Huckleberry

Courtesy of Huckleberry

I think it's safe to call this my local watering hole and I am proud to call it such. Located in the Village of New Paltz, this gem features many of the elusive elements most bars dream of: ambience, creative cocktails and delicious cuisine. Because I live so close to this spot, I am lucky enough to work from here mid-afternoon, stop by for brunch or swing by for a late nigh cocktail. Choosing which of these times to come in would be near impossible because depending on who's working, what's on the menu or what the weather is like, each time is bound to be different.

I often hear other patrons asking "what makes this place work so well?" and the fact that there's not just one thing is what I think makes this machine run so seamlessly. I'd love to gush over all my favorite cocktails that Sean works to switch up each season (typically featuring jalapeño vodka, mezcal, some twist of coffee, etc.), but the food here makes coming here five nights a week, socially acceptable and somewhat admirable. 

Their expansive (yet inexpensive) selection of "Small Plates" and "Larger Plates," has something for everyone, featuring items such as a Fried Chicken Bahn Mi, Curry Cauliflower Cakes, Waygu Beef Burger, Fish Tacos & Fried Brussel Sprouts- just to name a few. There are plenty of options for those who are gluten free, vegetarian or vegan- they even have a dedicated vegetarian fryer. You can find their full menu here.

Their rotating beer list of brews you've always wanted to try but never know where to find, accompanied by their full bar and tantalizing cocktail list, have you planning for your second or third round.

While winters are cozy here featuring old church pews and even older doors along the walls, this place is flooded with patrons in the warmer weather thanks to their outdoor seating consisting of picnic tables and patio chairs around wood-burning chimineas. Inside, you're likely to find game nights upstairs or just good chit chat with one of the bartenders.

Finding places in towns that are not big cities, that stay open late is a puzzle in itself so the fact that this dime stays open til 2-4am daily is a treat and a half (especially for a nightowl like me). 

Any bar that can eventually feel like home is a dream but between Dana, Dave, Sean, Tom, Renee, Rosie... just to name a few, you're on your way. So, take a turn off Main Street and taste EVERYTHING on this hit or hit menu.

Courtesy of Julie D. via Yelp