Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown are THE places to be this Halloween season. From adrenaline-pumping happenings (check out Sleepy Hollow Cinema's inaugural SHOCtober shows) to spooky events (the Historic Hudson
Valley offers a range of programing), it's always a haunting good time. But what makes it better this year is that, for the first time ever, there's a candy shop in Sleepy Hollow. No doubt the lines will be long at The Village Confectionery, which opened in June (and is decorating like crazy),so make sure you've got something in your stomach so you don't get hangry waiting for your sweets.
Luckily, the options for food, everything from tacos to burgers, Cuban cuisine to barbecue, are part of both villages' offerings. Even better: Since last October, there's more deliciousness to howl about, including a former bank-turned-florist/coffee shop with banh mis and spring rolls, an oyster bar with a rooftop, a mother/daughter soul food eatery, and a new ice cream shop with "terrifying toppings and deadly flavors."
What follows is your definitive guide to eating in the area with the newest spots listed first.
Where to eat in Sleepy Hollow
Legacy Soul Kitchen
Soul food made with love is the motto at this mother/daughter run eatery, which opened Sept. 19. Diners can expect comforting classics including fried chicken, fish sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, peach cobbler and more. All menu items are rooted in family recipes and community traditions inspired by the founders' upbringing in the South Bronx. 166 Cortlandt St.
The Village Confectionery
Kate Bolger, who had a career in filmmaking before pivoting to candy, has leaned into her movie background to turn her 4-month-old candy store into a magical forest worthy of a Hollywood set. Revealed on Sept. 18, the reimagined space taps into the lore of the area while also putting customers on the threshold of a witch's forest home. Throughout the season, more details will be added so the experience grows. Similarly, new treats and surprises will be part of the offerings.
This, said Bolger, is the beginning of a Halloween tradition where each year will feature a new theme with "something new, crazy, creative and exciting." 95 Beekman Ave., 914-623-0308, thevillageconfectionery.com.
North River Oyster Bar
Expect lots of seafood, fresh fish and oysters at this minimalist industrial-styled eatery. Owned by Gino and Floria Uli, the husband-and-wife duo behind Divino Cucina Italiana in Hastings and Hudson Prime Steakhouse in Irvington, it opened in May with the bar front and center next to floor-to-ceiling doors. The tri-level space — complete with a rooftop patio — dates to the days when it served as a watering hole for employees at the General Motors plant (now the Edge-on-Hudson development) and gets its moniker from the name the Dutch used for the Hudson. 222 Beekman Ave., Sleepy Hollow, 914-418-5770, northriveroysterbar.com.
I Scream
Say hello to Sleepy Hollow's first self-service ice cream bar where you'll find a variety of soft ice cream frozen yogurt flavors and more than 60 death-defying toppings. Open since late September, there's also a host of lactose-free, gluten-free and vegan options. 72 Beekman Ave.
Ganso Ramen & Sushi
Hearty bowls of ramen and gorgeous displays of sushi are the heart of the menu at this Japanese spot, which opened last October. The dining space, with a sushi bar where you can watch the chefs in action, is all about authentic food. 3 Beekman Ave., 914-634-1122, gansoramen.com.
Beekman Ale House
Fun Halloween decor along with lots of craft beers and thin-crust pizza make this neighborhood tavern a popular draw. Owned by brothers Patrick and Luke Sheeran, diners will find a variety of pies (no slices here) such as Buffalo chicken, hot honey, roasted veggie and the Beekman Ave. with red sauce, cheese, bacon and cherry peppers. 92 Beekman Ave., 845-827-3505, beekmanalehouse.com.
Bridge View Tavern
This warm and casual family-owned tavern, with signage in the beer garden reading "Reach out your hand if your cup be empty," is all about community — as well as great beer. In business for over 40 years — and here back when General Motors ruled the town, it features a people-pleasing menu (think chicken wings, burgers, salads and tacos) as well as an ever-rotating beer list with selections from both local and national breweries. 226 Beekman Ave., 914-332-0078, bridgeviewtavern.com.
Casaletto Pizzeria
Looking for a fast slice? This classic pizzeria features a variety of pies, including gluten free. 70 Beekman Ave., 914-372-7680, casalettopizzeria.com.
Coco Taqueria
Birria tacos are just one of the highlights of this colorful taqueria where chef/owner Edgar Carrillo has been cooking for more than 25 years. Open since 2021, it features some of the traditional dishes he grew up with in Puebla, Mexico, in addition to a host of American-inspired Mexican favorites, such as a make-your-own burrito bowl, quesadillas, fajitas, enchiladas, chimichangas and, the star of the show, tacos. 84 Beekman Ave., 914-909-2057, cocotaqueria.com.
DeCicco & Sons
Trust me when I say you haven't seen a grocery store like this. This warehouse-like space, with two floors, offers aisles of fresh, canned and prepared foods. But the piece d' resistance is the second-floor bar and outdoor patio where The Hollows pub serves smash burgers, pizzas, sandwiches and more. Also special: memorabilia from the 1999 film "Sleepy Hollow" including costumes the Headless Horseman (as worn by Christopher Walken and his stuntman Ray Park). You'll also see displays of the Lady Van Tassel dress worn by Miranda Richardson and a Hessian Soldier outfit. In addition, there's a wall of concept art from the Disney animated version of "Sleepy Hollow" painted by Mary Blair.
Other spooky touches include the bar’s beer tap with a silhouette of the Headless Horseman and Headless Horseman purse holders under the bar. 1 Legend Drive, 914-357-4200, deciccoandsons.com.
Hollywood North Pizza & Pasta
Pizza with a Hollywood twist is the motto at this pizzeria where you'll find a host of pizza toppings and Italian dishes. You'll also find crazy decorations outside. 109 Beekman Ave., 914-631-7406, hollywoodnorthpizza.com.
Horseman Bagels
Come for an Insta pic — the store has a Headless Horseman statue holding a pumpkin head— and stay for the sandwiches. This bagel shop offers a host of Boar's Head meats and fresh salads (think chicken and tuna) along with a wide assortment of bagels and flagels including a Za'atar one made with a variety of herbs and spices. They also have doughnuts in Reese's and Nutella varieties, the latter of which is topped with Carvel crunchies as Carvel is adjacent to the space and owned by the same family. And, there's Sleepy Hollow swag including T-shirts and a tote bag. 276 N. Broadway, 914-373-2788
Hudson Farmer & The Fish Restaurant
Situated along the water, this seafood restaurant offers picturesque views of the Hudson along with stellar food such as oysters, tuna, shrimp and — my fave — a meaty lobster roll. There's also pizza and other entrees. 11 River St., 914-631-8380, farmerandthefish.com.
J.P. Doyles
The decorations alone are reason to visit — they get bigger and better every year. Plus there's a large gluten-free menu. Not to mention an impressive (heated) outdoor garden. Pair their Bavarian pretzel or famous "Horseman's Burger," (bacon cheddar burger topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles and a house mayo) with one of their new fall drinks like the pumpkin espresso martini, apple cider margarita, pumpkin White Russian or Headless Horseman mule or house lager made by Yonkers Brewery. They also offer their own Hollow Haunt IPA which you can buy in four-pack cans to go. Other "pub grub" includes Shepherd's pie, fish and chips, French dip, pork ribs and Nicky's mac n cheese. 48 Beekman Ave., 914-631-3015, jpdoyles.com.
Santorini Greek Restaurant
All your Mediterranean favorites can be found at this family-owned eatery where you'll also find gluten-free and low-fat fare. 175 Valley St., 914-631-4300, santorinigreekrestaurant.com.
Sleepy Coffee Too
Lattes, pastries and lots of room to sit and sip your coffee are part of the charm at this 2-year-old cafe. However, mostly what matters is "kindness in a cup." That's the slogan — and the mission — as Sleepy Coffee, Too, a nonprofit business that trains and employs people with disabilities. That may mean waiting a little bit longer for your java, but it's worth it as this is where "kindness is served one cup at a time." 110 Beekman Ave., 914-426-7815, sleepycoffeetoo.org.
The Taco Club
Say cheers to fall with tropical-flavored margaritas (i.e. mango, passion fruit and strawberry) best paired with tacos, burritos, quesadillas and more. 31 Beekman Ave., 914-909-6151, mytacoclub.com
Tumbao Bar and Lounge
Expect Latin-inspired flavors and lively music (there's usually a DJ) at Tumbao which always decorates come Halloween. 111 Beekman Ave., 914-418-5107
Where to eat in Tarrytown
Dahlia's Song
The long-vacant Washington Irving Trust bank has been given new life as a florist, café and event venue. Open since July 30, the soaring space, which dates to 1900, preserves many of the building's original architectural details, including its marble interiors and more than century-old copper teller and receiving signs. It's all part of owner Linh Hoang's vision of transforming the historic structure into a welcoming gathering place that blends two of her favorite passions — coffee and flowers — under one roof.
Hoang specializes in dahlias and grows approximately 400 varieties in her home garden, many of which are sold at the shop. You'll also find coffee from VietFive, beans from Port Chester's Path Coffee as well as pastries, muffins and croissants along with various teas, juices, smoothies, sandwiches, bánh mìs and summer rolls. 25 N. Broadway, 914-222-3132, dahliassong.com.
Akebono Sushi & Hibachi
Sushi and sashimi are on the menu at this Japanese retaurant where you'll also find hibachi items. 53 N. Broadway, 914-366-8818, akebonosushi.com
Basque Tapas Bar
Hola to paella, a "Best Thing I Ate" pick by this food reporter in 2024. This lively eatery, devoted to the Basque region, features a variety of tapas, paellas (in meat, surf and turf, seafood and vegetarian versions), cheeses, entrees and, of course, sangria. 61 Main St., 914-801-9200, basquetapasbar.com.
Bibille
Build-your-own bibimbap and udon bowls at Bibille where you'll also find smoothies and bubble tea. 14 Main St., 914-372-7677
Bistro 12
Those looking for a cozy bistro with Italian American fare will find it at this spot across from Tarrytown Music Hall. As it's small, reservations are highly suggested. 12 Main St., 914-909-2770, bistro12.net
Coffee Lab Roasters
You can't get a meal here, but you can get a superb cup of coffee along with a side of doggone fun. The coffee shop, with a lab as its mascot, is decked out for Halloween with lots of pastries and muffins along with to-die for coffee drinks. If you're lucky, you may even get pumpkin or ghost art in your latte. And, oh yeah, a statue of the Headless Horseman graces the corner. 7 Main St., 914-332-1479, coffeelabs.com.
Eatarry
Head here for your breakfast, brunch or lunch needs where you'll find a variety of brunchy bowls, breakfast eggspressions, salads, soups and paninis. 25 Main St., 914-909-5212, eatarry.com.
Fuel Hub
Looking for a quick smoothie or protein drink for the road? Fuel up here before heading for your next adventure. 37 Main St., 646-279-4966
Grass Roots Kitchen
Healthy eats are the focus at this fast-casual spot where you'll find a host of vegan and vegan dishes along with açai bowls, omelets, pancakes, salads, burgers and more. There are a few outside tables, along with indoor seating or the option to get food to go. 124 Wildey St., 914-909-5588, grassroots.kitchen.
Goosefeather
This Cantonese restaurant, set in an 1840's mansion, is off the main drag but worth the drive for its imaginative dishes such as crab Rangoon scallion pancake, Kung Pao chicken wings, crispy chow fun noodles, Mongolian cauliflower and Crying Tiger seared tuna (celebrity chef Dale Talde of Tastemade's Up in My Grill is the owner). 49 E Sunnyside Lane, 914-829-5454,goosefeatherny.com.
Horsefeathers
Nostalgia and community are the heart of Horsefeathers, which has been around since 1981. So is fun. Owner Julia McCue prides herself on keeping the restaurant true to its roots while also injecting a generous dose of humor and creativity. The eatery, which was named one of USA TODAY's "Best Bars" in America last year, is all about celebrating Sleepy Hollow Country and to that end features a variety of knickknacks with ties to the Hudson Valley. There's also wordage on the menu explaining area attractions such as the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and Lyndhurst Mansion.
Each Halloween, the restaurant is decorated to the nines, the staff wears costumes and there's new drink and food specials (try the Scream, a spicy margarita served in a scary-faced mug or John André's Boot, a pear peach bourbon tea that pays homage to the role Tarrytown played in the Revolutionary War when André, a British soldier/spy, was caught with plans to destroy West Point in his boot.)
Just be warned: coming anytime September through November often means waiting in line as they don't take reservations (though, FYI, they do take reservations after November). 94 N. Broadwa,; 914-631-6606, horsefeathersny.com.
Iguanarita, Tarrytown
A former art gallery has been turned into a vibey Tex-Mex spot with tableside guac and creative cocktails. Open as of early October, it's the brainchild of James Shallo, who's been in the business for years, including at Jean-Georges in Pound Ridge and the Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club in Mamaroneck. 39 Main St.
Little B's Burger Bar
Burgers are the star of the show at this casual spot where you can build your own or order from what's on the menu. 49 Main St., 914-631-2228, littlebstarrytownny.com.
Lefteris Gyro
This popular go-to restaurant, with indoor and outdoor seating, is known for its Greek salad as well as its housemade dressing, which is also available for purchase. Other must-try's include the hummus, eggplant dip and spinach pie. 1 Broadway, 914-524-9687, lefterisgyro.com.
Main Street Sweets
Open since 2000 and woman-owned, this sweet shop is all about satisfying your cravings with everything from baked goods to ice cream to apple cider doughnuts. What's also fun to see: it's colorful mural depicting Tarrytown's Main Street, complete with the Headless Horseman. Plus, there's local swag with Halloween-themed T-shirts and sweatshirts along with a Headless Horseman tumbler. 35 Main St., 914-332-5757, mainstreetsweets.net.
Mint Premium Foods
Part international market, part restaurant, Mint's emphasis is on Mediterranean fare. Together, it's a delightful experience filled with excellent cheese, olives, meats and more. It's also a great spot for tea, which, come fall weather, hits perfectly. 19 Main St., 914-703-6511, mintpremiumfoods.com.
Mr. Nick's Restaurant
This Italian restaurant offers slices up front and more of a sophisticated dining experience in the back. Among the item choices: salads, wraps, paninis and entrees such as chicken parm, fire-grilled salmon and pastas. 19 N. Broadway, 914-366-0666, mrnicksbrickoven.com.
Muddy Water Coffee & Cafe
Tarrytown's living room is one way to describe this cozy cafe, which has been designed for lingering — or working remote — either in its backyard garden or at one of its many tables and/or lounge chairs inside. It's also where you can find a variety of baked goods (including gluten-free) and coffee drinks amidst a casual bohemian vibe. 52 Main St., 914-909-2826, muddywatercoffeehouse.com.
My Tokyo
A modern setting and contemporary Japanese cuisine define this restaurant where the focus is on seasonal domestic sushi and Japanese-inspired tapas style dishes. 31 Main St., 914-909-4451, mytokyo-tarrytown.com.
Noble Pies
This family-owned sliver of a shop features both sweet and savory pies along with cookies, croissants, ice cream scoops, coffee and tea. My personal fave? The Will You Marry Me Cherry pie and the Hudson Valley Apple. 38 Main St., 914-418-5649, noblepies.com.
Osaka
A wide array of Japanese dishes are on the menu at this casual spot where entrees include sushi, miso soup, roast duck buns, tuna tataki, seafood curry and more. 134 Wildey St., 914-631-8888, osakatarrytown.com
Playa Bowls
Consider this your year-round slice of summer thanks to a menu full of açai, pitaya, coconut bowls and smoothies and a colorful, playful vibe. 3 Main St., 914-418-5483, playabowls.com.
Pita House
Shawarma, kebabs, falafel, hummus, shakshuka and other Mediterranean fare make up the menu at this casual eatery. 27 N Broadway, 914-902-0069,pitahousetarrytown.com.
Pokemoto
Hawaiian style poke is the focus at this fast casual spot where customization is key. 11 S. Broadway, 914-418-5975, pokemoto.com.
Posh Pretzels
The perfect combination of sweet and salty is at your fingertips when you pop into this woman-owned shop filled with a wide assortment of handcrafted, stuffed, flavored, Belgian chocolate covered pretzels beautifully embellished with an extensive assortment of creative toppings (hello milk toffee crunch, birthday cake and sugar mama). These pretzels have, for the past eight years, been products in the Academy Awards' "Everyone Wins" gift bags given independently to the top Oscar nominees. 7 N. Broadway, 914-332-0400, poshpretzels.com.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
If you're fan of classic steakhouses, you'll enjoy Ruth's Chris, located in the Westchester Marriott. Choose from New York strip, riby-eye, petite filet and porterhouse for two or opt for sea bass, crab cakes, salmon or lamb chops. 670 White Plains Road, 914-631-3311, ruthschris.com
Set Back Inn, Tarrytown
You can't eat here but this cash only/drinks only staple that dates to the late 1890s is worth a mention, especially as it keeps popping up in movies and TV shows as the quintessential dive bar. Run by Scott Toth, whose family has owned it for generations, it is a Westchester institution known for its original wood bar, jukebox and comfy old-school vibe that, no matter if you haven't been in 50 years or 10, still feels the same. Naturally, there's a pool table and dart board. There's also live music most weekend nights as well as an on-premise ATM. 33 Main St., 914-631-9740, setbackinn.com.
Susuru Ramen
Cooler weather means ramen time and at this spot, you can sip and savor all your favorite noddle dishes. The restaurant also offers Japanese curry, bubble tea and other goodies. 21A N Broadway, 914-418-5688, susururamentarrytown.com.
Taste of China
Traditional Chinese dishes are on the menu at this fast-casual space, with a few tables for outdoor seating. Among the options: scallion pancakes, pepper steak, Young Chow fried rice, chicken with broccoli, Kung Po shrimp and more. 17 Main St., 914-332-1625, toctarrytown.com
Taqueria La Perla Poblanita
It's all about staples at this taqueria where you'll find tostadas, fajitas, soups, guac and other Mexican specialties. 53 Main St., 914-909-2710, laperlapoblanita.com
The Tapp
Burgers, wings, sliders and mac and cheese are some of the bar bites at this inviting bar where you'll also find a wide assortment of seasonal sips and signature cocktails such as The Witch's Cosmo (vodka, Curacao, cranberry with house-made rosemary saffron syrup) and The Lyndhurst (Conniption gin, house-made lavender syrup and lemonare). 17 N. Broadway, 914-229-3239, thetappny.com.
Pik Nik BBQ
Pulled pork, smoked chicken and St. Louis ribs are among the options at this cozy eatery with a few tables for outdoor seating. 45 Main St., 914-631-5600, piknikbbq.com.
RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen
Farm to fork is the motto at this New American restaurant, with an expansive outdoor patio that overlooks the Mario Cuomo bridge. Inside, there's also a small gourmet market in front. Whatever you do, order a cocktail: The restaurant is famous for them thanks to Master Mixologist Emilio Ugarte who has won numerous bartender awards. 127 W. Main St., 914-631-3100, rivermarketbarkitchen.com.
Sweet Grass Grill
The menu is ever-changing based on the ingredients from local farms at this health-conscious eatery where options include Thai carrot soup, seared salmon, polenta fries, autumn salad and Maine mussels. They also serve brunch. 24 Main St., 914-631-0000, sweetgrassgrill.com.
The Bakehouse of Tarrytown
A wide assortment of cookies, cakes, cake pops, pies and tarts are part of the bakery repertoire here along with breakfast sandwiches, coffee drinks, salads and more. The fact that it's located at the train station makes it an easy stop for those arriving to the area via Metro-North. 2 Depot Plaza, 914-366-7420, bakehouse.us.
The Cube Inn
A lively Cuban vibe awaits at this colorful restaurant, owned by Megan Gonzalez and her daughters, Belle and Abbey. On the menu: tapas, wings, ceviche, salads, sandwiches (including a mean Cubano) and fall specials such as the Cuban platter (two empanadas, two ham croquettes, two fried pork chunks and three sweet maduros); tostones, guacamole and shrimp; guava BBQ pork ribs and a ropa vieja sandwich served with either yucca or French fries. Other must-tries include the fall margarita and Narragansett pumpkin ale. 22 Main St., 914-372-7974,thecubeinn.net.
The Sailhouse
Waterfront dining and New-American cuisine are the hallmarks of this eatery, where diners have up-close views of the Mario Cuomo Bridge. This year it's upped its game with their Sailhouse Oyster Fest, taking place every Sunday in October from noon to 6 p.m. Dates for the event, which includes live music, oyster selections, seasonal cocktails, beer and wine tastings, oyster slurp-off contests and additional food offerings, take place Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25. Guests can also look forward to special appearances by the Headless Horseman and PaddlePub cruises departing from The Sailhouse marina. 238 Green St., 914-332-0517, thesailhousetarrytown.com.
The Taco Project
In the mood for Mexican street food? Order to go or find a seat outside at this fast casual eatery, known for its variety of tacos, burritos, burrito bowls and quesadillas. 18 Main St., 914-909-4455, thetacoprojectny.com.
Coming soon to Tarrytown
Tarrytown Local
This wasn't open at press time but the target date is sometime in late September/early October. The new hybrid grocer/cafe/bakery, with the motto "eat good, eat local," features a grocer in front and a 25-seat full-service cafe in the back. There's also a bakery. 57 N. Broadway, tarrytownlocal.com.
Compton's
This sandwich brand is opening its first Westchester location in the former Dominic’s Delicatessen space sometime before the end of the year so though it most likely won't be open by Halloween season, it will be open the next time you visit. The company, with locations in Astoria, Greenpoint, Cobble Hill and Cliffside, New Jersey, has become known for its focus on quality with menus that reflect the energy and diversity of the neighborhoods they serve. 15 N. Broadway, comptons.nyc.
Bobo's Cafe
Acai bowls, coffee, salads, sandwiches and more make up the menu at Bobo's which already has locations in Chappaqua, Baldwin Place, Somers and Ridgefield, Conn. Known for its breakfast and lunch, the Tarrytown spot should open either at the end of the year or early 2027. 25 N. Broadway, boboscafe.net.
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Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @jeannemuchnick or via the lohudfood newsletter.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: It's Halloween season, here's where to eat in Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown
