The Artist’s Palate started it all in 2005. But it wasn’t until last year, when a giant Buddha came to town, that a few blocks of Poughkeepsie’s once derelict Main Street suddenly morphed into the hottest dining destination in the mid-Hudson Valley. Karma Lounge came along with its hip small plates and Sangria Sundays, and now Brasserie 292 — a new 80-seat restaurant — has sent the cool quotient almost through the roof.
While there are several outstanding French eateries scattered throughout the Valley, there is nothing that captures city chic quite like this. As you swing through the doors into the soaring space with red leather booths, black and white tiles, and a restored tin ceiling, it’s not hard to imagine that you’ve just come straight from the Louvre to meet your bon ami for a drink. Here, you can raise your glass, which will contain one of a wide selection of French wines, speciality cocktails, or local craft beer.
The menu, like a typical brasserie, is varied, but features lots of French favorites. There is a popular raw bar, which serves two oyster dishes each day; steak tartare; mussels and fries; an assortment of salads and sandwiches; and, of course, wonderful steak frites (served with your choice of herb butter or bernaise sauce). And Cassoulet Mondays? We’re hooked. Stay tuned for a full review soon. Open Mon.-Sat. for lunch and dinner and for Sunday brunch.
» Visit Brasserie 292 Restaurant in Poughkeepsie, NY
» Visit Brasserie 292 Restaurant’s Web site at www.brasserie292.com
» Visit our Restaurant & Dining Guide for a complete list of Hudson Valley restaurants
» Visit our Food & Drink Guide for a complete list of Hudson Valley dining services