Eat it! New Paltz, New York
# **A Foodie’s Guide to New Paltz: 10 Must-Try Dining Experiences**
Nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, New Paltz is a charming town brimming with culinary delights. From authentic Chinese cuisine to artisanal ice cream, cozy gastropubs, and vibrant Mexican flavors, this college town offers an eclectic mix of dining experiences. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best eats in New Paltz—what to order, where to go, and why these spots stand out.
---
## **1. New Great Wall Kitchen**
? **RR 299, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Chinese-American
If you're craving classic Chinese takeout with a generous helping of nostalgia, **New Great Wall Kitchen** delivers. This no-frills spot is beloved for its heaping portions and reliable flavors.
### **Must-Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and just the right amount of spicy.
- **Beef with Broccoli** – Tender slices of beef in a savory garlic sauce.
- **Pork Fried Rice** – A comforting staple with fluffy rice and smoky wok flavor.
**Pro Tip:** Order the **Sesame Chicken** if you prefer a slightly sweeter alternative to General Tso’s.
---
## **2. Huguenot Creamery**
? **78 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Ice Cream & Desserts
A trip to New Paltz isn’t complete without a stop at **Huguenot Creamery**, where small-batch, locally made ice cream steals the show. The flavors rotate seasonally, but some standouts are always on the menu.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Black Raspberry Chocolate Chunk** – A rich, fruity base with dark chocolate chunks.
- **Salted Caramel** – Sweet, buttery, and perfectly balanced.
- **Vegan Coconut Chocolate Chip** – Creamy coconut base with dairy-free chocolate.
**Pro Tip:** Try their **affogato** (espresso poured over vanilla ice cream) for a caffeinated treat.
---
## **3. Garvan’s Gastropub**
? **215 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Irish-American Pub Fare
Garvan’s is the go-to spot for hearty comfort food and a great pint of Guinness. With a cozy, rustic vibe, it’s perfect for a casual night out.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Shepherd’s Pie** – Ground beef, veggies, and mashed potatoes baked to perfection.
- **Fish & Chips** – Crispy beer-battered cod with thick-cut fries.
- **Garvan’s Burger** – Juicy beef patty with cheddar, bacon, and garlic aioli.
**Pro Tip:** Visit during happy hour (3–6 PM) for discounted drinks and appetizers.
---
## **4. Pho Tibet**
? **58 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Vietnamese & Tibetan
A hidden gem, **Pho Tibet** serves up steaming bowls of pho alongside Tibetan specialties like momo dumplings. The broth is simmered for hours, making it deeply flavorful.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Beef Pho** – Aromatic, savory, and loaded with tender meat.
- **Tibetan Momo (Dumplings)** – Stuffed with spiced beef or veggies, served with chili sauce.
- **Bánh Mì** – Crusty baguette with pickled veggies, pâté, and your choice of protein.
**Pro Tip:** Try the **Tibetan Butter Tea** for a unique, slightly salty experience.
---
## **5. RUBY Restaurant & Bar**
? **5 New Paltz Plaza, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** New American
Upscale yet relaxed, **RUBY** offers creative dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Their craft cocktails are just as impressive as the food.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Braised Short Rib** – Melts off the bone, served with creamy polenta.
- **Ruby Burger** – Dry-aged beef with truffle aioli and gruyère.
- **Bourbon Glazed Salmon** – Sweet, smoky, and perfectly flaky.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip their **Espresso Martini**—it’s one of the best in town.
---
## **6. Jack’s Meats & Deli**
? **79 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Deli & Sandwiches
A New Paltz institution, **Jack’s** is the spot for massive, overstuffed sandwiches and house-smoked meats.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Pastrami on Rye** – Smoky, tender, and piled high.
- **Turkey Avocado Club** – Fresh roasted turkey with bacon and avocado.
- **Mac & Cheese** – Creamy, cheesy, and pure comfort.
**Pro Tip:** Order the **Reuben**—it’s legendary.
---
## **7. Maggie Mae’s**
? **215 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Irish Pub
Another great pub option, **Maggie Mae’s** offers live music, strong drinks, and satisfying bar bites.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Irish Nachos** – Crispy potatoes topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
- **Bangers & Mash** – Classic sausage with creamy mashed potatoes.
- **Guinness Beef Stew** – Rich, slow-cooked, and perfect with a pint.
**Pro Tip:** Check their events calendar—they often host trivia and live bands.
---
## **8. Main Street Bistro**
? **59 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
☕ **Cuisine:** Café & Breakfast
A cozy breakfast and lunch spot, **Main Street Bistro** serves up fluffy pancakes, omelets, and gourmet sandwiches.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Huevos Rancheros** – A spicy, satisfying breakfast.
- **Croissant French Toast** – Buttery, crispy, and decadent.
- **Turkey Pesto Panini** – Fresh and flavorful.
**Pro Tip:** Their **iced chai latte** is a must on a warm day.
---
## **9. Órale Mexico**
? **11 Old Rte 299, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Mexican
For bold, authentic Mexican flavors, **Órale Mexico** is a standout. Their margaritas are strong, and their tacos are packed with flavor.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple.
- **Queso Fundido** – Melted cheese with chorizo.
- **Mole Enchiladas** – Rich, complex, and deeply satisfying.
**Pro Tip:** The **spicy margarita** is a game-changer.
---
## **10. Novella’s New Paltz**
? **2 Terwilliger Ln, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Italian & Mediterranean
A romantic, upscale eatery, **Novella’s** offers handmade pasta and an impressive wine list.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Wild Mushroom Risotto** – Creamy, earthy, and luxurious.
- **Braised Lamb Shank** – Fall-off-the-bone tender.
- **Tiramisu** – Light, boozy, and the perfect finish.
**Pro Tip:** Their **Sunday brunch** is a local favorite.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
New Paltz may be a small town, but its food scene is mighty. Whether you're in the mood for a quick deli sandwich, a steaming bowl of pho, or an elegant Italian dinner, there’s something for every palate. So grab a fork (or a spoon, or a pint glass) and dig in—you won’t be disappointed!
**Which spot will you try first?** ?️
Nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, New Paltz is a charming town brimming with culinary delights. From authentic Chinese cuisine to artisanal ice cream, cozy gastropubs, and vibrant Mexican flavors, this college town offers an eclectic mix of dining experiences. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best eats in New Paltz—what to order, where to go, and why these spots stand out.
---
## **1. New Great Wall Kitchen**
? **RR 299, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Chinese-American
If you're craving classic Chinese takeout with a generous helping of nostalgia, **New Great Wall Kitchen** delivers. This no-frills spot is beloved for its heaping portions and reliable flavors.
### **Must-Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and just the right amount of spicy.
- **Beef with Broccoli** – Tender slices of beef in a savory garlic sauce.
- **Pork Fried Rice** – A comforting staple with fluffy rice and smoky wok flavor.
**Pro Tip:** Order the **Sesame Chicken** if you prefer a slightly sweeter alternative to General Tso’s.
---
## **2. Huguenot Creamery**
? **78 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Ice Cream & Desserts
A trip to New Paltz isn’t complete without a stop at **Huguenot Creamery**, where small-batch, locally made ice cream steals the show. The flavors rotate seasonally, but some standouts are always on the menu.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Black Raspberry Chocolate Chunk** – A rich, fruity base with dark chocolate chunks.
- **Salted Caramel** – Sweet, buttery, and perfectly balanced.
- **Vegan Coconut Chocolate Chip** – Creamy coconut base with dairy-free chocolate.
**Pro Tip:** Try their **affogato** (espresso poured over vanilla ice cream) for a caffeinated treat.
---
## **3. Garvan’s Gastropub**
? **215 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Irish-American Pub Fare
Garvan’s is the go-to spot for hearty comfort food and a great pint of Guinness. With a cozy, rustic vibe, it’s perfect for a casual night out.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Shepherd’s Pie** – Ground beef, veggies, and mashed potatoes baked to perfection.
- **Fish & Chips** – Crispy beer-battered cod with thick-cut fries.
- **Garvan’s Burger** – Juicy beef patty with cheddar, bacon, and garlic aioli.
**Pro Tip:** Visit during happy hour (3–6 PM) for discounted drinks and appetizers.
---
## **4. Pho Tibet**
? **58 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Vietnamese & Tibetan
A hidden gem, **Pho Tibet** serves up steaming bowls of pho alongside Tibetan specialties like momo dumplings. The broth is simmered for hours, making it deeply flavorful.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Beef Pho** – Aromatic, savory, and loaded with tender meat.
- **Tibetan Momo (Dumplings)** – Stuffed with spiced beef or veggies, served with chili sauce.
- **Bánh Mì** – Crusty baguette with pickled veggies, pâté, and your choice of protein.
**Pro Tip:** Try the **Tibetan Butter Tea** for a unique, slightly salty experience.
---
## **5. RUBY Restaurant & Bar**
? **5 New Paltz Plaza, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** New American
Upscale yet relaxed, **RUBY** offers creative dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Their craft cocktails are just as impressive as the food.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Braised Short Rib** – Melts off the bone, served with creamy polenta.
- **Ruby Burger** – Dry-aged beef with truffle aioli and gruyère.
- **Bourbon Glazed Salmon** – Sweet, smoky, and perfectly flaky.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip their **Espresso Martini**—it’s one of the best in town.
---
## **6. Jack’s Meats & Deli**
? **79 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Deli & Sandwiches
A New Paltz institution, **Jack’s** is the spot for massive, overstuffed sandwiches and house-smoked meats.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Pastrami on Rye** – Smoky, tender, and piled high.
- **Turkey Avocado Club** – Fresh roasted turkey with bacon and avocado.
- **Mac & Cheese** – Creamy, cheesy, and pure comfort.
**Pro Tip:** Order the **Reuben**—it’s legendary.
---
## **7. Maggie Mae’s**
? **215 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Irish Pub
Another great pub option, **Maggie Mae’s** offers live music, strong drinks, and satisfying bar bites.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Irish Nachos** – Crispy potatoes topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
- **Bangers & Mash** – Classic sausage with creamy mashed potatoes.
- **Guinness Beef Stew** – Rich, slow-cooked, and perfect with a pint.
**Pro Tip:** Check their events calendar—they often host trivia and live bands.
---
## **8. Main Street Bistro**
? **59 Main St, New Paltz, NY 12561**
☕ **Cuisine:** Café & Breakfast
A cozy breakfast and lunch spot, **Main Street Bistro** serves up fluffy pancakes, omelets, and gourmet sandwiches.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Huevos Rancheros** – A spicy, satisfying breakfast.
- **Croissant French Toast** – Buttery, crispy, and decadent.
- **Turkey Pesto Panini** – Fresh and flavorful.
**Pro Tip:** Their **iced chai latte** is a must on a warm day.
---
## **9. Órale Mexico**
? **11 Old Rte 299, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Mexican
For bold, authentic Mexican flavors, **Órale Mexico** is a standout. Their margaritas are strong, and their tacos are packed with flavor.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple.
- **Queso Fundido** – Melted cheese with chorizo.
- **Mole Enchiladas** – Rich, complex, and deeply satisfying.
**Pro Tip:** The **spicy margarita** is a game-changer.
---
## **10. Novella’s New Paltz**
? **2 Terwilliger Ln, New Paltz, NY 12561**
? **Cuisine:** Italian & Mediterranean
A romantic, upscale eatery, **Novella’s** offers handmade pasta and an impressive wine list.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Wild Mushroom Risotto** – Creamy, earthy, and luxurious.
- **Braised Lamb Shank** – Fall-off-the-bone tender.
- **Tiramisu** – Light, boozy, and the perfect finish.
**Pro Tip:** Their **Sunday brunch** is a local favorite.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
New Paltz may be a small town, but its food scene is mighty. Whether you're in the mood for a quick deli sandwich, a steaming bowl of pho, or an elegant Italian dinner, there’s something for every palate. So grab a fork (or a spoon, or a pint glass) and dig in—you won’t be disappointed!
**Which spot will you try first?** ?️
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