The Parish
Summer is the time for fun in the sun, abandoning diets and enjoying oneself which sometimes includes putting things on the back burner. For me, it appears my writing was the thing to slip but after a summer full of trips, family and friends, I am happy to be settled back home in the Hudson Valley, at least for the day. We are quickly approaching my favorite time of year here where I stop sweating, the leaves begin to change and I can finally live in oversized sweaters and leggings.
It is only fitting that for my first foray back, I write about a place that I spent most of my time during this summer when not on the road... The Parish Bar and Restaurant. Located in the picturesque Water Street Market on Main Street in New Paltz, this cajun inspired bar and restaurant is neighbors with antique shops, cafes, cheese shops and more. On particular nights, live music can be heard down below and other times, movies projected on a large screen- but above this strip, is the lovely Parish.
While New Paltz may be known for its stunning views of the famous Mohonk Mountain, Parish is one of few places with this view can be enjoyed while having a delicious cocktail and bite to eat. With a large deck overlooking the Walkill River and out onto Mohonk Mountain, there is plenty of outdoor seating including a built-in bar.... which brings me to cocktails. Although New Paltz is home to several bars, Parish takes their cocktails quite seriously and not in the 1 hour preparation kind of way, just the really good craft cocktail kind of way. Both the food and beverage menus are New Orleans inspired and have something for everyone featuring drinks like the La Louisiane, Gin Fizz and Sazerac, just to name a few. Their rotating craft beers and carefully selected wine list provide plenty of options.
With regular staples like wings and crab cakes, they also have specialty items like damn good gator bites or mac and cheese with crawfish- swoon! The kitchen uses locally sourced produce which always makes everything in life taste better. (Side note: their burger is amazing and their menu has plenty of Gluten Free options.) I am always a sucker for a special and their nightly specials give me a reason to come in wayyy too often including wing night (Tuesday), half priced bottles of wine (Wednesday), $1 rib night (Thursday), and $1 oysters (Friday). Finally, I am not sure what this says about me but they're best kept secret is their Sunday brunch special featuring $20 for unlimited mimosas. Growing up in Manhattan, bottomless mimosas were everywhere so when I found this here, my day (ok, my year) was made.
Like most of the places I pick, my favorite part here is the staff, and this place is no different. The owner Matt has been working in the industry for most of his life and it shows. With great bartenders like Claire and Sean, you definitely feel at home. This is a great spot for weekenders and locals alike and if you've yet to stop in, please do because this place is here to stay.
