Piermont, NY, a quaint village just a hop away from the bustling city, offers a culinary scene that’s both a retreat and a delight for food lovers. The town’s charm is amplified by its eateries, and Pier 701 Restaurant & Bar is a gem that shines bright along the Hudson River. With New Yorkers and locals mingling on sun-dappled decks, the restaurant has become a canvas where culinary artistry meets the casual elegance of riverside dining.
Indulge by the Hudson: A Seafood Feast at Pier 701 – Piermont’s Premier Riverside Dining Experience – Restaurant Reviews with Travel & Hospitality Photographer Maxwell Alexander – Presented by Alluvion Vacations
As I continue my gastronomic journey, seeking out the Hudson Valley and Catskills’ finest dining experiences, Pier 701 stood out with its promise of fresh seafood and picturesque views. It’s here that I found a perfect marriage of aesthetic pleasure and flavor, a blend that any culinary photographer would dream to capture.
The jumbo shrimp cocktail arrived first, a dish that demanded attention both visually and gastronomically. The shrimps, robust and perfectly cooked, were a sight of pure indulgence. Lined up like jewels against the verdant arugula, they were a vibrant contrast to the stark white plate. Each dip into the zesty cocktail sauce further revealed their delicate sweetness, a testament to their freshness. Capturing their glistening bodies through my lens, I couldn’t help but appreciate the simple beauty of this classic appetizer.
Next was the fried calamari, an ode to the tradition of seaside feasting. The golden-brown curls, dusted with seasoning, spoke of a texture that only the perfect fry can achieve. They were an auditory delight too; the sound of the crunch as you bite down was as satisfying as the taste. With the gentle squeeze of lemon, the calamari’s flavor was elevated, transforming it into a tangy treat that paired marvelously with the accompanying sauce. As I photographed them, they seemed almost to dance in the bowl, a playful subject for my camera.
The pièce de résistance, however, was the Grilled Spanish Octopus with Grilled Vegetables and Garlic Lemon Butter. This dish was a symphony of colors, textures, and tastes. The charred edges of the octopus whispered tales of the grill’s flame, while the medley of vegetables added a crunch and sweetness that complemented the tender meat. But it was the garlic lemon butter that truly set my taste buds alight, its rich, savory notes balancing the smokiness of the grill. Through my viewfinder, each element stood out, begging to be savored not just by the palate but also through the art of photography.
As for the drinks, they were not mere beverages; they were the spirit of Piermont in a glass. Each sip was refreshing, a burst of creativity that mirrored the restaurant’s flair for combining flavors in surprising ways. Photographing these drinks was akin to capturing the essence of having the best time by the river—vibrant, effervescent, and utterly joyful.
To those who share my passion for food and the beauty it can hold, I extend an invitation to experience Pier 701 Restaurant & Bar. And if you’re keen to explore more of the Hudson Valley’s culinary wonders, join me on this delicious journey by reading my other restaurant reviews and subscribing to the Hudson Valley Style Magazine newsletter. Here, every meal is an adventure, every snapshot a story, and every article a pathway to the next delightful discovery.