By Michelle Hogan
Yonkers is the fourth-largest city in the state of
New York and sits along the east bank of the Hudson River. Often compared to the landscapes of
San Francisco and Rome, Yonkers has a high population of Irish-Americans and is home to the Hudson River Museum; the Yonkers Raceway, which now is a casino; the Sherwood House; and the Science Barge, a sustainable, urban, floating farm docked at Yonkers that grows food hydroponically using solar panels, wind turbines and biofuels.
Rory Dolan's
Known as a family pub, this quintessentially Irish bar and restaurant is known for having the best of Ireland, coupled with some American favorites as well. You can get sausages and mashed, a gooey cheeseburger with Irish bacon or Maryland-style crab cakes. Even if you don't order an Irish meal, you can take in the Irish atmosphere with music, a huge selection of beers--including Guinness--and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for kids on a Sunday afternoon.
Rory Dolan's Restaurant, Bar & Caterers
890 McLean Avenue
Yonkers, NY 10704
(914) 776-2946
www.rorydolans.com
X20 Xaviar's on the Hudson
Choose from a fine-dining, gourmet menu created by chef Peter Kelly. Dinner can be Lobster Crepe with Mascarpone and Chives or, for lunch, Ravioli with Short Ribs and Foie Gras in Truffle Butter Grated Amoretti (an almond macaroon) & Broccoli Rabe. Eating this indulgently is expensive but worth it, according to area restaurant-goers. The brunch is a real deal, offering unlimited champagne and breads, two savory courses and a dessert for one price.
X20 Xaviar's on the Hudson
71 Water Grant St.
Yonkers, NY 10701
(914) 965-1111
www.xaviars.com
Valentino's Restaurant
Feast on Zuppa di Pesce or Homemade Fettucini Valentino. Or you can have the cheese ravioli or any of a number of other dishes that make Valentino's an authentic Italian restaurant. Since 1985, this restaurant has been serving Yonkers with homemade traditional Italian food inspired by both the north and south of Italy. An extensive wine list is available.
Valentino's Restaurant
132 Bronx River Road
Yonkers, NY 10704
(914) 776-6731
valentinositalianrestaurant.com
Resources
About the Author:
Michelle Hogan is a freelance writer, licensed real estate professional, organic farmer and the author of several books including the 2005 bestselling memoir, "Without a Net: Middle Class and Homeless (With Kids) in America." Hogan studied English at American University and has been writing professionally since 1998. Her work has appeared in "The New York Times," "Redbook," "Family Circle" and many other publications.