WHERE TO EAT…
Garvan’s — New Paltz, NY
Garvan’s is a well‑known Irish gastropub located in a restored 1759 colonial building in New Paltz. The restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with attentive service and a menu focused on high‑quality, thoughtfully prepared dishes. Guests often highlight the comfortable dining rooms, the historic setting, and the consistently well‑executed meals, from hearty entrées to house‑made desserts. Garvan’s is a popular choice for both everyday dining and special occasions, offering a reliable and welcoming experience.
Address:
Garvan’s Gastropub
215 Huguenot Street
New Paltz, NY 12561
WHERE TO DRINK…
Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery — Warwick, NY
Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery is a well‑established destination in the Hudson Valley, known for its expansive grounds, orchards, and a wide selection of wines, ciders, and spirits. Visitors often note the relaxed atmosphere, scenic outdoor seating, and the variety of tastings available throughout the year. The property also hosts regular live music on weekends and offers a café with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. With its combination of craft beverages, open space, and consistent programming, it remains a popular choice for both casual visits and planned outings.
Address:
Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery
114 Little York Road
Warwick, NY 10990
WHAT TO DO…
4/17 - Little lies - A tribute to Fleetwood Mac / Show 8:30pm / Towne Crier Cafe Beacon NY
4/18 - Tiki Night with live music from Jeremy Torres / 6pm - 9pm / Jayne St. Distilling Florida NY
4/20 - The Nude Party with Tobacco City / Doors 7pm Show 8pm / Bearsville Theatre Woodstock NY
WHATS NEW…
Sher‑E‑Punjab — Middletown, NY
Sher‑E‑Punjab is a well‑regarded Indian restaurant in Middletown offering a menu rooted in traditional Punjabi flavors. The kitchen focuses on freshly prepared dishes, including classics such as chicken tikka masala, tandoori chicken, lamb biryani, and a variety of vegetarian entrées. Guests frequently note the consistent quality, balanced spices, and friendly service, whether dining in or ordering takeout. With a broad selection of appetizers, curries, tandoori items, and desserts, the restaurant provides a reliable option for both everyday meals and group gatherings.
Address:
Sher‑E‑Punjab Indian Restaurant
9 King Street
Middletown, NY 10940
SUBSCRIBER GIVEAWAY
Just for being a subscriber you are entered to win a FOUR PACK OF TICKETS to the 10th MAC & CHEESE FEST a huge THANK YOU to our first business spotlight for the giveaway!
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT…
Founded and organized by Angelo Notaro Jr. Famous Food Events has become the undisputed king of Hudson Valley food festivals. Their motto says it all — "Food and Fun Well Done" — and after nearly a decade of sold-out events, they've earned it.
THE CROWN JEWEL: HV MAC & CHEESE FEST
The event that started it all — the Hudson Valley Mac & Cheese Festival — hits its 10-year anniversary this year on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, returning to its iconic home at Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville, NY. What started as a local celebration of America's favorite comfort food has grown into a nationally recognized festival, voted one of America's Best Food Festivals and earning five consecutive nominations from the Poughkeepsie Journal, The Record Online, and Hudson Valley Magazine — eventually being crowned "Best of the Best" in Upstate New York.
This year's 10th anniversary promises to be the biggest yet, with 12+ vendors competing for the coveted "Best Mac" title, vegan options for the first time, and a headlining performance by Kiss Alive NYC. Opening the stage is rising Hudson Valley country star Tayla Rees.
VIP entry starts at 11:30 AM. General admission runs 1–5 PM. Kids 12 and under get in free.
THE FULL 2026 FAMOUS FOOD EVENTS LINEUP
Here's what else they've got cooking this year:
King of the Wings Spring Challenge — Friday, April 24th — The Dutch, Saugerties, NY
Mac Down Smackdown — Sunday, April 26th — The Fort Deli, Fort Montgomery, NY
HV Mac & Cheese Fest 10 — Saturday, May 2nd — Brotherhood Winery, Washingtonville, NY
HV Taco Fest 9 — Saturday, June 6th — People's Park, Newburgh, NY
Soccer Championship Watch Party — Saturday, June 27th — MJN Center, Poughkeepsie, NY
Faith & Seafood Festival — Saturday, August 8th — People's Park, Newburgh, NY
Garlic Jam Fest — Saturday & Sunday, September 5th & 6th — MJN Center, Poughkeepsie, NY
Putnam Pickle Fest — Saturday & Sunday, September 26th & 27th — Patterson Rec Center, Patterson, NY
WHY THEY WORK
Famous Food Events doesn't just throw food in a field. They pair world-class venues like Brotherhood Winery (established 1839) with live entertainment, vendor villages, wine tastings, and a competitive edge that keeps both chefs and crowds coming back every year. They bring together renowned chefs, local food trucks, top-tier caterers, and craft beverage companies to create a full-day experience that goes way beyond just eating.
"We had a vision of doing a mac and cheese festival at the highest level," said Angelo Notaro Jr. "And nine years later, it's gotten bigger, better, and creamier."
Ten years of cheese. Ten years of community. Ten years of unforgettable memories.
For tickets and vendor applications, visit
That’s it for this week.
Keep showing up and catching the 845 Buzz!
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