Terrapin
6426 Montgomery St. Rhinebeck, NY 845-876-3330
Josh Kroner
This savvy New American favorite in the center of postcard-perfect Rhinebeck is always mentioned when talk turns to the best restaurants in the Hudson Valley. Be that as it may, it’s definitely worth a trip on many fronts. The setting, for one, is awe-inspiring, set in a soaring 1820s Baptist church. You could shag fly balls in the dining room. Off to the side is a sleek, citified-looking bar called the Red Bistro. The ecumenical menu starts off with tapas that are not really tapas but rather morsels of the chef’s fancy: brie and mango crostini, macadamia nut-coated tempura of calamari and duck confit sliders. Entrées run from Guinness-braised lamb shank to pork tenderloin with Thai orange-coconut curry and salmon with an apricot ancho-chili glaze. As few churches were built with sound tile, the place can get thunderous. -Bryan Miller
Hours: Dining room: Sun-Th: 5-8:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat: 5-9:30 p.m.Red Bistro/Bar: Sun-Th: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat: 11:30 a.m.-midnight Reservations: Recommended
Where to get huge portions at local restaurants
Where to get 12 unique burgers
