You know how sometimes you can squeeze a burger and the juices just drip onto the plate? That’s what happens with the Raccoon Saloon’s 12-ounce burger (medium-cooked). This hearty hunk of beef rests on a lightly toasted bun and comes with a variety of toppings to choose from: Cheeses range from cheddar to mozzarella to jalapeño, and extras include roasted garlic mayo, sautéed mushrooms or onions, guacamole, goat cheese, and others. Each topping varies in price from $1-$2 — loading up can increase your tab quickly.
Those with smaller appetites can choose an eight-ounce burger, and non-carnivores have a vegetarian option — a patty made up of chunky vegetables (that tastes great with the goat cheese topping).
Each meal comes with the Saloon’s homemade ketchup, a sweet tomato sauce that tastes a bit like a thick gazpacho and goes perfect with salty sweet potato fries or bracelet-sized onion rings (regular French fries are available as well). Those who prefer tangier, classic Heinz ketchup can request a bottle.
The title “saloon” might invoke images of a wild-West environment, but this eatery’s more serene, with large windows overlooking great views of both the Hudson and a flowing waterfall that usually gushes after a heavy rain.
A recommendation: If you’re feel daring, end the meal with the homemade basil ice cream (odd, yes, but refreshingly delicious).
» Return to the Hudson Valley’s Best Burgers 2011
» Visit Raccoon Saloon in Marlboro, NY
» Visit the Hudson Valley Dining Guide
» Visit the Hudson Valley Food & Drink Guide
