I was so happy to hear that outdoor dining will be included in the Phase 2 reopening plans for NY State. Perhaps you have been seeing the creative transformation of parking lots, sidewalks and any available grass or gravel. One such restaurant offering open air dining, is the Muscoot Tavern, located at the intersections of Routes 100 and 35, along the Katonah - Somers border.
Along with everyone else, the Tavern has been simmering on takeout since the 8 pm shutdown on March 22. “June 9th marks a big step for many of us who are excited to finally go out and celebrate anniversaries, birthdays and other milestones since Pause NY went into effect,” remarked Elisa Zuckerberg, a local customer of the historic restaurant.
Owner Bobby Epstein and his staff experienced a pivotal event in the restaurant’s history when locking up that Sunday night in March. Earlier this year, the long-established restaurant had just kicked off a Vintage ‘67 Mustang Convertible Give Away to celebrate its 100 year history, only to find itself now facing discontinued service until further notice.
Thankfully, Muscoot Tavern has always offered takeout service, and their legendary pizzas are one of the many reasons people keep coming back. “We’re fortunate, our customers are loyal and we’re conveniently located off 684 and the Saw Mill Parkway. Our customer’s health is top on the list and the staff is fully trained in the strict new guidelines, including the wearing of masks, adhering to 6’ distancing, mandatory sanitizing and serving practices as well as restroom maintenance. We are ready to open Tuesday and I am pleased to be launching open air dining,” Epstein expressed.
The restaurant will provide table and bussing service on the tented patio, or under an umbrella at a table in the newly-designed backyard dining room. Reservations are accepted, but not required, as there will be plenty of table seating in the expanded backyard dining area.
Despite being ensconced in gloved-covered hands and masked smiles, you will still recognize your favorite staff, who await your return. They are looking forward to welcoming you back with signature dishes from their full menu such as; Montauk Fish Soup, Mussels Muscoot or any style pizza!
For a Daily Special Menu, follow Muscoot Tavern on FB @muscoottavern or Instagram @muscoot_tavern. To place a takeout order or reserve a table for the launch of Phase 2 open air dining, call, 914-232-2800. Visit the website for a full menu that is available Sunday through Thursday, noon - 9pm, Fri & Sat noon - 10 pm.
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing the President of Lopolito Hospitality Consultants on this very topic! Click here for our June 5th interview. If you are interested in learning more on the subject, click here for The National Restaurant Association’s recently-updated guide on Covid-19 reporting procedures.