As winter winds danced through the trees of the Catskills, I found myself drawn to the promise of warmth, indulgence, and Argentinian-inspired cuisine at The Shelter in Woodstock, NY. A true culinary adventurer cannot resist the magnetic pull of hearty fare and rustic elegance, and this spot offered just that.
Culinary Sanctuary in the Catskills: A Review of The Shelter Restaurant and Bar in Woodstock, NY – Restaurant Reviews with Photographer Maxwell Alexander – LGBTQ+ Travel – Adventure Travel – Wellness Travel – Presented by Alluvion Vacations

The moment I stepped into The Shelter, the chill outside melted away, replaced by the cozy glow of a roaring fireplace and a dining room that exuded modern rustic charm. The antler chandeliers overhead cast a golden light on the room, creating a scene that felt straight out of a storybook. But what truly captured me was the aroma—hints of woodsmoke and spices that promised something truly special.

Warming Up with Mulled Wine
The first order of business? A glass of mulled wine. And let me tell you, this was not your run-of-the-mill holiday brew. This was sophistication in a glass—velvety, smooth, and infused with a symphony of wintery spices like nutmeg, clove, and a whisper of citrus. Each sip felt like a warm embrace, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable meal.

The Chevito: A Sandwich Worth Writing Home About
Next came The Chevito, and what a revelation it was. Imagine, if you will, a tender filet mignon sandwich layered with crispy bacon, smoked ham, and gooey provolone. Then, as if that weren’t enough, add roasted peppers, caramelized onions, and a boiled egg—all hugged by fresh lettuce and tomatoes, with a generous spread of mayo. This was no mere sandwich; it was a layered masterpiece of textures and flavors.

The filet mignon, cooked to perfection, was tender and juicy, and its richness was balanced by the salty crunch of bacon and the smokiness of the ham. The caramelized onions brought a subtle sweetness that danced in harmony with the roasted peppers. The boiled egg? A genius addition that added creaminess to every bite. The fries, served in a charming cup with a red-and-white checkerboard lining, were golden, crisp, and perfect for dipping into the side of ketchup. Every bite was an ode to comfort food elevated to art.

Dessert Bliss: Dulce de Leche Empanada
Just when I thought the meal had reached its crescendo, dessert arrived and completely rewrote the script. Dulce de Leche Empanada. Those words alone carry promise, but what arrived on my plate was pure magic. The empanada’s flaky crust was a golden treasure chest, hiding a molten filling of dulce de leche and dark chocolate that oozed decadence with every forkful.

The pairing of the empanada with a luscious scoop of vanilla ice cream was a masterstroke. The contrast of warm and cold, rich and creamy, sweet and bittersweet—it all worked together to create a serendipitous moment of dessert perfection. Who knew an empanada could double as a dessert and blow my culinary mind?

The Grand Finale: Spiked Cider
To close this gastronomic adventure, I sipped on a spiked cider that epitomized winter in the Hudson Valley. The warm blend of apple, spices, and a whisper of spiced rum wrapped up the experience like a woolen blanket on a frosty night.

The Shelter: More Than a Meal, a Refuge
As I lingered a moment longer, soaking in the cinematic bokeh of The Shelter’s lights, I realized this place was more than a restaurant. It was a sanctuary—a space that made you feel at home while taking you on a culinary journey through flavors you never knew you needed.

The Shelter in Woodstock isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience. From the warm mulled wine to the showstopping Chevito and the unexpected wonder of a dulce de leche empanada, every bite told a story. This is a must-visit destination for anyone wandering through the Catskills, seeking a moment of refuge and culinary delight. I, for one, cannot wait to return.

Embark on More Culinary Adventures in the Hudson Valley and Catskills
If The Shelter has you craving more unforgettable dining experiences, you’re in for a treat! The Hudson Valley and Catskills region is brimming with hidden culinary gems, farm-to-table dining havens, and artisanal flavors waiting to be explored. From cozy mountain bistros to riverside eateries with a twist, my #FRESH restaurant reviews in the Hudson Valley Style Magazine are your guide to savoring the best of what this breathtaking region has to offer.

Don’t let a single bite or sip pass you by—join the Hudson Valley Style Magazine Weekly Travel and Hospitality Newsletter today! Stay up to date on my latest foodie finds, exclusive dining tips, and must-visit hotspots across the Hudson Valley and Catskills. Get the insider scoop on everything from modern rustic eateries to the most Instagram-worthy dishes you’ll want to share.
📩 Subscribe here: Hudson Valley Style Magazine Newsletter

