Finally-a restaurant experience that I can rave about! Unfortunately for me it won’t be easy for me to go back soon as the restaurant is in Pocantico Hills, NY and I’m in California! I’v been hearing about this restaurant since its opening a few years back and my sister made plans for us to dine here during my recent visit to NY. Brought to you by Dan and David Barber of Blue Hill in NYC, this restaurant is situated on the gorgeous, old Rockefeller estate. The restaurant is part of a complex which contains a working farm and an educational center and is housed in barns which were built in the 20′s and modeled after barns in Normandy. Last summer I took a walk through the property and visited the great gift shop, farmers market and spied on animals grazing in the fields. This time I was lucky to partake in the fruits of the farm while dining in the restaurant.

From the moment that you drive up to the parking area you are handled with care. The valet is there, ready to whisk your car away . As soon as you step into the front door you are immedately greeted with a smile as your coats are taken from you. Once at the table you are thoroughly spoiled, first by the waiter who takes your drink order and explains the menu to you and then by your server who is with you for the rest of the meal. The service is unobtrusive and there is none of that “snooty” attitude that unfortunately comes with many fine dining experiences.

The menu is divided into a two course option for $65, or a three course for $78. Both of these also include dessert and we were treated to four different “amuse bouche”-which included a taste of vegetables from the farm. These were bathed in a light vinaigrette and were incredibly sweet, full of flavor and the greens on the baby turnip were as delicious as the vegetable itself.
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What a great presentation-we dubbed this “veggies on a bed of nails”! There is also an option available if ordered for the whole table called “Farmer’s Feast” ($110) and you put yourself in the chef’s hands and although we didn’t participate this time, I would definitely try this for a special occasion in the future.

Everything that we tasted was delicious and there’s a comforting feeling in knowing that the pork you are eating was raised right here on this farm. The dining room is beautiful and quiet. You do not have to shout to be heard by your dining companions. We were never rushed and what a pleasure to be able to enjoy a long evening in this great atmosphere. Be sure to reserve well in advance and plan on being pampered. Bon appetit!

Blue Hill at Stone Barns
630 Bedford Road
Pocantico Hills, New York 10591
914-366-9600