As you drive along historic Huguenot Street  and into the pastoral setting of the New Paltz Golf course you will come upon a charming building (circa 1759) which is the home to the newest restaurant to join the busy New Paltz dining scene, Garvan’s.

This lovely gastro pub and fine restaurant  offers the diner several  delightful options.   The pub area with its low ceiling, white washed stone and original wood beams evokes the image of an authentic Irish pub.  Here you can find tavern fare as you gather with friends or family in this charming and inviting space.

The other two dining rooms on the first floor have a more formal and romantic feel and beautiful touches.  Each room features fireplaces, ornate molding, soft lighting and white linen covered tables.  There is tranquil Celtic music drifting through the dining rooms which is fitting as the restaurateur,  Garvan McCloskey comes from Ireland.  There is another dining room on the second floor as well as dining on the covered porch. Each of the dining rooms is named after a place in Ireland.

 

Garvan immediately came to say hello and his warmth and charm made me feel right at home.  He is a wonderful example of hospitality at its best.   Garvan then explained our waiter would be bringing us some bread to start our meal that a special homemade recipe (made by his wife) consisting of imported Irish flour and Guinness stout.  It was a very hearty bread indeed.   Our waiter, Robert was quite attentive and helpful with suggestions and helping us choose from the menu.

The menu is best described as American classic cuisine with an Irish influence.  Ingredients are locally sourced when possible (such as meat from local New York State farms) and you can taste the quality.

Starters:  I began with pan seared Sea Scallops with a lemon beurre blanc sauce and served over parmesan risotto.  This appetizer was so light and fresh, I could have had this as my entree.  I also sampled the Lump Crab cake served with a red pepper sauce.  It was excellent and another creation from head Chef Josh Paige.

Entree:  The menu features classic traditional American fare served in a modern fashion.  The Wild Grilled Salmon with an herb crust  was as fresh as it gets.  Tender and light and served with a leek fondue and a creamy parmesan risotto.    I strongly recommend this entree.  My dining companion ordered the Braised Short Rib which was fork tender beef with a Guinness stout demi glace and served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes.  A perfect choice for the meat lover.

Dessert:  Don’t leave without trying the homemade apple pie.  This is an unique version prepared by Garvan’s wife and is an upside down apple pie made with sweet candied apples and served with ice cream. Yum!

Garvan’s is a special place.  Its warmth and charm is present from the moment you walk into this historic building and the classic cuisine with a hint of Ireland will satisfy your appetite.  The service was excellent with an old fashion hospitality not often found in modern restaurants.    Don’t miss this new gem in New Paltz.

Garvan’s

215 Huguenot Street New Paltz New York

845-255-7888    http://wwwgarvans.com/

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