Harried commuters may disagree, but for many Westchester residents, the Tappan Zee Bridge is more than a traffic eyesore; it serves as a majestic backdrop for summertime cocktails and al fresco dining along the Hudson.
In Tarrytown, Sunset Cove Restaurant and neighboring tiki bar at the Washington Irving Boat Club offer fine dining and a lively bar scene, respectively—a stone’s throw away from the water and bridge. Sunset Cove, the casually elegant restaurant, is open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch—its cuisine described as “Continental with Mediterranean and Asian flair.” Dishes to try include the restaurant’s signature crackling calamari salad ($13), Mediterranean bouillabaisse ($28) and seafood paella ($27).
Beginning in April and continuing so long as weather permits, diners can enjoy their meals outdoors on the waterfront patio. A steel drum band plays every Wednesday night, and from May to October, a tent is set up for private functions such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, communions, and graduation parties.
Parking at the restaurant is valet only, but there is a free shuttle to and from the Tarrytown train station parking lot.
Next door at the outdoor tiki bar, a spirited and varied crowd comes together to take in the spectacular water views (the Manhattan skyline is visible on a clear day). The crowd is mixed during the day, expect to see families, singles, couples, large groups, and boaters who’ve just coasted in and docked their rig at the boat dock. The bar scene kicks into gear at night and especially on weekends, when 20 and 30-somethings come out in force and fill up the expansive patio.
Food options at the cash-only tiki bar range from $6 to $10 and include burgers, ribs, pulled pork, hot dogs, pizzas, salads, and barbecue chicken. All of the usual alcoholic beverages are available—beer, liquor, mixed and frozen drinks—and the bartenders are more than willing to whip up a special concoction.
Despite its high energy, resort atmosphere, the tiki bar is not a spot for an all-night party. Last call is at 11:30 pm, with a firm closing time of 12 am. This is the suburbs, after all.
Sunset Cove Restaurant
238 Green St at the Washington Irving Boat Club
Tarrytown
914-366-7889
sunsetcove.net
