The Upstate Guide (Pt. 2)

Where to eat, shop and stay in Hudson, Tivoli, Rhinebeck and more.

These are the places I will happily drive the 45 minutes from Woodstock to enjoy. (Weirdly, Woodstock is 45 minutes from just about everywhere.) Thanks to the great locals who flagged their favorites.

Please check hours before you go: Many of those spots are closed Monday and Tuesday…sometimes Wednesday…sometimes seasonally.

HUDSON/KINDERHOOK

Food

Ambos The talented itinerant chef Negro Piattoni has landed upstate to work his live-fire magic at the restaurant and all-day café at the Pocketbook hotel. Graphic designer Alaina Sullivan (the genius behind both Wine Simple books) reports: “His dishes are insanely good, and there’s always an interesting ferment.”

Café Mutton An all-time favorite for lovely gluttony. Come early for weekend brunch (think warm lamb rillettes on housemade sourdough, maple crêpes, insane scones), or book ahead for dinner (bass and mushroom stew). Closed Monday and Tuesday. HOT TIP: A regular tipped me off that they’re starting a transcendent “long lunch” on Sunday in a new, adjacent space. Not on Resy yet; to book, email info@cafemutton.com right this second.