If having a bar named among the best in the U.S. isn’t one reason to get you visiting Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow (the bar is near the border), consider this: Horsefeathers is also Halloween central, with decorations that went up in August.
The holiday has always been celebrated at Horsefeathers but since Julie McCue took over in 2018, it’s gone a bit overboard (think themed staff costumes, decorations and special drinks.)
The nostalgic restaurant, known for its dark interior, assorted knickknacks, and crowd-pleasing menu is not, however, the only game in town. From Greek to Cuban to Mexican and Spanish, there’s plenty of options for those looking to grab a bite — and indulge in some Halloween spirit.
The following list is meant to scare up an appetite for enjoying the best of the area which, come Halloween — and its association with Washington Irving’s famed “Legend of Sleepy Hollow” — makes it a popular place come fall.
Where to eat in Sleepy Hollow
Beekman Ale House, Sleepy Hollow
Lots of beer and thin-crust pizzas are the draws here, so much so that this spot made Yelp’s 2023 list for best pizza. The tavern, owned by brothers Patrick and Luke Sheeran, offers a wide variety of pies (no slices here), from plain to Buffalo chicken, hot honey, roasted veggie and the Beekman Ave pie with red sauce, cheese, bacon and cherry peppers. I’m also a fan of the lamp leg in the front window and outdoor patio which, come Halloween, is decorated with a variety of creepy creatures. 92 Beekman Ave., 845-827-3505, beekmanalehouse.com.
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Bridge View Tavern, Sleepy Hollow
This warm and casual family-owned tavern, with signage in the beer garden reading “Reach out your hand if your cup be empty,” is all about community — as well as great beer. In business for 40 years — and here back when General Motors ruled the town, it features a people-pleasing menu (think chicken wings, burgers, salads and tacos) as well as an ever rotating beer list with selections from both local and national breweries. 226 Beekman Ave., 914-332-0078, bridgeviewtavern.com.
Casaletto Pizzeria, Sleepy Hollow
Looking for a fast slice? This classic pizzeria features a variety of pies, including gluten free. 70 Beekman Ave., 914-372-7680, casalettopizzeria.com.
Coco Taqueria Sleepy Hollow
Birria tacos are just one of the highlights of this colorful fast casual taqueria where chef/owner Edgar Carrillo has been cooking for more than 25 years. Open since 2021, it features some of the traditional dishes he grew up with in Puebla, Mexico in addition to a host of American-inspired Mexican favorites, such as a make-your-own burrito bowl, quesadillas, fajitas, enchiladas, chimichangas and, the star of the show, tacos. 84 Beekman Ave., 914-909-2057, cocotaqueria.com.
Croqueteria, Sleepy Hollow
This takeout spot (with a few seats inside) is known for its Cuban sandwich and croquetas. If you’re lucky, the chicken soup special will be on the menu. 166 Cortlandt St., 315-320-5215, croqueteriallc.wixsite.com.
DeCicco & Sons, Sleepy Hollow
Trust me when I say you haven’t seen a grocery store like this. This warehouse-like space, with two floors, offers aisles of fresh, canned and prepared foods but the piece d’ resistance is the second floor bar and outdoor patio where The Hollows pub serves smash burgers, pizzas, sandwiches and more. Also special: memorabilia from the 1999 film “Sleepy Hollow” including costumes the Headless Horseman (as worn by Christopher Walken and his stunt man Ray Park) wore. You’ll also see displays of the Lady Van Tassel dress worn by Miranda Richardson and a Hessian Soldier outfit. In addition, there’s a wall full of concept art from the Disney animated version of “Sleepy Hollow” painted by Mary Blair.
Other spooky touches include the bar’s beer tap with a silhouette of the Headless Horseman and a Headless Horseman purse holder under the bar. 1 Legend Dr., 914-357-4200, deciccoandsons.com.
Horseman Bagels, Sleepy Hollow
Come for an Insta pic — they have a Headless Horseman statue outside holding a pumpkin head— and stay for the sandwiches. This artisan shop offers a host of Boar’s Head meats and freshly-made salads (think chicken and tuna) along with a wide assortment of bagels and flagels including a Za’atar one made with a variety of herbs and spices. They also have doughnuts in Reese’s and Nutella varieties, the latter of which is topped with Carvel crunchies as Carvel is adjacent to the space and owned by the same family. 276 North Broadway, 914-373-2788
Hudson Farmer & The Fish Restaurant, Sleepy Hollow
Situated along the water, this seafood restaurant offers picturesque views of the Hudson along with stellar food such as oysters, tuna, shrimp and — my fave — a meaty lobster roll. There’s also pizza and other entrees. 11 River St., Sleepy Hollow, 914-631-8380, farmerandthefish.com.
J.P. Doyles, Sleepy Hollow
An Irish pub ambiance and a large (heated) beer garden make this an easy pit spot for a pint and a burger. Diners will also find plenty of salad and entrée options such as Shepherd’s pie, fish and chips and Nicky’s mac n cheese. 48 Beekman Ave., 914-631-3015, jpdoyles.com.
Santorini Greek Restaurant, Sleepy Hollow
All your Mediterranean favorites can be found at this family-owned eatery where you’ll also find gluten-free and low-fat fare. 175 Valley St., 914-631-4300, santorinigreekrestaurant.com.
Sleepy Coffee Too, Sleepy Hollow
Lattes, pastries and lots of room to sit and sip your coffee are part of the charm at this year-old cafe but mostly what matters is “kindness in a cup.” That’s the slogan — and the mission — as Sleepy Coffee, Too is a non profit (501c3) business with the goal of providing training and employment for people with disabilities in an inclusive cafe workplace. That may mean waiting a little bit longer for your java order, but it’s worth it as this is where “kindness is served one cup at a time.” 110 Beekman Ave., 914-426-7815, sleepycoffeetoo.org.
The Taco Club, Sleepy Hollow
Say cheers to fall with tropical-flavored margaritas (i.e. mango, passion fruit and strawberry) best paired with tacos, burritos, quesadillas and more. 31 Beekman Ave., 914-909-6151, mytacoclub.com
Where to eat in Tarrytown
Akebono Sushi & Hibachi, Tarrytown
Sushi and sashimi are on the menu at this Japanese retaurant where you’ll also find hibachi items. 53 N Broadway, 914-366-8818, akebonosushi.com
Basque Tapas Bar, Tarrytown
Hola to paella, a “Best Thing I Ate” pick by this food reporter last year. This lively eatery, devoted to the Basque region, features lots of tapas, paellas (in meat, surf and turf, seafood and vegetarian versions), cheeses, entrees and, of course, sangria. 61 Main St., 914-801-9200, basquetapasbar.com.
Bibille, Tarrytown
Build-your-own bibimbap and udon bowls are the highlight here along with smoothies and bubble tea. 14 Main St., 914-372-7677
Bistro 12, Tarrytown
Those looking for a cozy bistro and Italian American fare will find it at this spot across the Tarrytown Music Hall. As it’s small, reservations are highly suggested. 12 Main St., 914-909-2770, bistro12.net
Coffee Lab Roasters, Tarrytown
You can’t get a meal here, but you can a superb cup of coffee along with a side of doggone fun. The coffee shop, with a lab as its mascot, is decked out for Halloween with lots of pastries and muffins along with to-die for coffee drinks. If you’re lucky, you may even get a pumpkin or ghost art in your latte. And oh yeah, a statue of the Headless Horseman graces the corner. 7 Main St., 914-332-1479, coffeelabs.com.
Eatarry, Tarrytown
Head here for your breakfast, brunch or lunch needs where you’ll find a variety of brunchy bowls, breakfast eggspressions, salads, soups and paninis. 25 Main St., 914-909-5212, eatarry.com.
Fuel Hub, Tarrytown
Looking for a quick smoothie or protein drink for the road? Fuel up here before heading for your next adventure. 37 Main St., 646-279-4966
Grass Roots Kitchen, Tarrytown
Healthy eats are the focus at this fast casual spot where you’ll find a host of vegan and vegan dishes along with açai bowls, omelets, pancakes, salads, burgers and more. There are a few outside tables, along with indoor seating or the option to get food to go. 124 Wildey St., Tarrytown, 914-909-5588, grassroots.kitchen.
Goosefeather, Tarrytown
This Cantonese restaurant, set in an 1840’s mansion, is off the main drag but worth the drive for its imaginative dishes such as crab Rangoon scallion pancake, Kung Pao chicken wings, crispy chow fun noodles, Mongolian cauliflower and Crying Tiger seared tuna (celebrity chef Dale Talde of Tastemade’s Up in My Grill is the owner). There’s also La Cueva at Cellar49, a new pop-up dining experience that reimagines the classic steakhouse through the lens of Mexican cuisine. With each event, Cellar49 — housed in the historic Biddle Mansion at Tarrytown House Estate — transforms into La Cueva (“The Cave” in Spanish) as a nod to the intimate, speakeasy-style setting. Check the Goosefeather website for details. 49 E Sunnyside Lane, 914-829-5454, goosefeatherny.com.
Horsefeathers, Tarrytown
Nostalgia and community are the heart of Horsefeathers, which has been around since 1981. So is fun. Owner Julia McCue prides herself on keeping the restaurant true to its roots while also injecting a generous dose of humor and creativity. The eatery, which was named one of USA TODAY’s “Best Bars” in America earlier this year, is all about celebrating Sleepy Hollow country and to that end features a variety of knickknacks with ties to the Hudson Valley. There’s also wordage on the menu explaining area attractions such as the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and Lyndhurst Mansion.
Each Halloween, the restaurant is decorated to the nines, the staff wears costumes and there’s new drink and food specials (try the Scream, a spicy margarita served in a scary faced mug or John André’s Boot, a pear peach bourbon tea that pays homage to the role Tarrytown played in the Revolutionary War when André, a British soldier/spy, was caught with plans to destroy West Point in his boot.)
Just be warned: coming anytime September through November often means waiting in line as they don’t take reservations (though, FYI, they do take reservations after November). 94 N. Broadway, Tarrytown; 914-631-6606, horsefeathersny.com.
Little B’s Burger Bar, Tarrytown
Burgers are the main attraction at this casual spot where you can build your own or order from what’s on the menu. 49 Main St., 914-631-2228, littlebstarrytownny.com.
Lefteris Gyro, Tarrytown
This popular go-to restaurant, with indoor and outdoor seating, is known for its Greek salad as well as its housemade dressing, which is also available for purchase. Other must-try’s include the hummus, eggplant dip and spinach pie. 1 Broadway, 914-524-9687, lefterisgyro.com.
Main Street Sweets, Tarrytown
Open since 2000 and woman-owned, this sweet shop is all about satisfying your cravings with everything from baked goods to ice cream to apple cider doughnuts. 35 Main St., 914-332-5757, mainstreetsweets.net.
Mint Premium Foods, Tarrytown
Part international market, part restaurant, Mint’s emphasis is on Mediterranean fare. Together, it’s a delightful experience filled with excellent cheese, olives, meats and more. It’s also a great spot for tea, which, come fall weather, hits perfectly. 19 Main St., 914-703-6511, mintpremiumfoods.com.
Mr. Nick’s Restaurant, Tarrytown
Recently expanded from what had long been a pizzeria, this Italian restaurant now offers both slices up front and more of a sophisticated dining experience in the back. Among the item choices: salads, wraps, paninis and entrees such as chicken parm, fire-grilled salmon and pastas. 19 N. Broadway, 914-366-0666, mrnicksbrickoven.com.
Muddy Water Coffee & Cafe, Tarrytown
Tarrytown’s living room is one way to describe this cozy cafe, which has been designed for lingering — or working remote — either in its backyard garden or at one of its many tables and/or lounge chairs inside. It’s also where you can find a variety of baked goods (including gluten-free) and coffee drinks amidst a casual bohemian vibe. 52 Main St., 914-909-2826, muddywatercoffeehouse.com.
My Tokyo, Tarrytown
A modern setting and contemporary Japanese cuisine define this restaurant where the focus is on seasonal domestic sushi and Japanese-inspired tapas style dishes. 31 Main St., 914-909-4451, mytokyo-tarrytown.com.
Noble Pies, Tarrytown
Family-owned sliver of a shop offering both sweet and savory pies along with cookies, croissants, ice cream scoops, coffee and tea. My personal fave? The Will You Marry Me Cherry pie and the Hudson Valley Apple. 38 Main St., 914-418-5649, noblepies.com.
Playa Bowls, Tarrytown
Consider this your year-round slice of summer thanks to a menu full of açai, pitaya, coconut bowls and smoothies and a colorful, playful vibe. 3 Main St., 914-418-5483, playabowls.com.
Pita House, Tarrytown
Shawarma, kebabs, falafel, hummus, shakshuka and other Mediterranean fare are on the menu at this homey eatery. 27 N Broadway, 914-902-0069,pitahousetarrytown.com.
Pokemoto, Tarrytown
Hawaiian style poke is the focus at this fast casual spot where customization is key. 11 S. Broadway, 914-418-5975, pokemoto.com.
Posh Pretzels, Tarrytown
The perfect combination of sweet and salty is at your fingertips when you pop into this woman-owned shop where you’ll find a wide assortment of handcrafted, stuffed, flavored, Belgian chocolate covered pretzels beautifully embellished with an extensive assortment of creative toppings (hello milk toffee crunch, birthday cake and sugar mama). These pretzels have, for the past seven years, been products in the Academy Awards’ “Everyone Wins” gift bags given independently to the top Oscar nominees. 7 N. Broadway, 914-332-0400, poshpretzels.com.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Tarrytown
If you’re fan of classic steakhouses, you’ll enjoy Ruth’s Chris, located in the Westchester Marriott. Choose from New York strip, riby-eye, petite filet and porterhouse for two or opt for sea bass, crab cakes, salmon or lamb chops. 670 White Plains Road, 914-631-3311, ruthschris.com
Susuru Ramen, Tarrytown
Sip, savor, smile is the motto of this ramen shop where the menu features a host of noddle dishes, Japanese curry and bubble tea. 21A N Broadway, 914-418-5688, susururamentarrytown.com.
The Tapp, Tarrytown
Burgers, wings, sliders and mac and cheese are some of the bar bites on the menu at this inviting bar where you’ll also find a wide assortment of seasonal sips and signature cocktails such as The Witch’s Cosmo (vodka, Curacao, cranberry with house-made rosemary saffron syrup) and The Lyndhurst (Conniption gin, house-made lavender syrup and lemonare). 17 N Broadway, 914-229-3239, thetappny.com.
Pik Nik BBQ, Tarrytown
Pulled pork, smoked chicken and St. Louis ribs are among the options at this quaint spot, with a few tables for outdoor seating. 45 Main St., 914-631-5600, piknikbbq.com.
RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen, Tarrytown
It’s all about farm to fork at this New American restaurant, with an expansive outdoor patio that overlooks the Mario Cuomo bridge. Inside, there’s also a small gourmet market in front. Whatever you do, order a cocktail: The restaurant is famous for them with their Master Mixologist Emilio Ugarte winning numerous bartender awards. 127 W. Main St., 914-631-3100, rivermarketbarkitchen.com.
Sweet Grass Grill, Tarrytown
The menu is ever-changing based on the ingredients from local farms at this health-conscious eatery where options include Thai carrot soup, seared salmon, polenta fries, autumn salad and Maine mussels. They also serve brunch. 24 Main St., 914-631-0000, sweetgrassgrill.com.
The Bakehouse of Tarrytown, Tarrytown
A wide assortment of cookies, cakes, cake pops, pies, and tarts are part of the bakery repertoire here along with breakfast sandwiches, coffee drinks, salads and more. The fact that it’s located at the train station makes it an easy stop for those arriving to the area via Metro-North. 2 Depot Plaza, 914-366-7420, bakehouse.us.
The Cube Inn, Tarrytown
A combination of Taino (a Native American tribe indigenous to the Caribbean) African, Creole, Spanish and Caribbean flavors await at this lively Cuban restaurant where mojitos are a must. 22 Main St., 914-372-7974, thecubeinn.net.
The Sailhouse, Tarrytown
Waterfront dining and New-American cuisine are the hallmarks of this eatery, where diners have up close views of the Mario Cuomo Bridge. 238 Green St., 914-332-0517, thesailhousetarrytown.com.
The Taco Project, Tarrytown
In the mood for Mexican street food? Order to go or find a seat outside at this fast casual eatery, known for its variety of tacos, burritos, burrito bowls and quesadillas. 18 Main St., 914-909-4455, thetacoprojectny.com.
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Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @jeannemuchnick or via the lohudfood newsletter.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: The definitive Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow dining list, just in time for Halloween
Reporting by Jeanne Muchnick, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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