Destination Dutchess CIA Chef Finder™ 2025-2026

Expiration: May 31st 2026

Discover the Deliciousness of Dutchess County

Dutchess County has the unique privilege to be the home of The Culinary Institute of America—a college dedicated to educating culinarians of the highest caliber. And, while you can find CIA-trained chefs in the finest restaurants in the world, you can find a concentration of them right here in Dutchess County. Discover the high standard of the CIA in a variety of different locations throughout the County, where their graduates are creating an incredible range of delectable dishes. Sign-up for the CIA Chef Finder, a digital passport that helps you find Culinary Institute of America chefs who create world-class cuisine in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley.

Check in and claim offers at participating locations to earn points that can be redeemed for prizes at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park.


Included Venues

See locations on an interactive map.

Shadows on the Hudson

Enjoy an amazing meal with a view and finish with a delicious dessert from their Pastry Chef, Kennedie Mushtare '23. Perched on a cliff 40 feet above the Hudson River and just 50 feet from its eastern bank, Shadows on the Hudson is an award-winning restaurant offering one-of-a-kind, truly grand views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge to the north and miles of open river to the south. Kennedie Mushtare's dessert menu is filled with decadent works of art to conclude your meal.

Shadows' progressive American menu offers a broad selection to appeal to everyone's palate. Coming by boat? Dock and dine at Shadows Marina

Show more
The Vintage at The Millbrook Inn

The Vintage at The Millbrook Inn is an award-winning restaurant that serves hyper-local, elevated but unfussy farm-to-table food. We celebrate the bounty of the Hudson Valley, supporting our local farmers all year long by showcasing their bounty each season. Our bar is hyper-local as well, serving craft cocktails from award-winning Hudson Valley spirits, serving the best wines from the region and across all of NYS. Choose do dine in our moody bar with a stone fireplace and reclaimed oak bar; or in our serene glass-enclosed dining room overlooking our gardens. 

Enjoy one free glass of wine when you order an entree if you show the passport (1 per passport, not per person)

Show more
Barbue
The Grove, Restaurant & Bar at Red Hook Golf Club
The Red Hook Golf Club in northern Dutchess County is player-friendly and appeals to a wide range of skill levels, but also offers Culinary Institute of America-grade cuisine just off the course. The Grove features gorgeous indoor and outdoor seating, along with delightful small bites, salads, savory bowls and sandwiches.
Spettro
Spettro specializes in Italian cuisine, specifically Old World Sicilian dishes mixed with classic pub fare. Soffrito wings, chickpea fritters, fresh pastas and pizzas are just a few options.
La Sorella
The "sister" restaurant of Il Figlio Enoteca, this Fishkill eatery opens in 2024 as a cafe and mercato serving Italian breakfast and lunch specialties.
Just a Little Pie Shop
Enjoy personal-sized pies from the chef behind Amanda's Macaron Shoppe. If you can't choose which sweet or savory pie to go with, opt for a sampler flight of 4 assorted pies.
Buns Burgers
This second location for the local-favorite burger joint takes a farm-to-table approach to quick-service dining, with juicy burgers crafted from Hudson Valley beef. Plus, try sweet potato-mushroom veggie burgers and lamb burgers for a twist on a classic—with a healthy dollop of zesty Buns sauce, of course.
The Fairway Tavern
The Red Hook Golf Club in northern Dutchess County is player-friendly and appeals to a wide range of skill levels, but also offers Culinary Institute of America-grade cuisine just off the course. The Fairway Tavern features gorgeous indoor and outdoor seating, along with delightful small bites, salads, savory bowls and sandwiches.
Cider Bros Roadhouse
Farm-to-table Southern comfort foods await at the ever-charming Cider Bros Roadhouse in Milan. Indulge in smoked pork belly Cubans, fish tacos with avocado-pear slaw, chicken po boys and much more.
Tavern 23
Sip a beer from Tavern 23’s extensive beer list (featuring many Dutchess County and Hudson Valley brews) while enjoying classic, American pub food. It’s a favorite among locals and you’ll understand why when you walk into the welcoming, laid back environment.
Midnight Munchie Company
Midnight Munchie Co. has plenty of options for your daytime and late-night cravings. From cookies to coffee, we got you covered. Try one of our baked-to-order cookies, brownies or churros! Maybe you're in the mood for something a little colder? Try one of our home-made ice cream flavors or macarons. Don't forget to wash it all down with a mug of hot chocolate or an ice-cold glass of local Hudson Valley Fresh milk.
Show more

What's Included

  • 10% Off Any Order Of $40 Or More
Zoe's Ice Cream Barn
Enjoy fresh, locally sourced ice cream (made from cow to cone in three days) at Zoe's Ice Cream Barn in Lagrangeville. Stop in year-round and enjoy their variety of ice cream flavors or have a burger, sandwich or salad for lunch!
Twisted Soul
Discover Asian, Argentinean and Colombian influenced street-food offerings from dumplings to empanadas at Twisted Soul located by Vassar College in Poughkeepsie.

What's Included

  • 10% Off Total Bill
The Crafted Kup (Raymond Avenue)
The Crafted Kup is a specialty coffeehouse and café, where you can stop in for a coffee and pastry to go or enjoy breakfast and lunch at their Raymond Avenue location.

What's Included

  • 1 Free Beverage Up To $4 Value
The Crafted Kup (Eastdale Village)
The Crafted Kup at Eastdale Village is a specialty coffeehouse and café, where you can enjoy coffee and baked goods.

What's Included

  • 1 Free Beverage Up To $4 Value
The CIA: The Bocuse Restaurant
Sleek and strikingly contemporary, this CIA student-run restaurant re-imagines classic French cuisine with modern techniques and seasonal ingredients. Reservations recommended.
The CIA: Ristorante Caterina de'Medici
Experience authentic regional Italian cuisine, wood-fired pizza, and other rustic comforts prepared and served by CIA students in a grand Tuscan-style villa. Reservations recommended.
The CIA: Post Road Brew House
Experience elevated gastropub fare prepared and served by CIA students in a warm, casual atmosphere along with the CIA’s own craft beer selections. Open through April 13, 2023, only.
The CIA: Apple Pie Bakery Café
Enjoy classic café favorites and crave-worthy sweet and savory selections prepared by CIA students under the instruction of world-class faculty.
The CIA: American Bounty Restaurant
With a focus on the seasons and local products, CIA students bring traditional and contemporary American cuisine to life in an honest and flavorful way. Reservations recommended.
The Amsterdam
Enjoy award-winning contemporary American dishes in the heart of historic Rhinebeck. Menus feature Hudson Valley ingredients and products, some of which are available in their world-class fine foods and provisions market!
Tasting Room at Gendron Catering
The Tasting Room at Gendron Catering is an intimate restaurant with a changing menu that features local ingredients.
Reserva Wine Bar
Reserva Wine Bar has a hand-curated wine list and Brazilian-inspired small-plate menu, in a stunning space with Prohibition-era fixtures and mid-century modern furnishings. Plus, enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Mill House Brewing Company
Mill House Brewing transformed an old Poughkeepsie mill house into a casual, hip and lively brew pub. By using farm fresh ingredients, the brew pub menu is designed to complement the extensive beer list. Enjoy gourmet pizzas, BBQ platters, charcuterie boards, or burgers -- you’ll experience something delicious for every taste and appetite.
Show more
McKinney & Doyle Corner Bakery & Fine Foods Cafe
McKinney & Doyle offers fine American cuisine for brunch, lunch and dinner, as well as a bakery full of breads and desserts. Stop in for a baked treat or stay for a delicious meal!
Lolita's Pizza
Enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza, pasta and salads with great cocktails and local craft beverages at Lolita's in Poughkeepsie.
Lola's Café and Gourmet Catering
Lola's is a fast casual café serving panini, wraps, salads, and soups. Conveniently located next to the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, they offer healthy, locally-sourced meals.
Le Petit Bistro
Savor classic French fare, oysters, and cocktails at Le Petit Bistro in the village of Rhinebeck, open since 1986.
Kips Tavern
Settle in for a dinner or brunch right by the Hudson River (and an Amtrak train station) in the hamlet of Rhinecliff. Sample creative specials like purple sweet potato soup, braised lamb shanks and wild mushroom flatbreads.
Kelly's Bakery
Stop in for coffee and pastries or enjoy brunch at Kelly's Bakery in Poughkeepsie, which specializes in artisanal breads, croissants, scones and more.
Il Figlio Enoteca
Savor exceptional Italian and Mediterranean cuisine at Il Figlio Enoteca in Fishkill from pastas, seafood and more.
Hudson & Packard
Hudson & Packard is a charming boutique located in the heart of Poughkeepsie, New York. Situated at 29 Academy St, this hidden gem offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods that cater to the modern, fashion-forward individual. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and timeless style, Hudson & Packard prides itself on providing unique and thoughtfully crafted pieces that are sure to elevate any wardrobe or living space. Upon entering the store, customers are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with exposed brick walls, vintage fixtures, and lush greenery. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to assist shoppers in finding the perfect piece, whether it be a cozy sweater for the cooler months, a statement necklace for a special occasion, or a one-of-a-kind decorative item for the home. The clothing selection at Hudson & Packard is a carefully curated mix of contemporary designs, classic staples, and locally made pieces. From stylish denim and cozy knits to flowy dresses and tailored blazers, there is something for every taste and occasion. Accessories such as handbags, jewelry, and scarves add the perfect finishing touch to any outfit, while the home goods section offers a variety of unique decor items, candles, and gifts.
Show more
Heritage Food and Drink
Heritage is a celebration of New York and all things local and a place to enjoy life and delicious food and drink. Serving local craft beer, hand-crafted cocktails, juicy cheeseburgers and wood-fired steaks, plus fabulous brunches.
Gino’s Pizza & Restaurant
Find authentic Italian food at Gino's Restaurant in Poughkeepsie, from pizzas and calzones to classic old-world entrees and fresh-made pastas.
Essie's Restaurant
An elegant yet casual dining American restaurant located in the heart of the Little Italy section of Poughkeepsie. Under the direction of Executive Chef Brandon Walker, a CIA graduate from Brooklyn, NY, their modern American menu is inspired by global flavors and Chef Walker's family roots from the Caribbean and American South.

What's Included

  • 5% Off Of $100 Spent
Crew Restaurant & Bar
Have a seat in the casual and modern Crew Restaurant in Poughkeepsie with a dedication to local and organic fare.
Bread Alone Bakery & Café Rhinebeck
Enjoy fresh, organic bread, breakfast and lunch from Bread Alone Bakery in Rhinebeck, a family-owned, values-driven business that has been making delicious bread since 1983. Visit their cafe for a quick bite of breakfast, lunch and pastries.
Uncle Sam's Canteen
Located in the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, Uncle Sam's Canteen offers visitors a convenient place to grab a coffee and pastry or enjoy a tasty lunch before or after a tour of the historic site. Adorned with patriotic decor, Uncle Sam's offers a diverse menu and both indoor and outdoor seating. It is open April 1 through Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Show more
Babette's Kitchen
Babette's Kitchen is a cozy gourmet market, coffee shop, and bakery serves breakfast, lunch and dinners to go using local, seasonal ingredients. They offer a variety of foods to accommodate special dietary needs such as wheat free, low carb, low sugar and vegan options.

What's Included

  • Free Small Tea Or Coffee
Amanda's Macaron Shoppe
Amanda's Macaron Shoppe specializes in French macarons in unique, creative flavors and using high-quality ingredients.
The Vinyl Room
Shop vintage vinyl records, catch DJ sets, play retro arcade games AND dine on a menu curated by a CIA alumn! One of Beacon's best spots for nightlife has a delicious menu of modern and fusion dishes.