Hudson Valley Gems Top List Of '20 Best Restaurants Near NYC'

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — While it's true that some of the best restaurants in the world can be found in New York City, that nearby talent pool also makes the Hudson Valley a culinary destination in its own right.

Our region features prominently in the just released Thrillist "20 Best Suburban Restaurants Outside NYC." From fine dining establishments in exclusive bedroom communities to the consummate New York-style pizza in working class neighborhoods and quaint farm-to-table spots a little farther afield — this year's rankings has something for everyone.

The list has a number of locations that will be easily recognized by Hudson Valley foodies and a few surprises as well:

• Inn at Pound Ridge Chef Jean‑George's "casual elegant" restaurant in Pound Ridge, features "down-to-earth food and contemporary country feel."
• Johnny’s Pizzeria Other pizzerias have pictures of celebrities on the wall, but at Johnny's in Mount Vernon, it's mostly awards for making the best pizza.
• The Barn at Bedford Post The Barn is the Bedford Post's more casual offering, but while the dining experience is less formal, the food remains top shelf.
• Candlelight Inn If you live in the Hudson Valley, you probably already know to order the wings and bring cash because credit cards aren't accepted at this Scarsdale treasure.
• Kanopi Chef Anthony Gonçalves captures the essence of Portugal with Mediterranean seasonal menus with local farm-fresh ingredients. The only thing better than the view from the top of White Plains is the food.
• Blue Hill at Stone Barns When a restaurant acts like they are doing you a favor letting you spend money there, then you know you've found the latest hotspot. A 22 percent "administrative fee" (that doesn't go to the server) added to the bill and an admonishment not to bring children almost certainly means Blue Hill is the "in" spot to be in Westchester.
• Karenderya Karenderya is described as a casual, community-oriented, Filipino-inspired restaurant based loosely on carinderias, or roadside eateries, found all over the Philippines — only right here in Nyack. In 2018, Karenderya was named among Esquire’s “Best New Restaurants in America.”
• DPND Pasta & Provisions The owners love Nyack and Nyack loves DPND Pasta & Provisions. It's a perfect marriage that can only be found in the Hudson Valley.

For a full list of the 20 best near-NYC restaurants in Long island, Connecticut, New Jersey and beyond, check out the complete Thrillist rankings here.