NY Foodie Family was provided media tickets to Menopause the Musical. All opinions are our own.
Women are all familiar with “The Change.” If we haven’t experienced menopause yet, we know it’s arriving eventually: the hot flashes, the mood swings, and the memory loss. Menopause the Musical is here to give everyone a laugh (women and men alike) as we commiserate together over this inevitable biological experience.
Menopause the Musical was written by Jeanie Linders and debuted in 2001 in Orlando, Florida. Since then, it became an off-Broadway show that ran for four years in Manhattan. Then the show became a Las Vegas production that has been performed at Harrah’s continuously since 2006 and also began traveling as a national touring production. From June 15 through June 25, guests can see Menopause the Musical presented by The Westchester Theatre performed at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center.
The show opens with four women shopping at a Bloomingdale’s lingerie sale. The women are unnamed but are cast as Professional Woman, Soap Star, Earth Mother and Iowa Housewife. They start as strangers, fighting over a black bra, but bond through their menopausal symptoms and end as friends.
This production stars Adrianne Hick (Soap Star), Terry Palasz (Iowa Housewife), Amy Jo Phillips (Earth Mother) and a rotating cast performing Professional Woman: Enga Davis, Tauren Hagans and Joy Lynn Jacobs. It is a musical parody featuring over 25 songs from artists including Cher, The Beach Boys, Aretha Franklin and The Bee Gees, whose lyrics have been altered to fit the theme of the musical. You’ll hear the women belt out songs like “Staying Awake/Night Sweatin'”, “Puff, My God, I’m Draggin'” and “My Husband Sleeps Tonight”.
The entire musical takes place in Bloomingdale’s over the course of a day. There is only one set piece for the duration of the show but an array of props and elevator announcements indicate different floors of Bloomingdale’s. The show runs continuously for 90 minutes with no intermission.
Although the target audience is women going through or who have experienced “The Change”, this show is not exclusively for this demographic! I saw the show with a girlfriend, both of us having many years before we experience menopause, and there were several men in the audience as well. A good time was had by all.
Menopause the Musical is a fun production that has the audience laughing out loud throughout the show. There is one more week left to see this musical at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center before it moves on to Milwaukee!
Fresh seafood prepared with unique flavor combinations and artfully presented. This is what you will find at Brothers Fish & Chips in Ossining. If you haven’t dined here yet, please add it to your list. You may have driven past the restaurant, which is located in a small strip mall on North Highland Avenue (Route 9), next to Mavis Tire. But don’t be fooled by the façade. The restaurant is actually made up of two separate spaces; the right-hand door offering takeout only and the left side a fine dining restaurant.
Lobster Roll with Squid Ink Bread
The Name
The name, Brothers Fish & Chips, pays homage to the brothers who own and run it. Elmer Oliveros and his brother Kevin opened Brothers Fish & Chips in 2010 as just a takeout restaurant. Six years later, they bought the space next door and turned it into a sit down dining space. Kevin now runs the successful restaurant Risotto, in Thornwood, most notable for its flaming cheese wheel. Although Elmer and Kevin no longer work together at Brothers, they still collaborate on recipe development and wine acquisitions.
Crab Risotto
The Chef
Elmer is the oldest of three boys. He grew up on a farm in Guatemala where he assisted his mother in cooking for family and neighbors. The family truly lived off the land, growing their own vegetables and using the milk from their cows. His childhood upbringing has given Elmer respect for produce and animals and has had a major influence on his cooking. At the age of eleven, Elmer started helping out at his aunt’s restaurant. Although he has been around food preparation all his life, Elmer has had no formal culinary education. This makes his skills even more impressive!
When he left Guatemala, Elmer also wanted to leave Guatemalan food behind, so he began specializing in seafood. However, influences of his cultural background have recently started to appear on the menu at Brothers. Homemade tortillas, ceviche and flan are just a few of the dishes that often make appearances on the tasting menu. Elmer isn’t afraid to experiment and diners may enjoy dishes garnished with edible flowers or gold leaf, beer ice cream or smoked desserts!
The Food
I was first introduced to Brothers Fish & Chips several years ago by my friend and food blogger, Ashley from Big Flavors From a Tiny Kitchen. She recommended that our local supper club pay a visit during Hudson Valley Restaurant Week. Ever since that dinner, whenever my husband and I have a special occasion to celebrate, Brothers Fish & Chips has become our go-to restaurant.
The seafood from Brothers Fish & Chips is procured from multiple sources. Three times a week, Elmer or his staff make an early morning trip down to Hunt’s Point in the Bronx. He uses other distributors to provide fish that can’t be found at those local vendors.
Many of the fresh herbs and garnishes used in the dishes come from the hydroponic tower garden that is situated in the dining room.
While I prefer to dine in the sit down restaurant, I have enjoyed takeout from Brothers Fish & Seafood. The fried shrimp and French fries that I ordered for lunch were hot, crispy and delicious.
The Tasting Menu
The unquestionable highlight of Brothers Fish & Chips is the tasting menu. We have celebrated many special occasions at the restaurant. Every time we visit we opt for the tasting menu and it never disappoints.
Grilled Octopus
The tasting menu is Chef Elmer’s time to shine. He adapts the tasting menu to the diners and no two tasting menus are the same, even for two different tables dining on the same evening. He may change the order of the dishes that are served or he may send out totally different dishes. If you make multiple visits to the restaurant, you will likely never have the same dish twice. Be sure to come hungry! While there’s no set number of courses to the tasting menu, from personal experience, dinners have typically ranged from 10-12 courses.
Scallop Crudo with Mango Purée
Every dish is well thought out with unique flavor combinations and cooking techniques. Careful consideration is made, even with the plating. From the placement of sauces and garnish on the plate to the serving vessels themselves, many of which are made by local artist Connor McGinn Studios, each course is its own mini piece of art. You can tell that Elmer is passionate about what he does and he takes pride in his craft.
Our most recent dinner included nine savory courses and three desserts. The meal had a satisfying progression, starting with lighter dishes and moving on to more heavier mains. Our first course was a duo of Canadian Oysters served in a box atop coffee beans.
We then had a 24-hour cured salmon tostada on a pea purée. This salmon was “chef’s kiss!”
The next course was a fluke ceviche served in a ring of Japanese and Peruvian sweet potatoes.
“Fish bites” were the next course which included flounder and onion rolled inside a tortilla and topped with a tomatillo sauce and aged pecorino.
Then we were served a crab cake on a homemade mole sauce.
Next was grilled octopus served with mushrooms and onions. Tableside, a port wine reduction sauce was poured over the dish. Octopus, regardless of how it is prepared is one of my favorite dishes at the restaurant.
The octopus was followed by wild salmon atop a pepper sauce with a Chimichurri and a lemon foam.
Next was a wild shrimp taco with Oaxaca cheese, pico de gallo and mango, served in a homemade tortilla created with three different types of corn.
Our last savory dish was a bacalao croquette. As you can see from the savory dishes, Elmer is beginning to incorporate his Guatemalan roots into his cooking.
Before our first dessert course was served, pour over coffee was delivered to the table. Elmer is passionate about coffee and loves the ambiance and aroma that it offers. The restaurant serves single-origin coffee from Central America.
Our first dessert course was a duo of smoked mango and salted vanilla ice cream.
The next course was a coconut flan topped with a blueberry confit and served with a salted plantain.
The last course was an orange lemon olive oil cake topped with Italian meringue that was torched at the table. As you can see, they remembered we were celebrating our anniversary!
Are you drooling yet?! Needless to say, it was an amazing meal. As always, we left stuffed. I couldn’t even pick a favorite dish since they were all so good!
The Cocktails
I’d be remiss if I failed to mention the cocktail selection at Brothers Fish & Chips. Juan is not only the restaurant’s bartender, but he also seats guests, takes orders and brings out dishes. He’s literally a jack-of-all-trades.
He also crafts the cocktail menu, which he changes seasonally. On our most recent visit, my husband enjoyed the Mexicano (Mezcal, orange spritz, lime juice) and the Peach Cobbler (peach brandy, vodka, lemon juice, almond syrup).
For those who prefer not to partake in the tasting menu, Brothers has a limited dinner menu that typically includes ceviche, fish and chips and more. Plus, there are often daily specials. The menu changes seasonally. However, I highly recommend the tasting menu and can’t say enough good things about it!
Tuna Ceviche
Brothers Fish & Chips is small and only seats 24 guests. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on the weekends. Check out the restaurant’s Instagram account to see more pictures of the beautiful dishes that Elmer creates and for updates on special events. He often hosts special wine and cocktail pairing dinners. The restaurant also have an upcoming cooking demo class with Taste of Westchester.
The restaurant offers catering and has a new food truck, which debuted in 2021, that is available to rent for parties.
The Details: Brothers Fish & Chips 172 North Highland Avenue Ossining, NY 10562 (914) 488-5141 website
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.
Dog Haus Biergarten Mohegan Lake is the newest addition to the Cortlandt Town Center. Dog Haus has locations throughout the country, with the Mohegan Lake franchise being the most recent and only the second New York location. Housed in the former Payless Shoe Store, Dog Haus Biergarten is franchised by Andrew Hamerling and Dave Orth and managed by Steve LaBarbera. The restaurant had its official ribbon cutting ceremony on December 14th and was warmly welcomed by the Town of Cortlandt.
Dog Haus dubs themselves a “craft casual” restaurant. They pride themselves on using quality ingredients and offering a welcoming environment where guest will want to stay and hang out. Wooden tables and booths fill the Mohegan Lake restaurant. Wire caged lights and black pipes and accents give the space an industrial feel.
A large bar area takes up the center of the restaurant and offers over 20 different beers on tap as well as a special craft cocktail menu currently featuring 12 different drinks. HD televisions line the walls and the back of the restaurant has two dart boards and a shuffleboard. In warmer months, expect outdoor seating to be available.
But the most important question to ask is, how is the food? We recently ordered takeout from Dog Haus Mohegan Lake to see how their food measured up. All items are made to order, so expect a small wait time. I like how each carton is labeled with what is inside, so you know you got exactly what you ordered.
With a name like Dog Haus, you know the hot dogs will be good. The restaurant offers 6 different specialty Hausdogs ($7.99 each) and 4 specialty Haussausages ($8.99) all with fun names (e.g. Chili Idol and Reservoir Hog). All of the meat that Dog Haus uses is 100% antibiotic- and hormone-free. They also serve a variety of burgers ($10.99) and chicken (sandwiches, wings and tenders).
My son ordered the Cowboy, a smoked bacon wrapped hot dog topped with cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce and crispy onions. This hotdog was devoured in minutes with rave reviews from the teen.
But what does a family of 3 vegetarians order from a restaurant called the Dog Haus? We were pleasantly surprised to discover that the restaurant has a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. They offer Beyond Meat versions of their chicken sandwiches, so we enjoyed a Beyond Bad Mutha Clucka. The sandwich is made of crispy Beyond Meat “chicken” tenders topped with lettuce, pickles and a miso ranch sauce. The Beyond chicken sandwich costs $11.99, while the regular Bad Mutha Clucka sandwich costs $10.99. Please note that this sandwich is not listed on their in-store menu board or in their paper menu. However, I saw it on the online menu and inquired about it when ordering.
We also had the Sooo Veggie Haussausage. This is a Hot Italian Beyond Sausage topped with wild arugula, avocado, tomato, crispy onions and a spicy basil aioli. This is one of their two Beyond Sausage options, which at $8.99 are priced the same as their other Haussausages.
Finally, we tried one of their 5 specialty Hausburgers ($10.99). For an additional $2.49, any of the Hausburgers can be made vegetarian with an Impossible patty substitution. We ordered the Little Mule since besides, the cheeseburger, was the only other burger that had no additional meat ingredients (bacon, chili, etc.). It had an Impossible patty topped with white american cheese, avocado, pickled jalapenos, cotjia cheese, a fried egg and a chipotle aioli. It was bursting with flavor and was our family’s favorite of the three vegetarian options that we tried.
We did not try any of the Dog Haus “On the Side” menu, which includes fries or tots, with the option of adding cheese and or chili cheese. They also offer sweet potato fries, onion rings, chili, slaw or The Love Boat: fries or tater tots topped with Haus chili and Haus slaw!
The Dog Haus is a great new addition to the Mohegan Lake area. It offers family-friendly dining while also serving the bar crowd with its later hours and its large beer and cocktail menu.
The Details:
Dog Haus Biergarten Mohegan Lake 3137 East Main Street Mohegan Lake, NY 10547 (845) 915-HAUS website
Hours: Monday – Thursday 4 PM – 11 PM Friday – 4 PM – 12 AM Saturday 11 AM- 12 AM Sunday 11 AM – 11 PM
The lights, the music and of course Santa Claus! While we are still not quite back to “normal”, more holiday events are taking place this year throughout the Hudson Valley. Check out our Hudson Valley Holiday Events Guide for all the info! Tickets are going fast for some of these events so reserve yours now! As always, please check directly with the venue for the most up-to-date information.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage (Chappaqua) Enjoy a liver performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center. The show is 90 minutes including intermission. Stay for a sing-along with the cast after the show. Dates: Select dates and times December 3 – December 19 Tickets: start at $25
A Christmas Carol at the White Plains Performing Arts Center (White Plains) A holiday show the entire family will enjoy. See the musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic. Dates: Selected dates December 3 – 30, 2 PM and 7 PM Tickets: $39 – $61
A Frosty Fest: (Ulster Park) Attractions include a new for 2021 choreographed light show, a drive through Frosty’s Enchanted Forest, an outdoor photo with Santa, a walk through Frosty’s Adventure, “Jingle the Elf” stage show and more. Dates: Weekends only (Friday-Sunday) November 26 – December 19 Tickets/Price: $18.95/adult + service charge and tax, $14.95/child (under 12) + service charge and tax, Free/children under 12 months *advance ticket purchases are highly recommended
Boscobel Twilight Tours (Cold Spring) Enjoy a tour of the mansion, decorated for the holidays. After the tour walk the grounds that are decorated with lights. Tours are approximately 45 minutes and are limited to 10 guests Dates: Fridays and Saturdays November 26 – December 18, 4 PM – 7 PM Tickets: $25/adults, $15/children (5-18), Free/children under 5, discounted tickets for members
Grand Holiday Illuminations at Untermyer Park & Gardens: (Yonkers) This annual holiday light show will take place at Untermyer Park & Gardens. Dates: December 10 – January 2, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM Tickets/Price: Free, no tickets required
Holiday on the Hill at Lasdon Park and Arboretum: (Katonah) Enjoy the annual Holiday on the Hill exhibit and train show at Lasdon Park and Arboretum. The show has been expanded to include an outdoor display. Santa will be in his Holiday Cottage for visits. Tickets $10/child, $20/adult Dates: November 27 – December 31, Thursday through Sunday
Photo Credit: Bronx Zoo
Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo: (Bronx) Enjoy five lantern safaris throughout the park, ice-carving demonstrations, costumed characters and more. Dates: Select dates November 19 – January 9 Tickets/Price: $39.95/Adult (Age 13+), $24.95/Child (Ages 3-12), $34.95/Senior (Age 65+), $17/Parking
Holiday Tea Musicale at Caramoor: Listen to live music. Then enjoy a tea service in the Music Room at Rosen House that includes tea sandwiches and holiday treats. Dates: December 16, 17, 18, 19, concert starts at 1 PM, tea service at 2:15 PM Tickets/Price: $65
NYBG Train Show
Holiday Train Show at NYBG:(Bronx) The New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show is back for its 30th year. Advance tickets are recommended. Dates: November 20, 2021 – January 23, 2022 Tickets: $32/adult, $30/seniors (65+), $18/children (2-12)
Hommocks Park Ice Rink Skate with Santa (Mamaroneck) Enjoy an afternoon of ice skating with Santa and his friends! Date: December 12th, 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM Admission: $10/adults (12+), $9/child, skate rentals: $5
Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival: (Wappingers Falls) This year the Holiday Spirit Festival will be an all outdoor event. Enjoy the Winter Wonderland Walk through a North Pole village, train exhibit, Santa’s Reindeer Barn, holiday entertainment, characters and more. Dates: Weekends Only (Friday-Sunday) November 26 – December 19 and December 22 and 23, Fridays 6 PM – 9 PM, Saturdays 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM, Sundays 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM Tickets/Price: Adults: $16.95 plus online fees and NYS sales tax, children: $13.95 plus online fees and NYS sales tax Advanced ticket reservations required
LUMAGICA Light Show at Harvest Moon (North Salem) Enjoy a walking tour of illuminated animal structures and decorations through the apple orchards at Harvest Moon Dates: Weekends only (Friday – Sunday) November 26 – December 12, then everyday December 17 – 23 and December 26-December 30. Tickets: $31/adults, $28/child (ages 3-12) *Tickets are for timed entry
Muscoot Farm Night Tours(Katonah) See the farm decorated for the holidays and enjoy some treats. Dates: December 4, 5 and December 11, 12, 18 Price: $20/family, registration required
NYBG GLOW: (Bronx) GLOW is an evening, outdoor illuminated experience at the New York Botanical Garden. During your visit you can also enjoy ice carving displays, dancers, musicians and other outdoor fun. Dates: November 24, 26, & 27 December 2, 3, 4, 9, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, January 1, 6, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 5 PM – 10 PM Tickets/Price: $35/adults, $20/children (2-12), Free/children under 2 Get a discounted combined ticket with the NYBG Train Show $49/adult, $34/child
The Octagon House: Victorian Christmas Tour (Irvington) Enjoy a Victorian Christmas tour of the Armour-Stiner Octagon House. The eight-sided home will be decorated for the holidays. Tours are approximately 1 hour and recommended for ages 7+. Parking is free but limited. Masks must be worn during the tour. Dates: Fridays – Mondays, November 12 – December 30 Tours are at: 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM and 4 PM Tickets: $29/adults, $26 (youth ages 7-17)
Peace, Love, Lights: Drive-Thru Holiday Lights Experience at Bethel Woods: (Swan Lake) Enjoy an over one mile drive-thru holiday illuminated experience from the warmth of your car. Dates: November 19, 2021 – January 2, 2022 Sunday – Thursday 5 PM – 9 PM, Friday & Saturday 5 PM – 10 PM Tickets/Price: $28.75/car (with fees)
While you are at Bethel Woods, you can also enjoy Dinner with Santa before or after your drive-thru experience. Dates: December 3- December 18, 5 PM – 8 PM Price: $50/adult, $25/child
Pop-up Ice Skating Rink at the Cross County Center: (Yonkers) The Cross County Center has a Pop-Up Ice Skating rink. It’s located at Center Court near the Christmas tree. Admission: $10 for a one hour session and includes skates. Debit/credit only – no cash.
Santacon at The Valley (Yorktown Heights) Dress up in a Santa suit or an ugly Christmas sweater and enjoy a bar crawl around the mall. There will be activities for kids along the way, drink specials, Best Santa contest and more. Date: December 11, 2 PM – 6 PM Free to participate – food and drink sold separately
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland: (Valhalla) Enjoy Westchester’s Winter Wonderland drive-thru Holiday Light Extravaganza. Enjoy a 1.2-mile illuminated drive from the warmth of your car.
Dates: Open every night November 26, 2021 – January 2, 2022 (except December 24 and December 25) Tickets/Price: $25/car off-peak, $35/car peak, large passenger vans/limos additional fee
White Plains Holiday Market: (White Plains) 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. Dates: December 5 – December 19
The Wonderland of Lights (Rhinebeck) Taking place at the Dutchess County Fair Grounds, enjoy this drive through holiday light experience. Dates: November 25 – December 26, 2021 Tickets: $25/car
Photos with Santa:
Cross County Shopping Center: (Yonkers) Santa will be available for photos and visits in his workshop. Reservations are recommended but not required.
Jefferson Valley Mall: (Yorktown Heights) Reservations are strongly recommended. Santa and his helpers will be wearing masks and guests are required to wear masks as well. Dates: November 27 – December 24
Welcome Santa on November 27 at 9:30 AM and enjoy breakfast with him. There will be arts and crafts, “Letter’s to Santa” writing opportunities, special guest appearances from costumed characters, Holiday Bounce House and more.
The Westchester: (White Plains) Reservations are strongly recommended. Santa and his helpers will be wearing masks and guests are required to wear masks as well. Dates: November 12 – December 24
Enjoy pet photos with Santa on November 21, November 28 and December 5 from 7-8 PM
Fall is here and that means it’s time for all things pumpkin! I know I’m not the only one obsessed, am I?! Check out this first, pumpkin themed edition of Eat & Drink in Westchester County. See where you can enjoy all the pumpkin treats and drinks in Westchester County! But hurry, because all of these seasonal treats and drinks won’t be available for long!
Baked to Perfection (Online/White Plains) Pumpkin S’mores Cupcake. Also has a Pumpkin Cream Cheese cupcake. You can order cupcakes online or purchase at Roosters Market at 48 Gedney Way in White Plains.
The Brazen Fox(White Plains) The Brazen Fox is a craft beer bar and American Restaurant in downtown White Plains. They are serving a pumpkin bread pudding with a pumpkin vanilla sauce drizzle this month.
Moderne Barn (Armonk) has a pumpkin cheesecake ($11) on the dessert menu. It has a ginger graham cracker crust and topped with vanilla crème fraiche, cranberry compote, pumpkin seeds and caramel.
Auntie Liana’s (Yorktown Heights) Auntie Liana’s is located inside the Jefferson Valley Mall and can also be found at the Let It Shine farmers market in Verplanck on Sundays. They are selling Pumpkin Spice hot cocoa jars and pumpkin spice hot cocoa bombs.
DeCicco & Sons (locations in Ardsley, Armonk, Brewster, Eastchester, Harrison, Larchmont, Millwood, Pelham and Somers) This family-run grocery store sells a variety of pumpkin flavored items including Pumpkin Gouda and Pumpkin Cheesecake!
Double Barrel Coffee Roasters (online) You can get Double Barrel Coffee Roasters pumpkin spice coffee in decaf or regular and whole bean, fine grind, or auto grind (starting at $15).
North End Tavern (New Rochelle) Although the Pumpkin Mule ($12) was a daily drink special earlier this month, I believe they can make this drink for you all fall long!
Peekskill Brewery (Peekskill) Heads Will Roll is a beer collaboration between Peekskill Brewery and Horsefeathers in Sleepy Hollow. This is a pumpkin IPA that has, “big bold pumpkin flavor, but with a strong hoppy profile.”
Westchester County has so many amazing restaurants, with new places opening every month. I enjoy dining out, however, with a family of four, it can get very expensive! Fortunately, many restaurants throughout Westchester offer special dinner deals throughout the week. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger or a fancy three-course meal, there are restaurants throughout Westchester that cover it all! (Updated February 2021)
**Please confirm the details with the restaurant for the most up-to-date information.
Tuesday: Fat Tuesdays All-You-Can-Eat Specials $20.99 (Jambalaya, Catch O’Day, Pasta O’Day & Chops O’Day) Wednesday: Voodoo Night – $4 Abita Turbo Dog, $4 Amber Draft or Purple Haze, $5 Voodoo Wings (Readings are available from Angela for $20)
Bread and Brine 19 Main Street Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706 (914) 479-5243
Steamed Maine Lobster Dinners: Available Wednesday through Sunday. 1 1/2 lb. steamed Maine lobster, cup of New England Clam Chowder, boiled potato, corn-on-the-cob, cole slaw and grilled corn bread for $55.
Mondays: Buy one burger, get the second one 50% off (equal or lesser value with purchase of a beverage) Tuesdays: 5 Tacos for $10 (w/purchase of a beverage)
The Greekish 273 Halstead Avenue Harrison, NY 10528 (914) 732-3333
The Greekish has two different dinner deals: Tasting of the Greekish is available Wednesday through Sunday from 4 PM – 8 PM. Enjoy 1 dip, 2 Meze, 1 entrée (land or sea) and dessert for $55. The Greek-Style Meze Special is available Wednesday through Sunday from 4 PM – 9 PM. Enjoy 1 dip and pita plus any 3 Meze for $30.
The Hudson Room 23 South Division Street Peekskill, NY 10566 (914) 788-FOOD
The Hudson Room offers a 3 course Prix Fixe meal on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for $32.95 (appetizer, main, dessert)
Monday Pasta Party – (4 PM to close) $9 Penne Vodka, Angel Hair & Broccoli, Rigatoni Alla Norma or Fettuccini Alfredo Tuesday Pizza Party – (4 PM to close) 50% off all individual pizzas (excluding seafood pizzas)
Risotto offers a Prezzo Fisso to go menu for $25 which includes a select Antipasti, Secondi and dessert.
Rye Roadhouse 12 High Street Rye, NY 10580 (914) 925-2668
Mondays: Build Your Own Quesadillas starting at $6.95 Tuesdays: Taco Tuesday – 5 PM – 9 PM, Cajun Nachos, Tacos, Burritos and $5 margaritas Wednesdays: Fried Chicken Night – Four piece chicken dinner with two sides for $12.95 (in house only) Thursdays: Burger Night – 5 PM – 9 PM half-price burgers (in house only)
Wellington’s Grill 110 Halstead Avenue Harrison, NY 10528 (914) 315-1532
Tuesdays: Lobster Night $25 includes a 1 1/2 lb. steamed lobster served with New England Clam Chowder, cole slaw and corn on the cob Wednesdays: Prime Rib Night $28 includes a thick slice of slow roasted prime rib served with frizzled onions, cup of soup and a baked potato Thursdays: $10 Burger Night
If you know of any other dinner deals in Westchester County, please email me (NYFoodieFamily@gmail.com) and I will add it to this list!
One outdoor activity that both my tween and teen are always up for is playing a round of mini golf. While it’s often a vacation activity for us, there isn’t much vacationing currently happening. Since mini golf is a fun, social-distance-friendly family activity, we decided to check out the various courses in Westchester County. Read on for information, ratings and our reviews of each of the courses we visited.
Please remember to check with the locations directly for the most up-to-date information.
Course: 18-hole mini golf course Cost: $8/person (cash only!) Hours of Operation: July – August – 12 PM to 6:30 PM (daily) September – November – 12 PM – dusk (weekends) Parking: $5
Review: The Brookside Mini Golf course is located in Tibbetts Brook Park, a Westchester County Park and has been operating since 2002. It is a short walk from the parking lot, past the pool house, to get to the golf course. We visited on a Saturday and there was a constant flow of visitors.
The course was recently renovated and it shows. The putting greens were in good condition and most of the waterfalls and water features were running.
There were a couple of obstacles including the a loop (that we saw at every mini golf course!), a clown mouth and a bridge.
There was lots of plants and bushes planted throughout the course, giving the course a nice “curb appeal.” This is the only mini golf course that has a par for each hole printed on the score card. Unfortunately, the holes are not numbered here. However, following the cement path leads you to each hole.
To keep germs to a minimum, you can choose the color ball you want, but the attendant hands the ball and club to you. Once you are finished playing, everything is wiped down with sanitizing wipes.
There is a limited food menu including pretzels, pizza and nachos as well as various frozen ice cream novelties. However, we thought $5 for a Chipwich or a SpongeBob ice cream pop was a bit steep.
If you want to make a day of it, bring your suits and enjoy the pool and slides (Be sure to check first if they are open. During our recent visit, the pool was closed. There is a separate admission for the pool).
Charles J. Cook Park (Cortlandt Manor) 293 Furnace Dock Road Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567
Course: 9-hole mini golf course Cost: Free, but only open to Town of Cortlandt (and Village of Buchanan and Croton) residents Hours of Operation: Closed Mondays Tuesday – Friday: 2 PM – 7:30 PM Saturday & Sunday: 12 PM – 7:30 PM Parking: Free
Review coming soon!
Playland Park (Rye) 1 Playland Parkway Rye, NY 10580 (914) 813-7010
Course: 18-hole mini golf course Cost: $5/per person Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Closed Mondays Parking: $10
Review: Playland Mini Golf wins hands down for best atmosphere. Nowhere else in Westchester County can you play miniature golf with views of the Long Island Sound. With the boardwalk and the beach right next to the course, it feels like you’re on a vacation.
I mean, look at how close to the water you are! At $5 per person, it is also the cheapest miniature golf course. However, you do have to pay $10 to park, so the overall cost is comparable to the other courses.
Each hole was easily identifiable by a number.
The course itself is a tad run down. Some of the holes had patchwork and mismatched putting green material. It was the easiest of the courses we visited though, with three of us getting holes in one.
There are some fun features, like this waterfall, a gazebo and a well.
Playland Mini Golf is the only course that enforces social distancing. They only allow two to three groups on the course at a time. A new group cannot start playing until the previous group has gotten to hole 9, the waterfall. It is likely you will have to wait for a little bit to play. They also wipe down and sanitize the balls and clubs before you play.
Overall: This was a fun golf course with beautiful views. Definitely worth a visit.
Saxon Woods Park (White Plains) 1800 Mamaroneck Avenue White Plains, NY 10605 (914) 924-4644
Course: 19-hole mini golf course Cost: $9/adult, $7/children under 10 (Cash or credit) Hours of Operation: June – September – 12 PM to 8 PM
Review: The Saxon Woods Park Mini Golf Course is located in Saxon Woods Park, a Westchester County Park. It’s part of the 700-acre property that includes the county’s largest swimming pool, ball fields, an 18-hole golf course, playground and hiking trails and is run by Powell Catering Service. We visited on a recent Saturday and there was a constant flow of visitors. There was even a birthday party that was being set up during our visit.
This was one of the few courses that we visited that had rules posted for play.
This mini golf course sits inside a natural forest and stream area and has the most shade of all the courses we visited. Unfortunately, it sits adjacent to Mamaroneck Avenue, so you see and hear all of the traffic going by.
Each hole was labeled with a number. This was the only course we visited that had flags in the holes to help identify the target.
There are frozen ice cream novelties for purchase at the admission booth and a food concessions stand next door.
Overall: This was one of the nicer mini golf courses that we visited with a not-too-difficult course.
Yorktown Golf & Baseball (Mohegan Lake) 2710 Lexington Avenue Mohegan Lake, NY 10547 (914) 526-8337
Course: 18-hole mini golf course Cost: $7/adults, $5.50/children under 12 Cash or credit (4% credit card fee) Hours of Operation: Spring & Summer – 10 AM – 8 PM
Review: Established in 1994, this miniature golf course is only one of the attractions at the Yorktown Golf & Baseball Center. The facility also houses a 2-tiered driving range and eight batting cages. Unfortunately, the miniature golf course does not appear to have been updated since it was built. During our visit, the waterfall and ponds were not filled, leaving empty cement structures. The putting green is separated from the cement. The score cards do not have a par printed, nor did we see a maximum number of strokes. However, we limited ourselves to a 5 stroke max on each hole. We found some of the holes (1 and 15) especially difficult.
Overall: This is a bare bones, miniature golf course that is in need of some major upkeep. The course lacks fun features and was our least favorite of the courses we visited.
With COVID-19 hitting the restaurant industry hard, it is hard to keep up with what restaurants are open. While we don’t live in Peekskill, it is a short drive away and offers so many different food options. I did some research and rounded up a list of Peekskill take-out and delivery options. Support local and order take out from one of these Peekskill restaurants and businesses. As always, please check directly with the restaurant for the most up-to-date information. Contact Nancy at NYFoodieFamily@gmail.com if there’s a restaurant that I have missed or the information below needs updating!
Blithe Bagels is a new addition to the Peekskill food scene. Owner Tina Selsky hand makes these bagels. The bagels are low-calorie, at only 200 calories each. They even have a vegan option!
*Order and take-out in person. Cash or credit cards ($10 minimum)
Peaceful Provisions 47 South Water Street Peekskill, NY 10566 (Located inside the Peekskill Brewery)
Peaceful Provisions has recently changed their offerings to prepackaged sets including a Treat Box for 2, Doughnut Box of 2, Doughnut Box of 4, plus merchandise. The doughnut flavors and treats change weekly. They limit orders to one of each box per household.
Boxes range from $8-$18+ depending on the combination of doughnuts being offered that week.
Friday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
*Online pre-orders only! Ordering opens up Monday at 12 PM for Friday pick-up, Tuesday at 12 PM for Saturday pick-up, and Wednesday at 12 PM for Sunday pick-up. These doughnuts sell out FAST!!! So, set your alarms and good luck!
Menu They sell over 60 different teas as well as a variety of soups, quiche, sandwiches, salads and sweets.
Tuesday-Friday: 11 AM – 3 PM
Bridgee’s Food Truck is at Kathleen’s Tea Room Wednesday & Friday 11 AM – 5 PM They serve a variety of southern dishes including fried chicken, fried shrimp, mac and cheese, yams and more. You can pre-order on the Kathleen’s Tea Room online menu.
They have a limited food menu that includes wings, pizza, burgers, salads and more.
They have five family style takeout options (that feed four) including Mac N’ Cheese ($18), Family Wings ($20), Family Style PB Burgers w/fries (($60), Family Style Kale Salad ($16) and Family Style Kale Salad with Chicken ($26).
You can purchase single cans or six-packs of their brews as well as canned wines and spirits.
The coffeehouse reopened May 18th. Get your favorite coffee to go as well as crepes, paninis, salads and baked goods. They also sell bags of coffee beans, merchandise and crepe batter and crepe kits for you to make your own at home.
Sunday – Saturday 7AM – 5 PM
Order online – Credit/Debit only – no cash
FOOD:
The Beanrunner Cafe 201 South Division Street Peekskill, NY 10566 (914) 737-1701
Menu The cafe serves a variety of breakfast options (served until 11 AM) as well as sandwiches, soups, salads and more. Check their Instagram for daily specials.
Daily: 8 AM – 4 PM
Curbside pick-up – Call to order
Birdsall House 970 Main Street Peekskill, NY 10566 (914) 930-1880
Daily: 12-8 PM Pick-Up and Curbside Delivery Please call and order directly from the restaurant.
Fin & Brew 5 John Walsh Boulevard Peekskill, NY 10566 (914) 788-4555
Take Out Menu Includes a variety of appetizers, pizzas and sandwiches as well as a couple of entree specials (Brisket Dinner for 2 – $40 or 4 – $75, Hanger Steak $29 and Steelhead Trout $27)
Cocktails and beer also available
Friday-Sunday: 12 PM – 8 :15 PM Take out and Delivery
Order online
Gleason’s 911 South Street Peekskill, NY 10566 (914) 401-1950
To-Go Menu Check out this Italian restaurant’s website. They offer a variety of specials including a customizable Family Dinner Pack for 4 ($40) as well as a $12 Pasta & Salad special and a $20.20 Dinner Duo.
Birdsall Market Pick-Up at Birdsall House Beer Garden 970 Main Street Peekskill, NY 10566
A collaboration between Birdsall House, Gleason’s, Exurbanist and Ride! Peekskill. Order one of their ten different boxes (including breakfast sandwich, craft beer, date night, fried chicken picnic and more. They even offer a plant-based vegan gyros box).
Friday pick-up/delivery between 1-4 PM Delivery to Peekskill, Cortlandt, Montrose, Buchanan and Verplanck only ($5 charge) Can pick-up at Kaia Yoga (Westport, CT) for $7 charge
*Must pre-order by Wednesday for Friday pick-up/delivery
We were invited to press night for Five Guys Named Moe. Thank you to the Westchester Broadway Theatre for hosting NY Foodie Family. As always, all opinions are our own.
Westchester Broadway Theatre’s newest production, Five Guys Named Moe, debuted January 30th and it’s a must-see show!
Photo Credit: John Vecchiolla, courtesy of Westchester Broadway Theatre
Five Guys Named Moe is set in an unnamed city and unspecified year. It tells the story of No Max, recently single and drowning his sorrows with alcohol. It’s almost 5 in the morning when he’s taken by surprise as five guys, all named Moe, emerge from his radio. Big Moe, Little Moe, Eat Moe, No Moe and Four-Eyed Moe give No Max lessons in love via song and dance in hopes of helping win his girl back.
Photo Credit: John Vecchiolla, courtesy of Westchester Broadway Theatre
This musical pays tribute to American musician, songwriter and bandleader Louis Jordan, featuring over 20 songs, many of which are written by him. It originally debuted at London’s West End Lyric Theatre in December 1990 and made its way to Broadway in 1992. Local residents can now enjoy this lively production at the Westchester Broadway Theatre through March 1st.
Photo Credit: John Vecchiolla, courtesy of Westchester Broadway Theatre
Dana and I knew nothing about Five Guys Named Moe prior to seeing the show. We were both pleasantly surprised at what a fun production it is. The small cast did such a great job of highlighting the unique personality of each Moe. There was lots of dancing and even some audience participation, including a sing-along. Yes, even we stood right up and joined in!
I recommend Five Guys Named Moe to families with tweens and older. Although the songs are catchy, I don’t think the subject of the show will interest younger kids.
This was our first WBT production where a six-person band played on stage. There were even a few excellent instrumental solos. The music and songs are lively and will have you clapping your hands and tapping your feet along to the beat.
Since the Westchester Broadway Theatre is a dinner theatre, we can’t write about it without mentioning the food. I’ve written in previous reviews that the food here is okay. They are cooking for the masses and I feel the meal is a bonus for the quality of the production you get to see.
This was our first time visiting the WBT since becoming vegan. We weren’t sure if they could accommodate us, since we looked online beforehand and only saw a vegetarian option on the menu. Since we aren’t strict vegans, we were okay with eating the Eggplant Parmesan. However, when we asked if they had a vegan option, our waitress mentioned that they usually have a veggie burger.
I opted for the Eggplant Parm and Dana ordered the veggie burger. When our entrees arrived, he got a GIANT plate of veggies and a baked potato, but no sign of the burger.
We asked our waitress if they had run out of veggie burgers. She was very apologetic for the confusion and brought out TWO veggie burgers. While these are not much to look at, they were larger than expected and actually very moist and tasty! They were a southwest chipotle type burger with a hint of spice. It is probably one of the best things we’ve eaten there. We didn’t call ahead to alert them to our dietary needs, but our server did recommend doing so in the future and to let them know that we’d like to make sure the veggie burger is in stock!
Every production at the WBT has a signature cocktail. “All That Jazz” is the signature drink for Five Guys Named Moe. Dana enjoyed this drink of citrus vodka, grenadine and orange juice. It costs $12 and comes in a souvenir glass that can be taken home.
Five Guys Named Moe is playing for a limited time at the Westchester Broadway Theatre! Be sure to get your tickets before it leaves!
The Details: Five Guys Named Moe Westchester Broadway Theatre 1 Broadway Plaza Elmsford, NY 10523 (914) 592-2222
Tickets: (price includes dinner and the show) $61-$91 plus tax, beverages and gratuities, discounts available for children, students and senior citizens at select performances
Performances: January 30 – March 1, 2020
Show Times: (The show runs approximately 2 1/2 hours, with a 30-minute intermission between acts) Wednesday, Thursday and some Friday Matinees: 11:30 AM lunch, 1 PM show Thursday, Friday and Saturday Evenings: 6:30 PM dinner, 8 PM show Sunday Matinee: 12 PM lunch, 1:30 PM show Sunday Evening: 5:30 PM dinner, 7 PM show
Tips: * If you want to take home the souvenir glass, either be sure to hold on to it, or ask the staff for a clean glass to take home.
*They usually have a vegan meal option available. I recommended that you call ahead to make your dietary preference known so you can be sure they can accommodate you on your visit.
*Photos are not allowed during the show
*Check out the website for special offers
*There is a convenience fee for purchasing tickets online. There is no fee for purchasing tickets in-person or via phone.
*Up to 4 tickets can be purchased online.
* AAA members, AARP members, and military discounts are only given for phone or in-person ticket purchases.|
*All seat locations are the same price. The earlier you order, the better the seats.
