Lobster rolls = summer. Eating one of these with a view of the ocean, for me, defines the season. Those of us who can’t make it to the coastal areas of New England this summer can still enjoy one of these delicious treats nearer to home. Many Westchester County restaurants serve lobster rolls during the warmer months (and many throughout the year). The prices are all pretty comparable. You just have to decide how far you are willing to travel and whether you want a chilled, mayo-based, Maine-style roll or a hot, buttery, Connecticut-style roll.
As always, please check directly with the restaurant for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.
The Boathouse(Ossining) – (Market Price) Chunks of lobster in a tarragon aioli on a buttered roll
Bread and Brine (Hastings) – ($29) Choice of Maine or Connecticut-style, bag of potato chips included
Chef Rob on Wheels (Yorktown and Westchester County) ($24) Chef Rob’s food truck is usually parked outside Yorktown Town Hall Tuesday through Saturday, but he also caters private events and can be found at local fairs and festivals. Lobster rolls can be ordered Butter Poached (Succulent claw and knuckle lobster meat, poached in warm butter and served atop a butter-griddled split top hot dog bun) or The Original (Succulent claw and knuckle lobster meat, tossed in our special spiced lemon mayo and fresh crunchy celery, served atop a butter griddled split top hot dog bun).
Cousins Maine Lobster– (Food Truck that frequents Westchester County) – ($23) Choose between Maine-style (Maine lobster, served chilled, touch of mayo, on a New England Roll) or Connecticut-style (Maine lobster, served warm with butter and lemon, on a New England roll). You can make it a combo with a drink and a side for an additional cost.
Dobbs Ferry Lobster Guys (Dobbs Ferry) – ($24.95) Their Maine-style is served cold, on a grilled and buttered bun. The lobster is typically dressed in a light mayo, with light salt & pepper. Their Connecticut-style uses hot lobster meat and is served buttered.
KEE Oyster House(White Plains) – ($32) stuffed in a branded roll and served with Old Bay chips
Kelly’s Sea Level(Rye) – ($27.95) Maine-style (North Atlantic lobster meat piled on a buttered roll drizzled with Old Bay mayo with a side of fries and cole slaw) or Connecticut-style (North Atlantic lobster meat in warm, melted butter piled on a toaster roll with a side of fries and cole slaw)
Red Hat on the River (Irvington) – ($36) “Maine Style” fresh lobster dressed with lemon aioli, celery, chives, butter toasted brioche roll, choice of greens or frites (available Wednesdays after 4 PM through Saturdays)
Any Chipotle Mexican Grill fans out there? Their burritos, bowls and salads are perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Residents of New Rochelle, get ready, because a new Chipotle restaurant is opening tomorrow at the North Ridge Shopping Center at 77 Quaker Ridge Road.
To celebrate the grand opening, the first 50 guests in line will receive free Chipotle Goods merchandise. For those unfamiliar, Chipotle Goods is the restaurant’s line of clothing, accessories and bags. All profits from these product sales are donated to charitable causes that focus on making food and clothing more sustainable.
If you aren’t a Chipotle Rewards member yet, sign up now! You’ll receive free chips and guac after your first purchase. And who doesn’t love free guac?!
This Chipotle restaurant will be open daily from 10:45 AM to 10 PM, giving you plenty of time to get your fill of burritos and rice bowls. And for those looking for employment, the restaurant is hiring. Check out this link to learn more about the perks of working at Chipotle and how to apply.
This is New Rochelle’s first Chipotle restaurant, so I’m sure it will be extra busy the first couple of weeks! Especially if the city’s residents love Chipotle as much as I do!
NY Foodie Family was invited to a media viewing of the show. As always, all opinions are our own.
Fans of local theatre were devastated when the Westchester Broadway Theatre closed in October 2020, after more than 45 years in business. This was THE place for Broadway-caliber productions, without the hassle of traveling into the city. Fortunately, the revived (and newly-named) The Westchester Theatre has found a home at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center. The 425 seat theatre was founded in 2017 and hosts a variety of cultural events and shows, including theatre productions.
This spring, the Westchester Theatre is performing Million Dollar Quartet. The Tony-nominated musical debuted last Thursday evening at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center and runs on select dates through May 22nd.
From the MIllion Dollar Quartet website: “Around Christmas time in 1956, Carl Perkins was in a post-“Blue Suede Shoes” funk. He booked a recording session on Dec. 4th with producer Sam Phillips. Along with Jerry Lee Lewis, Perkins and his band recorded a number of songs including one of Perkins’ best-known records, “Matchbox.” Details from the rest of that day are still questioned, but this is what is known: Perkins and Lewis were later joined by Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, and the foursome held an impromptu jam session. A newspaper wrote, “This quartet could sell a million.” Shortly after they were known as “The Million Dollar Quartet.”
The show plays like a concert/ jam session with the actors actually playing the instruments and singing. You’ll hear hits like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Hound Dog,” “I Walk the Line,” and “Great Balls of Fire.” At one point, the performers literally have the audience up on their feet dancing along to the tunes.
Recently, I attended the opening of Million Dollar Quartet and can say that this is a must-see show for fans of early rock and roll. While the audience on the night of my visit leaned toward the 60+ age group, the show will be entertaining for anyone who are fans of Perkins, Cash, Lewis and Presley. Million Dollar Quartet is playing for a limited time, so be sure to get your tickets soon!
The Details: Million Dollar Quartet Westchester Theatre at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center 480 North Bedford Road Chappaqua, NY website
Dates: Select dates through May 22
Tickets: $49 – $89/ticket
Parking: Plentiful free parking in lot
*Masks are required at the performances
*There is no intermission. The show runs straight through the approximately 105 minutes.
NY Foodie Family was invited to the VIP Ribbon Cutting Event at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas. As always, all opinions are our own.
Dinner and a movie just got elevated to another level at the recently opened LOOK Dine-In Cinemas! The movie theater had its grand opening earlier this month and is now welcoming guests. The newly-opened Dobbs Ferry location is the company’s tenth theater and the first in New York.
The Experience
Visitors to LOOK Dine-In Cinemas have the opportunity to enjoy an elevated movie experience.
Guests can preorder movie tickets online and select the seats of their choice or use the ticket kiosks in the lobby. The theaters open 20 to 30 minutes before show time so visitors can get comfortable and order any food and drinks prior to the movie starting.
The Theater:
LOOK Dine-In Cinemas has eight theaters that can seat between 60-100 guests. The front section of the theater has chaise lounges that seat two. These are great if you prefer to lay down and snuggle up with your date. There is a row of seats behind the chaise lounges that do not recline but offer a generously sized and cushioned seating space. The remainder of the theater has rows of black recliner seats.
Each seat has a QR code that guests scan on their phones to access the menu. Each unique code is cleverly programmed with the seat number, so servers know your order and where to deliver your food.
The Food:
Now let’s talk about the food! The theater has an expansive food menu with something for everyone. For those that want a classic movie experience, you can order the traditional popcorn, candy and nachos. However, you can also enjoy a full meal, with menu offerings of appetizers, mains and desserts.
The night of our visit my husband and I shared a Sausage + Mushroom Pizza, minus the sausage. Taking items out and adding items on is so easy with the online ordering system.
We also shared the Southwest Chicken Salad. I love that menu items are clearly customizable with the menu buttons, so as a vegetarian, I could enjoy the salad without the chicken.
The pizza was better than I was expecting at a movie theater, but I probably wouldn’t order it again because the menu has so many other choices. I’m looking forward to trying out a bunch of other dishes on future visits, like the Impossible Sliders and Coconut Shrimp. However, the Southwest Chicken Salad was really tasty! I loved the combination of ingredients and the Chipotle Cilantro dressing really complemented it all. I will definitely reorder this salad!
The Drinks:
There is currently one bar area, pictured here, where guests can enjoy drinks before or after their movie. It is a full-service bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Eventually, they will be opening the larger bar and lounge area near the entrance of the theater.
The drink menu includes signature cocktails like the Blue Revenge, which has Tito’s Vodka, Cruzan Rum, and sweet and sour mix, garnished with a lemon wheel.
If you are looking for an elevated dinner and movie experience, I recommend visiting LOOK Dine-In Cinemas. This is a fun, new entertainment option in lower Westchester County!
Special Promos:
LOOK Dine-In Cinemas has several special promotions including:
$5 tickets all day on Tuesdays.
The first show of the day, every day, has a discounted ticket price of $5.
The Details:
LOOK Dine-In Cinemas 1 Hamilton Street Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 website
Parking: There is free parking in the lot in front of the theater.
Hours: Open daily – showtimes vary with movie
Movie Tickets: $15.50/adult ticket, $12.50/children and senior tickets
Food: Prices vary depending on food choice. Pizza and a soda or a salad and a soda costs around $25.
There are 14 days until Valentine’s Day. If you haven’t made them yet, dinner reservations are a must! Most restaurants throughout Westchester County that are open on Mondays are serving their regular dinner menus. However, here is a look at some of the restaurants that are offering special Valentine’s Day menus. Regardless of where you decide to eat, be sure to make reservations now!
Please check the restaurant’s website or call for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, please note that prices listed below do not include tax and gratuities.
Baby Duke’s Kitchen (Mamaroneck/Seafood) 100 West Boston Road Mamaroneck, NY 10543 reservations: (914) 698-6331
Baby Duke’s is having a special Valentine’s Day menu that includes a choice of appetizer for two, a choice of entrée to share with two sides and dessert for $125 for two guests. This price includes a complimentary glass of champagne.
610 Hartsdale Road White Plains, NY 10607 reservations: (914) 428-6868
Benjamin’s Steak House is offering a 3 course Valentine’s dinner menu for $99.95/person. The menu will be served February 12th – February 14th.
City Limits Diner (White Plains/American) 200 Central Avenue White Plains, NY 10606
The City Limits Diner is serving its special Valentine’s Day menu February 11th through February 14th, 4 PM to closing.
Goosefeather (Tarrytown/modern Chinese) 49 E. Sunnyside Lane Tarrytown, NY 10591
Goosefeather is serving a three course prix fixe menu February 12th, 13th and 14th for $99/person. They will be closed Tuesday, February 15th.
The Greekish – Harrison (Harrison/Greek) 273 Halstead Avenue Harrison, NY 10528 reservations: (914) 732-3333
The Greekish is having a special 4-course menu for $85 person. The menu includes a glass of bubbly and a rose and will be served February 14th – February 17th from 4 PM – 9 PM.
Half Moon (Dobbs Ferry/New American) 1 High Street Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 reservations: (914) 693-4130
Half Moon is offering a special 3 course prix-fixe dinner for $68/person, which includes one miniature signature dessert cocktail. This menu is available for They are also serving a 5 course prix-fixe for $85/person, which includes starter tapas and one signature dessert cocktail. Dinner hours are 4PM – 9 PM. Reservations are required and require a $50 deposit. (menu). The $68 menu is also available for lunch on February 14th. The $85 menu is available for dinner on February 11th and 12th.
Harvest-on-Hudson (Hastings/Italian) 1 River Street Hastings, NY 10706 reservations: (914) 478-2800 or online (A deposit is required when making reservations)
Harvest-on-Hudson is open from 5-10 PM on Valentine’s Day. They are offering a special three course tasting for $85/person or a five course tasting for $125/person. Wine pairings are available for an additional $40/guest. (menu) Check out their other Valentine’s Day weekend specials.
The Inn at Pound Ridge (Pound Ridge/farm-to-table American) 258 Westchester Avenue Pound Ridge, NY 10576 reservations: (914) 764-1400
The Inn at Pound Ridge is offering a special Valentine’s Day weekend four course menu for $138/person from February 11th through February 14th. (menu) They will also have special à la carte menu items on these days as well.
L’Inizio will be offering a special Valentine’s Day four course menu for $95/person. The menu is available February 12th through February 14th. (menu) The menu is available as a to-go option, but needs to be pre-ordered.
La Botte Ristorante (White Plains/Italian) 14 Martine Avenue White Plains, NY 10606 (914) 461-2950
La Botte Ristorante is serving a special Valentine’s Day menu for dining, pick-up and delivery on February 12th through February 14th. (menu currently not posted)
Mix Cocktail Bar + Kitchen (White Plains/American) at the Sonesta White Plains 66 Hale Avenue White Plains, NY 10601
Mix Cocktail Bar + Kitchen is serving a special Valentine’s Day menu February 12th, 13th and 14th from 5 PM – 10 PM. (menu currently not posted)
Modern on the Rails (Mamaroneck/Italian) One Station Plaza Mamaroneck, NY 10543 (914) 777-9300
Modern on the Rails, which is normally closed on Mondays, will be open for Valentine’s Day, serving their regular menu. They will be closed Tuesday, February 15th.
Moderne Barn (Armonk/New American) 430 Bedford Ave. Armonk, NY 10504 reservations: (914) 730-0001 or online
Moderne Barn is offering a 3 course prix-fixe Valentine’s Day menu for $78/person and a $39/person two-course menu for children under 12. (menu) They also have a special à la carte menu to go. Orders need to be placed by February 13th.
Red Hat on the River (Irvington/French-American) One Bridge Street Irvington, NY 10533 (914) 591-5888
Red Hat on the River is serving Valentine’s Day brunch at 12 PM (a la carte menu) and prix fixe dinner for $95/person (menu). They are having a special sunset seating from 4 PM – 5:30 PM.
Risotto (Thornwood/Italian) 788 Commerce Street Thornwood, NY 10594 (914) 769-6000
Brooklyn Organic Kitchen(Mahopac/Vegan and traditional) 890 South Lake Boulevard Mahopac, NY 10541 reservations: (845) 621-2655
Brooklyn Organic Kitchen is having specials all Valentine’s Day weekend with a Saturday night dinner and a Sunday brunch. They have a special four course “My Vegan Valentine” dinner which can be served vegan or traditional. (menu) They have one seating on Saturday at 6 PM only so make your reservations now.
The Greekish Nyack (Nyack/Greek) 8 North Broadway Nyack, NY 10960 reservations: (845) 353-1200
The Greekish is having a special 4-course menu for $85 person. The menu includes a glass of bubbly and a rose and will be served February 14th – February 17th from 4 PM – 9 PM.
This year Chinese New Year begins on Tuesday, February 1st. 2022 is the year of the tiger and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious dinner! You can celebrate by ordering takeout or visiting your favorite Chinese restaurant. A couple of Westchester County restaurants are offering special meals to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Check out what Fatt Root in Pleasantville and Goosefeather in Tarrytown are serving up for this special holiday!
Fatt Root 11 Wheeler Avenue Pleasantville, NY 10570 (914) 579-2552
Fatt Root is a restaurant in Pleasantville that serves Asian-inspired street food. Their menu includes different types of dumplings, salads and rice and noodle bowls. They have gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Photo courtesy of Fatt Root
For Chinese New Year, Fatt Root is offering a duck takeout special.
Whole Duck Solo – $59 (serves 2-3 people ) comes with rice and sauce
Duck & Chicken Combo Platter – $129 (serves 4-6 people) comes with rice, Hoisin glazed Ribs, Dragon salad, and condiments and sauce.
Photo courtesy of Fatt Root
To order, please email info@fattroot.com. Pick up time is between 2-5PM (please include your pick up time in email).
Photo courtesy of Goosefeather
Goosefeather Tarrytown Estate 49 East Sunnyside Lane Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 829-5454
To celebrate the Chinese New Year, Tuesday, February 1 through Sunday February 6 Goosefeather will be serving special dishes in addition to their regular menu. Chef Dale Talde has created three special dishes for the Lunar New Year: longevity noodles with minced shrimp, bamboo, garlic chives and Supreme sauce, a tea smoked whole trout served with a winter citrus and ginger salad, and vegetable Shanghai egg rolls with a Meyer lemon soy sauce. Be sure to check out these limited edition menu items!
I know that many people are still not comfortable with indoor dining. However, since the cold weather has arrived, that’s left many with the option of doing takeout only. Fortunately, from igloos to outdoor tents with heaters, there are several restaurants offering outdoor dining options. Check out our guide to winter outdoor dining in Westchester County. Please be mindful that you are dining outdoors, so it is recommended that you do dress warmly.
**As always, please check directly with the restaurant for the most up-to-date information. I also recommend prior to your visit that you call and confirm that the heaters are set up and working!
Please let me know of any other restaurants that can be added to this list! (email: NYFoodieFamily@gmail.com)
Heaters Only:
3 Westerly: (Ossining) This restaurant serves modern American cuisine. They are open daily from 12 PM – 10 PM with outdoor dining. They have a 7 foot wind barrier around the perimeter of the patio and another 6 feet of clearance for natural air flow. Each table has its own heater and they provide blankets for guests as well.
25 North: (Mamaroneck) The outdoor dining patio at this Italian restaurant is open until December 24th.
105 Twenty Bar & Grill: (Croton on Hudson) 105 Twenty Bar & Grill has heaters for outdoor dining.
Bar Taco: (Port Chester) This taco restaurant offers outdoor dining with heaters and has fleece blankets for guests.
Bridgeview Tavern: (Sleepy Hollow) Bridgeview Tavern serves microbrews and American cuisine. They have a heated beer garden for outdoor dining.
Photo c/o Catina Lobos
Cantina Lobos: (Pelham) This Mexican restaurant has outdoor dining with heaters.
The Dog Den: (White Plains) This hot dog joint has both outdoor heaters and a fire pit to keep you warm while you eat outside. If you want to eat in your car, they also have drive-in dining. Place your order from your car and they will bring your food out to you.
Fortina: (Rye Brook) Fortina is an Italian restaurant with three locations in Westchester County. The Rye Brook restaurant has an outdoor dining patio with heat lamps.
Fortina: (Yonkers) Fortina’s Yonkers location has an outdoor patio with heaters as well as garden dining with heat lamps.
Hudson Social (Dobbs Ferry) Hudson Social has heaters and firepits for outdoor dining.
L’inizio (Ardsley) This Italian restaurant has an outdoor eating area with heated lamps.
Lusardi’s: (Larchmont) This upscale Mediterranean restaurant has several tables outside with lots of heaters.
Nadine’s (Yorktown Heights) This Austrian/French/German restaurant has a heated outdoor beer garden. Reservations are highly recommended.
Photo c/o North Street Tavern
North Street Tavern: (White Plains) The North Street Tavern has an outdoor dining area with lots of heaters.
Peekskill Brewery: (Peekskill) The Peekskill Brewery has heaters in its outdoor dining space. They have several new menu items including vegan options.
Photo c/o Sam’s of Gedney Way
Sam’s of Gedney Way: (White Plains) Sam’s of Gedney Way has a covered, heated patio available for outdoor dining. They socially distance parties and limit outdoor dining to approximately 24 guests.
Photo c/o The Tap House
The Tap House: (Tuckahoe) The Tap House is a gastro-pub that serves modern American fare. They have 10 tables outside with heat lamps.
Igloos & Greenhouses:
Augie’s Italian Restaurant: (Larchmont) Augie’s has, “private enchanted moonlight villas.” Each heated villa holds up to six guests and visits are limited to 90 minutes. Reservations are highly recommended, as they are very popular. The villas are aired and sanitized between parties.
Photo c/o Billy & Pete’s Social
Billy & Pete’s Social: (Larchmont) Billy & Pete’s has four outdoor igloos. After every use, their igloos are sanitized with a medical-grade sanitizer. Each igloo has four points of airflow for a cross ventilation system.
Photo c/o La La Taqueria
La La Taqueria: (Larchmont) This Mexican restaurant has five heated igloos that seat six. Each igloo is disinfected between guests and there is a 30 minute wait time between seatings to allow the structures to air out. Doors and vents of the igloo are kept open to allow for air flow.
Salsa Picante: (White Plains) This Mexican restaurant has several private igloos located on their rooftop. Each igloo seats a maximum of 8 guests. Reservations are required and have a maximum time limit of 2 hours. There is also a $50 minimum (food and drink) per person. Cancellations require 24 hour notice or a $50 no-show or same day cancellation fee is charged.
Photo c/o Tequila Sunrise.
Tequila Sunrise: (Larchmont) This Mexican restaurant has 6 private igloos that can seat up to a party of 7. Each igloo is heated and has air vents to keep fresh air flowing. The igloos are completely sanitized between parties.
Photo c/o Tipsy Taco
Tipsy Taco Bar: (Mount Kisco) This Mexican restaurant has five outdoor heated igloos.
Vela Kitchen: (Pleasantville) Vela Kitchen in Pleasantville has a couple of greenhouses for outdoor dining. They seat up to four guests and have a 90 minute dining limit.
Vintage 1891 Kitchen: (Larchmont) This restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine. They have greenhouses that can seat a party of up to 6 guests.
Heated Tents and/or Heated Enclosed Patios:
Argana Restaurant & Bar: (Port Chester) This Moroccan restaurant has an outdoor heated Sultan Tent.
Augie’s Prime Cut: (Mohegan Lake) This steakhouse has a large heated tent on its outdoor patio. Check their Instagram page, as they frequently announce 50% off menu items for outdoor tent dining only.
Benjamin Steakhouse: (White Plains) This steakhouse has a covered, heated patio that has windows and openings for ventilation.
Photo c/o The Brazen Fox
The Brazen Fox: (White Plains) The Brazen Fox has an outdoor heated tent that is open every day.
Photo c/o Buon Amici.
Buon Amici: (White Plains) This Italian restaurant has an enclosed heated tent in their rear lot. The tent can accommodate approximately 65 guests and tables are socially distant apart.
Chat: (Scarsdale) Chat American Grill has an enclosed heated patio for outdoor dining.
Divino Cucina Italiana (Hastings-on-Hudson) This Italian restaurant has a heated covered patio. They leave one side of the tent open to allow air flow.
Donjito: (Mamaroneck) This Latin restaurant has a heated, covered outdoor patio.
DubrovnikRestaurant: (New Rochelle) This Croatian restaurant has a heated enclosed patio with a retractable awning and sides.
Fortina: (Armonk) Fortina’s Armonk location has an outdoor heated tent as well as a patio with heat lamps.
Gigante: (Eastchester) This Italian restaurant has two heated outdoor patios, one which is tented.
Photo c/o Goosefeather
Goosefeather: (Tarrytown) Dale Talde’s modern Chinese restaurant has a partially enclosed tent on their back patio. Two sides of the tent are kept semi-open to allow for air flow. There are eleven tables in the 20×30 foot space with 9 heaters.
Magno’s Grill: (New Rochelle) This Argentinian and Italian restaurant has a heated, ventilated tent for outdoor dining.
Photo c/o Moderne Barn
Moderne Barn: (Armonk) Moderne Barn has a large heated tent available for both lunch and dinner service. They also have 3 outdoor tables with heaters. Guests must call to reserve one of these tables.
Pasquale Restaurant: (Port Chester) This Italian restaurant has a large heated tent for outdoor dining.
Purdy’s Farmer and the Fish: (North Salem) This seafood restaurant has heated outdoor tents for dining as well as fire pits.
Quenas Restaurant: (Harrison) This Peruvian restaurant has a large heated tent for outdoor dining with plenty of space between tables. They also offer ponchos for guests to use if chilly.
Rye Roadhouse: (Rye) Rye Roadhouse serves Cajun and Creole cuisine. They currently have an outdoor heated tent. Once the weather gets a little warmer, they will expand their outdoor dining with pyramid heaters.
Tredici North: (Purchase) This Italian restaurant has a heated tent that is partially open for ventilation.
Underhills Crossing: (Bronxville) This French restaurant has a large outdoor heated tent for dining.
Here is your December Events in Westchester County (and the surrounding area). Hope you enjoy a month filled with fun! Check back as we continue to update this post. Looking for holiday events? Check out our Hudson Valley Holiday Events Guide!
Comedy:
Levity Live (Palisade Center – West Nyack) Enjoy a comedy show at Levity Live in December. Upcoming shows include Craig Shoemaker (Dec. 2-4), Steve-O: The Bucket List Tour (Dec. 6), Corey Holcomb (Dec. 9-11) and more. Check the site for the full line up!
Holiday Paint & Sip(Larchmont) December 7: 6-9 PM, MADE art studio and Vintage 1891 Kitchen are hosting a holiday paint and sip event. Enjoy an evening of food and drinks while painting from a selection of ornaments, holiday gifts and more.
Wood & Fire Get Ugly Party (Pleasantville) December 16: Put on your ugliest sweater for Wood & Fire’s Ugly Sweater party. $500 cash prize for the ugliest sweater! Music starts at 9 PM.
Imagine VR Studios Karaoke Night(Yorktown Heights) December 18: free entry, 8-11 PM, enjoy a night of karaoke at Imagine VR Studios inside the Jefferson Valley mall
Eat & Drink:
Taste of Westchester Cooking Demo Classes(restaurants throughout Westchester County) enjoy cooking demos from local chefs and then sample their creations. November classes include: Wood & Fire (Dec. 1), Zwilling J.A. Henckels Cooking Studio (Dec. 7), Sawmill Tavern (Dec. 8).
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland (Valhalla) November 26, 2021– January 2, 2022: Experience this 1.2 mile drive-thru light extravaganza. Tickets: $25/off peak, $35/peak (per vehicle)
Kids:
Virtual Reality Teen Night (Yorktown Heights) December 10: 6 PM – 8 PM, ages 9-15, teens enjoy unlimited play and access to all standard and premium VR experiences on the VR stations and VR Simulators. Ticket price includes a voucher for pizza and water. $30/ticket
Live Music & Performances:
Concerts at Bethel Woods (Bethel) A little further to travel but some great musicians worth checking out play here. In December you can see: Eileen Ivers: A Joyful Christmas (Dec. 2) Young People’s Chorus of New York (Dec. 5) Gordon Lightfoot (Dec. 11 & 12), The Klezmatics (Dec. 19)
Capitol Theatre(Port Chester) December’s lineup includes: Chris Isaak (Dec. 1), Hot Tuna Acoustic and Electric (Dec. 4), moe (Dec. 10 & 11)*Check the site for the full lineup.
Emelin Theatre (Mamaroneck) December’s lineup includes Liberty Comedy (Dec. 3) and The Gibson Brothers (Dec. 10) *Check the site for the full lineup
Paramount Hudson Valley (Peekskill) Music is back at the Paramount. December’s lineup includes: Yellow Brick Road : A Tribute to Elton John (Dec. 3) and Beatles v. Stones: A Musical Showdown (Dec. 4)*Check the site for the full lineup
Tarrytown Music Hall (Tarrytown) December’s lineup includes: Richard Thompson (Dec. 3)and Martin Sexton and KT Tunstall (Dec. 11) *Check the site for the full lineup
Shopping:
6th Annual the TASH Holiday Market (Patriots Park – Tarrytown) December 4: 2 PM – 5:30 PM. Stay to view the Village of Tarrytown Tree Lighting Ceremony
White Plains Holiday Market: (White Plains) December 5 – December 19: This holiday market will be held on Court Street between Martine Ave. and Main Street. Over 55 vendors and artisans will be selling their wares in individual walled sheds.
Holiday Pop Up Shop at the Jefferson Valley Mall (Yorktown Heights) December 11: The Jefferson Valley Mall and Westchester Blogger present over 20 holiday vendors for you to shop at. 12 PM – 6 PM.
If you have no idea where the country of Georgia is, welcome to the club. It took a Google search for me to discover that the country, approximately the size of South Carolina, is actually part of both Europe and Asia. Luckily, you don’t need to know any of this to thoroughly enjoy Badageoni in Mount Kisco.
Badageoni is the only Georgian restaurant in Westchester County. The 65-seat restaurant is owned by siblings Inga Duignan and Giga Jankarashvili. So what exactly is Georgian cuisine, you ask? Based on its geographic location, Georgian food is influenced by the Mediterranean, Turkey and the Middle East. However, after dining at Badageoni, I can say the food is like nothing I’ve eaten before.
What should you order?
Khachapuri is a Georgian cheese bread and Badageoni serves five different varieties. We opted for Adjaruli Khachapuri because it was the first one listed. We figured this would make it the most popular and perhaps the most traditional choice ($15). This “cheese boat” is stuffed with a hot river of cheese and can be topped with a sunny side egg, which we opted not to get. It is served blazing hot from the oven, finished with pats of butter. The server directed us to mix it all up before eating. In the family of cheesy bread, I would say its closest relative is the calzone.
Badageoni serves several cold plates, most of which are vegetarian. We opted for Pkhali Rolls, eggplant and sweet peppers stuffed with walnuts and Georgian spices and garnished with pomegranate seeds ($15). The 3 eggplant rolls and 4 stuffed peppers along with a piece of Georgian cornbread was perfect for two of us. However, I’d likely order another appetizer if there were additional diners with us.
Khinkali is the national dish of Georgia. We ordered the Potato Khinkali, potato dumplings served with fried onions and yogurt sauce ($16). It was terrific. Although, in hindsight, I wish I had ordered the basic Khinkali as it is the more traditional dish. It is the Georgian version of the soup dumpling and we generally like to order the most representative dish whenever possible.
You break the pastry crust with your spoon and inside is a piping hot crock of dumplings and onions in yogurt sauce. These potato dumplings are not filled and have a similar texture and taste to a soft gnocchi. The yogurt sauce is creamy with a slight tang.
The dessert menu is fairly limited with only four choices: ice cream, ice cream with meringue and caramel, napoleon or badageoni. The server noted that the badageoni is similar to a panna cotta, which sounded interesting. Plus, it’s named after the restaurant. However, when I debated between the napoleon or the badageoni, she recommended the napoleon. We went her expert opinion.
The napoleon ($14) was delicious. I haven’t had napoleon in ages! And the serving was large enough for sharing. My husband and I each had a generous piece and we still had half to bring home for the kids. Georgian desserts are traditionally nut and/or fruit based, so I was surprised not to find a more diverse selection of sweets.
Badageoni is a recipient of a Michelin Bib Gourmand. This award is given to restaurants that serve delicious food at reasonable prices. While my husband and I are vegetarians, there are a variety of meat dishes served here. From charcoal-grilled meats (Mtsvadi) to signature dishes like Chakapuli (slow-cooked lamb in white wine with tarragon, scallions and herbs) and Tabaka (fried crispy cornish hen) ,there is something for everyone. While vegetarians can find plenty to eat here, vegans have a more limited selection.
Fall and winter are a great time to visit this restaurant. Many of the dishes are heavy on bread, cheese and pastry, which are perfect comfort foods for cold, dark evenings!
The Details:
Badageoni Georgian Cuisine website 26 East Main Street Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 (914) 864-1666
Price: $$ (expect to pay around $100 for two people to dine, (appetizer, khachapuri, two entrees and dessert) not including drinks) Portions are large enough to share an appetizer and/or dessert.
Here is your November Events in Westchester County (and the surrounding area). Hope you enjoy a month filled with fun! Check back as we continue to update this post.
Comedy:
Levity Live (Palisade Center – West Nyack) Enjoy a comedy show at Levity Live in November. Upcoming shows include Eddie Griffin (Nov. 5-6), Pinky Patel (Nov. 7), Andrew Dice Clay (Nov. 10-11), D.L. Hughley (Nov. 12-14), Mark Viera (Nov. 26-28).
Date Night/Girls Night Out:
Imagine VR Studios Karaoke Night(Yorktown Heights) November 13: free entry, 8-11 PM, enjoy a night of karaoke at Imagine VR Studios inside the Jefferson Valley mall
Eat & Drink:
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week (restaurants throughout the Hudson Valley) Fall Hudson Valley Restaurant Week (HVRW) is taking place November 1- November 14. Enjoy a 3 course lunch ($25.95) or 3 course dinner ($35.95) at over 100 restaurants located throughout the Hudson Valley.
Taste of Westchester Cooking Demo Classes(restaurants throughout Westchester County) enjoy cooking demos from local chefs and then sample their creations. November classes include: Brothers Fish & Chips (Nov. 1), Clock Tower Grill (Nov. 3), Tredici North (Nov. 10), The 808 Bistro (Nov. 13), Albano’s (Nov. 18), Maria Restaurant (Nov. 20).
More Than a Meal (Bethel) November 5, 12, 13: Enjoy this unique dining experience at Bethel Woods in the Market Sheds. 5 PM, Chef Jasper Alivia serves a family-style, prix-fixe meal at your private, reserved table. Specialty cocktails and conversation with Neal Hitch, Senior Curator at the Museum of Bethel Woods. Tickets: $55/person
Benriach 5 Course Scotch Dinner and Tasting (Thornwood) November 8: The Barley House is hosting a 5-course meal paired with 5 single-malt scotches. 7 PM – 10 PM, 21+ only, $65/person
Sambal Vegan Dinner (Irvington) November 9: Sambal Thai & Malaysian restaurant is hosting a special 3 course vegan dinner. $45/person, served family-style.
City Winery Bourbon & Bacon (Montgomery) November 11: Enjoy a four-course dinner paired with wine, beer and spirit. Doors open at 5:45 PM, dinner begins at 6:00 PM. General admission: $100.
Fairs & Festivals:
YOFIFEST (Yonkers) November 5-21: Enjoy a full schedule of film screenings, workshops, panels and more. Films can be viewed in person or live streamed. Check the full schedule and film prices here.
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland (Valhalla) November 26, 2021– January 2, 2022: Experience this 1.2 mile drive-thru light extravaganza. Tickets: $25/off peak, $35/peak (per vehicle)
Kids:
Virtual Reality Teen Night (Yorktown Heights) November 19: 6 PM – 8 PM, ages 9-15, teens enjoy unlimited play and access to all standard and premium VR experiences on the VR stations and VR Simulators. Ticket price includes a voucher for pizza and water. $30/ticket
Live Music & Performances:
Tunes & Brews (Yorktown Heights) November 5 & 12: PB Pizza & Beer and the Jefferson Valley Mall bring live music, craft beer and food trucks from 7-10 PM.
White Plains Performing Arts Center (WPPAC) (White Plains) The WPPAC has two shows in November – Golden Oldies Reunion Vol. 1 (November 5). This show is a rental and not a WPPAC event. Lisa Marie Riley – One Funny Mommy (November 6).
Concerts at Bethel Woods (Bethel) A little further to travel but some great musicians worth checking out play here. In November you can see:
Capitol Theatre(Port Chester) November’s lineup includes: Gary Clark Jr. (Nov. 2 -4), Cheap Trick (Nov. 7), Steely Dan: The Absolutely Normal Tour (Nov. 9-10), Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons (Nov. 21), Bob Dylan: Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour (Nov. 23-24), *Check the site for the full lineup.
Emelin Theatre (Mamaroneck) November’s lineup includes Amy Helm (Nov. 4) and Joan Osborne (Nov. 11)*Check the site for the full lineup
Paramount Hudson Valley (Peekskill) Music is back at the Paramount. November’s lineup includes: Titans of ’80’s Rock Tribute Show (Nov. 6), The Best of the Eagles (Nov. 13), A Night with Woodstock Festival Greats – Joplin and Santana (Nov. 19)*Check the site for the full lineup
Tarrytown Music Hall (Tarrytown) November’s lineup includes: Vic DiBitetto (Nov. 5-6), The Psychedelic Furs (Nov. 7), Friends! The Musical Parody (Nov. 12), Rosanne Cash (Nov. 13), The Machine performs Pink Floyd (Nov. 19)*Check the site for the full lineup
Shopping:
MADE (Montgomery) November 14: Presented by Edible Hudson Valley and City Winery Hudson Valley enjoy this Makers Market event. Enjoy a day of shopping from local artisans, live music, local wine and more. 11 AM – 5 PM, Tickets: $12
Holiday Pop-Up at the Jefferson Valley Mall (Yorktown Heights) November 27: The Jefferson Valley Mall and Westchester Blogger are partnering to bring a holiday pop-up to the mall. Enjoy supporting small businesses and get your holiday shopping done! 12 PM – 6 PM.
Other Fun:
Fused Fitness Workout Event (Peekskill) November 6: Presented by Fused Fit and Peekskill Brewery. 11 AM – 2 PM, enjoy a full body mini-band and bodyweight interval workout. All levels welcome. Post workout enjoy a complimentary PB Valley Life brew. Tickets: $15
