Long summer days and warm summer nights are here, bringing us the carefree feeling of endless time for those post-work hikes and late dinners with friends. And as if that weren’t enough to rejoice over, those warm days herald the return of glorious outdoor dining.
We’re all hoping that this is the last stretch of the pandemic, which, aside from many challenges, has given us a few lasting gifts, one of the absolute best being this: Many Hudson Valley restaurants have expanded and improved their al fresco seating options, and it’s easier than ever to eat an elegant meal in pleasantly beautiful surroundings. Pasta and wine with a view of the river? The perfect sandwich on the mountainside? Craft beer and charcuterie beside an orchard in full bloom? It’s all out there waiting for you. Last summer, many Hudson Valley towns shuffled their streetscapes to create street-dining scenes—the perfect complement for an afternoon of socially distanced shopping or follow-up to a morning hike.
Many restaurants in scenic locations will let you bring a blanket and enjoy a gourmet picnic on the lawn; others have set up patio or picnic tables for you. If you want more details than you’re getting from the ad or website, call and investigate. As live entertainment makes a comeback, it’s hitting outdoor venues first. Get your crew together for a night under the big sky. The grounds of the great Hudson Valley mansions are spectacularly landscaped and feature river views that were handpicked for sheer glory. Get some gourmet takeout, bring your blanket, and live large.
our favorite al fresco dining options:
• 1850 House Tavern, Rosendale
• Aba’s Falafel, Rhinebeck
• Alamo Cantina, Phoenicia
• Aroma Thyme Bistro, Ellenville
• Bacchus, New Paltz
• Barrio Kitchen, Kauneonga Lake
• Barthel’s Creamery, Ellenville
• Board, Kingston
• Brio’s Pizzeria, Phoenicia
• Brooklyn Cider House at Twin Star Orchards, New Paltz
• Cafe Mio, Gardiner
• Diego’s, Kingston
• Gardiner Brewing Company, Gardiner
• Main Course Catering, New Paltz
• Monkey Joe Roasting Co., Kingston
• New Nelly’s Restaurant II, New Paltz
• Ole Savannah Southern Table and Bar, Kingston
• Ollie’s Pizza, High Falls
• Olsen & Company, Saugerties & Woodstock
• Oriole 9, Woodstock
• Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room, Big Indian
• RUNA, New Paltz
• Saunderskill Farm. Accord
• Stone Ridge Orchard, Stone Ridge
• Stella’s Station, Saugerties • Grainne, Kingston
• Grazery, New Paltz
• Hickory BBQ, Kingston
• High Falls Cafe, High Falls
• Home Plate Deli & Caterers, Kingston
• Hurricane Grill & Wings, Poughkeepsie
• Jar’d Wine Pub, New Paltz
• Jessie’s Harvest House, Tannersville
• Lola’s Cafe, New Paltz
• Stone House Tavern, Accord
• Stoutridge Winery & Distillery, Marlboro
• Terrapin, Rhinebeck
• Tetta’s Market & Pizzeria, Olivebridge
• The Anchor, Kingston
• The Country Inn, Krumville
• The Egg’s Nest, High Falls
• The Parish, New Paltz
• Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery, Gardiner
• The Phoenician Steakhouse,Phoenicia
• Woodnotes Grille, Mt. Tremper
• Yum Yum Noodle Bar, Kingston, Red Hook, Woodstock
