Longtime friends and former co-workers Charlie Brassard and Anna Utevsky have taken their relationship to a new level: They are now restaurant owners. With Aeble, the latest addition to Hudson’s Warren Street, Chef Brassard and Utevsky (who is the host) have created what they call a welcoming gathering place. “We’re not fine dining or fast casual,” says Brassard. “We’re hosting a nightly dinner party and everyone is invited.”
Brassard first met Utevsky 12 years ago while working at August in New York City. For years the friends talked about opening a restaurant, but it never materialized. When Brassard recently brought up the idea of opening in Hudson, Utevsky jumped at the opportunity. “Fate brought us back together,” says Brassard.
Aeble, which is derived from Old Danish for “apple,” is an ode to the state of New York and the Hudson Valley. It features an approachable menu of seasonal items made with products primarily sourced from the Hudson Valley. The dishes are simple and thoughtfully prepared in an effort to showcase the excellent ingredients grown in the region. “We’re not grasping at something trendy. We’ve built a menu people can relate to,” says Brassard.
Born in Mexico and living overseas throughout his childhood, Brassard was exposed to many different cultures and cuisines. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Brassard had a successful 20-year career as a chef in San Francisco and New York City, during which he forged strong relationships with many small artisan farmers and local producers whom he now calls neighbors at Aeble.
Begin your meal with a choice of snacks, cheeses, or starters like the crispy lamb ribs with fava bean hummus, radish sprouts, and lemon. While the menu will change seasonally, some recent dinner choices included a juicy burger and fries; whole grilled trout with farro tabbouleh, cucumbers, pole beans, and mint; and a grilled pork chop with peaches, charred cabbage, and a hot sauce aioli.
Pair your meal with a drink from the bar menu created by Utevsky, featuring everything from cocktails to coffee, and a diverse selection of craft beers, ciders, and wines.
While you’re there, try the signature Aeble cocktail — made with Neversink apple brandy, Cocchi Rosa, and Cardamaro. After all, this is a dinner party, and you don’t want to insult the hosts.
Open Wed, Thurs, and Sun, 5–9 p.m.; Fri and Sat, 5–10 p.m. (Bar opens at 3 p.m.) Closed Mon and Tues.
449 Warren St, Hudson; 518.697.7987; www.aebleny.com
