The Gunk Haus gastropub serves thoughtfully prepared German food for the 21st century. With new takes on old classics, diners delight in the menu choices and incredible mountain views of the Shawangunk Ridge, familiarly known as “The Gunks,” from the outdoor patio and dining room. On a clear day, you can easily see 20 miles out.
“Our restaurant could be seen as part of the bistronomy movement in France: the desire to provide a fine-dining experience at affordable prices,” says owner Dirk Schalle. “We are working every day to create this environment at our restaurant.”
In the summer, Elizabeth Steckel, Schalle’s wife and head chef at Gunk Haus, replaces heavier winter menu items like pork chops with lighter fare, such as the Prince Edward Island Mussels appetizer and the Rainbow Trout entree. All the food is made from scratch with as many carefully sourced, local ingredients as possible.
One of the most popular dishes is German short ribs, the Gunk Haus version of sauerbraten. The bone-in short ribs are slow-braised in a sauerbraten-style marinade and served with braised red cabbage and mashed potatoes. Other traditional favorites are the chicken schnitzel and Hungarian goulash.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with a great beer from the rotating craft-beer selection. Not sure what pairs well with your meal? Simply ask the wait staff. They will happily offer some recommendations. Gunk Haus is now in it’s sixth year of business, and owners Schalle and Steckel pride themselves on their service. In fact, Zagat named Gunk Haus one of the top-10 restaurants for service in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. “That’s really where we aim to shine,” says Schalle. “Our food is spectacular, but people come back for the service.”
If you’re not hungry for a full meal, you can still enjoy the mountain views and a cold drink in the Biergarten. The grassy area on the side of the building has nice benches and allows dogs (if you’re traveling with your pet).
The outdoor patio is open seasonally, weather permitting. Reservations recommended; outdoor seating is first come, first served.
Diners at Highland’s Gunk House can delight in updated renditions of classic German dishes while taking in views of the nearby mountain range. - Partner Content -
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Gunk Haus
387 South St, Highland
(845) 883-0866; www.gunkhaus.com