Quinn’s opened under new ownership 8 years ago, keeping the decor and much-loved vibe of the diner-like eatery, but changed the focus to be a destination for jazz music and live performances. The menu also changed to offer renowned Japanese homestyle cuisine, a case of craft beers, sakes, whiskies and much more. When the pandemic shut them down, the music scene stopped as well, starving musicians from the live audience they crave.
Until now….Starting on Saturday, September 11th, Quinn’s is turning on the lights and setting up the stage for an fully stocked musical lineup on Saturdays and Mondays Jazz Sessions, with a sprinkling of performances on those days by people named Joe. Quinn’s is dubbing that “Joevember”
Kicking it off on Saturday, September 11th at 9am will be Beacon punk band Ate Bit, featuring the long-running Hudson Valley band Social Standards opening. The following Monday, September 13th at 8:30pm, the first Monday Jazz Session will be alto saxophonist Mike Dopazo, leading a trio featuring Adam Coté on bass, and Dave Berger on drums.
Quinn’s Is A Destination In The Jazz World & Other Genres
Quinn’s is one of the premier live music venues in the Hudson Valley. Beaconites may not realize what jazz gem is located behind that iconic brown brick wall decorated with pictures of Ramen dishes. To help you realize, we went to one of the - if not the - top jazz critic in the country - Nate Chinen. Nate is a former Beaconite who left this place for Philadelphia in order to have better commute to his radio job as Director of Editorial Content for WBGO 88.3FM, as well as a bigger yard for his family and pandemic dog.
To give you a background on Nate, so that his quote has context: Nate was a music critic for The New York Timesfor 12 years, and helmed a long-running column for JazzTimes. In addition to his editorial work for WBGO, Nate works with the multiplatform program Jazz Night in America and contributes a range of coverage to NPR Music. He is author of Playing Changes: Jazz For the New Century (buy it at Binnacle Books in Beacon! they can order any book for you), published in hardcover by Pantheon in 2018, and in paperback by Vintage in 2019. Hailed as one of the Best Books of the Year by NPR, GQ, Billboard, and JazzTimes, it's a chronicle of jazz in our time, and an argument for the music's continuing relevance. It has also been published internationally, in Italian and Spanish editions.
Nate is coauthor of Myself Among Others: A Life in Music, the 2003 autobiography of festival impresario and producer George Wein, which earned the JJA’s award for Best Book About Jazz.
And while we're gushing, Nate is a 13-time winner of the Helen Dance–Robert Palmer Award for Excellence in Writing, presented by the Jazz Journalists Association, as well as a co-host for the podcast Jazz United for WBGO. Here’s what he had to say to ALBB about Quinn’s reopening for live music:
“I moved to Beacon from the West Village in 2009, and assumed that my days of walking down the street to a world-class jazz gig were over. I got here just in time to catch the tail end of Quinn’s as a diner (great blueberry pancakes!) — and then, after a dormant period, it reopened as a music venue. To my great and pleasant surprise, it became a go-to stop for improvised music, often featuring the very same artists I would see in the city, like Mary Halvorson, Matt Wilson and Joe McPhee.
“Beyond the extraordinary quality of the booking, Quinn’s is remarkable for its atmosphere — what’s probably best described as a “vibe.” The no-cover policy means that anyone can enjoy the music, and it creates a festive feeling in the room. If every American city the size of Beacon had a room like this, you wouldn’t hear so much about the plight of jazz in our culture. I wish the best to the club as it reopens, and look forward to my next hang there.”
Other artists who have performed at Quinn’s include: “Wilco guitarist Nels Cline to Japanese pop-punk icons Shonen Knife; from the Malian Tuareg rockers Mdou Moctar to Czech avant-garde violinist/vocalist Iva Bittová; from psychedelic free guitar freak Eugene Chadbourne to MacArthur ‘genius’ grantee Mary Halvorson; from Captain Beefheart/Jeff Buckley guitarist Gary Lucas to Downtown jazz legend William Parker; from otherworldly power trio Sun of Goldfinger (Tim Berne/David Torn/Ches Smith) to the Colossus of Poughkeepsie himself, multi-instrumentalist Joe McPhee, among many other outstanding artists. Mike Faloon's celebrated book The Other Night at Quinn's details many of these unforgettable performances.”
COVID-19 Cautions: Quinn’s Is Monitoring
While we are in Year 2 of the COVID-19 Pandemic, and some people vaccinated, restaurants are trying to avoid shutdowns, and their customers are just as eager to have the option to continue to dine and dance inside. They state in their press release: “Please note: we are closely monitoring the ongoing COVID Pandemic and, based on guidance from the CDC and state health authorities, may be forced to revise our schedule without notice.”
Keep up with their changes and announcements, as well as food features at Instagram and Facebook.
The Musical Lineup
Quinn's is located at 330 Main St. in Beacon, NY and its phone number is (845) 202-7447. All listed concerts are no cover, but donations for the artists are requested and greatly appreciated. Bring cash, as the artists walk around to collect from everyone in attendance.
As of today, Quinn’s schedule is as follows:
SATURDAY CONCERTS: 9/11: Ate Bit/Social Standards 9/25: Knock Yourself Out — final KYO performance (!!!) 10/2: 100 and Zero/Wall of Ego 11/13: KYO Surfers — Butthole Surfers tribute w/ former Knock Yourself Out members + special guests
MONDAY JAZZ SESSIONS: 9/13: Mike Dopazo Trio — w/ Adam Coté and Dave Berger 9/20: Eric Person's Music of Ronald Shannon Jackson Project — w/ Neil Alexander, Robert Kopec + Dean Sharp 10/4: Two Sisters, Inc. — w/ Claire Daly, Dave Sewelson, Dave Hofstra + Michael Sarin 10/18: Pete Levin Trio — w/ Mike DiMicco + Jeff "Siege" Siegel (the last musicians to play Quinn's in March 2020!) 10/25: Adam Lane Trio — w/ Nick Lyons and Vijay Anderson 12/6: Matt Pavolka Band w/ Ben Monder, Santiago Leibson + Allan Mednard 12/13: Ted Daniel's International Brass + Membrane Corps — w/ Charles Burnham, Joe Daley and Newman Taylor Baker 12/20: Karl Berger Group
JOEVEMBER!!! All Mondays in November to be led by musicians named Joe, including: 11/1: Joe McPhee 82nd Birthday Celebration 11/8: Joe Giardullo 11/15: Joe Daley Exploratory Project 11/22: Joe Fiedler's Open Sesame — w/ Jeff Lederer, Sean Conly + Michael Sarin 11/29: Joe Hertenstein
Other Live Music Venues In Beacon
Other established eateries have turned on the microphones as well. Towne Crier Cafe has reopened their famous stage for live music, and on the other side of town, the stage is also lit at Dogwood. Open Mic Nights are abound, including on the back patio of Beacon Bread Company.
Guess what? Tripadvisor has featured Beacon and many businesses rooted here in Tripadvisor's weekend guide! A Little Beacon Blog was featured as well. Thank you Laura Begley Bloom (who hails from Brooklyn) for interviewing us, and hearing our take on how community is one of Beacon's strongest assets and reasons why people want to move here.
THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Hike to Mount Beacon
Organized by UWC NYC - United World Colleges New York City Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 9:45am - 4:00pm Location: Mount Beacon Trail, NY-9D & Howland Ave, Beacon, NY Information >
Wellness Shines on the Green Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 10am - 3pm Location: Safe Harbors Green, 97 Broadway, Newburgh, NY Information >
Big Gay Hudson Valley's All-Ages PRIDE Tea Dance Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 1pm - 5pm Location: Wilklow Orchards, 341 Pancake Hollow Rd, Highland, NY Information >
Authors in Conversation: Danielle Trussoni and Julie Metz - Outdoor Program
Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 (Rain Date: June 12, 2021) Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm Location: Newburgh Free Library Plaza Information >
Viorel Florescu Retrospective 1970 - 2021
at Howland Cultural Center Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 1pm - 9pm Location: 477 Main Street, Beacon, NY
The Howland Cultural Center is pleased to present RETROSPECTIVE 1970 - 2021, an exhibition featuring powerful and evocative images by two-time Pulitzer Prize winning international photojournalist Viorel Florescu. Information >
Meadow Winds Community-Wide Yard Sale Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021, & June 6, 2021 Time: 9am - 4pm Location: 25 Wesley Ct, Newburgh, NY Information >
Pride Ride @ The Studio at Beacon Benefiting the Trevor Project
Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Location: 301 Main Street, Beacon NY Time: Two times available: 10am and 10:45am Tickets >
Cornwall-On-Hudson RiverFest
Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Time: 11am - 6pm Location: Donahue Park, 99 Shore Rd, Cornwall-On-Hudson, NY 12520 Information >
Student Concert From Piano Adventures Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Time: 1 pm - 5 pm Location: Piano Adventures Beacon 26 Dutchess Terrace, Beacon, NY 12508 Information >
Blood Drive From Beacon Hebrew Alliance Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Time: 11 am - 5 pm Location: Lewis Tompkins Hose, 13 South Ave., Beacon NY
Sign up at nybc.org or call 1-800-933-2566 Information >
ARF Supply Restock Fundraiser at Dennings Point Distillery
Day: June 1-15, 2021 Time: Dennings Point hours, or donate online any time! Location: Dennings Point Distillery, 10 North Chestnut Street, Beacon, NY 12508
Calling all animal lovers! Help @denningspointdistillery collect supplies for ARF Beacon and get 15% off any of their full size bottles. See here for their list of supplies! Information >
City of Beacon Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall
Day: Monday, June 7, 2021 Time: 6pm - 6:30pm Location: City Hall, Beacon NY Information >
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Eat Church is BACK! At Industrial Arts Brewing, out on Rte. 52 past the John Deere lot. And they're not alone. Also at the complex facing Mount Beacon is District Social - the full bar with craft beer experience that includes Axe Throwing. Yes, you read that right. Axe Throwing. And billiards and arcade games. Gluten free, juicy chicken, craft beer, scenic-loving people, we know where to find you this weekend. Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor!, thank you!
Beacon Bread Company 193 Main St.
Fresh bread & pastry options in Beacon are a plenty, thanks in part to Beacon Bread Company 🥐 - it's hard to choose a favorite! Daily, select from Baguettes, Sourdough Loaves & Boules, Harvest Grain Loaves, Pan Aux Cereal Loaves, Brioche Loaves & Rolls, Bagels, Sticky buns, Croissants, Apple Turnovers, Muffins, Vegan Brownies, Seasonal Loaf, Banana Bread Loaf, Chocolate Whoopie Pies, Twinkies + more! Open 7 days a week from 8 am - 5 pm. Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Amazing to finally see food going out to customers eating in Meyers Olde Dutch restaurant again! Indoor dining is back! With a covered patio in the back (look up at the giant ceiling fan), and Parklet. New order-from-table option is available, so you can just point your camera at the QR code at your table, and order your next cocktail or side of dirty fries. Delivery is still available. Keep an eye on MOD's gram for live music nights. Order Now > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
Tito Santana Taqueria 142 Main St.
NEW ALERT: Crunchwraps now available at Tito Santana Taqueria. 🌮 Fresh & delicious.So many taco options, burrito options, bowl & salad options, quesadillas, empanadas, tostadas, soups - please tag us in your food photos. PS: Tacos are only $2 on Tuesdays! Menu > Catering > Tito Santana Taqueria is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Not only is Homespun a place for good food & a wine store (with an online wine subscription option), but they also have a $20 & Under Table! Special bottles like these go quick. You must get it while it lasts... @monteriocellars & @patrickwine ... Piquette & Pinkette 🏴☠️ fresh fizzy light and delicious 🏴☠️ - Save the bottle(s) at the end & put some flowers in them! Be sure to use the discount codes for orders over $75 and $100 for 10% and 15% off your order respectively. (Look for the discount codes at the top of their website.) PS: Purchases of 3 or more bottles get a free Homespun tote bag! OPEN HOURS:
Thursday - Monday, 10 am - 7 pm Monthly wine subscription > Order Food > Order Wine > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
This deliciousness is from Miz Hatties located inside of HV Food Hall! Miz Hatties is a Southern Style BBQ is famous in Dutchess County for catering, and now dining in or taking out. It is one of the easiest group-ordering home meal if you are entertaining and need comfort food. Neighbors in Beacon were lucky enough to have her fried chicken, pulled pork, mac ‘n cheese, fish ‘n chips, and more. Now, you can too! Even her Sweet Tea is original, with crunchy ice. Experience the mac ‘n cheese melt in your mouth, and savor the fried chicken and sweet yet spicy pulled pork in a bowl or a bun.
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! Momo Valley: Himalayan Spiced Hand-Crafted MoMo & More Barb's Fry Works: Gourmet, small-batch-loaded fries. And salads. Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
It's the weekend! It's hot! & Baja 328 has the most delicious/refreshing drinks you can enjoy with their garage door open for a breeze. Pictured are: the Green Monster, the Sangria Azul, and a blueberry/raspberry margarita. People-watch from your seat on Main Street & order the plantains as a snack. Do check out the specials that are always on the menu! Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
W.T.F Beacon 195 Main St. Did you know you have access to this seafood on Main Street? Yes, it's at W.T.F Beacon waiting for you. Naked Mussels, Curry Coconut Mussels, Tuna Tar Tar, & Scallop Ceviche. Many classic cocktail & house cocktail options pair nicely with any of the seafood options! Fresh & delish. Plates, Burgers, Compliments, and more too! Right next door to Beacon Bread Company. Open on Fridays & Saturdays from 6pm - 10pm (and on Tuesdays for Open Mic Night). Menu > W.T.F Beacon is a Sponsor, thank you!
Ziatun
244 Main St.
Whoa, baby! The falafel platter from Ziatun looks amazing! This is 100% next on our list to try. Hummus, foule, baba ghanouj, falafel, turmips, salad, za'atar. All house-made from family recipes back in Palestine. Also check out their Falafel Burger (it's Vegan!) - falafel patty with pickled turnips, Persian pickles, and creamy tahini on a vegan brioche bun from beacon Bread Company! 🥙 Menu > Order Online > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Two Way Brewing Company
18 West Main St.
Two Way has something new on tap for the weekend... *Drumroll please*...It's their Summer Session IPA! It comes in at 4.5% ABV and is bitter crisp and super refreshing to drink. Just in time for this hot weekend. Plus, we know you'll be hungry, and the kitchen is OPEN! Enjoy upscale pub food from The Flying Jib. Rumor has it, they are killing it with the wings. OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon Binnacle specializes in used and new literature, poetry, literary nonfiction, political history, art, drama, philosophy, graphic novels, and children's books. If there is a particular title you're interested in, let them know. If they don't have it, they are always happy to order it for you! They are also always looking to acquire used books in excellent condition, especially in their core categories.The bookstore is a collaborative endeavor by four partners, who have collectively been writers, editors, musicians, producers, organizers, teachers, filmmakers, and booksellers. If you love books, they welcome you. If you don't, they'll do their best to convince you otherwise. Open Thursday-Monday 12 pm - 6 pm - Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.Masks are required for all customers entering the store.Their staff will be masked as well.
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
KAIGHT SHOP
512 Main Street, Beacon
Kaights Shop has once again done your shoe shopping for you. Just in time for summer, the artisan-made Pons are back in stock in the shop. Check them out online, but coming in at $85, this sandal is handmade in Spain, using a leather insole that molds to your foot. This is how you keep your step cool yet stylish on the hot streets. PS: Thursdays are Locals Day at Kaights! Locals get 10% on everything not on sale. Shop Online > Kaight Shop is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Did we overhear our neighbor right? Is it going to be 90 on Sunday? Better get your water game lined up. Thankfully, with more and more people taking the vaccine, more and more outdoor activities with friends are open and available. Prepare the right way for Summer Camp with goggles and all other necessities by shopping at Brett's. He's fully stocked. So many different pairs of goggles and outdoor essentials to keep the kids entertained, safe, and happy all Summer long! Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Woa. These new frames from Anne Et Valentin at Luxe Optique are insanely amazing. Please try them on! They probably change the light of your eyes. Imagine with an off-white summer dress or with a grey jumpsuit. They are the must-have accessory that you're missing! Treat yourself as special and unique as you are. Make an appt at Luxe today! : @anneetvalentin
Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
Tues-Sat:10 AM–6 PM
Sunday: Closed Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
436 Main Street, Beacon
Summer Casual from La Mere is our favorite! There is nothing better than looking good & feeling comfy. La Mere is the destination for boho fashion that features the latest trends in apparel and gifts. High quality at fantastic prices. Open 11-6 and always open online! Need a gift card? They have those too! PS: Do check out their perfumes.
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Angela Van Vlack, owner of Yanarella, is a true Beaconite. She was born at the then Highland Hospital, raised in the Beacon City School District, built a family here, and continues to reside in Beacon to this day. Angela has had a unique opportunity to actively participate in and help shape the flourishing Beacon arts community over the past several decades with her community involvement.
Angela began dancing at the early age of four under the direction of Carol Ann Yanarella Miller. She fell in love from the very first class. Dance quickly blossomed from a passion to a lifestyle. As a child, Angela and her cousins would coordinate and choreograph dance recitals for the neighborhood. Angela was an exceptional acrobat, demonstrating tremendous skill with her ability to perform various high-level tricks including limbers, walkovers, aerials, and back handsprings. She started assisting at the age of 14, teaching at the age of 16 and now has over 40 years of experience as a dance instructor. Teaching has brought immense joy to Angela’s life and she is proud of all of the students she has taught.
Angela is celebrating her 25th year as owner and director of Yanarella School of Dance—an illustrious studio that has been in existence for over 60 years. Angela teaches all levels ranging from Mommy & Me for toddlers to adult classes with students as old as their mid-80s. She teaches all types of dance including but not limited to Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Tumbling, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop. Angela’s diverse Dance resumé is not confined solely to Yanarella. Angela studied Classical Ballet and Modern and served as choreographer for the annual Landphony Swimphony Competition at the College of New Rochelle.
Furthermore, she has studied and collaborated with a long list of dance legends including Luigi, Gus Giordano, Sheila Barker, Ginger Cox, Chio, Anthony LoCascio, Hillary-Marie, Frank Hatchett, Jason Warley, Bob Rizzo, and, one of her greatest influences, Debbi Dee mainly through her involvement with NADAA (the National Association of Dance and Affiliated Arts)—an organization for which Angela currently serves as National Vice President and New York Chapter President. Angela has also taught a preschool program for the Humpty Dumpty Nursery School, has taught throughout the Beacon City School District, and was co-coach of the award-winning Beacon High School Dance team.
Angela also had a professional career outside of the realm of dance. She earned a Baccalaureate of Science degree in Nursing from the College of New Rochelle and is licensed as a registered nurse in New York and Connecticut with a specialty in Neonatal/Pediatrics. She worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Danbury Hospital, was a visiting nurse and worked as a substitute nurse in the Beacon City School District before taking a leave of absence to raise her family and focus on the studio.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Is Defensive Driving Worth The Investment
To say there are distractions on the road would be an understatement.
"Between texting, GPS, finding the right song on our playlist, and perhaps even a little speeding, it is no surprise there are millions of trips to the ER due to motor vehicle accidents in New York State alone. We know what you’re thinking, “I am a responsible driver and not doing any of those things”, but does that mean you know how to defend yourself from those on the road who are distracted?
As cliche as this may sound, defensive driving courses really do save lives. It doesn’t matter how cautious or responsible YOU are when driving, accidents do happen. Many of the insurance carriers that we work with offer up to a 10% discount on all vehicle liability, PIP (Personal Injury Protection), and collision premiums for up to 3 years off the principal operator. And you may be eligible to reduce up to 4 points off of your driving record.
A good defensive driving course will teach you many tools to drive safely and strategically. Yes, we did just say strategically. When looking at driving from this approach, we are able to clearly show the different defensive driving techniques that are essential to remaining safe on the road.
TIN SHINGLE
Lena Rizkallah is a friend of Tin Shingle, and a neighbor here in Beacon, NY, where Tin Shingle is based. She advises people on financial planning, and calls herself a recovering attorney. One day, Lena walked into Tin Shingle's co-work space to consider renting it for workshops and single working days. That was the last day I saw Lena before the pandemic covered us all in stay-at-home orders.
The next time I saw Lena was when she walked by me in a Free Palestine march in Newburgh, NY. I was there to cover it as a reporter for my local publication, A Little Beacon Blog. We recognized each other from behind out masks. The march ended at Rep. Sean Maloney's district office in Newburgh, and Lena walked up the stairs to deliver her speech at the planned open mic session that usually accompanies marches in Newburgh and Beacon.
She was there to talk about what Palestine looks and feels like on the other side of the occupation wall, based on her experience as a first generation Palestinian living in America.
Lena gave Tin Shingle permission to publish her speech in full. Read it here >
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Pairing great writing, content, and design for an experience that means something to people. From the reporting and design team that produces A Little Beacon Blog, a local online newspaper covering Beacon, NY, as well as the media training team that is behind Tin Shingle, an education and empowerment zone for small businesses, Katie James, Inc. is the uniquely positioned design studio that knows how to align with businesses and artists of all kinds with different needs, to get them the online tools they need to keep selling to their customers and clients. Contact us to tell us about your goals.
HIRING: Gold Star Family Member For Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney Details >
HIRING: Part-Time Production Assistant At SallyeAnder Details >
HIRING: Administrative Assistant At Daniel Aubry Realty Details >
HIRING: Teacher Assistant At Care 4 Me, Inc. Details>
HIRING: Office Assistant At Gilded Audio Details >
HIRING: Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County Details >
ALBB's Business Directory is a Deep Dive List of services you need right now in Beacon and the Hudson Valley. There is a lot of talent here in the 12508 and beyond and we want to highlight all of them. Check out the Business Directory HERE.
Meyers Olde Dutch Owner/Chef Brian Arfnoff, standing in front of his newly renovated restaurant. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Meyers Olde Dutch, your favorite burger shop for beef and vegan burgers, has been seemingly closed during much of the pandemic (spoiler alert: it was open the whole time). Some saw the boarded up windows and assumed the worst - fire. Others saw the boards and assumed the whole place was closed. Not so! Die-hard fans read the sign out front and knew that MOD set up shop at their sister restaurant down the street, Kitchen Sink, never skipping a beat flipping those burgers and dirtying those fries.
Was the renovation planned? Was the pandemic the perfect time to break ground? Yes and yes, as we discovered in our interview with Owner/Chef Brian Arnoff, who bought the little building in 2017 from the prior burger joint owner, Paul Yeaple of Poppy’s.
As did all restaurants in Beacon and the nation, Brian worked hard to figure out new ways to keep serving customers using an order-by-table app so customers can dial in their food/drink order straight to the kitchen/bar, keep his staff employed, keep live music every now and then, and keep the air healthy for when the doors could open again to the public.
We love hearing stories from the people themselves, so read how Brian tells it below:
ALBB: After you bought the building in 2017, had you always considered renovating it?
The new HVAC unit to improve air quality when the doors and windows are closed, lifted in before the big opening. Photo Credit: Meyers Olde Dutch
Yes. There were a number of issues with the building that always needed to be addressed, like a leaky roof and very outdated/undersized HVAC system among other problems.
ALBB: Did the pandemic shutdown push you over the edge to take the time to dig into the renovation?
“Basically yes. We had been working on the plans, which went though several iterations for a while. As you know, going through the Planning Board process takes time especially when you’re in the Historic District and need variances. After the initial shock of COVID-19 passed, it started to become clear this was basically an ideal time to try and complete this renovation.”
The new covered patio and fan at Meyers Olde Dutch, a COVID-friendly improvement made during the pandemic. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
ALBB: What improvements did you make to make it COVID-friendlier?
“We updated our HVAC system with Merv-13 filtration. The system turns the air over more often and filters significantly more of the particles COVID-19 is known to float on. Additionally, we added some windows that can be opened for more fresh air, and covered our patio to give guests the option to sit outside all the time.”
ALBB: Were you able to retain some of your staff team?
“I’m very lucky to say yes! We have many staff who have been with Meyer’s Olde Dutch for a long time, including our kitchen manager Adam and bar manager Jesse, both of whom started at Kitchen Sink before MOD even existed, as well as Emily our lead bartender who has been with us at MOD since basically the first month we were open back in 2017, among many other staff.”
ALBB: What did you grow appreciative of during the pandemic shutdown?
“My time. I started working for myself in November of 2010 when I opened a food truck in DC and haven’t had a lot of down time since. The pandemic definitely gave me a different perspective on that and how I want to ‘protect’ my time and use it wisely.”
ALBB: Did any new offering emerge from the pandemic shutdown when you were in survival mode?
“Delivery for one. But also an increased focus on making new specials at MOD because we wanted to keep the menu fresh for our local customers who were so supportive during COVID.”
ALBB: What has been a huge struggle during the shutdown?
“Obviously there were many struggles, and those changed over time, but the energy at times enforcing masking last summer was really tough. No hospitality-minded person wants to constantly tell their customers to do things, and then occasionally have to fight with them about it. That was hard on our staff.”
ALBB: We are hearing from other restaurants that there have been struggles with 3rd party apps and delivery. What do you want people know about delivery? As convenient as it is, there are a lot of people involved from the ordering of the food, to the delivery, and the problems are aren’t always coming from the restaurant. What struggles have you faced there?
“So many things! Every restaurant has a different story and perspective on this, as we all used and did different things. Overall, I would just say, if you can avoid ordering through a third party app and instead order direct through the restaurant’s website, that is the most helpful/supportive thing the general public can do. Also, get vaccinated and just go sit at restaurants because more than anything, hospitality people want to have your real life presence back in the restaurant.”
ALBB: There was recently a report on Marketplace that one of the ways restaurants streamlined to survive was to introduce ordering-by-table, where a unique QR code is placed on the table, and a person can scan it with their camera app, and the menu pops up - for their table only. The customer can order a cocktail, beer or burger without telling a server, but the server brings it out and makes sure it’s OK. I see you have unique QR codes on your tables - how has this been going?
“Good! It cuts down on the wait time for the customer a lot. I was bar-tending the other night, and people who were outside were able to order drinks without me having to leave the bar to check on them. People are basically opening tabs for themselves. If they are in a group at one table, each person can open their own tab, and pay down when they are done.”
ALBB: Genius! This solves the problem of splitting the check 10 different ways!
“Yes (Brian laughs sheepishly). It’s all so new, we as staff aren’t used to guiding people to use it. But it is going well!”
Editorial Note: Meyers Olde Dutch is an advertising client of ALBB, and a branding client of Katie James Inc. This article was produced independently of that partnership.
Just months after Homespun’s new owner and sommelier, Joe Robitaille bought Homespun from its former longtime owners and founders, the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, and businesses and restaurants were forced to close. The rollout of Unemployment Insurance was rocky and overwhelmed almost every state in America including New York State. The subsequent business bailout, known as the PPP Loan, was a moving target in terms of who could apply and how the money could be spent if the business owner wanted the loan forgiven, leaving restaurants owners and staff in precarious situations between the PPP Loan and Unemployment Insurance but not both, with initial penalties to restaurant owners who could not bring all staff back (if staff stayed on Unemployment Insurance).
After the long, cold spring of 2020, the City of Beacon followed the trend of allowing street-dining in sectioned off “parklets,” where patrons, hungry for in-person dining, could come to gather around a table, and inspire a new round of photos prompting mask-judging as patrons could go mask-less as masked servers waited on them. The judgement passed, and diners continued to come, well into the fall, bundled in coats and all. Some speculated as to the safety of the parklets, but no reports of accidents emerged from the June - November season.
Homespun was one of the most cautious restaurants and delayed their opening, focusing instead on building their wine selection, to sell bottles of their highly researched wine selection. They invested in an online store to sell the wine, reflecting Joe’s training as a sommelier. Homespun eventually opened from Thursdays - Sundays for outdoor dining only in the patio out back, and just last week, announced that they had opened their small dining room for some indoor dining, and were adding Monday as an open day. This is great news for locals, who can enjoy Beacon without the weekend rush, and a win for businesses who need more business than just weekends.
City of Beacon Receives More Parklet Requests This Year
The parklet at Max’s On Main, which arrived this week to kick off the warm season.
This year, Councilmember George Mansfield announced the parklet applications, stating that the City had opened them to more business types, and for no fee. “I just wanted to let everyone know that for businesses on Main Street, we're accepting applications for the parklets for Dining or Hospitality or Retail. Applications are being accepted at City Hall. No Costs. Hope you use it because it was a successful attempt to assuage business last year. Looks like we're going to have a good spring. For now, the City is trying to do what we can to help those businesses on Main Street.”
Councilperson Mansfield is also a business owner in Beacon, having opened Dogwood. In December 2020, George temporarily closed Dogwood for the winter, and at the end of April 2021, re-opened on Saturdays and Sundays, beginning at 2pm.
During the April 19, 2021 City Council meeting, Mayor Lee Kyriacou stated that there had been more applicants this year, and that he supported no-fee. “More applications [came in] this year than last year. They should be without charge. We considered a charge, I will be coming to Council. We may need approval for additional funds. I think it's the right thing to do.” It is unclear at this time what those additional funds would be for the parklets.
During Tuesday Business meetings last year during the shut-down, where business owners could call in and discuss issues with the former City Administrator Anthony Ruggiaro, discussions were had on the purchase of the parklets by the City of Beacon, and how they would look in the street.
Parklets Arrive To Main Street Parking Spots
Business owners who applied for the parklets arrived at work today (Monday) morning to see them positioned out front of their establishments in the street. Some parklets occupy 3 on-street parking spots, which have some residents questioning how parking will be impacted in Beacon. On Sundays, the currently free municipal parking lot at the DMV, owned by Dutchess County, will be occupied by the Beacon Farmers Market, who was moved there by the City of Beacon for the 2021 season, years after a contentious and confusing negotiation to stay at their usual Veterans Place location in 2019, during which they encountered resistance from the Towne Crier, yet had overwhelming support from other surrounding businesses.
The DMV municipal parking lot is occupied by visitors in cars on Saturdays and Sundays, and has 2 electric car chargers. The small municipal parking lot across the street across from the gas station is also usually full on weekends, despite comments made during City Council Meetings that both parking lots are under-utilized. Below are photos of the parking lots taken on the past two Sundays, mid-day.
The Windows And Doors Stay Open
In order to have a safe and successful indoor dining experience for everyone involved, including staff and patrons, several restaurants are opting to keep their windows and doors open. Reports have come in that some patrons are requesting to have a window be shut, but the preference is to remain open for ventilation. The same practice is happening in Beacon schools, in addition to upgrades to ventilation systems.
Several restaurants on Main Street made upgrades to their ventilation systems, including Meyers Olde Dutch (currently under renovation, to open soon in May), and Dogwood. Owner George Mansfield says that Dogwood cannot take advantage of the parklet option because they have no on-street parking outside of their building. “We’re just trying to make our inside air as good or better than the outside air,” owner George Mansfield told A Little Beacon Blog. “We installed a high tech ventilation system that scrubs the air of 98% of pathogens. Hoping for the best.”
Editorial Notice: As a notice, Homespun and Meyers Olde Dutch are advertisers with A Little Beacon Blog.
The weather is getting warmer and you know what that means… it’s time for ICE-CREAM (although we are truly big fans all year round)! A reader already wrote to us about it on Thursday: “Urgent question: When is Ron’s opening?” By Friday afternoon, the Beacon Creamery had happy patrons sitting outside of it on their carved wooden bear bench.
People are gearing up to stand in socially distant lines (remember, don’t over-crowd!) to begin practicing how to order ahead from an ice cream shop, if they offer it. It is time to revisit Beacon’s ice-cream shops, as the spring weather has everyone itching to get outside in the sunshine.
The Beacon Creamery is located at 134 Main St in Beacon, NY and they have mouth-watering flavors that you need to try now! Some include, “New York, New York” which includes cappuccino Kahlua, hot fudge, whipped cream, and raspberry sauce. They also have floats, ice cream sundaes, specialties, tipsy shakes, and regular ice cream with an option to add WINE ice cream for $2.00!
Pictured: Blue Panda
Ron’s Ice Cream
Ron’s Ice Cream is located at 298 Fishkill Ave in Beacon, NY and they have all of the fun flavors you want like Birthday Cake or Cookies and Cream. And always sprinkles. Some special flavors include Chocolate Moose Tracks, Graham Central Station, Crazy Vanilla, Cookies n Cream, and many more! They also carry sundaes, specialty sundaes, flurries, milkshakes, slushies, and more. Oh, plus, they have hotdogs, burgers, snacks, sandwiches, and sides!
The parking lot is small for line crowding during a pandemic. Last year, Ron’s initiated a call-in service with no walk-up service. ALBB does not have word yet on how they will do it this year. Stay tuned!
Zora Dora’s
Zora Dora’s Micro Batch Ice Cream And Paletas is located at 201 Main St in Beacon, NY, and makes ice creams and sorbets in the form of paletas! If you don’t know what a paleta is, it’s a frozen treat on a stick! Their handmade products are produced in small batches every day and they source and handpick the freshest seasonal ingredients available. They also offer catering and cart rentals!
Pictured: Vegan Chocolate Orange
The Chocolate Studio
The Chocolate Studio doesn’t only have delicious chocolates and signature treats, but they also have ice cream! Vegan flavors too. You can pick-up vegan and gluten-free treats (or nonvegan/gluten-free) OR they ship nationwide! Sadly, ice-cream is excluded from the shipping part so you will have to stop in the store for that! But you’ll want to! So many flavors, you might have to get a few.
Yankee Clipper Diner
You can also stop in the Yankee Clipper Diner for ice-cream! They have a few sundaes on their menu, including the Waffle Sundae, which is a freshly baked Belgian waffle with 2 scoops of ice cream, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, sprinkles, walnuts, and a cherry on top! I mean, this could be your breakfast! Add additional toppings for only $1.
At first blush, this seems to target canoodling. As one 8 year old observed: “Everybody knows that COVID cases are coming from people kissing at bars.” The truth may be that infections are spreading at home as people get lax in their social circles. With Thanksgiving coming up, Governor Cuomo just decided for you on if you were merging with another family, depending on the size of yours. Which may be good, as family table talk could get fiery with the election still in the rear view mirror.
For some restaurants in Beacon, the surge in take-out, delivery, parklets (seating in the street) and new safety measures have helped keep their businesses alive. We checked with business owners in Beacon to see how this curfew will impact them, interviews with some are below.
The eateries most impacted will most likely be Hudson Valley Food Hall, with the limitation of the Roosevelt Bar, Barb’s Fry Works, who just opened a stall inside HV Food Hall to cater to the late night drinking crowd, and The Beacon Hotel, who is known for their late night lounge service.
Max’s On Main, one of the original a late-nighters in the game, pivoted already to focus on food and take-out. The Eat Church Food Truck used to be hunkered down at Industrial Arts Brewing on Rte. 52, but long ago pulled up the pins and was serving from Marbled Meat Shop in Cold Spring, and will bounce to Kingston next. Sadly, Joe’s Irish Pub, announced their permanent closure and retirement in early November 2020.
We interviewed several owners below, and heard from others as well.
Some Restaurants Already Started Closing At Or By 10pm
MEYERS OLD DUTCH Meyers Old Dutch (MOD) owner and chef Brian Arnoff used to have a weekend late night crowd, but stopped when he re-opened during the pandemic. “Since COVID started, we’ve been closing by 10pm anyways. We used to stay open until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights. Thankfully, this shouldn’t impact us. At least for now anyways.”
CHILL WINE BAR Jim Svetz, owner of Chill Wine Bar, is also able to proceed, saying: “Thankfully this won’t impact us that much, since we reopened with already limited hours Friday and Saturdays, from 5pm-10pm. So no change here. I think most places with limited indoor seating will have a difficult time this winter. But we will get through this together.”
HOMESPUN New owner of Homespun, Joe Robitaille, who is a wine expert (aka sommelier), has increased the amount of wine bottles and specialty beer they sell from the store, which “has helped us so much,” he told us when mulling over Thanksgiving and catering options. Look for a possible fire-pit and heaters in the back garden, but that is not confirmed yet.
BANK SQUARE COFFEE HOUSE Bank Square Coffee House is a coffee house that caters to a beer crowd for day-drinking and lightly into the evening. Says their manager: “I do believe it might impact our weekend crowd. Now with winter coming along, we depend a lot on our weekday regulars and our occasional busy weekends. Now with not many people being able to stay out late, I think we might see a little less of a weekend crowd. Fortunately, we close at 8pm even on weekends, so we won’t get too impacted.”
Late Night Bars With Food Who Pivoted With The First Re-Opening
QUINN’S Quinn’s was one of the last restaurants in Beacon to re-open, waiting until summer. For this latest restriction, Quinn’s manager, Stamper, was feeling prepared: “After our hiatus between May and August, we re-opened understanding that we would not be a late night place again for a long while. With this in mind, we shifted our hours to incorporate lunch and closing at 9pm. With the removal of Main Street parklets, losing our outdoor dining, we’ve recently opened up indoor at an exclusive capacity, and with new hours: 5pm-11pm. This change was so fresh, that most customers still assume our kitchen is only open until 9pm, and so orders taper off around then. Ultimately, we’re losing an hour, but the bulk of our business is kept between the 5pm-9pm hours, and I’m certain as word spreads, folks will hang at Quinn’s until 10pm. Thank you!”
MAX’S ON MAIN Max’s on Main is where you go where everybody knows your name, at practically any time of the day. You need a Blondie dessert at 11pm after having a great dinner at Dogwood? You go to Max’s. However, after the re-opening, they too shifted their late night bar scene to be heavy in food. We caught up with Jesse Kaplan, son of co-owner Richie Kaplan, and bar tenders Stephanie and Mary.
Said Jesse: “We were one of the business that served food the latest. Our customers know that we are available here later than some other places, and they have been very supportive of that. We are going to take a hit for that. But, we care about everybody being safe. If this is what we have to do to help the community be safe, then we are all in favor. I would never want to put the community at risk. We have been very careful here about everything. Face masks. Sanitation. Temperature. If we have to close at 10pm, that’s what we’re going to do.”
Will alcohol sales hurt Max’s? Jesse explains: “Our identity changed a little bit as a result of the pandemic. We made the decision to operate the business more as a restaurant once the pandemic hit, with an understanding that we would lose those alcohol sales, but our customers and our staff would feel more safe.”
Delivery is now available at Max’s. Right now, the crew is driving. “We all have been pitching in. Richie takes a delivery. I have been known to take a delivery or two. Stephanie (a bartender and former reporter and student in cyber crime) will take one one the way home at the end of her shift. The staff has really stepped up to pitch in.”
Stephanie chimed in to say that right away after the pandemic started, the community was very supportive and ordered a lot of food. Jesse recalls phone-in orders, where people will say: “Hi, I’m calling in an order, and I ordered from Brother’s earlier, and the Diner yesterday. I want to do my part to support restaurants in town. We are very thankful for that.”
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL VIA THE ROOSEVELT BAR Owner of the Hudson Valley Food Hall (HV Food Hall), Marko Guzijan was cruising right along with the bar business at the Roosevelt Bar until 1am, which was doing so well that Barb’s Butchery, who enjoys popping up on Main Street at the Farmer’s Market from time to time from her home base of Spring Street, had just opened a stall inside the food hall called Barb’s Fry Works, which catered to the hungry late night crowd. HV Food Hall is very spacious inside, with tall ceilings, and has a generous patio on their corner lot.
Said Marko, who was looking forward focusing on his 40th birthday: “The late night crowd has been very good for us. Barb’s Fry Works just opened, and her business model is based on staying open with the bar. So it’s a big hit. Everyone in the Food and Beverage business wants to do the right thing. If shutting down helps end the pandemic, then let’s do it. But it feels like the Governor just keeps punching down and hurting Food and Beverage businesses.
“We try to follow the rules. We implement new business models, and then the Governor changes it all up and offers us nothing in return. We have to help out with overhead and bills. Central Hudson still charges the same rate, Optimum charges the same rate, our insurance is based on the size of the business, but our business is cut by over half. I think all small businesses will do what is best for the greater good, but it feels like we are the ones taking the larger hit on our business.”
What new things has HV Food Hall done to accommodate the pandemic? Marko describes: “The food hall bar business model for us is fast/casual and self-service. With the new restrictions, we have had to hire more staff (2 hosts, 2 servers, a barback, and 2 busboys). Now we need to figure out if we need that staff anymore. I really don’t want to lay people off in a pandemic, but might not have a choice.
“We have limited our seating because of the 6 feet rule, which has forced us to turn people away at times. Because of the food rule, the bar will buy food for patrons instead of forcing them to spend more money on something they don’t want. We have 25+ staff in the whole food hall, and have not had a single positive test. When someone doesn’t feel well, they stay home and close the stall. We then pay for a commercial cleaning company to come in and deep clean everything, at a cost of almost $1,000. Five guys in hazmat suits spend 4-5 hours going over every inch of the food hall. We do these things and we’ve never had a staff member test positive.
“As the rules keep changing, we start running our business in fear. At any point, the Governor can send people in and take away the liquor license. I would love to have live music for Saturday and Sunday brunch, but can’t get clarification on if it is allowed or not. So I don’t let it happen, even though a few of the chefs have pushed for it.”
THE BEACON HOTEL The Beacon Hotel was fully renovated a few years ago by a different ownership team. Jon Lombardi started as the general manager there, and is now co-owner. Under his management, The Beacon Hotel has become an eatery for all times: brunch, lunch, dinner, and operates as a lounge in the evening. Jon was walking past his restaurant when we caught up with him. When asked about the change, he didn’t flinch. “We’re ready. I’ve got my flyer. I’ve got my to-go glasses.”
Jon is never one without ideas, and has inspired his pandemic survival package with a “Last Call: 10pm” theme. Patrons can order to-go shots with group discounts, different cocktails in cute mason jars, and perhaps the best part: if you bring back your mason jar for a refill the next day or days later, you get a discount. Food has always been available to go at The Beacon Hotel, and continues to be, which includes rotating specials and themes for whatever is going on.
There are other bar/restaurants in town, but we did not get their definitive plans in time for this article. Wishing everyone the best, and to keep on ordering.
With COVID-19 cases rising in the nation and in New York, Governor Cuomo announced today via press conference that any establishment with a State Liquor Authority license must close by 10pm. The Dutchess Business Notification Network reported the news quickly. The Executive Order is to come, but you can watch the announcement here.
Hospitalizations in New York are up overall, as are deaths. While the average number of deaths over the summer was at around 4, lately it has been climbing, with yesterday reaching 32. While this is very sad, and overall low compared to New York’s death number in the spring, the increase is notable. Governor Cuomo in his daily emails has been stressing to limit private gatherings, and did remove the liquor license from a wedding venue in Long Island who hosted a wedding that exceeded reduced capacity, and ended up being a super spreader.
From his 11/9/2020 nightly email: “A Long Island country club lost its liquor license after hosting an illegal, super-spreader wedding. As we have seen time and time again, large gatherings can unfortunately turn into super-spreader events. The State Liquor Authority has suspended the liquor license for the North Fork Country Club following a wedding which violated pandemic-related guidance. A total of 113 guests attended—more than double the number allowed—leading to 34 COVID-19 infections, and scores of people in quarantine. New York will not tolerate illegal and dangerous mass gatherings.”
Said Governor Cuomo Tuesday evening: “In the micro-cluster focus areas, the positivity rate was 5.59 percent. Excluding these areas, it was 2.56 percent.” He has always indicated the “tighten the valve” method as numbers increase, and this is one of those measures, without fully shutting things down.
The Dutchess Business Notification Network also reported that while the physical location must be closed, restaurants and bars may continue to serve take-out and delivery options for food items.
Gyms are also required to close each night at 10PM.
Gatherings at private residencies must now be limited to 10 individuals maximum.
As winter is coming, and extended outdoor dining in parklets (aka designated areas in parking spots on the streets) has ended as of November 1, 2020 in Beacon, restaurants are facing an incredible challenge to stay open. Some restaurants are able to keep their sidewalk dining open, and some have courtyards in the back. Some have been able to succeed through delivery options. Trax Coffee Roasters, based in Beacon, just opened a second location on Rte. 52, at the boarder of Fishkill and Beacon. For a list of which ones, see A Little Beacon Blog’s Restaurant Guide.
The radio station WPDH, ‘The Home of Rock and Roll’, has shared a list of at least 35 restaurants that are closing in the Hudson Valley. Some that have been in business for over 30 years! Reasoning for some closures are unknown, and others are due to COVID-19. Visit WPDH for more reporting they did on each restaurant regarding thier reasons for closing, most of which are pandemic-related.
WPDH also shared that, “Dunkin' is set to close at least eight New York locations. Dunkin' confirmed plans to close 450 locations, mostly on the East Coast, by the end of 2020. All of the Dunkin' closures are stores located inside Speedway gas stations. In the Hudson Valley, there are Dunkin' stores inside Speedway locations in Highland, New Windsor, Saugerties, and two in Kingston according to Google Maps. In New York, there are also locations in Hudson, Norwich and Margaretville. Click Here to read more.”
Dunkin’ Donuts, on Rte. 52. Other Dunkin’ Donuts inside of Speedway gas stations will also close, as walk-in foot-traffic has diminished.
Fishkill
Il Barilotto (on Main Street)
Wappingers Falls
Stewart’s Shops on Route 9D Cousins Ale House, which includes the entire brewery, not just moving to a new location. Michael's Rita’s Italian Ice
Poughkeepsie
Sweet Obsessions Nic L Inn Cellar Bistro & Market Bonefish Grill Table Talk Diner Ruby Tuesday at the Poughkeepsie Mall (the Fishkill location had already closed months prior to pandemic) Amici's
Newburgh
Cena 2000 (on the Newburgh Waterfront) Waterfront Lounge and Grill (on the Newburgh Waterfront) Union Square
Wallkill
Zoghby's Blueberry Mountain Ice Cream
Napanoch
White Wolf Restaurant
New Windsor
Sweet Peas Cafe
Kingston
TCBY Duo Bistro Dunkin’ Donuts
Irvington
Dexter’s Den
Scarsdale
California Pizza Kitchen
Montgomery
88 Charles Street Cafe Garrison's Tavern & Restaurant
We did it! Beacon made it through the first week of school, being one of the few districts who is trying the Hybrid system of 2 days at school in person, and 2 days at home. Free meals for all children are prepared and provided by the district Food Services team (funded by the USDA through Dec. 31, 2020), and teachers are creating their own systems of working with their kids. Technological glitches happen, will always happen, and organizational systems will be reworked once they leave paper and are in practice.
Some families who opted for Hybrid changed their minds for health or logistic reasons to be 100% Home, and some families put children into different schools entirely.
As a community, and in the name of public school for all, we are figuring it out. So here is an all-caps HIGH-FIVE to those of you who are knee-deep in it. You deserve extra Retail Therapy this weekend!
THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Restock The Tiny Food Pantries
Day: Any day Time: Open Hours of Library (or any time for the outside boxes at the Beacon Rec Center, or Binnacle Books) Locations: Library, Beacon Rec Center, Binnacle Books
The Tiny Food Pantries are in Beacon, and they are a grab-in-gostyle. No approval. No wait time. Two of them are outside, so are 24/7. But they are limited by who in the community stocks them. This one is in the Howland Public Library, and is bare! If you have un-openedsnacks like Girl Scout Cookies, simply drop them off here. Also toiletries like tampons and pads.
Story Screen Drive-In presents "Jaws" and "Jurassic Park"
Day: Friday-Sunday, September 18-20, 2020 Time: 7:15pm (Jaws), 10:15pm (Jurassic Park) Location: The Park at USC, 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY
Parking will be on a first come first serve basis. You can arrive up to 15 minutes before your screening's scheduled start time to be assigned a space. Please be aware that you must arrive no later than 15 minutes after your screening's scheduled start time to attend the movie. All admissions sales must be completed in advance by reservation on this site. Tickets sales end one hour before the start of the screening. There will be no tickets available at the Drive-In box office. Information >
Made by Hand Pop-Up Store
Days: Now through September 27, 2020 Time: 11am-7pm Location: 508 Main Street, Beacon, NY Near BAU, Vegetalien, near the mountain
The Made by Hand Pop-Up Store aims to support and showcase local, independent artists whose businesses were adversely affected by Covid-19 by offering them a temporary storefront, observing safe social-distancing protocols, where buyers can discover their work within a thoughtfully curated collection that promotes aesthetic values rooted in social justice, repurposing of materials, and handmade processes. Information >
EAT CHURCH
511 Fishkill Avenue, Beacon, NY Pop-Up Alert!!
NOODLES! Come get your slurp on with Eat Church this Friday and Saturday in their special Noodle Nice-Up Revue (we already ordered ours!). Menu items include:
Fat Guy - Phat Thai Wok (pork belly, shrimp, or veggie, rice noodle)
More Fun - Ga Bun Salad (double fried chicken or mushroom, rice vermicelli)
Big Joy - Khao Soi Soup (chicken coconut curry, wheat noodle)
Location: Marbled Meat Shop: 3091 Route 9, Cold Spring, NY Date/Time: Friday & Saturday September 18-19, 2020 - 4:00-8:00 PM. Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Don't let the cooler weather stop you from enjoying a tasty and savory Mexican Gazpacho. Their food tastes so fresh! Some of Baja 328's recent specials also include Crispy California Roll Tacos, Pan Seared Salmon w/ Garlic Chipotle Pea Puree, and Sweet and Sour Chicken Wrap. Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm-8pm Follow on Instagram > Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!
MEYERS OLD DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
At Meyers Old Dutch it's more than just mouth watering burgers. They got something for your sweet tooth too! Straight out of the oven, take your pick! They're open until 9pm. Did you hear that, Late Night Eaters? 9pm. You can also order online for take out or delivery via Toast. PS: If you order a salad for lunch, you can finish it with a cookie. More > Meyers Old Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Homespun is quickly becoming your destination for very special beer and wine. Once famous for their soups, you can also count on them for new craft beer discoveries. ‘Watermelon Glow Up’ is a Berliner Weisse style, a low alcohol wheat beer style that was very popular in Berlin during the 19th Century. Cloudy, sour, buzzy, happy.
Try it, and let us know what you think!
Also dine in Homespun's adorable parklet out front, or their garden in the back. More > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Keep it spicy at Momo Valley inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall. Handcrafted Spicy Grass-fed Beef MoMo available for online or pickup orders.
Special for serious spicy food enthusiasts.
Thoughtfully sourced locally @marbledmeatshop
We love collaborations! PS: Do pick up a mango lassi to-go while you're there. Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
How about an accessory for your accessory? Like this eye-catching glasses chain by @emmanuellekhanh. Designing iconic eyewear since 1969, handcrafted in France & Japan. The precious mesh of the Creole chain combined with sunglasses with straight lines for an oversized look. Go Shopping > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
There is a continuous stream of new books being added to Binnacle Books. One visit isn't enough! Binnacle Books shares "We're grateful for our shop, and for you all, and for the staunch and persistent nature of reality which, despite fear and demagoguery, stands strong and belongs entirely to itself, bolstered by good will in wild dreams and cold, hard facts alike." Information > Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you!
LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
436 Main Street, Beacon
Who else is loving this Fummer weather? Don't know what this is? That perfect time between Summer and Fall. 🏻 You can shop online at https://lamereclothingandgoods.com/ 24/7. Wednesday- Saturday: 11am-6pm Sunday: 12pm-5pm PS: You'll find a Shopping Bar in the store, in case you needed a quick sip of wine while you shop. Information> La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you!
LEWIS & PINE
133 Main Street, Beacon
Stunning. Right? These little beauties are gravel post earrings, which are cast from real granite, preserving every detail and giving them a beautifully textured surface- A little fancy & a little badass. Available in Sterling Silver and 18K Gold Vermeil. Solid 14K yellow or rose gold are also available by request! Go into the store - only open on the weekend! Now is your time. Or shop online. Shop > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you!
COMPASS ARTS
395 Main St., Beacon, NY Elements At Home Dates: September 21 to December 18 (no curriculum the week of 11/23)
For your home schooling needs. A self directed curriculum with guidance from the Compass Arts team. Information >
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Antalek & Moore's office is open for regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM for those who wish to make insurance payments. Continue to practice social distancing and masks are required for customers and staff.
They continue to offer appointments with their staff by phone or Zoom video conferencing. If you wish to speak to your insurance representative in person, please contact their offices in advance so they can prepare any paperwork that may be needed as well as ensuring the conference room is available to make certain we can practice social distancing.
Thank you for your cooperation and "we are grateful we are able to continue to provide the customer service you have come to expect while we all work through this together." Information > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle has launched a new initiative: "Leave A Review Tuesday"
Tin Shingle is ALBB's sister company, and teaches businesses how to get the word out. As we hear from our small business friends of all sizes, we hear how damaging - or heartbreaking - a scathing online review can be. It cuts to the heart. So every Tuesday, Tin Shingle encourages its newsletter subscribers and social media followers to pick 1 business and leave a good review for them. It's easy to rant and rave. It's hard to remember to speak with positive thoughts. PS: This Tuesday, if you have kids, email anyone in your district to say "Thank You. You're doing a great job. I know you are trying your best." Learn More >
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Designing a website is exciting and involves new possibilities. It can also be overwhelming to conceptualize. Katie James, Inc. wants to be on that journey with you, and wants to put together the puzzle that is your business or venture, so that people can experience it for a strong impression of your brand. Learn More >
CASTING CALL: Paid Gig: Documentary For Being Over 50 + Turning Your Dream Career Into A Reality
A documentary is looking for people aged 50+ who are pursuing their dreams for a year long documentary. The pay is SAG Union scale, and starts at $2670 for participation, and compensation is available for people who join your story. The casting agency NINA DAY is taking submissions now, and would love to hear from you.
PRO TIP: Record your submission on your phone as a video. NINA DAY needs your answers to a few questions. Because this is a casting call, they need to see and feel your energy! Say where you live; who you live with; what your dreams are; what your job is if you have one; or what early retirement has been like. Paint the picture! Job Details >
Not only is the food beyond delicious, but they use the finest ingredients including local food purveyors such as beef from the Hudson Valley, cheese from NY State and produce from local farmers.
In addition to beef burgers, the menu offers chicken, hot dogs and vegan options with multiple toppings and house-made signature sauces, plus hand-cut fries, salads and daily specials. Their full-service bar features a large selection of NY craft beer, locally produced wine and house-crafted cocktails.
All items are available via counter service and serviced in open seating and a back open-air patio.
Also, did you know Meyer’s Old Dutch is named after Chef/Owner Brian Arnoff’s great grandfather Meyer, who once owned and operated Old Dutch Grocery across the river in Middletown, NY? Brian also owns Kitchen Sink Food & Drink, a casual, fine dining restaurant in Beacon.
Head on in and take a bite of Beacon! OR OR OR, order for DELIVERY!
Traditionally, Beacon has been a ghost town on the Fourth of July but not this year! We called around and asked who was open this holiday weekend and got the deets for you! If you’re staying local, check out the list below for restaurants on Main St. that are open on the 4th of July. A lot of them are open for takeout but most are now open for outdoor dining too!
Not gonna lie, turning right from N. Walnut onto Main Street has a new obstacle: people. Instead of a parked car blocking your view as you turn out onto Main Street, you now have a clear view, but actual people sitting in chairs at tables! Not that you would hit them, because you don’t normally drive into parked cars, but the new “parklet” option for restaurants in Beacon is bringing a new awareness of car safety, as well as a much pined for dining experience at our favorite restaurants.
Using the parking spaces is optional, and businesses need to apply with the city. They are then given cones to set up around their parking spots, at no cost to the business (provided by the City of Beacon). Ziatun and Max’s both opted in, and Ziatun added a decorative pallet/patio underneath their seating. Says Kamel Jamal, owner of Ziatun: “The additional parking spaces for dining has been a tremendous help in so many ways. We are more visible, and we are able to showcase our services at a different level. Our rush to reopen indoor dining is no longer a priority, so we can help slow the spread and protect our team from getting sick. Sales have been climbing and nearly our entire staff at Ziatun is back at it and loving every minute.”
Ziatune’s “parklet” with additional pallet patio. Max’s On Main is next door. Isamu sushi, also next door, did not opt for a “parklet” as of yet. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Dining at Meyer’s Old Dutch (MODs) offers the “parklet” experience, as well as dining in their back patio (not shown).
BJ’s opted to not do the “parklets” but does offer new outdoor dining on their sidewalk.
Royal Crepes has always offered sidewalk dining outside, but opted into the “parklets.” Find sweet crepes here, as well as salads and meal type crepes with chicken or cheese.
The bar Draught is taking the step outside to the “parklets.” Normally a narrow standing or sitting closely next to someone experience inside, this will be a way to spread out for the little bar.
The Wonderbar is owned by the same co-owners of the Story Screen movie theather, which took a double hit. Movie theater closed (with recent opening news of Phase 4 put on hold due to ventilation concerns in New York) with the totally renovated, back to its bast, Wonderbar. Shortly after its opening, the pandemic forced it to close. Now diners can enjoy the cocktails and food outside on the newly installed picnic tables. Says co-owner Marjorie Tarter about the “parket”: “We’re making it work! It hasn’t been easy, but these city “parklets” will definitely help us serve more folks in a safe way.”
Across the street, The Vault expanded onto their parking lot. The Vault enjoys an outdoor patio, and a parking lot.
Have we ever seen outside dining at Brothers? While they have a healthy delivery and pickup business, tables outside is a welcome addition.
Cookies. Batches of cookies. And sermons. Then coffee… (maybe…but it’s too hot.) While we are blogging about police brutality, exposures of racism, and racial targeting of black people by the police, the Phase 2 Reopening is happening, which has business friends on Main Street very excited. Chocolate chip cookies are very important fuel for the Phase 2 Reopening Weekend.
A Little Beacon Blog has been updating our Restaurant Guide with new offerings and ways of working for the restaurants. In the works are more outside dining opportunities, that the City of Beacon and Dutchess County have been clearing red tape on to make it easier on restaurants to spread out more safely.
By the way: Kitchen Sink Provisions is live. They have products to help make your weekend meals more Kitchen Sink-y. They also have a number of prepared foods coming online later today (6/11), including their famous brisket grilled cheese.
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
