RECOMMENDATIONS AND THINGS TO DO
RESTAURANTS
Farm-to-table tours, hiking, fishing, art galleries, wine tours, antiquing, and even one the best Border Collie breeders in the country … For us it has been hard to provide a list of all the things to see and do in our neck of the woods. In the end we decided to list our very favorites, often places where they know us by name, and any friend of ours, is sure to become a friend of theirs. It is no secret that we are foodies, so it is only logical that we start with the restaurants.
HAMDEN INN hamdeninnandlounge.com (607) 746 6677
The newly renovated Hamden Inn was built in 1844, and offers a relatively small menu which changes often, and its perhaps one of the best in the area. Their mixed drinks alone are worth the trip
HAMDEN GENERAL STORE & CAFE No Website (607) 464 4006
The Hamden General Store, directly across from the Hamden Inn offers a great breakfast, a wonderful lunch, and really good Sandwiches. It prides itself in using local farm-grown ingredients. Housed in an 1800’s building, the general store offers local foods, crafts and body care items, all displayed with a 19th Century flare. Their bakery is outstanding but limited unless you get there early.
THE TULIP AND THE ROSE CAFE thetulipandtherose.com (607) 829 4040
Named “One of the best places to eat in the Catskills”, this colorful restaurant offers a new menu every week and focuses of world foods, from Turkish to Vietnamese and everything in between. They are famous for their Gyros, but just about anything on their global menu is authentic and delicious.
BRUSHLAND brushlandeatinghouse.com (607) 832 4861
With its classic uncomplicated old-fashioned recipes, every dish at Brushland feels like home. This husband-and-wife team have created a space that is both intimate and welcoming, and a menu that reflects simple dishes scribbled on old recipe cards which have resisted modern culinary trends. Every plate served at this wonderful restaurant has survived the test of time.
THE DeBRUCE thedebruce.com (845) 439 3900
Named one of the best restaurants in America by Esquire Magazine, The Debruce offers a menu that changes with the seasons, and sometimes daily. Executive Cheff Eric Leveillee focuses on dishes that reflect the rich heritage of the Catskill region, using natural Ingredients found in the surrounding mountains, and the local farms. Elegant, with beautiful views and a great vibe, this place is a must. If they have Trout on the menu, don’t think twice.
CABERNET FRANK’S cabernetfranks.com (845) 292 1230
With a menu that features local ingredients and surprisingly good live music, Cabernet Frank’s is a Cabaret with a campy vibe and a retro feel. It reminds us of a Southern Speakeasy out in the middle of a New Orleans swamp. Always fun, sometimes raunchy, the crowd is always great, and their hamburgers are to die for.
ANTIQUING & ART GALLERIES
KIPNZ GALLERY kipnz.com (607) 510 4062
This gallery is a must. A joint venture by Natalie Zayne and Kenneth Pietrobono, the gallery stands out among the many predictable Art Spaces around the Catskills, exhibiting both Established and Emerging artists without concerns for current trends or commercialism. The Kipnz Gallery is constantly challenging perceptions of taste, showcasing works with creative integrity, impeccable quality, and original vision.
KIPNZ GALLERY is locally located on 150 Delaware St., Walton NY. Open Saturdays and Sundays 12 to 6PM
HAWK + HIVES GALLERY hawkandhive.com (845) 448 0693
A tremendous amount of talent in a small space, the Hawk + Hives Gallery has no particular vision, and showcases an eclectic mix of artists. It’s reputation goes well beyond the Catskill region.
HAWK + HIVES is located on 61 Main St., Andes NY. Open Monday - Wednesday by appointment. Thursday & Friday 12 to 4PM. Saturday & Sunday 11-5PM
THE MUSTARD SEED THRIFT SHOP (607) 865 4390
Located in the United Presbyterian Church, at 58 East St. here in Walton, The Mustard Seed is a great place to find the unexpected. Wonderful volunteer staff, dog friendly and like every Thrift shop, a hit-or-miss adventure. Please note that The Mustard Seed is only open on Saturdays from 10 to 3, and it’s often worth the trip.
ELIJAH’S CLOSET THRIFT SHOP
Located in the First Congregational Church, at 4 Mead St. here in Walton, Elijah’s Closet is a large Thrift Shop often filled with surprises. Like The Mustard Seed, Elijah’s Closet is only open on Saturdays from 10 to 3.
ANTIQUING - There are countless Antique Malls, Hole-in-the-walls, and shops throughout the area. It’s always Treasure hunting season in the Catskills. Here are our favorites: