3 Best Restaurants in Woodstock, The Catskills

Travelers, locals, and a mix of local and traveling hippies and aging rockstars cozy up to the fireplace or chill out by the stream at this lively, rustic bar and restaurant perched on the bank of Sawkill Creek, about 3 miles west of Woodstock. Sit on the west side of the restaurant for an unfettered view of the trickling waters of the Saw Kill; the patio is about as close to the water as you can get without falling in. The kitchen prepares American fare, such as its signature filet mignon dressed with port-garlic sauce and Stilton butter. The well-curated wine list has helped this place win awards every year.

With pale wood floors, original art on the walls, and chalkboards crowded with menu options, Oriole 9 is a local favorite known for its breakfast all day—be that the traditional eggs and bacon or something more special, like poached artichoke, curried coconut tofu hash, or bread and butter pudding served with bacon and maple syrup. There are several different soups and salads if you're not feeling breakfast for lunch, as well as heartier fare like sandwiches made with slow-braised pork or brisket with spicy mayo. The bittersweet chocolate mousse is a perfect dessert to share.

A casual eatery in the heart of Woodstock, this popular local hotspot delivers comfort food "just like mom used to make," if she used organic ingredients sourced from local farms and dairies. The soups and salads are tasty, but the burgers and sandwiches—like the farmhouse burger (with cheddar, bacon, and sriracha aioli) and the veggie-friendly grilled cheese (three types of cheese with date preserves)—are what keep people coming back. Mac and cheese or hush puppies are the perfect sides. Wash it all down with craft beer or cider, or a selection from the surprisingly varied wine list.