Hey y’all! π Maxwell Alexander here, your favorite photographer/fitness model and gay cowboy explorer π€ π³οΈβπ, traveling up and down Hudson Valley with my dashing hubby, Dino Alexander πΊ. We recently saddled up and trotted into the charming town of Red Hook, NY, and lemme spill the beans: we stumbled upon a hidden gem – Charlie O’s Hometown Bar & Grill!
Charlie O’s Hometown Bar & Grill in Red Hook, NY β Gay-Tastic Travel Adventures with Your Upstate Guides Max & DinoΒ β Upstate Restaurant Reviews Presented by Alluvion Vacations
First off, darling, the ambiance is EVERYTHING! ππ‘ Nestled inside what was once a vaudeville house (read the Wiki about the genre!) and later, a cinema, the whole place screams vintage glam meets antique chic. It’s like if the past had a baby with the present.
Every nook and cranny is filled with antique-ish pop art and movie posters, transporting you to a world that’s both nostalgic and oh-so-adventurous. And speaking of nostalgia, I was living for all things Texas + cowboy memorabilia. I mean, hello! Gay cowboy here ππ€ ! I felt right at home, y’all! Now, as a passionate photographer πΈ, I couldn’t resist snapping away. The piΓ¨ce de rΓ©sistance? A grand knight statue watching over us, as we dined. Very “knight in shining armor” vibes. Prince Charming, is that you?
Onto the drinks, honeys! πΉπ The frozen mango margarita was a tropical dream, taking our taste buds on a vacay to a sun-soaked beach. The luscious texture of mango, impeccably frozen to the right consistency, marries well with the subtle undertones of tequila. It’s a drink that not only quenches one’s thirst but also transports you to a sun-kissed beach, the waves lapping at your feet, right there, still in Upstate lol.
π Meanwhile, the strawberry mojito, garnished with fresh mint, was as refreshing as a dip in a cool pool on a hot summer day. The drink comes alive with the tangy burst of ripe strawberries, complemented by the aromatic freshness of mint. The rum serves as the backbone, giving the drink its robust character while allowing the fruity notes to shine. It’s a beverage that, with each sip, speaks of summer gardens and laughter shared among friends.
Our foodie journey began with wings that managed to be crispy yet juicy β basically, culinary wizardry! πβ¨ Ah, the wings. They were a masterstroke in culinary dexterity. The skin, impeccably crispy, yields to reveal succulent meat within. It’s a delightful juxtaposition of textures, with flavors that sing harmoniously on the palate. The right blend of spices ensures that every bite is both familiar and novel.
Then came today’s special “Appo’tizer” empanadas, and oh my stars, crunchy perfection in every bite. A nod to Latin American culinary traditions, these empanadas stand out due to their crunch. The exterior, golden brown and flaky, gives way to a flavorful filling. Every bite is an ode to the rich culinary traditions they represent, yet with a unique twist that makes them distinctly Charlie O’s.
But the main show? That Cowboy Chicken “Sammich”. Every bite was a yeehaw moment, from the grilled chicken and bacon to the BBQ sauce. This dish, in many ways, resonated with my own journey.
The grilled chicken, tender and imbued with smoky undertones, is beautifully complemented by sautΓ©ed peppers and onions. The bacon adds a layer of savory crunch, while the BBQ sauce introduces a sweet and tangy contrast. All of these elements come together in a hoagie roll, making for a sandwich that’s both hearty and refined.
Dino went all Westcoast with a burger π that had avocado slices, swiss cheese, and sautΓ©ed mushrooms. Trust me, he had the happiest cowboy in town grin by the end of it! According to his feedback, the patty, juicy and well-seasoned, paired wonderfully with the creamy texture of avocado slices. The Swiss cheese, with its mild nutty flavor, complements the earthy notes of sautΓ©ed mushrooms. It was indeed a dish that captured the essence of the West Coast in every bite.
All in all, Charlie O’s is the place to be if you’re looking for some good ol’ fun, flavor and a bit of flamboyance in upstate NY. It’s a rendezvous of history, community, and gay-tastic energy. Highly recommend!
Ride on and stay fabulous, y’all! ππ€ β¨πΉ
Until our next Upstate adventure, Maxwell & Dino πππΈ
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Explore More with Max & Dino: Savor the Flavors of the Hudson Valley & Catskills!
If you’ve loved our take on Charlie O’s Hometown Bar & Grill, then you’re in for an epicurean treat! Dive deeper into our flavorful escapades as we gallop through the culinary landscape of the iconic Hudson Valley and the rustic charm of the Catskills.
From farm-to-table gastronomy, artisanal breweries, to boutique vineyards, the Hudson Valley is a mecca for all things fresh, local, and downright delicious. Craving an Instagram-worthy brunch spot? π³ Searching for the best gourmet food trucks that blend tradition with modern flair? π Or perhaps a sophisticated tasting menu set against a backdrop of rolling hills and flowing rivers? π· We’ve got you covered.
Over in the Catskills, the scene shifts slightly, echoing with the sounds of cascading waterfalls and whispers of ancient forests. Here, indulge in cozy mountain lodges offering hearty comfort foods, artisanal cheese shops, and pop-up farm markets bursting with organic produce. For the eco-conscious traveler, the Catskills also present a wonderful array of sustainable dining options and green eateries. πΏ
Craft brew enthusiasts, rejoice! The region’s burgeoning craft beer scene is something to behold, from hop-infused IPAs to rich, velvety stouts. And don’t get us started on the artisanal cider houses and distilleries weaving magic with locally sourced apples and grains.
Get on our Newsletter below, because every corner of these regions holds a story, a flavor, and a memory waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a food lover, a wine aficionado, or simply someone looking to discover the hidden culinary gems of the Hudson Valley and Catskills, saddle up for a journey like no other.
Ride on, dine well, and as always, stay fabulous! Until our next flavorful adventure, Maxwell & Dino ππ€ π·π΄.
