Wood-Fired Pizza at Sloop Brewing Co.
East Fishkill
Sloop Brewing Company’s original location in Elizaville now belongs to the history books, and we will miss it. Fortunately, its location in East Fishkill has more than enough in the way of beer, games, and food, not least of which are the specialty wood-fired pizzas. Baked in an authentic Fiero oven, these pies have a doughy crust dappled by char. Look for flavors like Bianca with five different cheeses and piquillo peppers; Hawaii 5-0 with cheese, pepperoni, red onion, and pineapple; and The Mortadella with parmesan cream, Havarti, fresh mozz, and the namesake meat, as well as pistachios and pickled onions.
Breakfast Risotto at Borland House Inn
Montgomery
A Best of Hudson Valley winner, Borland House is a quaint, Victorian bed and breakfast with a gourmet restaurant. The brunch game here is strong, with refreshing takes on your morning meal like breakfast risotto, or creamy rice topped with an egg, crunchy bacon, and fresh sprouts. The best part? The restaurant is open to the public, so locals and travelers alike can enjoy.
Winter Sangria at A&P Bar
Woodstock
After a couple sips, this cocktail will have you saying summer is for the birds. Of course, with wintry flavors like cranberry, persimmon, spices, and red pear, plus a splash of tequila, it might have you saying a few other things, too.
Lunch Buffet at Bliss Kitchen & Wellness Center
Newburgh
The winter can be a tough time to stay on track health-wise. It’s freezing, dark, and festive, making it all too easy to skip the gym in favor of holiday movies, cookies, or cocktails (or all of the above). Press pause on the onslaught of December indulgence with Bliss Kitchen’s lunch buffet, where you can warm up with any number of Indian staples, many of which are vegan or vegetarian. Try samosas, madras curry, tamarind rice, and, for at least one meal this month, don’t feel guilty about it.
Apple Tart at Stone House Tavern
Accord
Sometimes the secret is not to overcomplicate things, especially like that time-honored combination of warm apple pie and cold vanilla ice cream. Stone House Tavern swaps out pie for a tart, and it hits the spot — especially after one of the restaurant’s savory steak or seafood entrees.
Related: You’re Invited to the Secret Speakeasies of the Hudson Valley