exploring the farm, followed by a delicious farm-fresh lunch or a sweet treat from their farm store.
• KELDER'S FARM, KERHONKSON: The farm’s attractions include mini-golf, farm animals, and giant board games, as well as pizza, kettle corn, and donuts, along with wine, beer, hard cider, and slushies. Don’t miss their spring tulip festival!
stay and eat
Photo by Alev Takil.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at these unique locations that offer accommodations, each with delicious cuisine and a special ambiance. Whether you choose to stay overnight and enjoy the full resort experience or simply savor a meal and soak in the atmosphere, these establishments provide a truly special setting for a romantic evening.
• HUTTON BRICKYARDS RIVER PAVILION, KINGSTON: Enjoy a romantic dinner with stunning river views at this unique and upscale restaurant, located within the historic Hutton Brickyards complex.
• MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE, NEW PALTZ: Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at this iconic resort nestled within the stunning scenery of the Shawangunk Ridge, offering fine dining options and breathtaking views.
• JESSIE'S HARVEST HOUSE, TANNERSVILLE: Cozy and charming restaurant with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine, offering a warm and inviting ambiance and delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
• DEER MOUNTAIN INN, TANNERSVILLE: Whether coming for a small plate and drink on the mountain-view patio, a leisurely three-course meal near the fireplace, or dessert and a digestif at the bar, this spot feels like your every need has been thought of.
romantic and cozy
Photo of Peekamoose Restaurant.
Photo of Garvan's Gastropub.
Indulge in a truly special evening at these intimate and romantic restaurants, perfect for a memorable date night.
Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated dining experience with elegant ambiance, a cozy fireside setting, or simply a quiet corner to savor delicious food and each other’s company, these restaurants offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.
• GARVAN’S, NEW PALTZ: Enjoy a romantic dinner with views of the golf course at this elegant restaurant, offering eclectic fare in an 18th-century house. We personally always have a Guinness alongside their Irish dishes and specials and love to come for live music nights.
• MOUNTAIN BRAUHAUS, GARDINER: A beloved restaurant offering authentic German cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting where the waitstaff even don traditional German attire. It's known for its hearty dishes, extensive beer selection, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• PEEKAMOOSE RESTAURANT & TAP ROOM, BIG INDIAN: Experience phenomenal food with a focus on seasonal ingredients at this renowned restaurant, known for its innovative cuisine and unique decor. They also have killer cocktails and a nightly bonfire when the weather is right.
• BRICKMEN, KINGSTON: An elegant and intimate restaurant with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, offering a modern dining experience with a global spin on Hudson Valley flavors. Yes to clothesline bacon!
• HOFFMAN HOUSE, KINGSTON: A charming restaurant in a historic house, offering continental standards in a preserved circa-1679 stone house with fireplaces and a covered patio.
brew pubs
Gardiner Brewing Company
Lasting Joy Brewery.
Photo by Koldo Studio.
Enjoy a lively date night at one of these local breweries. Sample their craft beers, savor delicious pub fare, and maybe even catch some live music for a fun and memorable evening.
• UNION GROVE DISTILLERY, ARKVILLE: Enjoy delicious craft beer, brewed on-site, paired with wood-fired pizza at this unique brewery and distillery, offering a wide selection of beers and spirits.
• GARDINER BREWING COMPANY, GARDINER: Hang out inside or outside at this farmer-owned and operated brewery focused on using the ingredients they grow to make delicious, seasonal beers. They also have live music on weekends and an extensive snack and meal menu to keep anyone happy.
• LASTING JOY BREWERY, TIVOLI: Sample their traditional- style beers expertly crafted from NY-grown ingredients. The sophisticated design of their tasting room offers unobstructed views of their 31 acres of farmland. Relax on their patio, enjoy live music, and soak in the atmosphere of this local brewery.
• BACCHUS, NEW PALTZ: Enjoy dinner and shoot pool at this popular brewpub, offering a wide selection of craft beers and a huge menu of pub favorites.
pie for two
Who says pizza can’t be romantic? Indulge in a casual and delicious date night at one of these local pizzerias. Enjoy a variety of pizza options, from classic to creative, alongside other Italian favorites like pasta and salads.
Photo by Jacob Lund.
Photo by Jason Leung.
Photo by Pinar Kucuk.
• A SLICE OF ITALY, KINGSTON: A classic Italian restaurant and pizzeria with delicious pizzas and Italian delights that will keep you coming back. A great spot for after your weekly shopping.
• ANGELA’S PIZZA, LAKE KATRINE: Classic pizzeria with great pizza and other Italian specialties, known for their large slices and friendly service.
• TETTA’S MARKET, OLIVEBRIDGE: A local favorite known for its crisp pizzas and classic sandwiches served out of their fourth-generation family-owned market. It’s a convenience store, pizzeria, deli, and gas station, making it a vital hub for both locals and visitors.
intimacy at home
Photos by Rick Barrett.
Photo by Dolgachov.
Create a cozy and romantic atmosphere at home with a delicious meal you don’t have to cook. Enjoy takeout from local favorites, hire a private chef for a personalized culinary experience, or simply order in and enjoy a relaxing evening together.
• BLUE MOUNTAIN BISTRO TO GO, KINGSTON: Enjoy a romantic dinner at home with bistro-style gourmet prepared foods to-go. Don’t forget to pick up a sampling of their house-made desserts.
• CHEF ZACH BERGER, PRIVATE CHEF: Hire this private chef to cook a phenomenal and personalized meal for you and your loved one at home.
• MAIN COURSE MARKETPLACE, NEW PALTZ: Order takeaway from this popular eatery and enjoy a delicious globally inspired, locally sourced meal at home. Or stay at their casual counter-service café for delicious and fresh lunches or dinners while sipping from their selection of seasonal wines, beers, and cocktails.
So, whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner with stunning views, a lively night out at a local brewery, or a casual afternoon exploring a charming town, the Hudson Valley and Catskills offer endless possibilities for unforgettable date nights. So get out there, explore the region, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
