The Hudson Valley restaurant scene is in a constant state of evolution. Just as the seasons shape the culinary landscape, winter tends to bring closures while spring heralds new beginnings. This spring brings a meteor shower of talented chefs and innovative culinary projects. From Michelin-starred talent to rising local stars and TV stars, here are the folks and the Hudson Valley restaurant openings we’re looking forward to this spring.
Phos | Catskill
When the Polish-adjacent New York Restaurant closed late last year, it left a hole in the Catskill dining scene, which isn’t exactly overflowing with sit-down restaurant options. Its closure more or less coincided with that of beloved Germantown restaurant Gaskins: a double blow for regional foodies, but also…an opportunity. Gaskins’ former chef Stephanie Skiadas is set to take over the New York Restaurant spot with her eagerly anticipated project Phos, set to open in late spring or summer. Drawing from her Greek heritage and culinary skills honed at Gaskins, Skiadas promises a fresh take on Greek-American fare, featuring light dishes and small plates that reflect both tradition and innovation. Expect classics like gyros and spanakopita alongside less known dishes such as kataifi with poached quince and saffron crème fraîche. With a focus on farm-to-table ingredients sourced from Hudson Valley farms, Phos will offer a menu that evolves with the seasons.
House of Stefas | Millbrook
Speakin’ of Greek, the family behind Four Brothers Drive-In has spent three years renovating 3299 Franklin Avenue in Millbrook to create “the greatest Greek restaurant in the world.” Part “freestyle Greek restaurant” part cocktail lounge. The new spot, set to debut in late spring, sports a sleek, interior with plastered walls, archways, velvet banquets, amber lighting, and tile and marble accents. Follow along on House of Stefas’s Instagram for a humorous and informative updates on progress.
Isabela | Amenia
With the launch of Isabela, James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Ramirez brings his Michelin star-studded resume to the Hudson Valley dining scene with the next evolution of his culinary journey. After studying at the New England Culinary Institute, he gained experience at renowned establishments, including Per Se and Brooklyn Fare, and acclaimed restaurants across Europe like El Celler de Can Roca in Spain. Grounded in Hudson Valley ingredients, the dishes at Isabela will reflect a sense of place and purpose while showcasing the rich layers of flavor available in this vibrant region with seasonal dining that reflects both Ramirez’s Puerto Rican heritage and global influences. With a curated wine list highlighting local and international selections, Isabela promises “elevated food in a relaxed and jovial environment.”
Four Corners | Chatham
David Israelow, culinary director of Manhattan’s Michelin-starred One White Street, is headed up to Columbia County to open Four Corners in Chatham in the old Blue Plate spot. Drawing inspiration from his travels, Israelow plans to create a menu that evolves with the seasons, featuring a mix of innovative small plates and hearty mains that make use of local produce and meats. Aiming for a stylish New American tavern vibe, with rustic-chic decor and a vibrant atmosphere, Four Corners is designed to encourage community gathering with a 40-seat parlor floor restaurant and a 12-seat downstairs bar dining room. Expect an extensive cocktail menu that highlights local spirits and artisanal ingredients, making Four Corners a perfect spot for both casual meet-ups and special occasions.
The Piggy Bank | Beacon
The Piggy Bank is set to make its grand debut in Beacon on April 26, reimagining the historic bank building at 446 Main Street as a barbeque joint. Led by executive chef Adam Sternberg, a “Chopped” season three contestant, this new BBQ spot promises a mouthwatering menu of smoked meats that showcases creativity and flavor. Celebrated for winning the title of “Most Creative Wings” at Hudson Valley WingFest—for his bourbon and maple-brined, coal-roasted wings with smoked buffalo sauce and pickle-back ranch—Sternberg promises to deliver a standout culinary destination. Co-owned by Kamel and Lena Jamal, who were dubbed by Bon Appetit as Beacon’s “unofficial mayors” and whose also run Ziatun and Beacon Bread Company, this venture is poised to further enrich the Beacon’s vibrant culinary scene.
It would help to get Four Corners in the right county. Chatham is in Columbia County, not Dutchess.