The Local Table and Tap

Summer time and I want to eat outside, preferably with water in view.  Well, a few days ago I went with my family to The Local Table and Tap and though we could not be seated outdoors, we were able to have a casual meal at a new-to-us place.  The dining room was quite crowded and the blackboard specials included beers and an entree which was erased while we were seated (I assume they sold out).

Here's what we had:

A tasty hummus appetizer to share.  The pita was warm and pillowy, the hummus tastefully seasoned and we also enjoyed the artichoke, cucumbers and olives.

Two of us ordered appetizers as entrees and all of our main choices are below:

The buratta with grilled bread, arugula and fruit mustarda

Pierogies: potato and cheese pierogie, garlic kielbasa, caramelized onion, dijon sour cream sauce

This was not my dinner, but I was allowed to sample a bit and it was wonderful - great textures and flavors.

Lettuce Wraps: chilled gulf shrimp, toasted peanuts, Thai chili vinaigrette

I loved this! After having the hummus, it was a nice follow-up.  The lettuce was fresh, the shrimp had the right amount of firmness and the sauce was just slightly zippy.  I barely used the crispy noodles, but it was a nice touch.

Fish and Chips: ale battered haddock, hand cut fries, horseradish slaw, dill remoulade 

The Mr. went a bit out of his comfort zone and tried the fish and chips.  It was a pleasant version of a pub standard.

Chicken Campanelli: grilled chicken, oven-roasted plum tomato, garlic, spinach, organic pasta, Pecorino cheese

Although I did not try this dish, it looked exactly as I imagined it would according to the menu description.

I also enjoyed a "Whiskey Daisy" cocktail which was: Buffalo Trace Whiskey, lemon, Grand Marnier, simple syrup.

I'd love to return and be able to enjoy dining on the deck to truly get a feel for the whole experience. Overall, I felt Fed Well enough to go back - perhaps for a fun night with friends. I am sure this place is packed for concert nights at Bethel Woods.  Make a reservation and check it out.

The Hoot Owl Restaurant in Pine Bush

Many locals are more than familiar with the location of the Hoot Owl or "The Hoot," but for those who are not, it is located at 26 Awosting Road outside of Pine Bush.  Some may have known it as a dive bar, but now it has had a remodel, redo and updating that made me very curious.  So, I grabbed one of my best friends and made the quick trip to take look, have a taste and see if I would be Fed Well.

It was easy to meet owner, Arif Khan, as he was working the front of the house and waiting on tables. Once I introduced myself and my friend, I asked if he could decide what I would eat, and so it begins...

Notice that purple hummus? How could you not? Well, it was just as appealing in taste as it is in appearance.  The beet taste was mildly sweet, the consistency lush and smooth.  The naan (I may be wrong as it is listed as pita on the menu) was pillowy inside with a few crisp edges to hold the weight of the hummus.  Garlic was the middle flavor and romesco (red pepper) round out the offerings.  A perfect sized appetizer for two to share and I made quite certain I had my share.  In fact, I would go back just for this starter.

I love olives.  All colors.  Pits, no pits, in my Tito's martini, on a plate, in a bowl, I like them here and I like them there. You get the idea.  Well, fried olives? I've never. Loved it. Another welcome food surprise.

   

For those who either simply prefer a burger, or are not familiar with some of the Indian menu offerings, a loaded cheeseburger with home-made fries is the answer (along with other available options).

For me, the Creamy Chicken Curry or Murgh Makhami, with rice and yogurt sauce, was warmly seasoned and so satisfying.  The chicken was tender, the rice was appropriately firm and the cucumber yogurt provided that bit of refreshing coolness when needed.  If I had more pita, I probably would have sopped up more of the sauce from my dinner.

Dessert? Yes, of course.

A wonderful sweet treat for one or for us, it was lovely to share - flourless chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

If you remember The Hoot, this is not simply a new version of the old bar.  So, go and enjoy The Hoot Owl Restaurant and be Fed Well.  We ran into several people we know so don't be surprised to see friends and neighbors at the next table.

Hacienda in Goshen, NY

Regardless of our age, women friends with other women are always known as "girlfriends." Sometimes it's funny to me that with a vocabulary available to us of over 171,000 words in the English language and about 25% of them being adjectives, we don't identify our adult friendships with women, regardless of age, years known or other information, any differently than our childhood counterparts, the girls we jumped rope with at recess.  Although, thinking about it a little further, maybe all I really need is better terms for new versus "been my buddy for awhile" rather than anything to do with gender. Sigh.  Labels are silly after all and I wouldn't introduce you to either of them in this manner at all, I'd simply say, "Reader, I'd like you to meet So and So."

Well, a newer friend/acquaintance, a close lady pal who is a mutual friend to us both, and I all decided to meet up for dinner.  One of us requires gluten-free options and so, Hacienda in Goshen, NY was our destination.

I have to admit, I was a bit confused by my GPS since I remembered the restaurant to be visible from Route 17 although I had never eaten there.  I was pleasantly surprised to realize the location is the previous site for La Masquerade and La Nieves - ok, so if you really work at it, you realize I am of a certain age if I remember those spots.  Bottom line, the building is large and modern with ample outside cafe-style seating available in nice weather.

I love the outside decorations; ready for St. Patrick's Day, Mardis Gras, and a nod to Mexican Skull Art and Calaveras, in both female and male renditions.

 

The interior is bright, fun, clean and welcoming.

Ah the creamy deliciousness that is guacamole.  Prepared right before your eyes, allowing you to both customize the ingredients and ensure the freshness of your order.  Lovely.

 

Shredded Beef Tostadas.

The best interpretation of this dish I have had to date.  The shells were crisp. The meat was soft to the mouth, yet nicely seasoned.  The lettuce and tomato were chilled as were the rest of the toppings.  Absolutely wonderful.

 

Camarones.  What a fun word.  Shrimp.  This happy diner enjoyed every last bite so I think it is safe to say it was prepared to her liking.

What do three adults with grown children discuss at dinner? Their parents (two have moms with the same birthday), their families, a little bit about work, hobbies and of course, looking forward to better weather in the Hudson Valley.

Time for dessert:

 

Something about sharing a sweet something after a meal... above is an example of sweet chimichangas, and below is a mango cheesecake.  Take a moment and try to imagine how decadent these desserts were and I will tell you, they were even better than your imagination.

 

Well, we even had a brief discussion about politics without anyone's feelings getting hurt and we do span from left to right in thinking, but the difference is we are accepting of the opposing point of view when it can be rationally discussed.  Sprinkle a bit of emotion when discussing our current political officer holders (from local level to the White House) and you could be in for an unpleasant experience.

Hacienda, thank you for allowing us the place to meet up, share thoughts, enjoy wonderful food and drink (did I mention the classic Margarita with extra salt was amazing?) that left us all feeling Fed Well.

Gaby's Cafe in Ellenville, NY

For years, if you asked me what my favorite foods were the answer would somehow include pasta and seafood.  Mexican food wasn't even in my top ten because my only experience was home made tacos that included the use of a cardboard yellow box kit.  Nothing wrong with that - I've made that meal countless times for my only family, but the point is, I had no real experience with Mexican food and a bunch of preconceived and false notions that it would be too spicy.  Period. Spicy. Avoid.

Over the last ten years, Mexican food, in general, has moved right up to the top five favorites.  I even have a few Mexican restaurants that I like and use as benchmarks (I won't mention them here because that's not the point) and Gaby's Cafe has been recommended to me countless times, so here we are at Gaby's. The dining room is full, almost to capacity, and we are greeted then seated quite quickly.

It really is mandatory to begin with guacamole.  My preference is for fresh, tableside preparations, and least desirable is something that seems like it was covered and refrigerated for an undetermined amount of time.

Looks pretty darn good, doesn't it? Freshly green, cilantro, tomato, creamy goodness and a full basket of chips.  Ah.

The decor is eclectic fun and the light fixtures include tequila bottles as shades over the bulbs.  

I do not normally order soup at a Mexican restaurant, in fact, I only did it one other time, but this winter night was cold and I simply craved the warmth I knew it would bring.  It was a chicken soup with fresh herbs and I was happily surprised.

I was also craving pork. Although for some reason I imagined it to look different, the taste I wanted was there alongside a healthy serving size of rice, and beans.

My younger son enjoyed classic steak tacos.

The Mr. stretched and flexed out of his regular comfort zone and ordered this giant burrito.  He was pleased with the results and ate every bite.

We watch families celebrate birthdays and special occasions, date night couples and groups that could be friends or relatives, but the common theme is everyone truly seems to be enjoying themselves and their food.  The service was quick and efficient without feeling rushed and the restroom was clean (I feel this is so important, but not always commented on).

Gaby's Cafe provided us with a nice break from our regular routine and though it is a bit out of the way for us geographically, I'll be sure to make the effort to be Fed Well.

Crawford Craft in Pine Bush

Brunch? In Pine Bush? In the location that was formerly the Grasshopper on Main Street?  What?

Yes, it's true.  I met one of my dear friends for brunch at Crawford Craft in Pine Bush.  

We were welcomed by one of the owners, Mike Moriarty and the congenial attitude he, as well as his partners, conveyed was refreshing.  While taking our drink order we were offered brunch cocktails including Mimosas or Bloody Mary's.

Here's how it looked:

A more industrial decor punctuated with unique art, contemporary light fixtures and a smaller, reworked bar.  We approved.

The menu:

Certainly some new, modern options and distinguishable from other establishments in town.  We opted for the same thing, the Biscuits & Sawmill Gravy.  The soup of the day was a potato kale and I did consider it as well.

Biscuits & Sawmill Gravy

Biscuits topped with poached eggs then smothered in gravy, topped with a sprinkle of green onion.The portion size was appropriate to large.

It was quite a brisk Sunday so the hearty, warm meal was satisfying.  While I'm not a huge grapefruit fan, I wonder if the grilled grapefruit, or similar dish, could have also doubled as a way to end this particular visit. Next time.

Once the diners thinned out a bit I was able to take a few photos of the eclectic art.

For those who enjoy a craft beer, here are some of the options displayed during our visit:

My friend and I talked about life, our families and of course, the food.  We decided we would go back and it fit in nicely with her New Year's resolution regarding spending more actual time with friends. Overall, the Crawford Craft is a nice addition to the Main Street fare.  Take some time to do some small business shopping and stop in.  It's likely you will leave feeling Fed Well.

Town Hall Eatery in Pine Bush

Finally had a chance to try the Town Hall Eatery in Pine Bush for lunch this past week with one of my favorite girlfriends and partner in crime.  

Ordering at the counter is how it begins and once you pay, you are given a number to display on your table then your food is brought to you.  I ordered the soup of the day (Lobster Bisque) and a hamburger with sweet potato fries.

We chose a table upstairs.  It was a scenic choice and since we were slightly after the lunchtime rush, I was able to take plenty of photos without anyone noticing.

I made an unusual choice for a drink from the cooler by the register...the Shirley Temple seemed fun and colorful. It was just as sweet as you may imagine and in fact, maybe just a smidge sweeter.

Another view of the second floor dining room

The Lobster Bisque

Hamburger with sweet potato fries

Chicken sandwich with sweet potato fries

Not good or bad, but I was unaware of the fact that my soup and burger would be brought out at the same time.  I understand some would very much prefer to have their soup with a sandwich or other choice, but my preference is to enjoy one while hot then the next. The young man who delivered my food did apologize and in the end I sampled a bit of the soup before having it packed up to go.

The burger was juicy and prepared the way I requested.  I appreciated the arugula rather than iceberg lettuce on a brioche bun. The sweet potato fries were delicious with or without the honey-chili dipping sauce.  While I did not sample my friends chicken, she did let me know that it was delicious.

The second floor lighting

I had to wait until the table to my left was empty to take the photo above but felt it was worth sharing the fun fixture of Edison lights...I think of them as large fairy lights.  

We ran into a mutual friend's mom and posed for a quick picture that was later posted on social media.  What's more fun than going out to eat in small town? Well, not just any small town but the one we were raised in...Pine Bush.  

We were Fed Well and yes, I would return for a casual meal with friends or family.  Maybe I'll see you there.

Cosimo's Brick Oven in Middletown - Remodeled

I've been to Cosimo's a few times over the years and most recently celebrated my sister's birthday on a weeknight with a fairly large crowd. Tonight I was meeting a new friend, sort of a ladies first date and through the years, I have discovered this is quite important to not only maintain long friendships with women but to develop new ones. We women are complex creatures and sometimes we simply find comfort or companionship with someone who shares a particular point of view, or is going through a similar chapter in life, or simply because we enjoy their company.  I have firmly shifted my belief from having that one close confidant (or so I thought she was) to expanding my circle and deciding the level of intimacy with each friendship.

About the restaurant, the interior has been reworked and this is a partial view of the result:

We were immediately greeted by a lovely server who we established some light conversation with before ordering two cucumber martinis.  She was young, enthusiastic, and we chatted about her hair color, which led to her revealing a bit of personal information (she changed her appearance as the result of a break-up) and of course, a few changes to the menu to reflect the altered decor.

Cucumber Martini

In today's restaurant world, a wide variety of options is simply necessary to accommodate the general populations gastronomical needs.  My friend requires gluten-free dishes and I quickly discover, this dietary concern can be quite limiting without a bit of willingness to compromise and forego certain dishes.  However, Cosimo's offers a number of choices which require no thought because no gluten is included as well as gluten-free pizza dough and pasta.

Chicken Scarpariello 

The online menu description: Murray's Chicken, Fennel Sausage, Cherry Peppers and Roasted Potatoes.

Pasta Fagioli 

Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup with Ditalini Pasta and Parmigiano (contains pork) - is the online description and answers the vegetarian question...

I ordered both the soup and an appetizer as my meal.  I was asked how I would like my food to come out and opted to just have both when my companion's main course was ready. Thoughtful consideration and foresight of our server.

Two views of the Stuffed Portobello with Gorgonzola Sauce

The mushroom does provide a steak-like feel and heartiness.  The stuffing consists of caramelized shallots, spinach, and tomatoes.  I especially appreciated the sauce on the side to allow me the option to dip or pour and smother.  Wonderful.

We talk of life - a grand topic which includes a peek at our families, an overview of our work, a bit of criss-cross in the area of mutual friends and of course, food.  A lovely meal with fabulous company.

Our server closes the evening by asking if we are teachers.  She gushed that she made her guess based on the way we were dressed - with clothing that was accessorized with jewelry.  Well, we were sorry to disappoint and without revealing too much about ourselves simply generalized our professions as leaning toward creative fields.  I smile inside when I think of her, she appears to be on a path of discovery and trying to figure it all out.  Hope she has some great girlfriends to talk it over with and be Fed Well.

Open Letter to all Restaurants

I go out to eat at least once a week, but on an average I'd say three times per week.  Quick common core math makes that about 150 meals per year (although I know it's more) which include breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.  I'm not in my 20's and have been going out to eat for quite some time.  I'm just explaining some of my background before I get to the point.

I understand anyone can have a bad day or night.  I appreciate servers, wait staff, those who clear, set, bartend, cook, prep, host and clean the rest rooms.  I can be empathetic when things don't go as planned.  I allow for the human condition - people have emergencies, get sick or simply do not show up for work.

However, I think it is fair to say, I expect a certain level of service as part of the experience when dining out.  Typically, I imagine the experience to include being greeted, seated at a clean table with appropriate place settings for all guests, presented with menus (at times wine lists, cocktail menus, specials,etc.) and asked if I would like something to drink.  Next, I feel it is common to be brought the beverage and many times this is the point of placing the order.  

Some restaurants may then bring breads, rolls or other complimentary (figured into the meal price) small food item.  If so, I would like a bread plate, please.

The next course may be tricky - could be salad, might be appetizer or soup.  Many variables. However, if it seems the bread basket or plate has taken up most of the space and the diners are struggling to find room for the food being brought out, ask to clear the bread.  Please.

Please do not hand me a hot bowl or plate of food with the hopes that I will find a place for it on the table.

Once this course has been eaten and before the next round of plates are brought out, please clear the dishes.  Again, it is awkward and uncomfortable to be brought more food when the table is already covered with dishes.  

I recently was forced to accept a plate from a server and had my fingers covered in sauce as a result. We were the only diners in the restaurant and when I was able to try my food -  it was cold.

Yes, please check on me.  Please ask if I would like a second beverage or water.  

Please clear all of the dinner plates before asking about dessert.  Please offer tea and coffee to everyone at the table (even if it does not come with the "special").

In return, I will thank you. I will spread the word about your fine restaurant and its great service.  I will recommend it to others, take photos and post all about it on social media.  I will leave a better gratuity.

So, dear owner or manager of a restaurant, please check on your staff.  All of them.  See if they are truly trained and understand or need help or are overwhelmed.  Your business is in their hands.

Shadows on the Hudson - Poughkeepsie, NY

Yes, date night is alive and well.  One Saturday night, the Mr. and I decided to cross the mighty Hudson and try a restaurant we have not yet visited.  

Shadows on the Hudson is quite popular and reservations are recommended.  Early.  In fact, we tried to go for Valentine's Day and couldn't get in.  So, if you are thinking about it, just book it.  We made our reservation using the on-line link and I requested a table by a window (though I was told not all requests can be guaranteed).

Raspberry Cocktail as recommended by our server, Raymond

We double checked the regular and special menus, checked with each other and decided on a strategy.  We know we are going to share the food we order and want to ensure maximum coverage of items we both enjoy.

It was tough deciding if we wanted an appetizer or not, but then I suggested we try the Meatballs Siciliano.  Fresh mozzarella and marinara sauce were the only descriptors, but I had a good feeling.

Meatballs Siciliano

Stretchy, Gooey, Hot - the triad of fabulous mozzarella goodness

Yes, I enjoy food, but these meatballs had me from first sight.  They were simply picture perfect. Tasting the initial forkful of tender meat, sweet marinara, and lush cheese made all of my taste buds smile and sigh with contentment.  One of those, "If I only had this one food to eat for the rest of my life," moments.  Really.  I had to stop myself from eating a second meatball because I wanted to at least sample the rest of the food I ordered.  My only consolation was in knowing I would have a second opportunity to eat this amazing appetizer.

Warm bread for dipping in the marinara from the meatballs

The Mr., as some may have come to learn, prefers tradition at the table.  He enjoys a salad and bread as part of his meal.  I mentioned to our server, "The gentleman prefers a generous portion of dressing."  Raymond kindly brought both a dressed salad and a boat of additional bleu cheese. Nicely done.

Carrot Ginger Soup

I was pleasantly surprised by the large portion size of soup.  I had only expected something similar to a coffee cup rather than a full bowl.  I could feel my stomach fill with each smooth and silky spoonful.  Would I be able to even sample my entree?

6 ounce Filet Mignon

My medium-rare beef was perfectly prepared and served next to a heaping serving of smashed potatoes and and equally large portion of root vegetables.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The Mr. is a huge fan of chicken and this plentiful entree included two cutlets over a perfectly prepared al dente linguini.  I have a strong negative reaction with the smell of parmesan, but the Mr. was quite happy and satisfied.  I was able to sample a bite of the poulty and do appreciate the nicely crisp crunch of the crust without drying the protein. Well done.

We spoke of life, our adult children, his job, and the folks around the dining room as well as at the bar.  Shadows is also known for having a lively late night crowd.  We observed various groupings of people and supposed what they may be celebrating, saw a number of couples like us who may be either on their 400th or 4th dates and enjoyed the atmosphere.  Though we passed on dessert, the offerings were appealing.  We left quite full and feeling Fed Well.