With a rustic interior and relaxed vibe, Blauvelt’s La Piazza Italian tapas and wine bar serves mix-and-match plates like grilled octopus, baked asparagus with fresh tomatoes, and sausage sliders. Dig into the Nutella dessert “pizza” made with marshmallows and fresh fruit. 845.365.0272
Beacon boasts two newcomers courtesy of local restaurant veterans. Directly across the street from Mediterranean sister spot Amarcord, Enoteca Ama serves Tuscan-style wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings. 845.765.2909
Head east to Melzingah Tap House, a cool pub in The Hop’s old location. The menu showcases local and regional brews along with temptations like spicy tabouli salad, leek sausage dogs, and fried apple pie wontons with vanilla gelato for dessert. 845.765.2844
Shuttered after a 2017 fire, Rensselaer favorite Shakin’ Bacon has reinvented itself as Illusive Restaurant & Bar in a new location. Still offering breakfast and lunch fare like cinnamon roll pancakes and pulled pork sandwiches, the kitchen now whips up dinner specials like strip steak with mushrooms, and spinach salad topped with grilled chicken. A patio with picnic tables has a walkup order window. 518.977.3602
Join the thousands who head to Albany for the New York State Food Festival, a melting pot of statewide vendors serving up international fare, plus live music, a Tap Tent featuring seasonal brews and vinos, and a farmers’ market brimming with breads, pastries, and fresh produce to enhance the party atmosphere. August 8, Empire State Plaza Convention Center, 518.474.4759
Sample artisanal cheeses and spirits, shop the wares of top distillers, and hear down-home bands at the Cash & Country Music Festival and NY Whiskey Weekend. August 11-12, Warwick Valley Winery, 845.258.4858
Our Pick: Burger & Beer Bash 2018
August 9, 6–10 p.m., $50
Dutchess Stadium, 1500 NY-9D, Wappingers Falls
It’s been a long 364 days, but it’s finally back: our annual August blowout, featuring all of the flavors of summer. Burgers will sizzle. Beer will flow. And live music will most certainly lead to a rollicking good time. Come enjoy an evening with great company and grill masters from across the region. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite burger! This event is 21 and over only.
