On our second day up in the Hudson River Valley, we spent the day up in Hyde Park, where the homes of Franklin D. and Eleanor Roosevelt are located. After that culturally-enriching day (and a predictably forgettable quick lunch from the visitors center cafe), we headed over to nearby Poughkeepsie for dinner.
Guided by Internet recommendations, we ended up at The Artist’s Palate, located on an area of Main Street that is clearly going through a renewal process. The restaurant serves “seasonal” food that transcends regionalism. I usually don’t like menus on which one can find ravioli and stir-fry, but if it is done well, then why quibble with that? The space itself is simple and stylish, with soaring ceilings, white-tableclothed tables, an old wooden bar at the front, and contemporary art (all for sale) on the walls. We were seated almost immediately, which was a good thing as we were starving.
After ordering we were served a basket of various breads and a homemade “pesto” spread made with tomato rather than basil as a base ingredient. It was garlicky and delicious. We shared the deep-fried tofu as an appetizer. It was unlike any other incarnation of this dish I have had, the tofu being lightly battered and deep-fried, a technique that caused the outside to be crispy, but the tofu itself to be greaseless. I wish more asian restaurants would serve deep-fried tofu this way–it was really tasty.
For entrees, we had the penne pomodoro, which was good, but not great. There is really nothing more to report on the basic pasta. The tortilla-crusted scallops, on the other hand were a standout. The scallops were rolled in flaked tortilla and fried until perfectly cooked (this preparation sounds like a white-trashification of scallops, but I swear, it was elegant) and served with a truly delicious, perfectly seasoned and dressed, black bean and avocado salad. The only complaint was that three small (diver-, not sea-) scallops was a bit ungenerous for the price (~$20). We also had a very seasonal side of sauteed ramps, served with a half of lemon, which was unusual. They were simply prepared, as ramps should be, so their oniony-garlicky-earthy flavor shined through.
This was a good meal, though perhaps a tiny bit over-priced. Also, it would be nice to have some vegetarian choices that equal the inventiveness of some of their meaty options. Still, it was nice to see creative cuisine in such a sleepy corner of New York. It was no Beso, not even close, but if ever you are searching for better-than-average food in the Poughkeepsie area, then I would definitely recommend The Artist’s Palate.
The Artist’s Palate
307 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-483-8074
Entries (RSS)