You’ve planned it out and picked the perfect trail. You’ve trekked up, down, and all around the Hudson Valley. Now, you’re feeling famished. So, what’s a hiker in the region to do? Hit up one of the enticing restaurants in the area, of course. Luckily, these dining destinations are right near top trails in the Hudson Valley, making them the perfect places to refuel after a rewarding day spent hiking.
Baba Louie’s
Hudson
View this post on Instagram
What better way to cap off a day spent hiking in and around the stunning Greenport Conservation than by dining on mouthwatering pizza from this Columbia County hotspot? Just a short drive down the road, Baba Louie’s blends traditional preparation methods with a signature sourdough base for pizza so good you’ll be thinking about a return trip before you leave. Get spicy with the Spicy Greco, which pairs Greek flavors with jalapeno heat, or embrace sweet and savory flavors with the Dolce Vita, a pie that partners figs and gorgonzola with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella. Vegetarians and vegans, don’t fret — Baba Louie’s also serves a number of veggie-centric pies, with the option to create your own pizza as well.
Barb’s Butchery
Beacon
View this post on Instagram
Whether you’ve conquered the trail at Mount Beacon or Breakneck Ridge, you’ll definitely be primed for a protein boost. Well-known for its selection of nose-to-tail meats, Barb’s Butchery also serves a smorgasbord of hot food. Specials rotate weekly, but at any given time you can choose from a variety of burgers and sandwiches, the latter of which includes hickory-smoked pastrami, pulled pork, or buffalo blue cheese chicken. Even a standard like tacos requires further specification: You’ll have to choose between steak, chicken, brisket, pulled pork, or birria beef. After eating, why not pick up a couple of brats for dinner?
Dottie Audrey’s Bakery & Kitchen
Tuxedo Park
View this post on Instagram
The darling of Tuxedo Park, Dottie Audrey’s is the place to stop for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner. With options ranging from steel-cut oatmeal to smoked salmon tartine to soups, salads, and sandwiches, you can keep it light and still feel full. If you’re starving for something more substantial, the Hudson Valley restaurant also serve dishes like a grilled salmon bowl, fried chicken mac and cheese, and cheesesteaks. And that’s not to mention the fresh-baked breads and pastries. Start the day off right and then take a hike — diner’s choice of Sterling Forest or Harriman State Park.
Last Chance Restaurant
Tannersville
View this post on Instagram
After a day spent taking in the breathtaking views of Kaaterskill Falls, head over to the charming Last Chance Restaurant, which has been a fixture in the Catskills since 1971. Started by two antiquers, the restaurant is anything but boring. It’s decorated with eclectic finds and vintage knick-knacks, with a menu that’s just as exciting. With an array of international cheeses, visitors can start their dining experience by sharing a cheese platter or cheese fondue. For mains, there are even more options like the portabella and garlic goat cheese sandwich, jalapeno burger with pepper jack, or a traditional meatloaf and mashed potatoes. What’s even more impressive than the extensive cheese and dining menu is the beer list of over 300 options.
Lola’s Cafe
Poughkeepsie
View this post on Instagram
Right when you step off the Dutchess County side of the Walkway Over the Hudson, Lola’s Cafe greets weary hikers with open arms. The Poughkeepsie eatery is your one-stop shop for filling bites that blend healthy and hearty ingredients harmoniously. Made-to-order sandwiches, chopped salads, vegetable bowls, and soups in the colder months are just a few of the delicious options at Lola’s. Try the chipotle turkey panini for a little spice, the short rib grilled cheese for something savory, or the black bean burger for veggie-loving diners. Don’t forget to choose from unique sides like spicy peanut noodles, pesto pasta salad, and black bean and corn salad.
Mountain Brauhaus
Gardiner
View this post on Instagram
With the Shawangunk Mountains rising just across the road, this German restaurant serves lunch and dinner all day long. Come hungry, as authentic recipes make it easy to indulge. The Bavarian pretzel with warm smoked gouda and horseradish dip and the pickled herring in sour cream and onion sauce are standout appetizers, while sauerbraten, seared pounded sirloin steaks, and various schnitzels comprise the entrees. Don’t forget to check out the beer and wine menus, which offer an interesting array of libations from Germany and beyond.
Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room
Big Indian
View this post on Instagram
In the northwest corner of Ulster County — and conveniently near a number of top hiking trails — sits this restaurant from New York City fine dining alums, Devin and Marybeth Mills. Surrounded on nearly all sides by Shandaken Wild Forest, Slide Mountain Wilderness, and Big Indian Wilderness, Peekamoose serves a frequently rotating menu built from simple ingredients served finely. The arugula salad blends goat cheese and crisp apples, while house-made charcuterie lets you nibble before moving on to main courses like English pea risotto, slow braised beef short ribs, or wood-grilled sirloin steak with sauteed kale.
Related: 14 Frozen Hudson Valley Treats That Go Beyond Ice Cream
