Boca Oyster Bar: the newest waterfront dining destination in Fairfield County

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

Fair weather makes one want to enjoy the outdoors. Finding that perfect dining spot where you can take in the sun can be challenging. With so few waterfront dining spots in our area, we were pleased to dine recently at Boca Oyster Bar.

The Outdoor Bar overlooking the water

Located in the newly developed coastal neighborhood at Bridgeport’s Steelpointe Harbor, Boca Oyster Bar takes its place as the anchor restaurant and event venue within this urban multi-use destination. Sitting right on the waterfront this restaurant is but a minute drive from Exit 28 on Interstate 95, so getting there is a snap. The entire Steelpoint Harbor area is being redeveloped with all new dining and shopping.

With a seafood inspired food concept, which fits in perfect on the New England waterfront, spirited beverage program, and waterside location Boca’s location in city of Bridgeport makes this unique restaurant a true standout within Fairfield County’s constantly evolving restaurant scene.

Great cocktails are just one reason to head to Boca

The restaurant located on the first floor of a brand new building is quite large. Indoors features a large rectangular bar, a wall of windows facing out to the outside deck and marina, antique maps of the harbor, as well as a mast from a 1870 schooner that once plied the waters of Long Island Sound. There is plenty of seating in this space with ash wood tables, and nautical rope globe lights that soften the look of this modern space.

On our early August visit we elected to dine outside in the late afternoon sun. The deck of Boca is very large and composed of brick pavers and flanked by a metal railing much like a sailing vessel. The view is a mix of the new marina, industries across the water as well a view directly out into Long Island Sound. There are plenty of tables outside, a lounge area of comfy outdoor couches, and a beautiful four corner bar that would be right at home in a Caribbean resort.

The bar has a list of wines, local craft brews and some excellent tropical cocktails to put you in the mood. Appetizers are plentiful as is a fine selection from the raw bar. Feeling in a seafood mood, then grab a few like minded friends and try to conquer the three tiered Boca Raw Bar Platter with east and west coast oysters, clams, ceviche, jumbo shrimp cocktail and topped with a 10 oz. lobster tail. Bring your appetite.

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Other starters include the delicious Grilled Octopus served hot in an iron skillet, and the wonderful Crab Cakes. If seafood is not your passion, the Marinated Flank Steak Tacos and the Chicken Avocado Flatbread was the perfect appetizer for one or to share.

Flatbread

Salads include the Sashimi Tuna Salad, a perfect blend pan-seared sushi grade ahi tuna, mango, avocado, mixed greens, and a cilantro ginger vinaigrette. The Boca Salad was another hit perpared with burrata, seasonal fruit jam, heirloom tomato, bruschetta, red roasted peppers, crostini, evoo, balsamic glaze, and fresh basil. There is even a Vegetable Tower.

Sashimi Tuna Salad

Main dishes range from steaks, to roasted chicken, Chicken Milanese Stack, and French Cut Porkchops. Plenty of seafood options also and we recommend the delicious Chilean Sea Bass with Mussels and the Blackened Salmon.

Sea Bass with Mussels

Boca Oyster Bar has something for everyone on the menu. There are happy hour specials and check the website for live music events. So get out into the sun and enjoy the latest addition to the waterfront dining scene.

Boca Oyster Bar

10 East Main Street Bridgeport Ct

web https://www.bocaoysterbar.com

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Kanopi: high above Westchester, an evening of culinary artistry awaits

May 1, 2019May 1, 2019 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

Perched high above Westchester on the 42nd floor of the Ritz-Carlton in White Plains awaits a dining experience unlike any other in our area. Kanopi is a restaurant and event space like that is quite unique. From the ground level of the hotel guests are escorted to a scenic elevator which whisks its occupants to lofty heights. Here breathtaking views and finely crafted food combine to make a memorable evening.

The space at Kanopi (the former 42 The Restaurant) has stunning views of Westchester, the Hudson Valley, Long Island Sound and New York City. There is a lounge, a long narrow dining area with floor to ceiling windows, a much larger event space, and an intimate private dining table inside the kitchen itself. We were seated at a table with a view over Long Island Sound. As dusk approached we witnessed the lights of the shore towns of Long Island illuminate the night. It was quite the setting.

dining room

And while the views may be the reason to consider Kanopi, it is the kitchen and its chef, Anthony Goncalves. The diner can expect a very special evening of culinary magic. Chef Goncalves is not just a chef, but a true artist as each dish is carefully prepared and beautifully presented.

Kanopi features a 13 course tasting menu which is available with wine pairing. Chef Goncalves who is from Portugal, has developed a menu of Portuguese and Mediterrean dishes along with Asian influences. At one time Portugal had colonies in Asia including Macau, and the foods and spices of that region are present in the menu.

With 13 courses on the menu, the evening is refined and each course evenly spaced. Each serving is more or less a sample tasting and not a full portion. As we relaxed at our table, each dish was served with artistry as it arrived. It was much like witnessing a well choreographed dance of culinary delights. Each course is presented with different plates, and is unique and beautiful as the panoramic views. It was quite evident the passion for food that is present in the kitchen.

With so many courses, we will discuss a few of our favorites from the evening. The Hamachi is yellow tail tuna, with Monterosa olive oil, a touch of lime and pomelo. Monterosa olive oil is from Portugal is rated one of the finest in the world. A delicious dish.

Hamachi

The Kona Kompachi followed and is a flavorful yet light yellowtail served in with a light brushing of roasted seaweed vinaigrette. The plating of this dish was pure art and was one of our favorites.

Kona Kompachi

The Small Game Tamale was an interesting dish, with chicken wrapped in a banana leaf. Opening the leaf like an envelope allows the aroma of the chicken, raisins and prunes to escape. A fun presentation and delightful course.

The Polvo was a carefully crafted dish and was composed or poached octopus, with a dash of coriander, paprika oil, black olive and pickled serrano chili pepper for that extra boost of flavor. The dish was artfully crafted and the carefully placed garnish appeared as it was growing from the octopus itself.

Polvo

Served in an Asian style plate, the Robalo was a portion of light and mild sea bass, truffles and served with Osetra caviar. The blending of the mild sea bass with the more flavorful caviar was quite a treat.

Robalo with caviar

Pekin Duck was another interesting dish and a very artistic presentation. The duck was lightly grilled and place on a black plate with a celery root puree that when viewed from above appeared to be two flowers.

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Dessert is also included with four samples provided. The Devil Dog was a tasty chocolate concoction but the Fruit Roll-Ups were our favorite. This is not the snack, but rather compressed fruits (including grape and pineapple) which are thinly sliced to produce one of the most fun and creative desserts we have enjoyed in some time.

Fruit Roll Ups

As the scenic elevator slowly pulled away from the 42nd floor and returned us to the lobby, the magnificent vistas we witnessed remained in our minds. But long after those visions fade, the culinary experience that is Kanopi will linger with us for a long time.

Kanopi (at the Ritz Carlton)

3 Renaissance Square

White Plains New York

website >>> https://www.kanopievents.com

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La Camelia: savor the authentic flavors of Spain and Portugal in a charming atmosphere in Mt. Kisco

February 7, 2019February 11, 2019 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

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While there are many fine restaurants in our area, it is unique to discover an eatery that is provides a great menu, friendly service and a dining atmosphere that is warm and inviting. La Camelia in Mt Kisco is such a place. Perched on a hill in a 19th Century home, the restaurant is instantly welcoming. I felt as if I had walked into the home of a favorite relative, or a quaint New England or European inn that was overflowing with charm and warmth. The feeling was instant comfort.

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While the restaurant has been operating since 1984, current owners Victor and Serafina Varela have infused new life, an updated menu and genuine warmth and hospitality into La Camelia. The interior has wide wood floors, fire places and wooden tables draped in linen. Prints and tapestries adorn the walls. There are three separate dining spaces and a bar, all with a unique charm of their own.

The menu is comprised of authentic Spanish and Portuguese dishes, tapas (small plates), sangria and wines. The fresh flavors of the Iberian Peninsula are all here to explore and enjoy.

We started with a pitcher of white wine sangria which was served in a traditional hand painted ceramic pitcher instead of glass or plastic. This authentic beverage was a great way to start our culinary tour.

Sangria served from a beautiful hand painted ceramic pitcher

The Sopa de Lagosta (Lobster Soup) was warm and delicious on a cold night. Served in a unique fish shaped bowl , this lobster bisque also included crab meat and a piece of toast floating on top. It was hearty and delicious.

Sopa de Lagosta (Lobster Soup)

Since Spain and Portugal border the sea, the menu is full of seafood options. We enjoyed the Tostada de Gambas, a warm tapas with grilled shrimp, fresh guacamole and served over in house made crunchy chips.

Tostadas de Gambas

Another great tapas was the Mexilhoes na Cataplana, or steamed mussels in a red sauce. A very unique presentation of this classic dish as it was served in a covered metal bowl with a hammered finish. Lifting the cover allowed the fragrant flavors of fresh steamed mussels in a slightly smoky red sauce to fill the air. This unique presentation and fantastic preparation is what makes La Camelia so special.

For our main dishes we sampled (at the suggestion of the staff), the Bife na Pedra which is black angus steak that is lightly grilled on each side then served on a cooking stone. You slice the steak and allow the hot stone to cook it to your liking. A really fun, interactive and authentic dish which we highly recommend.

A visit to a Spanish restaurant is not complete without enjoying Seafood Paella. I am big fan of this dish and La Camelia delivers with all seafood including mussels, clams, shrimp, and topped with a 1/2 pound lobster. The presentation of the dish was wonderful, and the taste was perfection.

Seafood Paella

With just a bit of room left for dessert we were surprised to see a dessert cart rolled into the dining room. Again a charming detail we have not seen in some time in dining and another example of the hospitality at La Camelia. There were several great looking desserts with the Carrot cake and the Chocolate Mousse being our favorites.

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La Camelia is a very special dining experience. The warmth and genuineness of the hosts, friendly staff, amazing dishes from the sunny Iberian peninsula and a cozy welcoming atmosphere make this a must dine destination.

We cannot wait for warmer weather when the side patio opens up for outside dining. A perfect restaurant for date night, or a gathering of friends.

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La Camelia

234 North Bedford Rd
Mount Kisco NY 10549

web https://lacameliarestaurant.net

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O Mandarin: Authentic Mandarin cuisine in the heart of Westchester

November 6, 2018November 6, 2018 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

Irene pix 1663 We have been planning to visit O Mandarin in Hartsdale for since its 2017 opening the restaurant has been receiving very positive reviews. We were very happy to dine here on a recent Saturday evening. Even though our reservation was for 8 pm the restaurant was full with patrons, and more were waiting at the bar.

The interior of the eatery is set in warm tones with both tables and elevated booths. There is generous use of wood and the chairs are carved wood inspired by Ming Dynasty design. The effect is soothing, comfortable and sets the mood for an evening of dining.

O Mandarin does not serve cocktails, but there is a list of beer, wine, and saki available from the bar. Our party of four decided to order and share different appetizers so that we may sample some of the many dishes from the menu. O Mandarin’s menu philosophy is to provide diners with fine authentic Mandarin cuisine using the freshest ingredients. The food includes an infusion of spices that gives each dish a unique flavor. There is plenty to choose from with beef, pork, chicken, shrimp and vegetarian options available.

We sampled such favorites as the Mandarin Glazed Short Rib which was sweet and tender. We also enjoyed the Cucumber Honey Shrimp, and unique dish of cooked shrimp laced with organic honey and covered in sesame seeds. Very delicious.

The Home Made Dumplings can be steamed or pan fried and these dough filled delights (shrimp or pork) were served in a ceramic rowboat with soy sauce on the side. Shrimp and Chicken Lettuce wraps came next. Prepared with scallion and onion and served with lettuce wraps, this is a nice light healthy dish that can be an appetizer or a main dish.

Dumplings

Our main dishes consisted of the hearty and delicious Beef Short Rib with two ribs served in a red wine reduction with ginger and anise. The meat was soft and tender and fell off the bone. The red wine and spiced reduction was the perfect complement to the beef.

Pineapple Fried Rice

Our other main was the Garlic Pepper Shrimp with bell peppers and leeks, and we also enjoyed the Pineapple Mixed Fried rice which was served in a hollowed out half pineapple. The fried rice was delicious and light and filled with beef, chicken and veggies. A really great dish. We were impressed with the variety of the menu, the presentation of the dishes, and the healthy way we felt at the end of the meal. The use of fresh spices instead of salt and soy sauce really sets O Mandarin apart.

Garlic Pepper Shrimp

We learned the owner is constantly bringing in guest chefs from China to infuse fresh ideas into the menu. With this kind of innovation, we look forward to returning again to O Mandarin.

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O Mandarin

361 North Central Avenue Hartsdale NY

https://www.omandarin.com

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Greenwich Wine and Food Festival returns to Greenwich September 21-22nd

September 14, 2018September 14, 2018 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

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The fantastic Greenwich Wine and Food Festival presented by PepsiCo returns to Roger Sherman Baldwin Park on the harbor in Greenwich Ct., September 21-22, 2018. The festival is amazing with food, wine, beer, and spirits tastings, celebrity chefs and demonstrations, a casino gaming tent, and capped off by a fantastic outdoor concert. All this is the beautiful setting of Roger Sherman Baldwin Park.

Friday night will feature a special dinner with The Opening Night Master Chef Wine Dinner, held at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park on Friday, September 21, will honor Alex Guarnaschelli for her innovation and substantial contributions to the culinary world.

Saturday September 22nd is a fun filled day starting at 12:30 pm with the Grand Tasting Tent with 150 different food and beverage vendors! It is quite the treat. It is a great way to sample wine, spirits, beverages and check out the culinary delights from great local restaurants.

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Celebrity chefs abound at the festival with The Celebrity Green Room, presented by Ethan Allen, will host celebrities and culinary experts in a luxury lounge while being interviewed by Serendipity contributing editors Chef Matt Storch and Chef Robin Selden.

12:30-12:50pm – Adam Richman 1:00-1:20pm – Scott Conant 1:30-1:50pm – Alex Guarnaschelli 2:00-2:20pm – Samantha Benjamin (The Dessertist), Kevin Des Chenes (restauranteur and author) and Lindsay Perkins (Lindsay Culinary, LLC) 2:30-2:50pm – Christian Petroni (Fortina, Winner of Next Food Network Star), Bill Taibe (Jesup Hall, Kawa Ni, The Whelk) and Serena Wolf (author and Domesticate-Me.com) and more!

From 1pm to 6pm there will be two kitchen demonstration stages with celebrity chefs presenting great cooking demos.

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From 4:30 pm to 8:30pm there will be more great activities leading up to concert time! There will be “The South of The Border” presented by Don Julio featuring the flavors of Mexico. Bud and Burgers will have burger samples from competing restaurants as well as plenty of Budweiser on tap. There is also a great “Tailgate Party” during this time with great samples from featuring samples from Blue Point Brewing Company, Cafe’ Bon, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Filippo Berio, Half Full Brewery, Hoodoo Brown BBQ, Izzi B’s Bakery, Jameson, Kettle One, KOW Steaks, Mike’s Organic Delivery, Pepsi Zero, The Blind Rhino, The Dough Girls, True Color Sparkling Wine, Val’s Putnam Wines & Liquors, Walter’s Hot Dogs and Woodford Reserve. There is something for everyone!

The festival will end with an outdoor concert. At 6:30 pm vocalist and multi instrumentalist Caroline Jones will kick off the concert. She has released her first album this year “Bare Feet” and has spent much of 2018 touring with Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band. I have seen her in concert and she is not to be missed!

c jones bare feet

At 8:30 pm Tim McGraw will be the main act on stage. McGraw’s career spans over 20 years and is considered a top country music artist. He has numerous Grammy, CMA and AMA awards to his credit. His crossover into a blend of country and pop music has made him a fan favorite all over the country.

tim_mcgraw

This event is not to be missed and comes along once a year ! For more information click the link below.

https://serendipitysocial.com/greenwich-wine-food

Greenwich Wine and Food Festival presented by PepsiCo

Viceroy Publik House: A hip English Ale House with Indian roots opens in Stamford

June 6, 2017June 7, 2017 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

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A new restaurant, pub and music venue has joined the restaurant scene in downtown Stamford Ct. Viceroy Publik House is a unique new addition to Summer Street and offers a two level townhouse where you can discover the fusion of Indian and English cuisine along with the energy and vibe of an upscale English pub.

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The theme recalls the British Raj era of Colonial Rule over India from 1858 to 1947. Decor features vintage photographs and maps on the walls in the intimate and more formal downstairs dining room. Upstairs is the Tiger Room which creates a hip and more modern atmosphere with its modern prints (including one of the Beatles in India), curved banquettes , bar with wine cabinet that looks like an English Telephone booth . A British Triumph motorcycle serves as a backdrop for the stage area which hosts different musical artists.

There is a list of interesting and creative cocktails including House of Victoria and the Bengal Tiger (gin based), and Sun City, an interesting take on the Mule with Bourbon and Ginger Beer. All are interesting combinations that will have you sampling more than one from the bar.

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The menu that we sampled was classic English Pub Fare, elevated to a finer level and filled with Indian influences. The Spicy Vindaloo Wings were tasty but I must caution as the hot spice will linger on your lips! The Bombay burger is made from spiced lamb and served on a toasted brioche roll with fried egg and mint aioli. A more modern version of the burger not found in your average pub and an example of the innovative way in which the Chef has developed the menu.

The Faroe Island Salmon was excellent and was served with an orange soy ginger glaze that gave this British favorite a bit more flavor. The pub standard of Fish and Chips was great with tender sustainable cod prepared in a Heineken beer batter and served with Viceroy curry ketchup.

Also on the menu are items such as the Lamb Madras with lamb served in a madras curry and coconut cream with rice pilaf. The Bisto Steak is another good choice and fits well in the overall British pub theme.

Music promoter and Stamford restaurateur Eric Monte is your host and can be seen moving about the restaurant mingling with guests, or introducing the band as it begins it set in the Tiger Room upstairs.

photo credit: Viceroy Publik House

The Viceroy is certainly a very unique and lively restaurant experience for our area and is one you will want to check out.

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Viceroy Publik House

211 Summer Street Stamford Ct

web http://www.viceroystamford.com tel. (203) 658-8423

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Westchester Magazine’s Wine And Food Festival returns June 6th-11th 2017 !

June 2, 2017 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

westchester mag

Westchester Magazine, the premier lifestyle magazine of Westchester County will be hosting its annual Wine and Food Festival from June 6-11th 2017. This is an event for foodies from all over and is not to be missed !

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The signature event of the Wine & Food Festival, is the Grand Tasting Village that takes place at the beautiful Kensico Dam Park in Valhalla. The Grand Tasting Village features tastings from 50+ local restaurants and more than 200 wines & spirits. Chef demonstrations will be presented during the day from great local chefs. There will also be various food trucks from area vendors as well.

2017 Grand Tasting Village Participating Restaurants (partial list)
Amore Cucina & Bar ,Bar Sugo, Basta ,Benjamin Steakhouse,Blue Moon Mexican Café
Blue Tulip Chocolates, Cathy’s Biscotti ,Cedar Street Grill ,Chutney Masala Indian Bistro
Coffee Lab Roasters, Cooper’s Mill ,Dan Rooney’s, Dolphin Restaurant, Equus
Fantasy Cuisine G.E. Brown La Bocca Ristorante,Mason Sandwich Co.
Mediterraneo, Mighty Quinn’s, Mima Restaurant,Nonno’s
Poppy’s Cheesecake,Posh Pretzels, Quenas Restaurant, Raasa Indian Cuisine
Rita’s of Elmsford, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Serafina
Small Cakes, Sofrito, Sonora, Spark Valley Steakhouse.The Bayou
The Taco Project,The Twisted Oak The Turk
The Westchester, Tomato & Co., Tredici North, Village Social – Rye
Westchester Milk, Winston, Zero Otto Nove

Tickets for the event are $85 in advance, $90 at the door.

for more information on all the Westchester Magazine Wine and Food events and ticket purchases see their website:

http://winefood.westchestermagazine.com/

Westchester Magazine Wine and Food Festival

Grand Tasting Village event June 10th 12-5 pm

Kensico Dam Park Valhalla New York

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Ramiro’s 954: An Authentic Latin Fusion eatery with a fresh innovative menu

December 30, 2016 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

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I visited Ramiro’s 954 restaurant as I was excited to try a Latin fusion eatery with a stellar reputation. Located over the border of Northern Westchester in Mahopac NY, the restaurant is warm and inviting with bright colors and wood trim and ceiling beams that create the a Latin atmosphere. Ramiro’s 954 has a lovely menu with a contemporary of blend of cuisine from Spain and Latin America.

The bar offers a nice selection as well of cocktails and wine. The White Sangria that I tried was one of the best I have ever had. Light, fruity and sweet and it made me feel like I was on vacation. The classic Mojito is a perfect choice and was served in a tall glass with muddled mint leaves, lime, club soda and white rum and was delicious.

White Sangria

Mojito

Ramiro’s offers a large selection of appetizers and it is hard to choose which one. We sampled several from the menu. Standouts for me are the Empanadas de Picadillo, a crispy turnover filled with ground beef, garlic, onion, pepper, red wine and served in a sweet chipotle cream sauce. Everyone at the table thought they were fresh and fantastic.

Empandas

Another nice choice is the Platano Relleno, a great dish comprised of fried sweet plantain stuffed with chicken, peppers and served with a black bean puree, queso fresco, and avocado sauce. A real knockout dish and great to share with your fellow dinner guests.

Platano Relleno

If you are a taco lover, try the Tacos Dorado, crispy corn tacos filled with BBQ pork, chipotle, mango salsa and queso fresco. This was a big hit with the combo of BBQ and fresh ingredients. There are 15 items alone on the appetizer menu. Some of the appetizers are available in vegetarian form.

Tacos Dorado

There is also a Ceviche menu and I highly recommend the trio tasting, which consists of Ceviche de Camaron: blanched shrimp, roasted tomato sauce and orange juice, onion, jalapeno pepper, avocado and cilantro. The other sample was Chifa de Atun, which is tuna in lime juice with seaweed salad, jalapenos and soy-habanero sauce. The last of the ceviche trio was sliced salmon in lime juice with wasabi avocado sauce. This innovative ceviche menu was delightful and was beautifully presented.

trio of Ceviche

Main Course: It was a challenge to narrow down our entree course as there is such a unique and interesting selection of dishes. There are 20 selections from which to choose.

The filled Mahi-Mahi (Dorado con Risotto) is a stellar pick. Fresh grilled Mahi-Mahi is served with mushroom risotto, lime blackened sea salt butter in a sour orange reduction. The fish was lightly grilled so that there was a perfect balance of grill flavor blended with the fresh tender fish.

Mahi-Mahi

If Paella is your favorite (as it is mine), go for the delicious traditional Spanish dish with saffron rice, and a healthy portion of shrimp, scallops, mussels, chicken and chorizo.

Paella

For shrimp lovers, try the Cameron Enchilado– seared shrimp served in a mild tomato sauce, diced grilled pineapple, rice and zucchini salad. This dish is a true masterpiece with a delectable blend of tastes and a nice presentation.

Cameron Enchilado

The meat lover in our party was very happy with the Grilled Skirt Steak served over morita chiles sauce, carmelized onions, green beans, and white rice. There are quite a few beef and chicken choices as well as dishes for vegetarians.

Dessert: Save room for the homemade desserts! A unique selection is the Bananas Fritas, crispy bananas coated in cornmeal and cinnamon served with caramel sauce with cinnamon cookies. Tasty and creative! Chocolate lovers will find the Torta de Chocolate the correct choice. A chocolate tart served Latin style with vanilla ice cream and raspberry sauce. The chocolate chip cheesecake is light and creamy and the perfect ending to this great meal.

Bananas Fritas

Torta de Chocolate

I tried the Coconut Martini which can be enjoyed prior to you meal or as I did at the end. The drink was cool and refreshing and gave me a taste of the tropics.

Ramiro’s is quite popular with the locals. However, I felt that I was eating in a top Latin Bistro in New York City or Westchester. Chef and owner Ramiro Jimenez has created a friendly, top quality restaurant, with great service, and an innovative and interesting menu with something for everyone. He has also written a cookbook called the “Daily Feast Cookbook” and is passion for cooking is apparent.

So take the few extra minutes and cross over the Westchester border into Mahopac and taste the great menu at Ramiro’s 954

Ramiro’s 954

954 Route 6 Mahopac New York tel: 845-621-3333

website : http://www.ramiros954.com

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Inn at Pound Ridge:Elegant dining in a casual rustic setting

November 15, 2016 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

Main dining room – photo by inn at pound ridge

Upon opening the door at the Inn at Pound Ridge one is immediately drawn to the entrance fireplace and beautiful display of Autumn bounty of gourds and pumpkins. The space is inviting and warm with a casual sophisticated flair. Reclaimed wood, high ceilings in the main upstairs dining room and custom lighting create a soothing environment in which to dine. One has the immediate feeling that a special dining experience awaits.

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There are two floors on which to dine at the Inn at Pound Ridge as well as a large bar area. All these spaces are all unique. The original building dates to 1833 when it was constructed as a home, but the property has served as an Inn for many years. The Inn at Pound Ridge now owned and run by international chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten brings fantastic cuisine to this landmark restaurant. The main floor of the Inn is a blend of modern design yet retains much of the charm of the original structure with fireplaces, wide plank wood floors, bleached wood and exposed rustic wood beams and trusses. I chose to eat on the lower level which is divided into smaller more intimate spaces and gave me the feeling I was in a secret yet warm place inside a castle with its exposed stone walls.

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There are several seating options from the small fireplace room behind the bar with its inviting couches and antique coffee table which offers a great place to enjoy a drink to the main dining area. The bar is comfortable and looks like it would be right at home in the English Countryside. There is an understated elegance to this space and the wait staff was well prepared to tend to you from start to finish.

The menu is a farm to table cuisine with many of the ingredients being locally sourced from farms in the Hudson Valley and New England. Such a culinary philosophy brings great taste to each dish. I began my meal with a soothing and quite tasty lentil soup. The broth was expertly prepared with just the right amount of seasoning. It was a flavorful and hearty soup that was just perfect for a November afternoon.

Lentil Soup

Another appetizer to try is the Butternut squash salad with sliced apples and pumpkin seeds in a yogurt dressing. This was light and delicious and the perfect pairing of fruit and vegetables. Also a perfect selection with keeping with the spirit of harvest.

Butternut Squash salad

My main dish was the salmon salad which consisted of a nice portion fresh salmon filet, encrusted with sesame seeds and served with a superb Asian dressing on the greens. Truly a delicious and healthy choice. Another nice selection was the Fish and Chips, which was nicely prepared with a light and flavorful batter for extra crunch. The cod was not greasy and was flakey, very fresh and served with potato slices.

Salmon Salad

Fish and Chips

You must not leave without trying one of the wonderful desserts prepared by top pastry chefs. The Almond Cake was scrumptious and had just the right amount of sweetness with a nutty note.

Almond cake

I also sampled the Warm Chocolate Cake which melts in your mouth with the velvet feel of the fresh cake and the soft chocolate inside. The ice cream here is similar to gelato and I had the pleasure to taste is beautifully presented in bowl lined with warm chocolate syrup and sprinkled with caramel corn which gave a crunch to the smoothness of the ice cream.

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Warm Chocolate Cake

The Inn at Pound Ridge is a special restaurant with a beautiful atmosphere. Reservations are a must at this popular Jean-Georges restaurant. The level of culinary skill and expertise makes this the perfect spot for a special occasion or for getting out and having a great dining experience.

inn-at-pound-ridge

The Inn at Pound Ridge by Jean-Georges

258 Westchester Ave Pound Ridge New York tel: 914-764-1400

web: http://www.theinnatpoundridge.com/

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Hudson Valley Restaurant Week Returns! November 1-13th 2016. Great time to try a new restaurant!

October 27, 2016October 27, 2016 / I On The Valley / Leave a comment

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Hudson Valley Restaurant Week, presented by Valley Table Magazine is back again starting November 1nd through November 13th 2016. This event involves over 200 restaurants in the mid and lower Hudson Valley which offer diners special three-course price fixe dinner menus for $29.95 (not including beverage, tax and gratuity). Many of these fine restaurants also offer 3-course price fixe lunches for $20.95 (not including beverage, tax and gratuity).

This year celebrates 10 years of Hudson Valley Restaurant Week.

This is an amazing opportunity to try new restaurants, or some old favorites at a reasonable price. There are no tickets to buy and the process is easy ! Go to the Valley Table website and scroll down and view the participating restaurants, then choose a restaurant (or more), call them to make a reservation and then enjoy!
You really should not miss this special time get out and dine at some of the fantastic restaurants we have here in the Hudson Valley.

Hudson Valley Restaurant Week presented by Valley Table Magazine

https://www.valleytable.com/hvrw

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