Picking your wedding venue is a huge task. It sets the tone for the entire day. But what about the night before? Your out of town guests are arriving, distant family aren’t so distant anymore. The welcome reception or rehearsal dinner is the kick off celebration and you want it to feel like you and just as curated as the wedding. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner with your absolute closest or casual cocktails and a food cart, there is something here for you.
Here are a few hidden gems in the valley to kick start your wedding weekend plans.
The Barn at Cucina
Located in the entry of Woodstock, NY, is a restored 19th -century barn with a modern, elevated flare. The space can accommodate up to 100 guests at its long rustic harvest tables. Your guests will dine on Chef Scappin’s contemporary Italian menu. Crowd favorites include the crispy squid, sausage rigatoni and slow roasted salmon.
Cucina | 109 Mill Hill Rd. Woodstock, NY | 12498 | 845-679-9800 | cucinawoodstock.com
Left Bank Ciders Taproom
Perfect for relaxed welcome drinks or an intimate rehearsal dinner check out Left Bank Ciders Taproom located in the Village of Catskill, NY. The owners make, bottle and sell their inventive, small-batch ciders in the cellar of an antique brick building on the banks of the Catskill creek. They strictly serve NY made beer, spirits and wine in addition to their ciders. Light snacks are available and food trucks and caterers are welcome!
Left Bank Ciders | 150 Water Street Catskill, New York 12414 | leftbankciders@gmail.com | www.leftbankciders.com
Brown Barn Farms
Orange County Distilleries’ very own cocktail and craft beer bar offers two great options. Their loft can accommodate up to 20 guests for an intimate gathering and their front room is best suited for 50 -70 guests. Guests will enjoy farm-fresh cocktails and craft beer. Keep it simple with access to the barns food trucks or bring in your own catering.
Brown Barn Farms | 286 Maple Avenue New Hampton, NY 10958 | 845-374-2011 | www.orangecountydistillery.com
The Mezzanine at Hotel Kinsley
Treat your closest friends and family to upscale dining in Kingston NY. The welcoming and beautifully designed space will make your out-of-towners feel right at home. You won’t want to miss the Prawns & Grits or the Not Manhattan cocktail.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Hotel Kinsley | 301 Wall Street Kingston, NY | 845-768-3621 | hotelkinsley.com
Lil Deb’s Oasis
A queer-run restaurant serving up tropical comfort food in an eclectic and colorful atmosphere in Hudson, NY. Private dining is available in their upstairs dining room complete with a chef’s tour of the menu. Fermented Sweet Potato Bread and Miso Chocolate Flan anyone?
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Lil Deb’s Oasis | 747 COLUMBIA STREET HUDSON, NY 12534 | www.lildebsoasis.com