Table Hopping with Morris Gut

It has become an annual rite of the culinary. The prestigious Michelin Restaurant Guides have been publishing their ratings internationally, nationally, in NYC, and for the third year, Westchester & suburbs. As always with these guides, there is controversy: who made the list, who did not, and why? It is all kept so secretive.

The ‘Bib Gourmand’ designations (typically more casual eateries of merit), and Stars (high end restos), can be meaningful to a restaurant’s bottom line. Here are the local spots that made the list for 2022. Based on my experience, many are deserving finalists. Bon Appetit!

‘Bibs’ in Westchester include Dubrovnik, New Rochelle; Maria, New Rochelle; Macelleria Italian Steakhouse, Pelham; MP Taverna, Irvington; Tredici Social, Bronxville; Café Alaia, Scarsdale; Burrata, Eastchester; The Southern Table, Pleasantville; Badageoni Georgian Kitchen, Mt. Kisco; Shiraz kitchen & Wine Bar, Elmsford; RaaSa, Elmsford; Rafele, Rye; Boro6 Wine Bar, Hastings-on-Hudson; and The Cookery, Dobbs Ferry. New additions this year: OKO, Rye; TVB by Pax Romana, White Plains; Chutney Masala, Irvington; and La Casa, Bronxville. By the way, the only star recipient in Westchester was once again Blue Hill at Stone Barns. You can access the full list including nearby Bronx online: https://guide.michelin.com/en/us/new-york-state/restaurants 

FALL HUDSON VALLEY RESTAURANT WEEKS, NOV. 7-20!

This popular dining out promotion originally created and sponsored by The Valley Table Magazine will include approximately 140 restaurants, past participants and some new from all over the Hudson Valley even stretching the borders into Scarsdale, White Plains, Mamaroneck, and New Rochelle. Patrons are always anxious to cash in on the seasonal bounty at reasonable prices. There are added price options this year. Restaurants are expected to offer 3-course luncheons for $24.95 or $39.95, and 3-course dinners for $29.95 or $44.95. Beverage, tax & tip are not included. Dine-in or take-out. Sometimes there are caveats, so be sure to verify the hours and the menus. Reservations are advised. For additional information and an up-to-date list of participating restaurants go to: https://valleytable.com/restaurant-week/

(Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in greater Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at: 914-235-6591. Email: gutreactions@optonline.net)