A Guide to Rhinebeck, NY

One of the earliest Upstate enclaves for New Yorkers, Rhinebeck has long been defined by its well-kept homes, deep-pocketed residents, and a village center that feels more like a movie set than a small town. With roots that go back centuries — and architecture to match — it’s a place where old money meets manicured charm, anchored by antique shops, legacy restaurants, and the slow rhythm of tradition.

But in recent years, a quiet shift has begun. The arrival of Little Goat, an all-day café and bakery from Taavo Somer, has drawn a younger, design-conscious crowd to town. New shops like Upstate Down and Westerlind reflect a similar sensibility—polished, outdoorsy, and carefully curated. Soho House is also opening nearby, signaling a new wave of attention from the hospitality world.

While Rhinebeck still holds tightly to its traditions, there’s a growing sense of reinvention — subtle, refined, and distinctly upmarket—folding into the village’s storied framework.

ind all our Rhinebeck, NY recommendations below, including what to do in Rhinebeck, the best nearby hiking, plus eating, drinking and shopping favorites.

What to Do in Rhinebeck, NY: Film, Design and Forest Walks

You can easily spend a few hours wandering Rhinebeck’s tree-lined streets, where historic buildings, sidewalk planters, and string lights create a picture-perfect village backdrop. The heart of town centers around the intersection of Market and Montgomery (which briefly becomes Mill Street), where nearly every corner offers something worth stepping into — a design shop, a bookshop, a chocolate counter, or an antique trove waiting to be discovered.

Catch a matinee at Upstate Films, the long-running nonprofit cinema that blends arthouse programming with community storytelling. Just around the corner, stop into Westerlind for elevated outdoor essentials and travel-ready clothing, or browse Upstate Down, a lifestyle shop filled with timeless home goods, vintage pieces, and hand-thrown ceramics.

Antique shops are everywhere here — some tucked into nooks behind the main drag, others anchoring historic storefronts. Whether you’re on the hunt for mid-century glassware or early American furniture, Rhinebeck’s collection of well-curated shops rewards those who take their time.

For a nature break, head five minutes outside town to Ferncliff Forest, a 200-acre preserve with quiet trails and an 80-foot fire tower offering sweeping views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains.

Seasonally, Rhinebeck also plays host to standout events like the Sheep & Wool Festival, Upstate Art Weekend, and the whimsical Sinterklaas celebration in early winter —each adding a fresh layer of creativity and charm to the town’s well-established rhythm.

Where to Eat + Drink: The Best Bars and Restaurants in Rhinebeck, NY

The dining room at Little Goat, which is open for lunch and dinner, Wednesday through Sunday in Rhinebeck. Photo: Kate Sears

Lunch in Town

For a casual midday bite, Rhinebeck has a pair of local favorites that keep things simple, fresh, and unfussy. Bread Alone, a longtime Hudson Valley staple, serves up organic breads, pastries, and sandwiches alongside hot coffee and espresso. It’s a quick, reliable stop for a light lunch or morning fuel.

Just around the corner, Aba’s Falafel is a no-frills counter with a devoted following — and for good reason. The menu is fully vegan and built around crisp, herb-packed falafel served in freshly baked pita or on platters with Israeli salad, hummus, pickles, and tahini. Regularly voted the best falafel in the Hudson Valley, it’s as flavorful as it is consistent, with fast service and outdoor seating when the weather’s right.

Dinner + Drinks in Rhinebeck

Evenings in Rhinebeck offer as much charm as the daytime — especially when it comes to food and drink. At the heart of the town’s recent culinary shift is Little Goat, an all-day café and bakery from Taavo Somer and Erin Winters. Housed in an 18th-century home with a sunny front porch and backyard garden, the space is equal parts pantry, kitchen, and gathering spot. Mediterranean influences show up across the menu — from wood-fired breads and house-made labneh to pickled vegetables and bright herbal salads — all served in a setting that feels understated but deeply intentional.

For a post-dinner drink or a moodier start to the night, {Pretty to Think So} is Rhinebeck’s go-to for cocktails. Tucked behind a nondescript storefront just off the main drag, this intimate, jewel-toned bar feels like a secret — a place where soft lighting, vintage accents, and a quiet crowd set the tone for well-balanced, seasonal drinks. The menu changes often, but expect thoughtful ingredients: house infusions, bitter-forward aperitifs, and a confident use of restraint.

Nearby, Cinnamon brings bold Indian flavors to the village with a focus on fresh produce and elegant plating. Family-owned and consistently excellent, it’s a longtime favorite among locals looking for something a little different from the region’s farm-to-table default. Their saag paneer is a highlight, and the kitchen’s use of local vegetables adds a subtle Hudson Valley sensibility to the spice-forward menu.

If tradition is what you’re after, The Tavern at Beekman Arms is as classic as it gets. Often called America’s oldest continuously operating inn, the Beekman’s wood-paneled tavern leans into its colonial roots with cozy interiors and a seasonal menu of reliable comfort food. Expect hearty plates like braised short ribs, roast chicken, and simple pastas — nothing flashy, but always satisfying.