When it comes to music in the Hudson Valley, Kingston leads the pack. The city is a magnet for artists and creatives of all genres and walks of life. Perhaps that’s why not one, but three performance spaces call the area home. BSP Kingston, The Anchor, and Ulster Performing Arts Center attract talented musicians from across the region, the nation, and the globe.
After you browse the event calendars and book your tickets to one of the upcoming shows, the next step is to decide where to grab a bite and a beer before the concert. Fortunately, this guide has delicious destinations that are only a short walk away.
Where to go near…BSP Kingston
Boitson’s
If you’re planning a date night concert, Boitson’s is the place to go. This swanky eatery feels like a speakeasy, hole-in-the-wall joint from another era. Go for the oysters and anything off the nightly specials. As for libations, trust the expertly curated wine and beer list. The innovative cocktails are worth a perusal too.
47 North Front St
845.339.2333
Sun, Mon, Wed, Thurs 5 – 10 p.m., Fri-Sat 5 – 11 p.m.
Duo Bistro
Duo Bistro is beloved by locals for its upscale interpretations of classic meals. The restaurant offers both small plates and larger ones, so you can plan your order around how much time you have before your show. Try the ricotta gnocchi, with smoked salmon and roasted garlic, for a full meal, or snack on the upgraded onion rings, with scallions and herb aioli, if you only have a few minutes before the first set.
299 Wall St
845.383.1198
Sun-Sat 10 – 3:30 p.m., Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 11 – 3:30 p.m. for brunch
Mon, Tues, Thurs 5:30 – 9 p.m., Fri 5:30 – 10 p.m. for dinner
Yum Yum Noodle Bar
This funky spot is perfect for families and friends. With a menu that promotes creativity and customized orders, everyone can munch on the noodles, salads, or dumplings of their choice. Pick broth, add a protein, and get in a quick meal before the bass sounds at BSP. For kiddos, the spot has special bento boxes and noodles bowls too.
275 Fair St
845.338.1400
Open Daily 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where to go near…The Anchor
The Anchor
The Anchor isn’t just a beacon for rising talent and local singer/songwriter types. It also happens to be a community favorite for trendy pub fare and beer on tap. As you jam out to an open mic night, nibble on the aptly named Hot Mess Fries, with root beer pulled pork and sriracha mayo, or the Bruskie Ruskies pierogies with ale-braised onions. The eats are so good that you might forget about the music echoing in the background.
744-746 Broadway
845.853.8124
Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sun 11 – 12 a.m., Fri-Sat 11 – 1 a.m.
Keegan Ales
Located a short walk away from The Anchor, Keegan Ales deserves a second trip later on in the month to check out the onsite brewery. For now, content yourself with a meal at the restaurant. Bar bites like quesadillas, pretzels, and mac and cheese take center stage as far as chow goes. For drinks, order a signature beer. Hurricane Kitty is the top IPA, while Joe Mama’s Milk is a must for stout lovers.
20 Saint James St
845.331.2739
Tues, Wed 4 – 9 p.m., Thurs 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Fri, Sat 11:30 – 12 a.m., Sun 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m
Broadway Lights Diner
If you find yourself with the family in tow before the show, make a pit stop at the diner that neighbors The Anchor. The retro ambiance welcomes everyone, while the expansive menu offers something for even the pickiest of eaters. The Greek specialties are standouts, so test your taste buds with spanakopita or moussaka as you sip on a good old-fashioned root beer float.
713 Broadway
845.338.4280
Mon-Thurs 6 a.m. – 11 p.m., Fri, Sat 6 – 12 a.m., Sun 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where to go near…Ulster Performing Arts Center
Yasuda
If the sushi craving hits before a concert at UPAC, take a quick stroll to Yasuda. The seafood spot gets straight to the point with simple hand rolls and sashimi. For adventurous types, the specialty rolls have a definite wow factor. Think savory sauces, crunchy toppers, and creamy Japanese mayo.
579 Broadway Ste B
845.331.0188
Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sat 12 – 11 p.m., Sun 1– 10 p.m.
Taqueria Poblano
Taqueria Poblano might not look like much on the outside, but don’t let that fool you. Kingston’s hidden gem is a mecca for honest-to-goodness Mexican food that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The restaurant only takes cash, so run to the ATM before you stop here. Inside, feast like a king — or queen — on tacos and tostadas galore.
8 Van Buren St
845.430.3286
Mon-Sat 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Did we miss a spot? Let us know where to go to find the best of Kingston in the comments or by email at edit@hvmag.com.
