There’s no more denying it, it’s officially here: Today marks the first day of winter, and the shortest day of the year. We know — we’re equally torn about the whole chilly affair (holiday festivities and winter weather activities vs. bone-chilling temperatures and impending shoveling; hmmm…).
But just because the hours of actual sunlight are limited from here on, doesn’t mean you have to stay in. Here are five area meals to seek out in the name of a new season.
Boro6
If you’re looking for a whole wine-and-dine experience, head over to Boro6, a brand new wine bar located in Hastings-on-Hudson. Run by hospitality-guru Paul Molakides, and Martha Stewart Living alum, Jennifer Aaronson, this spot is serving thoughtful pours alongside an uncomplicated, genuine menu of snacks, salads, and sandwiches. Savor a meal that transcends the seasons with the Arugula Salad with bresaola, shaved fennel, and parmesan, or assembling any combination of cheeses and charcuterie choices into a plate of perfection.
549 Warburton Ave, Hastings-on-Hudson
914.231.9200
Something Sweet Dessert Cafe
And how about treating yourself to something sweet this season? Your best bet is to check out Something Sweet Dessert Cafe in Orange County. Sure, this Middletown standout serves a mean lunch menu and some dinner entrees we’ve been known to dream about (Porcini & Truffle Cappellacci — yes, please!), but as their name implies, the after-dinner treats are where it’s at. For winter, we recommend the Maple Pumpkin Custard Cup, but you won’t go wrong with a slice of Three Cheese Cheesecake, either.
17 North St, Middletown
845.343.2233
|
Photo courtesy of PAKT |
PAKT
It’s not totally frigid just yet, but it’s still pretty cold out there. For a winter warm-up, pay a visit to PAKT, a Southern-inspired restaurant in Kingston. Serving up food that they call “a little bit comfort, a little bit healthy, a lot bit good,” this eclectic Ulster County spot serves a weekday brunch menu that means business. For a toasty, mid-morning entree that will definitely sustain you, order the C*ntry Ass Breakfast, with scrambled cheese eggs, country ham, grits, a biscuit, red eye gravy, and a fried green tomato, or visit them for lunch today and order something a bit more simple: a warming dish of the Pumpkin-Sweet Potato Bisque on special.
608 Broadway, Kingston
845.331.2400
Swoon Kitchenbar
Crisp air and cooler temps could be a good reason to hit refresh this season. That means it’s high time to check out Swoon Kitchenbar in Hudson. Though closed on Wednesdays, visit them this winter for flawless, freshly prepared fare and impeccable service that will help you feel relaxed and rejuvenated well into the coming new year. Visit during lunch for a plate of oysters from nearby Massachusetts or Rhode Island, or stop in during evening hours to dine on an artfully prepared plate of Pan-Roasted Swordfish with cauliflower and puttanesca sauce. Whatever meal you order, we promise you won’t be disappointed.
340 Warren St, Hudson
518.822.8938
Sprout Creek Farm
Finally, if you’re making time in today’s hectic to-do list, how about attending an actual party? The production site of several award-winning cheeses, Sprout Creek Farm in Poughkeepsie is hosting its annual Winter Solstice Gathering this evening from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Bundle up and head out to their bucolic farm to celebrate the night with a bonfire and a well-prepared meal made from ingredients cultivated right on the property. The best part? The whole event, including the food, is totally free.
34 Lauer Rd, Poughkeepsie
845.485.8438 office & 845.485.9885 market
RELATED: How to Harness Your Pasta Prowess
