Westchester County Archives - Page 3 of 4

Five Guys Named Moe {Westchester Broadway Theatre}

Posted on February 5, 2020 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

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.

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.

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.

Trivia Night at the Peekskill Coffee House {Date Night}

Posted on January 20, 2020 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

My husband is a trivia master. He never ceases to amaze me with his wealth and breadth of knowledge. If the topic is music or history, even better. So, on the rare occasion that we are child free, we try to do a trivia night date.

Trivia nights are hosted in bars and restaurants throughout Westchester County. But not only is the Peekskill Coffee House close by, I find it unique that I can enjoy an iced coffee or tea instead of a beer while I play trivia. The trivia night takes place on Monday evenings from 6 to 8 PM.

I recommend getting there early and to be able to find a table. There are definitely noticeable groups of regulars, as I’m sure there are at most trivia nights. Dana and I were able to get a small table for two, then we got our coffee, an iced decaf for me and an Americano for him. Although the trivia start time is 6 PM, is not strictly adhered to. I don’t think the game actually started until around 6:15 PM.

When you play trivia you must come up with a team name. Each team gets one answer sheet to record your answers. The trivia here is played in three rounds with a mix of questions ranging in all different topics. Obviously, no phones or electronic devices are allowed. After each round the answer sheets are handed into the host who calculates the points. We didn’t win, but for our first time, we didn’t do too badly.

The Peeksill Coffee House is a great place to visit, even if you don’t go for trivia night! The space is casual and fun with a friendly staff. They have a variety of seating, depending on whether you want to sit and relax or get some work or reading done. Wi-fi is free for two hours with a purchase!

And not only does the Peekskill Coffee House serve coffee, but they have a menu including sweet and savory crepes, Belgian waffles, soups salads and more. If you just want a muffin or cookie to enjoy with your beverage, they sell a variety of baked goods as well. Be advised that crepes and waffles are made to order, so there is a bit of a wait.

If trivia night is not your thing, the Peekskill Coffee House is still worthy of a date night. There is a selection of board games that patrons can play and every month they showcase the work of local artists. Almost every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening they have live music playing. Coffee, a crepe and some music sounds like a low-key, fun night out! I think I’ll add it to our calendar!

The Details:
Trivia Night at the Peekskill Coffee House
101 South Division Street
Peekskill, NY 10566
(914) 739 -1287

Date: Monday Evenings
Time: 6-8 PM
Cost: $ – coffee, pastries and light food served (made-to-order sweet or savory crepes, belgium waffles, salads and paninis).

*This can make a fun Girl’s Night Out or Double Date with friends!

Westchester Winter Wonderland

Posted on December 18, 2019 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Hey locals! Have you been to Westchester Winter Wonderland yet? This Westchester County attraction is a holiday family must-do. Located at the Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, this is Westchester Winter Wonderland’s 6th season of holiday family fun.

Bundle up and get ready to enjoy all that Winter Wonderland has to offer. When you first arrive, you will be amazed by all of the lights! The attraction is festive and brightly lit with all kinds of colorful lights.

The $20 admission price is all-inclusive. Entertainment, rides, ice skating and a visit with Santa are all included. This year, there are ten rides including a Fun Slide, Ferris wheel, Cyclone and more. Most of the rides are geared towards the younger kids. However, our family enjoyed a ride down the Fun Slide and on the Ferris wheel.

Make sure to enjoy some skating on the ice rink. As I mentioned, skate rentals and ice skating is included in the ticket price. Dana and my son enjoyed some time on the ice. Before skating, you are given a pink wrist band, which is basically a waiver acknowledging and accepting the dangers of the activity.

Do not miss the Winter Wonderland Circus performance during your visit. Even Dana and I were impressed with the juggling, acrobatics and other circus acts crammed into the tent.

If you are hungry, there is plenty to eat, including pizza, hot dogs, fries and more. Save room for the funnel cake, fries and popcorn too! Plus, there’s a heated dining tent where you can eat and warm up!

Families with young kids will want to make a stop at Santa’s Village at the North Pole. In this tent you get to meet Mrs. Claus and get your picture taken with Santa. Elmo was also inside available for hugs and pictures. This tent had the longest line of any attraction during our visit. Unfortunately, my 11 and 13-year-old would not go anywhere near this tent, even though it was heated!

Other attractions include Santa’s Reindeer, a hay ride that rides along the dam, and a train ride that travels around the Lights of Wonder display. There are a couple of game booths that have an additional cost.

The Lights of Wonder was my favorite attraction at Westchester Winter Wonderland. This is a large colored lights display that is choreographed set to holiday music. Each song has a different combination of lights. If it wasn’t so cold, I could have watched this all night long!

Make sure to visit Westchester Winter Wonderland before they close on January 4th! It’s a great way to enjoy some winter fun with the family!

(Thank you Westchester Winter Wonderland for hosting NY Foodie Family. As always, all opinions are our own.)

The Details:
Westchester Winter Wonderland
Kensico Dam Plaza
1 Bronx River Parkway
Valhalla, NY 10595

Hours: Fridays (5 PM -9 PM) Saturdays (4 PM – 10 PM) and Sundays (4 PM – 9 PM) November 29 – December 22
Monday – Friday (5 PM – 10 PM) Saturday & Sunday (4 PM – 9 PM) December 23 2019 – January 4, 2020
Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Tickets:
$20/ticket, Free/children ages 3 and under
Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time and are good for any day that Westchester Winter Wonderland is open. You can also purchase tickets when you arrive.

Parking:
Free – plenty of parking

Tips:
*Get there early to beat the crowds

*Dress warmly! All attractions are outside, except for Santa and the Winter Wonderland Circus. It was very cold the night we visited and we wished we had worn warmer socks and winter boots!

*Food is available for purchase. For price reference, funnel cake costs $6, fries cost $4 and a small cotton candy costs $6. Most food vendors accept both cash and credit cards, but there is an ATM if needed.

*Beer and wine is available for purchase.

*Strollers are not allowed in the circus tent and there is a stroller parking area.

An American in Paris now at the Westchester Broadway Theatre

Posted on October 23, 2019 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

The Westchester Broadway Theatre’s newest production, An American in Paris is playing through November 24. The original production had its Broadway debut in April 2015, winning four Tony awards. Although the show ended in October 2016, audiences can now see it performed locally at the Westchester Broadway Theatre.

Photo by John Vecchiolla, courtesy of WBT

I must admit, prior to seeing An American in Paris, I didn’t really know much about it. The only song that was familiar to me was “I’ve Got Rhythm.” This musical is based on the 1951 film starring Gene Kelly, which ultimately was inspired by George Gershwin’s 1928 composition of the same name.

In a nutshell, An American in Paris tells the story of Jerry Mulligan, a young WWII veteran who decides to stay in Paris after its liberation, to pursue his passion for painting. He befriends Henri Baurel and Adam Hochberg and they unite like the Three Musketeers. It is in this city that he also meets a ballerina, Lise, and falls in love. But, unfortunately, he’s not her only suitor.

I was surprised at how much dancing (ballet, tap and jazz!) was in the show. The cast was super talented; having to act, sing and dance! And I lost count at the number of costume changes they did! Deanna Doyle, who plays Lise, had the role perfected, as she played Lise on the National Tour. Although Brandon Haagenson has plenty of other performances under his belt, he makes his Westchester Broadway Theatre debut with his role as Jerry.

My husband and I really enjoyed seeing An American in Paris at the Westchester Broadway Theatre. For this show, we were seated at table 281, the second to last row in the center of the theater. However, every seat in the house has a great view of the stage.

The cost of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are not included in your ticket price. Since the show is set in France, my husband started dinner with a “French 75” martini.

But of course, WBT is a dinner theatre. Guests enjoy a full dinner prior to the show. Dinner begins with a garden salad. For an additional cost, other appetizers are available and include shrimp cocktail, French onion soup, smoked salmon and semolina dusted calamari.

Dinner options for this show include Eggplant Parmigiana, Fillet of Sole “Meuniere” (classic French preparation, where fish is dusted in flour before sauteing), Roast Loin of Pork, Sauteed Breast of Chicken with a Marsala sauce and Roast Prime Rib of Beef. I opted for the Eggplant Parm this time and enjoyed it. But I would have liked a little more pasta on the side.

My husband enjoyed the Prime Rib again. He ordered it medium rare and it came out cooked a perfect medium. If you’re not sure what to order, the Prime Rib is always a good bet.

Dessert is always the classic peach melba, but other desserts (Lemon Tart with raspberry sauce, Cheesecake with raspberry sauce, Chocolate lava cake and Chocolate fudge sundae) are available at an additional cost and served later during the intermission.

Although An American in Paris is a family-friendly show, my husband and I enjoyed a fun date night out. While we enjoyed the performance, we’re not so sure our 11 and 13 year-old would have felt the same way.

(We were hosted by the Westchester Broadway Theatre. However, as always, all opinions are our own.)

The Details:
An American In Paris
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: October 3 – November 24, 2019

Tips:
*Photos are not allowed during the show

*Check out the website for special offers

*An American in Paris is family-friendly show, but after seeing it we do not recommend it for children. The story line, music and dancing will likely not interest most kids.

*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.

GoGreek: A Greek “Snack Bar” in Pelham

Posted on October 2, 2019 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Imagine you’re walking down the street holding a gyro in your hand. What does it look like? Most of us probably have a similar picture in our minds. Well, think again. This gyro is filled with freshly carved pork, tomatoes, onions, tzatziki sauce and even a few french fries. And it fits right in your hand, just like you’ll find in Greece. Welcome to the traditional Greek gyro, at the recently opened GoGreek Snack Bar, right in the heart of Pelham!

After spending many summers in Greece and enjoying the delicious food there, brothers Dan and Chris Krystallis are trying to recreate the culinary experience for Westchester County residents. As the sons of a Greek immigrant, they have firsthand experience of the flavors and ingredients of traditional Greek food. Running several Greek American diners in upstate New York, Chris brings his restaurant knowledge and experience to GoGreek.

However, it is the husband and wife team, Dan and Amber Krystallis who are running GoGreek. They are hoping to bring fast-casual Greek food to the masses and change a few perceptions about the humble gyro while they’re at it. Though GoGreek’s logo may give off vibes of a chain/franchise, this restaurant is a one-of-a-kind family-run, small business.

Centrally located on 5th Avenue in Pelham, GoGreek is a great spot to grab a quick lunch to go. However, with a variety of seating options available, including counter seats, traditional tables and chairs and outdoor seating, guests are welcome to stay and enjoy their meal.

GoGreek’s menu offers a variety of tasty eats. Handhelds include their signature pork gyro (the traditional style in Greece), or a burger, chicken or veggie pita. They have also recently added a Beyond Burger pita with spicy feta.

Now that the weather is cooling off, you may want to try Papu’s Chili,
which was one of my husband’s favorite dishes. It boasts a really complex set of flavors in one bowl.

Or the comforting flavors of home with Yaya’s Chicken Egg Lemon Rice soup.

Of course they also serve falafel, traditional hummus and spinach pie. But they also offer GoGreek Fries or Chips. Available drinks include bottles of Greek sodas (the carbonated orangeade is a great pick) and more common beverages.

If you’re looking to end your meal on a sweet note, they’ve got you covered. They serve traditional baklava and a GoGreek Sweet, fried pita topped with powdered sugar. For those with gluten concerns, everything on the menu is gluten-free, except for the pita, spinach pie and baklava.

When you’re in Pelham, give GoGreek a visit! You’ll enjoy authentic Greek “snacks” at an affordable price.

The Details:
GoGreek Snack Bar
108 5th Avenue
Pelham, NY 10803
(914) 740-3173

Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM, Monday – Saturday
Closed Sundays

Parking: Metered Street Parking

Price: $ (everything under $10)

Holiday Gift Ideas for Westchester County Families

Posted on December 4, 2017 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

I’ve been posting various holiday gift guides these past few weeks. However, there are some unique gifts that you can give to families living in Westchester County. Check out this post that I shared on the Westchester County Moms Blog last year for some holiday gift ideas especially for Westchester County Families!

Some new additions this year include “Experience Gifts”:
While these places may not sell gift certificates, you can give money with a note for its intended use, or ask for a family experience, to these Westchester County family fun venues.

Grand Prix New York (Mt. Kisco, NY) -This venue has Go Karts, bowling and an arcade. A full day of fun for families with older children.

Legoland Discovery Center (Yonkers, NY) – Designed for children ages 3-10, this venue has 2 rides, 10 build and play zones and a 4D cinema. Located in Ridge Hill, there are several restaurant choices nearby for lunch or dinner.

Spins Hudson (Peekskill, NY) – Your family can have a day of fun here. There’s an indoor ropes course, arcade and laser tag in this one venue.

Winston Restaurant Debuts New Fall Menu

Posted on October 30, 2017 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

(I was invited to a tasting of the new fall menu at Winston Restaurant. As always, all opinions are my own.)

Winston Restaurant has been a welcome addition to Mount Kisco since 2014. Named after the dog owned by Executive Chef Michael Williams, the restaurant serves New American cuisine using fresh, high-quality ingredients. I dined at Winston back in December of 2014, during the restaurant’s inaugural year. Even then, my husband and I were impressed with the quality and flavors of the food. It appears that Winston has maintained that high standard of food and service to bring you a memorable dining experience.

Executive Chef Michael Williams recently debuted a new fall menu that I was fortunate enough to get a preview tasting of. Believe me readers, you will not be disappointed! The dishes featured below will be replacing some of the summer-type dishes off the restaurant’s a la carte menu.

Your first decision will be which tasty cocktail to order. And let me tell you, it won’t be an easy one! While Winston has a full service bar and extensive wine list, you will want to try one of their signature cocktails. The fall menu includes (pictured clockwise from top left) a Spiced Apple Margarita, Blueberry Dash, Ginger Redemption, Passion Fruit Bellini, The Herbed Pear and a Pumpkin Mojito. The only other drink, not pictured, is the Gentleman Fig. I love sweet drinks and the Passion Fruit Bellini was right up my alley. Since I had to drive home (and I might be a lightweight) I didn’t try any of the other cocktails. They all have such interesting combinations of flavors and ingredients, and appeared to be well-liked by my fellow diners.

The fall menu includes four new starters (pictured above clockwise) Vegetable Spring Rolls, Beef Negimaki, Beef Carpaccio and Gruyere Potato Dumplings. They were all delicious but I highly recommend the potato dumplings and the carpaccio. The beef carpaccio is topped with an arugula salad and is a nice light dish to start your meal. The potato dumplings are small, fluffy pillows of deliciousness. Accompanied by butternut squash, corn and asparagus, this dish embodies the goodness of fall. The portions are large enough for sharing so why not get both?!

Chef Williams knocked it out of the ballpark with the new entrees on the fall menu! The four entrees (pictured above clockwise) include Pan-Seared Diver Scallops with Cannelini Beans, Chipotle Encrusted Cod atop a Butternut Squash, Corn and Brussels Sprout Leaves medley, Hudson Valley Magret Duck Breast with a Moroccan Honey Glaze served with a potato gratin and roasted cauliflower and Asian Braised Pork Shank atop a combo of Fingerling Potatoes and Savoy Cabbage. Honestly, they are all delicious and I can’t pick a favorite. I think it really depends on what you’re in the mood for. The cod has a bit of a kick from the chipotle crust, but isn’t overly spicy. The braised pork is so tender it falls off the bone. I love duck and the Moroccan Glaze is on point. And look at the perfect sear on those scallops! Again, I recommend ordering different entrees than your dining companions and sharing.

Finally, we can’t forget about dessert. No matter how stuffed I am, I always take a peek at the dessert menu…..just in case there’s something that I have to try. Apple Tart served with vanilla ice cream is the new addition to the fall dessert menu. The nine piece assorted Cookie Plate and The Dirty Winston, a chocolate hazelnut layer cake served with raspberry sorbet are mainstays on Winston’s dessert menu. My advice: skip the cookie plate. If you’re going to splurge on dessert, really splurge! Depending on your sweet preferences both the apple tart and Dirty Winston are really good. However, if you love creme brulee, like I do, you must order the creme brulee trio. While I didn’t sample this dessert during my most recent visit, speaking from my prior dining experience, they are really good! The flavors change seasonally.

Are you salivating yet?! Winston will still be serving their new fall menu from now until the spring. Sunday through Thursday they also have a Prix Fixe Menu. I had never thought of Winston as a “family” restaurant. However, they have a kids menu featuring favorites like a cheeseburger, chicken fingers and pasta. The whole family can enjoy a great dinner out!

The Details:

Winston Restaurant
130 East Main Street
Mt. Kisco, NY 10549
(914) 244-9780

Hours:
Closed Mondays
Tuesday – Thursday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Friday & Saturday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Sunday: 5 PM – 9 PM

Parking: Street parking available in front of the restaurant. Village Center Parking Lot is located behind the restaurant. Meters enforced 8 AM – 6 PM Monday through Saturday. Free parking Sundays and holidays.

Price: $$ (small plate/starters average $15, most entrees priced between $25 – $35, most desserts are $10 and under)

Reservations can be made via phone or through OpenTable.

Food Truck Mash-Up At Empire City Casino

Posted on August 29, 2017 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Sponsored Post

Where are all my fellow food truck fans? On Sunday, September 10, come join me and fellow foodies at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway in Yonkers, New York. The Journal News Media Group is pitting the best food trucks from New York against the best of New Jersey in a Food Truck Mash-Up. Your vote will help determine who wins bragging rights!

The current food truck line-up includes Carnivale Donut Bar (“over the top”shakes, ice cream donut sandwiches and stuffed mini donuts), Dough Nation (pizza), Farmers and Chefs (Hudson Valley, farm fresh, local, in-season dishes), Frites of NY (different kinds of street fries), Glazed and Confused Donuts (mini donuts), HAPA Truck (Asian Fusion- tacos, burgers, sides), Kona Ice (shaved ice), Los Viajeros (tacos, burritos, quesadillas), Meatoss Food Truck (Brazilian churrasco), Bacon Me Crazy (“hand wrap, roll & sprinkle your favorite foods with mmmm…..bacon!”), Empanada Guy (empanadas and traditional Latin dishes), Callahan’s Hot Dogs (hot dogs, burgers, fries), Walter’s Hot Dogs (hot dogs and fries), Three Little Pigs BBQ (BBQ meat, sandwiches, chicken), The Souvlaki Truck (Greek), Stuf’d Truck (gourmet sandwiches and sweet bites), Luke’s Lobster (seafood), Waffle de Lys (Belgian and savory waffles), CheezeN (gourmet grilled cheese), The Guac Spot (avocado-inspired eats), Jimmy Dawn’s Cheesesteaks (cheesesteaks and fries), Angry Archie’s (seafood) and Aroy’d Thai Elephant (Thai food)!

(Carnivale Donut Bar’s “Over the Top” shakes – photo courtesy of T.H. Waldman)

I’ve perused the menus and the hardest decision you’ll have to make is which trucks to try! These are not your average food trucks, with most of them having accumulated multiple awards in the food truck circuit. The trucks will be offering their regular event menus at the Mash-Up. Prices for food items vary with each food truck. After taking a quick look at some of the menus online, many of the burgers, sandwiches, tacos, “mains” etc. average $6-$12 per item. The trucks take both credit cards and cash. If needed, ATMs are available inside the casino. After you’ve eaten your fill, don’t forget to vote for your favorite truck! At the end of the event, a winner will be crowned.

(Callahan’s Hot Dogs – photo courtesy of T.H. Waldman)

Are you ready to get your tickets to the Food Truck Mash-Up? Tickets are available on lohud.com for pre-purchase. Early admission tickets are available for $20 (online only). This enables you to access the event at 12 PM and get $5 in Food Truck Mash-Up Cash. Plus, there will be drink specials during these two hours.

General admission tickets can be purchased online for $5 or at the event for $8, with admission beginning at 2 PM. Kids under 5 are admitted free. All pre-purchased admissions include $10 of free play at the casino.

Plenty of free parking is available at Empire City Casino. The Casino also provides free shuttle service from the Mount Vernon West Metro-North train station. During the event, Rockland Nissan, sponsor of the Food Truck Mash-Up, will be giving away a 2 year lease on a new Nissan Sentra.

(photo courtesy of T.H. Waldman)

This is going to be a fun-filled family event! Daddy Pop and DJ Lax will be playing live music throughout the day and their will be carnival games and activities for the kids. Bring a blanket or foldable chair so you can sit back, relax and enjoy a day of foodie family fun.

For tickets, directions, and additional info, check out the lohud.com site.

2017 Westchester County Valentine’s Day Dining Guide

Posted on February 2, 2017 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

Valentine’s Day is less than two weeks away. If you are planning on going out to dinner with your sweetheart, reservations are a must! Here is a look at some of the area’s restaurants that will be offering special Valentine’s Day menus. Most other restaurants throughout the area will be open and serving their regular menu. 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.

Benjamin’s Steak House (Steak House)
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 $89/person. Dinner is served 4-10 PM.

Gaucho Grill (Argentinean Steak House)
One North Broadway
White Plains, NY 10601
reservations: (914) 437-9966 or online

Gaucho Grill is offering a special 3 course dinner for $65/person. Dinner hours are from 3-10 PM.

Half Moon (New American)
1 High Street
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
reservations: (914) 693-4130

Half Moon is offering a special 3 course dinner for $65/person. Dinner hours are 5:30-10 PM.

Harvest-on-Hudson (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 dinner for $69/person.

The Hudson Room (New American and Sushi Bar)
23 South Division Street
Peekskill, NY 10566
reservations: (914) 788-FOOD

From 5-11 PM, The Hudson Room is offering a 4-course dinner for $70/person. At 6:30 and 8:30 PM there will be live jazz musical performances.

La Panetiere (French)
530 Milto Road
Rye, NY 10580
reservations: (914) 967-8140

The French restaurant is having two seatings, 5:30 and 8:30 PM. The three course dinner costs $90/person or $140/person with wine pairing.

Modern on the Rails (Italian, New American)
One Station Plaza
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
reservations: (914) 777-9300

Modern on the Rails is offering a four course Valentine’s Day menu for $65/person. The restaurant is open until 10:30 PM.

Moderne Barn (New American)
430 Bedford Ave.
Armonk, NY 10504
reservations: (914) 730-0001 or online

From 5-10 PM, diners can enjoy Chef Ethan’s 3 course prix-fixe menu. The dinner costs $78/person or $118/person with wine pairing.

One Twenty One (New American)
2 Dingle Ridge Road
North Salem, NY 10560
reservations: (914) 669-0121

One Twenty One is taking Valentine’s Day reservations from 5-9:30 PM. Chef Beck Bolender is preparing a 3 course pre-fixe menu for $65/person.

Plates (New American)
121 Myrtle Boulevard
Larchmont, NY 10538
reservations: (914) 834-1244 or online

Plates is having four Valentine’s Day seatings, with a 3 course prix-fixe menu. The 5:00 and 6:30 PM seatings cost $65/person and the 6:30 and 8:00 PM seatings cost $85/person.

Red Hat on the River (French Bistro)
One Bridge Street
Irvington-on-Hudson, NY 10533
reservations: (914) 591-5888 or online

Red Hat on the River is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu for $72/person plus gratuities. They also have four special Valentine’s Day cocktails that they will be serving that evening.

Rosemary and Vine (Mediterranean)
29 Purchase Street
Rye, NY 10580
reservations: (914) 481-8660

On Valentine’s Day, enjoy live music while you dine on Rosemary and Vine’s 3 course prix-fixe menu. The vegetarian menu costs $45/person and an additional $28 for a wine pairing. The restaurant is open until 9 PM.

Thyme (New American)
3605 Crompond Rd.
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
reservations: (914) 788-8700

Thyme is offering a 3 course menu as well as a complimentary glass of champagne and a chocolate rose for $90/person. Dinner hours are 4-10 PM.

Putnam County:

The Arch (French)
1292 Route 22
Brewster, NY 10509
reservations: (845) 279-5011

The Arch is serving a 4 course Valentine’s Day menu from 5-9:00 PM for $85/person.

Hudson House River Inn (New American)
2 Main Street
Cold Spring, NY
reservations: (845) – 265-9355

Hudson House River Inn has special 3 course Valentine’s Day menu for $47/person. Their regular menu is available to order from as well. The restaurant is open for dinner from 5-9 PM and they will have a keyboardist playing live music. They also have special Valentine’s Day overnight packages as well.

Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine (Indian)
280 Rt 22
Brewster, NY 10509
reservations: (845) 277-3549

Jaipore has a special Valentine’s lunch buffet served from 12:00-2:30 PM for $15.99/person. They are also offering a special dinner buffet from 5:00-9:45 PM for $25.99/person.

Ramiro’s 954 (Latin)
954 Route 6
Mahopac, NY 10541
reservations: (845) 621-3333 or online

This Latin eatery is offering a 3 course prix-fixe menu for $55/person, which includes a dessert to share. The restaurant is open from 3:30-9:00 PM.

Rockland County:

BV’s Grill (New American)
400 High Avenue
Nyack, NY 10960
reservations: (845) 675-8740

BV’s Grill is offering a special three course Valentine’s Day menu on Saturday, February 11 from 4-11 PM as well as on Valentine’s Day from 5-10 PM. The dinner costs $150/couple and includes a champagne toast and dancing.

Quinta Steakhouse (Steakhouse)
24 E. Central Ave.
Pearl River, NY 10965
reservations: (845) 735-5565

Quinta Steakhouse is offering a special Valentine’s Day a’la carte menu as well as their regular dinner menu. Dinner is served from 5-9 PM.

Sixty 5 On Main (Mediterranean)
65 Main Street
Nyack, NY 10960
reservations: (845) 358-5200

Sixty 5 on Main is offering two seatings, 6:30 and 8:30 PM. Ginetta’s Vendetta Band will be playing live music beginning at 7 PM. They are offering a 4 course dinner with a complimentary bottle of red, white or sparkling wine for $130/couple.

Dig Inn Rye Brook Opens Today!

Posted on January 12, 2017 by nyfoodiefamily@gmail.com

*I was invited to a preview lunch experience at Dig Inn. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

This past Tuesday I was invited to a preview lunch at Dig Inn in Rye Brook. Adam Eskin, Founder & CEO of Dig Inn, opened his first restaurant in 2011. This is Dig Inn’s fourteenth restaurant and first Westchester County location. Located at 112 S. Ridge Street, Dig Inn offers a new dining option to the Rye Ridge Shopping Center. And it officially opens today!

When you enter the restaurant there is a large, casual dining area with communal tables. They have a deli counter in the front where you can order containers of their sides, proteins, or even family meals to go. As you make your way towards the back of the restaurant there is the ordering area, where you can customize your Marketbowl or Melting Broth, the restaurant’s main lunch and dinner dining options.

At the end of the counter is the Chef’s table. Here you can sit and dine while watching the chefs prepare a variety of toasts and vegetable charcuterie.

And finally at the back of the restaurant is dining area. There are several seating areas with marble table tops adorned with tiny succulents. When designing this Rye Brook restaurant, creative director Melanie Masarin and founder Adam Eskin were all about cutting open the ceiling to place a giant, elevated sky light. They also added a giant window in the back of the restaurant, to allow for lots of natural light into the space. The result, is a bright and beautiful dining room.

I was able to sample the three different toasts that they offer, including this one topped with roasted pumpkin with pepitas and pickled chiles. I also tried the lemon ricotta with truffle, black pepper and honey and the smoked whitefish with red grapes and soft herbs. I can honestly say they were all delicious.

Vegetable charcuterie offerings from the chef’s table include this Yukon Gold potato terrine topped with smoked salmon, creme fraiche and Mutsu apple.

I also tried Celery Root Pastrami as well as this Parsnip Marrow Bone with celery leaf and black truffle. It was interesting to see a vegetarian take on what would normally be a meat dish.

I got to meet Chef Matt Weingarten, Dig Inn’s culinary director. He spoke with us about Dig Inn’s mission, which is to build community through food. He noted that their menu is mostly vegetables and all dishes are cooked fresh. He enjoys the open kitchen design (pictured above) which allows the chefs to engage with diners.

The Dig Inn menu is seasonal and they are currently featuring their Winter menu, which as I mentioned features the Marketbowls and Melting Broth.

My friend and I shared Marketbowls that had a base of toasted farro, sides of Brussels sprouts and kale, apple and blue cheese salad and were topped with Herb Roasted Chicken and Grilled Organic Tofu. These bowls were hearty and delicious and I love that they are customized. The combinations are endless!

I also got to sample a side of the Seasonal Upstate Mac and Cheese. It was creamy and cheesy. Honestly though, I would choose one of the amazing veggie sides over mac and cheese!

And to end the meal, I sampled the Kitchen Sink Cookie and Organic Dark Hot Chocolate!

Dig Inn serves a variety of drinks including wine, beer and hard cider. I tried unsweetened raspberry iced tea and an Iced Matcha Latte. While the matcha latte was good, it needed sugar to sweeten it up.

Dig Inn Rye Brook is open seven days a week and serves breakfast as well as lunch and dinner. Check the website for specific times. The breakfast menu includes a variety of bowls as well as an egg sandwich, frittata, avocado toast, a quinoa waffle and more!

And for those families with young children, have no fear. Dig Inn offers a Little Digs menu with a variety of dining options sure to please. While there’s no age specifications on the children’s menu, my eight and ten year-old would love the Old Macdonald. Otherwise, they could easily share a regular Marketbowl.

Everything I ate at Dig Inn was delicious. For those of us who live in Northern Westchester, getting to Rye Brook is a bit of a drive. However, if you are in the White Plains area (and really, who doesn’t travel down to there frequently?!) Rye Brook is close by. Be sure to stop by and give the newest Dig Inn a try!