It's the beginning of another work week and I'm not my usual grumpy self. Why, you ask? Well, I had a relaxing weekend away from the loud and busy city. I celebrated my first anniversary this past weekend. My husband planned a lovely trip to a spa hotel and we couldn't be more relaxed. We rented a car and drove off into the wilderness on Friday evening. Besides getting a couple of spa treatments and taking in all that fresh country air, we also had two great dinners at some pretty cool restaurants in the Hudson Valley. So here is a little photo essay that I hope will inspire you to take a relaxing weekend trip of your own.
Here is the gorgeous view from our hotel. We stayed at the Emerson Resort and Spa in Mt. Tremper. We stayed in one of the suites and, boy, was it ever luxurious. Since my bathtub at home isn't big enough for a nice soak, I took advantage of the huge tub in our room.
Friday evening, after a two-hour drive, we were starving. My husband had researched a few restaurants in the area and decided to head for Cucina in Woodstock. The food was absolutely delicious. I ordered a heaping plate of bucatini amatriciana and my husband had the mixed grill (lamb chop, filet mignion, sausage...). I could barely finish my plate, but did manage to sneak a bite of the filet mignon. Cucina is a must-try if you're ever in the area.
The next day, after our spa treatment, we decided to drive over to Hudson. Now, I've been wanting to go to Hudson for quite some time, but to be honest, I was kind of disappointed. From what I read about the town, I was expecting something a little more quaint. You know, little shops and cafes lining small streets. Instead Hudson is a small town with a gritty past. It's located near a correctional facility and it's kinda... Well, it's kinda ghetto. Sure, there are some art galleries and a couple of restaurants, but not a place you want to spend your weekend. Let's just say it's still developing.
I had read about a restaurant that used locally-sourced ingredients and wanted to have dinner there. Since it was still 4:00, we decided to stop at American Glory, a bar and BBQ joint for some drinks and a little something to hold us over till dinner. We ordered some hot wings (pictured above) and they were the best I've ever had. A spicy homemade sauce slathered over some really meaty wings. I was tempted to stay for dinner but we headed next door to Swoon Kitchenbar.
The restaurant was booked up with Saturday night reservations so we grabbed a seat at the bar and immediately ordered some drinks. They make a great margarita with grapefruit instead of lime. I think I'll be making all my margaritas with freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice all summer long.
We ordered the duck liver mousse pate to start. It was tasty but a huge portion for two. As it warmed up to room temperature (it was taken out of the fridge and brought to the table), the flavor of the pate really intensified. I would've just eaten that paired with a bottle of white wine. It certainly made for a filling appetizer.
My husband order the squid stuffed with oxtail and I continued to attack the pate. He liked it, although he said the little squid on the side was not very fresh.
My husband also order the risotto made with local mushrooms. I am still shocked that he was able to finish the entire portion. I guess all that fresh country air gave him an appetite.
I went with the pan-seared salmon and creamy rice. The salmon was tender and flavorful although the rice was too rich for my taste. I would've preferred a lighter side dish. Overall, Swoon serves up some good food, but I think after our outstanding meal at Cucina, we were left a little disappointed.
I am so happy that we were able to get away for the weekend and that my husband planned the whole thing. I finally got my honeymoon!
Happy cooking!
What a fabulous weekend full of delicious foods! It's only 9:30 in the morning and I'm craving those chicken wings! Happy anniversary!
Posted by: Vicki @ Wilde in the Kitchen | 04/12/2011 at 06:35 AM
I've heard said good things come to those who wait :-). I'm so glad your anniversary celebration and getaway was so nice. It sounds like you had a wonderful time. I hope you also have a great evening. Blessings...Mary
Posted by: Mary | 04/12/2011 at 03:22 PM