Nyack, NY offers a lot when it comes to proximity: on the one hand, it is geographically close to New York City and all its conveniences; on the other hand, it is far enough away to provide residents with the suburban appeal they are looking for when it comes to homeownership. Situated directly along the west bank of the Hudson River, this inclusive and diverse waterfront village offers a quaint, yet robust downtown, and provides an atmosphere that is picturesque, charming and welcoming. Here, you will find several great restaurants for every budget. Whether you are in the mood for pub food, pizza, made from scratch pasta dishes, Filipino food, or something even a bit more indulgent to celebrate a special night out, all of this can be found in downtown Nyack. Additionally, several bars offer live music if you want to extend your evening beyond just dinner, and there is even a classy little wine bar nestled among these establishments, as well. If breakfast is more your thing, once again this cozy riverfront town has you covered. Whether it is grabbing a cup of joe at one of the coffee shops in town, deciding among the huge array of pastries at the most incredible french patisserie I have ever visited (the owner is from France and his influence is felt in both the menu offerings and the atmosphere), grabbing a New York style bagel, or filling up on a full breakfast at an unexpected burger joint, this waterfront town will not disappoint. Below, I have compiled a list of some of my favorite establishments that are well worth a visit.
Nyack Hot Bagels and Deli – among the best bagels I have ever tried, with perfect flavor and texture. If you are looking for an authentic NYC style bagel without the hassle of driving into the city to get it, check out this place!
Karenderya – this casual, family owned restaurant offers a delicious menu featuring authentic Filipino food including lumpia, empanadas, a variety of chicken dishes, and Kare Kare (braised oxtail in a peanut sauce), just to name a few. Filipino restaurants are not often seen in many of the places I have traveled to, so I had to try this place…and I am glad I did!
DBNB Pasta & Provisions – if you are in the mood for some made from scratch pasta dishes loaded with flavor, this is the place for you! While living in this area during my 13 week job assignment, I visited this place twice, it was that good (and I usually don’t go to the same place twice when exploring an area)! Each dish was both fresh and delicious! Their pork bolognese “Rigatoni” dish is addictive!
Olde Village Inne Irish Pub – head over to this place if you are interested in traditional irish pub food or a pint of beer
The Breakfast and Burger Club – I opted to try this place at breakfast and I cannot say enough good things about that meal! I could not resist ordering the cream cheese stuffed french toast with strawberries. This was so decadent – made with thick brioche bread with a generous amount of lightly sweetened cream cheese filling, loaded with strawberries and drizzled with maple syrup. Every bite was divine! I highly encourage you to try this dish!
Boxer Donut – great coffee and donuts! I tried the strawberry rhubarb filled donut with a dusting of sugar on the outside – very unique, tart flavor. Paired with a Chai Latte, this made for a quick and tasty breakfast.
Patisserie Didier Dumas – the pastry chef and owner, Didier Dumas, hails from Marseilles, France and brought his exquisite confectionary talent to Nyack. This french bakery offers specialty cakes, quiche, fruit tarts, croissants, macarons, and so much more, in a nice cafe setting. Everything on display is so beautifully presented, you almost feel guilty biting into it – but you’ll be so glad you did!
Flights & Pints – right next door to the patisserie mentioned above, this cozy and classy little wine bar offers a great food menu, quality wine and craft beer. This was hands down one of my favorite places to unwind after a long day.
Maureen’s Jazz Cellar – as mentioned in a previous blog post on this area, this place is an absolute must when the talented pianist, known as “The Budman”, is there playing on a Saturday night. Located in a cozy basement level bar, this experience is very interactive, taking audience requests and encouraging singing along. The beatboxing sound effects “The Budman” incorporates are hysterical! Fun time!!!
These are just some of the many enjoyable places in Nyack to eat, drink and literally, be merry! I hope you consider making this charming town a stop for a night or two at the very least, to enjoy all that this area has to offer, not only for the food and drink scene, but for the outdoor recreational activities mentioned in prior posts as well. As you can see, Nyack has a lot to offer! Bon Appetit!