Cozy gatherings, fresh fall flavors and diverse cuisine await in Westchester during Hudson Valley Restaurant Week, taking place November 2–16, 2026. In celebration of this time-honored tradition, Westchester hosted a kick-off event at the newly renovated Whisk Restaurant, located in the Sonesta White Plains Downtown. Inspired by the County’s diverse culinary scene and seasonal flavors, the event highlighted Westchester’s vibrant food scene, exceptional hospitality and abundance of fall activities.
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week celebrates the vital role of the food and beverage industry in driving Westchester County’s tourism economy. In 2025, visitor spending in Westchester reached $2.53 billion, accounting for 45% of all visitor spending across the Hudson Valley. Tourism supported more than 22,000 hospitality jobs in the County, while food and beverage sales generated $932 million in economic activity. These figures underscore the significant impact of the culinary sector in attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening Westchester’s position as a leading tourism destination.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Fall is a wonderful season to experience Westchester’s diverse dining scene, from seasonal specialties to the creativity of our local chefs. Hudson Valley Restaurant Week is a key event for Westchester, adding visibility to our restaurants while supporting the small businesses and hospitality professionals who help drive our local economy. We invite residents and visitors alike to savor the flavors of the season, discover new favorites and make a getaway of their dining experience in Westchester.”
Westchester County Tourism & Film Director Natasha Caputo said: “Hudson Valley Restaurant Week invites visitors to discover Westchester’s diverse culinary scene, enjoy our renowned hospitality and experience all the County has to offer. From exceptional dining and welcoming hotels to seasonal attractions and activities, there are countless reasons to extend a visit into an overnight getaway.”
Hudson Valley Magazine Associate PublisherLauren Buerger said: “Fall Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to discover Hudson Valley’s hidden dining gems. For two weeks, diners can explore restaurants they’ve always wanted to try – or places they never even knew existed – through creative, flavor-packed menus crafted with the freshest local ingredients.”
Sean Meade, President of the Westchester Hotel Association said: “Westchester’s strong visitor numbers underscore our appeal as a destination for leisure and business travelers alike. We look forward to welcoming first-time and returning visitors to discover our exceptional hotels, globally inspired cuisine and signature hospitality.”
MTA Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek said: “Metro North Railroad is proud to play a part in celebrating the Hudson Valley’s renowned food culture. Our stations serve as gateways to communities where local chefs, farmers, and restaurateurs showcase the flavors that define the region. By offering dependable, car free travel, we make it easy for riders to enjoy Westchester’s diverse dining destinations while supporting sustainable growth for the businesses that make these towns thrive.”
Robert Rechtermann, General Manager of Sonesta White Plains Downtown said: “We’re delighted to be part of Hudson Valley Restaurant Week and welcome both longtime guests, new visitors and the local community to experience the culinary offerings at Sonesta White Plains Downtown. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creativity and talent of our Executive Chef, Ramon Perez, while introducing diners to our signature restaurant, Whisk, and our vibrant Mix Cocktail Bar + Kitchen. We take great pride in creating memorable dining experiences and look forward to celebrating the Hudson Valley’s dynamic culinary scene alongside so many outstanding local restaurants.”
During the kick-off, Whisk’s Executive Chef, Ramon Perez, drew inspiration from seasonal ingredients including roasted squash, orchard pears, warm spices, and baked apples to create a savory selection of fresh-to-order dishes such as sweet potato gnocchi with duck confit ragù and salmon with pomegranate glaze. The restaurant’s location within the Sonesta underscores another Westchester tradition: hospitality. Over 30 hotels and boutique accommodations, from family-friendly and pet-friendly spots to business ready locations, dot the landscape offering plenty of choices to experience all Westchester has to offer.
Whisk Executive Chef Ramon Perez said: “Hudson Valley Restaurant Week is about bringing together the ingredients, flavors, and memories that make fall such a special time of year. It’s our way of welcoming the holiday season, one dish at a time.”
Prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus at over 50 diverse restaurants representing 23 towns, cities, and villages entice visitors and residents to explore Westchester’s culinary world without ever leaving the County. At all locations, diners can savor meals priced at $24.95, $29.95, $39.95 and $44.95 (tax, beverages, and gratuity not included).
For more information about Hudson Valley Restaurant Week, visit: hvmag.com/events/restaurant-week.