Come here for dinner, not to dance. Shadows has an excellent menu and fantastic views and ambiance. However as a night club, it's a little intense. If you like to fist pump to loud techno with flashing lights in your expensive tight dress with a mixture of too old to be here and young and just having fun...then maybe this is the place for you. I gets VERY crowded on weekends, especially in the summer. You pretty much can't move. I've done events here as a liquor sampler many times and I can tell you that I can't ever wait to get the hell out of there!
Their Sunday brunch however is pretty good. It's a buffet style (which isn't my favorite) but it's not a wide variety of options including dessert. Food is fresh. They have a carving station and waffle maker. They don't serve alcohol until noon though.
After two enjoyable brunches & lunches, decided to return for dinner. Our group had:
Appys: Fried Calamari - tender, lightly battered w/fra diavolo & remoulade sauces. It was enjoyed by all. Spinach & artichoke dip (nothing special), but the thick-cut chips made the snack. Entrees: Sea Bass Puttanesca was the best of all. Don't let the picture fool you...Prime Rib arrived as a lukewarm slab of meat. My friend said it was "dry" & asked for au jus to make it edible. Grilled Lamb Chops - requested med. rare, arrived well-done. I ate them anyway, as meat was still tender & nicely seasoned. The sea scallops looked better than they tasted, just OK. Service was friendly & attentive until meals served, then waitress was MIA. Finally, cocktails (not specialty drinks) are generous pours & a good value.
The people - they will continue to come. The draw here is the scenery. If you stick to Sun. brunch, soups, salads & sandwiches and skip supper, you won't be disappointed.
I love this place. When I was in college I would always go here with visiting family, and occasionally with friends when we wanted to be fancy (ie., not order takeout Chinese.) I'm generally not a fan of those kind of genre-less restaurants with huge menus, but the views at Shadows are gorgeous, the service is wonderful, the drinks are fabulous, and the food is good. I go to this place for ambiance more than anything else--don't get me wrong, the food is tasty, but it's nothing life-changing.
Try the Hudson Valley Punch and the triple-layer chocolate cake. Mmmmmmmm. Time your visit so you'll be there for sunset...truly stunning over the Hudson. And when the weather is nice, sit outside on the deck!
We came here all three times we visited the area while apartment hunting because we couldn't stay away and we just had to bring our friends there.
We loved everything about this place every time.
This place was recommended to us by the first person we met in the area - a woman who had lived there over 50 years. We went after a long day of looking at apartments. We were amazed by the view of the water and how pretty the whole place looked, and when we saw the menu we thought it was just too good to be true. But we have yet to figure out what the catch is.
The menu has such an awesome range of foods. You can get something simple like a burger or wrap, or get a seafood plate.
This place has, hands down, the best burgers I've ever tried. I used to be super picky about burgers - nothing but the burger, the bun, cheese and ketchup. They changed how I think of burgers. The hickory burger, the mac and cheese burger, and the pulled pork burger are all to die for. The patty is huge, and they manage to get my burger well-done without drying it out, which is awesome in my book because cooks from where I'm from are not that patient. The burgers are all right around $10 and are served with delicious, fresh sea salt and pepper fries.
I also had some of the most amazing beef vegetable soup I've ever tried here. My boyfriend and I planned on sharing it, and then upon taking one bite, my boyfriend turned around and ordered his own bowl.
The parmesan crusted chicken was also fantastic, even leftover the next day.
Our vegetarian friend loved the vodka penne.
I definitely recommend that you sit out near the windows. The view is amazing on a sunny day. Â Even the women's bathroom is the prettiest I've ever been in!
We will definitely be going back here several times
Great, reasonably priced dinner with a view. Â I stopped here for an early dinner after attending an all day event in Rhinebeck. Â The server was great, the food was great and did not break the bank--small cut of prime rib, with warm bread, salad, veggies and baked potato for $18. Â The food was prepared and seasoned well, presented nicely and arrived without delay. Â The meat was medium rare, just as ordered and was a nice sized portion for the smaller "queen cut." Â Yum, yum. Â I will go back next time I am up North. Â .
Review Source:I really wanted to like this place...really. Â The location is amazing. You can sit outside and look at the Hudson River while you have dinner. Â It makes any chick you bring on a date...like you instantly!!! But damn..they really need to work on their food quality.
Its a really big spot. Â The bar looks really cool, the dining area is well maintained. But I gave it 2 stars because I came here to eat...and I left there not satisfied at all. Â I have to say that the waiter was very nice and attentive.
I ordered a burger, since someone told me how good they were. Â Somebody lied! I usually order my burger medium or medium well. Â What was served to me was a super overdone brick of meat. Â I'm not the one to send back food, since I think they do all kinds of things to your new order...so I just eat it. Â It was bad, but the crab cake I ate for an appetizer was okay. Â I wouldn't shut this place down all the way, I think they just need to pay closer attention to whats being thrown out on their plates. I think if I'm in the area again, I'll go and try something even more simple than a burger. Â That view of the Hudson is really hard to deny.
The first word that comes to mind when I think of this place is "fun." The food was fun (and delicious), the decor was fun, the staff was fun, the experience was fun. Even the bathrooms were fun. A good time was had by all, and it's a shame it isn't closer so I wouldn't have to drive all the way down to Poughkeepsie to get here! Â It was also so packed we had to park on the street 3 blocks away. Crazy! There was some sort of convention going on next door at the banquet hall I guess.
We had a reservation so we were seated very quickly. Right by the window next to the river and a view of the bridge. A gorgeous view! We ordered drinks and I got a mojito. Mint was fresh, and they didn't skimp on the rum! I ordered steamed clams as an appetizer, and I didn't realize the clam basket came with mashed potatoes in the bottom of the dish in the garlic sauce. Surprise potatoes, what a good surprise! I also ordered the fra diavolo pasta and it was phenomenal. At this point I was so full from the appetizer that I decided to take it home because really why would I leave something so amazing behind? The waitress was very funny and attentive, but not overbearing. I'm sure this is a very different experience on weekends or when it becomes the hot party spot for all the local college students, but for a Thursday evening it was a good time.
The food is completely mediocre. It's like going to a glorified Cheesecake factory with a  young and overwhelmed service staff. This is middle America food people. Maybe I'm spoiled from living in New York City too long but this food is totally MEH.
The views of The Hudson are amazing and it is affordable so go with low expectations, stick to simple dishes and enjoy the view and a nice cold glass of wine!
My friends brought me for brunch this past Sunday bc i absolutely love brunch and mimosas and an overabundance of food on a lazy Sunday with a pick of breakfast and dinner-ish eats. Eyyo! Â I always thought Shadows was a nicer, ritz-y kinda joint and when we arrived there were mucho heads. Â As I start to study around and get a feel for the crowd, the food and service, its not quite the 4 and 5 star as I assumed. Â Our booth up by the bar had ripped upholstery and made this clunking noise if you leaned on it in a certain spot. Uhh ok, is this Shadows on the Hudson or The Old Country Buffet? Â
The food was an enormous variety but quality wise, it was so-so. Â The eggs, potatoes, bacon and sausage were on par. Â I tried this stuffed pork with a spinach looking substance inside, wrapped in proscuitto and was hoping for a wow factor w that bc it looked great. Â It was mehhh mostly bc it was not hot at all and the spinach/cheese whatever mixed center was not melty and soft but just a big chunk. Â The chicken marsala was not flavored well and I could barely cut that biotch. Â My dude and I both thought it was old chicken and tasty off.
As for the patrons, some were in their Sunday best and looking lovely, others were a part of  communion parties, and then you had the lower end of the scale patrons who thought the Tilapia Provencal was a fish "Pro-Vink-ill."  I couldnt stop laughing at that but also showed that this was more of a budget buffet than a brunch on the hudson fine dining afternoon.
My other annoyance was the lack of certain foods like eggs benedict, turkey sausages, and wtf.... no mimosas?! I know you don't always have the luxury of getting bottomless ones but no even one effing bevvy was included? We asked the bartender if there were any alc drinks we could order by pitcher and he said no, making us all get individual ones... Two mins later I look at the beverage menu and see one cocktail sold.... BY.THE.PITCHER. Â Thanks a lot bro. Ya damn newb.
I would still prob come back as I dont think this wicked stomachache and nausea I'm getting now is associated w the food from Sunday but rather the dozen beers I polished off during the day after. Â I'd give it another shot Fo Sho. Â Not expecting anything overly fabulous, but just a decent brunch.
I visited Shadows when a girlfriend suggested we brunch here this past weekend. Loved the location of this restaurant. Right on the Huson River, with panoramic views to boot. I can imagine how beautiful this would be when the weather's just right. The "Jamaican sunrise" cocktail was a delicious tropical treat and the lettuce wraps as appetizers were ok. But the service was a bit lack-luster and we had to ask for clean glasses for our tables. The ones already set up were visibly stained. Not a good look...3 stars for the locale, delicious drink and appetizer.
Review Source:Shadows has a pretty good happy hour scene compared to other places in Poughkeepsie. It also has great ambiance and view across the dining area of the Hudson River. My favorite is their garlic bread tower w/ gorgonzola fondue...always a hit with my girlfriends and I.
The waitstaff are generally pretty nice and always accommodating, no complaints there.
Shadows is the definition of a three-star establishment. While the view and ambiance of the place are GREAT (during the day, or at night), the staff, prices, food, and drink are all egregiously underwhelming. Every time I've been there, it's been because I've been dragged by friends who want to go somewhere "classy".
Shadows gets a lot of local attention and is always crowded on the weekends. Don't get me wrong, it's a nice bar and is a cool place to hang out on occasion, but it's definitely overrated. The lackluster service is not forgiven when you realize you're paying $11 for a drink you could get for $6 or $7 virtually anywhere else. The food is mediocre at best, especially at lunchtime...dry, tasteless, boring, and predictable. The quality is honestly no better than any family-style chain restaurant where you would literally spend half the money. As a "classy" place, it fails to deliver the remarkable, memorable experience you would expect.
I've had dinner a couple times, and was only slightly more impressed than the lunch experiences I've had. Food is okay, portions are generally small, like what you would expect at a high-end restaurant, since the quality at such establishments is usually impeccable. However, at Shadows, you pay $20 for an entree that leaves you wanting more -- both quantity-wise, and quality-wise. (And no, I don't expect or eat above-average portions.)
At the bar, the staff is extremely unfriendly and acts like they're doing you a favor by pouring some gin in some tonic water. They glare at you as you fork over a $20 bill, and while your insides slowly melt, you realize you only have $7 left after you leave them a tip. But fear not - you owe that to the valet driver out front once you're ready to leave. But fear not, you don't HAVE to valet park. You can drive down the hill and park in their general lot down in front of the river. But if you've never been there before or you're not with someone who has, you won't know that, because there is no indication that non-valet parking even exists, besides out on the street on Rinaldi Blvd. You literally have to drive past the valet drivers as they give you a stern look, and then only you can wrap your way down the hill to find a spot in the general lot.
Another thing that annoys me: as a so-called "classy" joint, they DO have a dress code. Guys - you're technically not allowed in with shorts on in the summer. You need to be wearing pants. No, not jeans, but pants. Okay, sure - are there sometimes people in there wearing jeans or even shorts? Sure. But it depends on who YOU are, and WHEN you're coming in. Especially on weekend "bar nights", you're expected to be wearing a button-down, slacks, and a jacket. You may get away with not doing so, but can technically be turned away at the door. It's happened.
This may be a matter of opinion, but I'm throwing it in anyway: the general public at Shadows also pisses me off. This place seems to attract middle-class to upper-middle class 30-40 year olds who are extremely entitled and rude. Don't expect someone to have the common courtesy to hold the door for you, excuse themselves after running you over, or having the decency to throw their used paper towels into the trash can when they're finished. Sure, it's a bar, and some level of debauchery is implied, but Shadows seems to attract an especially obnoxious crowd. Again, matter of opinion.
This review has gotten a lot longer than I intended. Basically, this place is mediocre for drinks and food. It's a nice place to go to once, very pretty at night, and probably good for a weeknight date. I don't recommend it at all as a weekend bar or a place to grab lunch with a friend.
Shadows has always been a spot that I haven't been the biggest fan of and a place where there always seems to be issues. The positive about Shadows is that it has a great view of the river and bridge. It is a pretty decent spot to catch the sunset after work over some drinks. Unfortunately it is hard to recommend for much more than that. Whenever I've gotten food, I feel that most of it is average at best, especially at lunch. Fish tacos, burgers, and other sandwiches have all been underwhelming. Dry, tasteless. Brunch and catering seem to be a little better.
The other people at Shadows seem to not be the best crowd either. You hold the door open or are polite and you don't even get a thank you or politeness in return (maybe because they already had a bad time here).
I've had issues before about getting correct pricing during happy hour. I've had friends get kicked out of the night dance club they put on for being "too drunk" (when just minding their own business). Their last call was before midnight one of the weekend nights I've gone. They are also quick to kick people out afterwards. I've been escorted out for grabbing a friend and the bouncer not interpreting it right.
There are better places to go eat, dance, or enjoy drinks.
Walked in on a Saturday night and was seated for a table right away. It was a fairly busy place, only a few open tables. The setup is interesting as there is a bar/lounge area right when you walk in. Â The outer dinner area is surrounded by windows to allow views of the river.
Our waitress was super nice, and the other staff was very attentive. Â For apps we had ordered the buffalo calamari, shrimp saute with garlic bread and gorganzola sauce, and crab cakes.
The Buffalo Calamari was weird at first, but I couldn't stop eating it. The calamari itself was great, it was the sauce that threw me off initially. But I polished off the plate and would recommend it if you want something more than regular Calamari.
The crabcakes were okay, nothing to write home about.
The Shrimp was clean and good, but the selling point was def the gorganzola sauce. We ordered this instead of the garlic bread tower because it had the same elements, without being a huge plate of bread. It was def worth it, but the garlic bread tower would have also been a great pick.
For dinner my lady friend ordered the lambchops and there were amazing. She got about 6 chops altogether and it was clean tasting, tender, and juicy.
I ordered the thick cute prime rib and it was huge. Â Also tender and juicy, but I wish we didn't order all the apps because I was stuffed.
I had ordered a soda and it came in a nice big glass, if thats a selling point to you, then there you go.
all in all i thought it was great and would easily recommend it to anyone. service was friendly and the food came quickly and HOT.
I live in the area and have been to Shadows plenty of times so this review is for the compilation of all my visits. I know some people have said this is not appropriate for the Poughkeepsie area, but I think it is totally needed and the location is simply perfect.
I had my High School Graduation party here, brunch, Bachelorette Party, numerous dinners and my Wedding after party here and each visit was better than the last. I haven't had a bad meal, pricing is a little steep, but like any place on the water you pay for the view...and there's not a better view around. The garlic bread app is A+, so you have to try it.
I always forget about heading to the outside bar over the summer, but it is definitely the place to go to enjoy the outdoors. Can't say enough good things about Shadows, try it for yourself.
It seems like they are trying to recreate a cheesecake-factory type of experience in terms of the price point and array of food options. We walked in to hear the receptionist telling a complainer on the phone that they had already charged his credit card and that they would not amend the charge. They had a buffet that looked like quantity was the goal rather than quality. They didn't have cappuccino. It was really loud. The decor is cheap and looks like that of a chain restaurant or nursing home.
Review Source:The things that people would give-up for a beautiful view of the hudson............ Â
                                                                                              Â
                           "good- food"
I've been here plenty of times and my parents love the $14 brunch buffet on Sundays. I think I would enjoy brunch more if the line to get food didn't take 10 minutes. Â Always lots of food even when you come to dinner. Not the best culinary plates but good nonetheless. Good cocktails and lots of open space.
The biggest selling point is the views of the river and the bridge. It's gorgeous at night.
I would happily go back to Shadows - it has all the elements of a pleasant dining experience: nice river view, friendly service, and tasty food (a wide selection of fish)!
I had the seared tuna mango-avocado salad with a glass of the white house wine - both were light and delightful.
Note: Watch out for their yummy fluffy garlicky bread, it is dangerously caloric and a sure way to ruin the appetite for the main meal.
On the pricey side for drinks and food but is very trendy and interior decor is cool. Ceilings have color changing lights, various sitting areas of the restaurant are very diverse adding a feeling that you are at the same restaurant but maybe a having a new experience if you get to try multiple areas.
Good food, nice staff, just a little on the pricey side.
A quick primer, I have been there during the evening for dinner, as well as at night for the "club". This review will focus on the night life.
So I remember going to this place when it opened. There USED to be a strict dress code, you had to act right, and be willing to pay to play. You were served by knowledgeable staff, in GLASS. Now after being away from the HV for 3 years on a recent visit we went here. Now: you can wear what ever you want..they have canned beer and serve you in plastic, I'm no longer impressed. The bartenders had no special skills and seemed rushed, also the crowd seemed young, so I'm not sure if this is still 21+. Overall, go for dinner and go dance somewhere else.
We had brunch here on Father's day and a special family reunion for my Grandmother's 90th Birthday. Â We called ahead and got a special "room" for the whole family. Â The room was more like an alcove but it was private. Â The place was packed and at times it was hard to move around the food tables. Â
There was sooo many food choices it was hard to choose where to start. Â Love the dessert was served in small portions. Â The buffet tables were always full except for the fresh donuts, we waited over an hour for them to refill these well atleast that is when we got some. Â They just flew off the table. Â In our very large group everyone got to sample everything and no one had any complaints about the food.
The service was good, but not anything special. Â We did have to flag the waiter down a couple times for drink refills but he was in our "room" almost the whole time we were there.
As many have already mentioned, the Buffalo Calamari is delicious here. The location is amazing and the ambiance is great for a nice dinner or date night. Unfortunately, that's all I can really rave about.
To be fair, we went on Marist's graduation weekend, so many students and their families had the same idea. Post-graduation dinner celebration. My friends and I made reservations months in advance because we expected Shadows to be jam-packed. We got there early for our 7:30 reservation and were told our table wouldn't be ready for another 40-45 minutes. So okay, it's busy, we get it. We waited over an hour. We're finally seated by 8:45. We get our bread and drinks pretty quickly, but our waiters don't come by for another half hour to take our orders! Our table had a bet going on whether our salads (not even the main course!) would get to us before or after 10:00.
All right, so we're done eating by 11. Time for the check...or not. We ask for it, but our waitress doesn't return to our table with the check for another half an hour. We're nearing midnight. This is ridiculous. I'd gone up to another waiter to ask about where our check was and he said our waitress was working on it. I know problems may occur, but would it hurt to swing by our table to give us an update?
Food itself was eh. Not worth the four hours we spent in the restaurant. The stir fry rice was under-cooked. My friend and I both ordered the salmon dinners. Somehow I managed to get a piece of salmon that was TWICE the size of her's. We asked about it and they said it was distributed by weight...but my piece definitely weighed way more.
We finally left just before midnight. After graduation and moving out of the dorms, we definitely didn't want to be sitting in a restaurant until midnight. I don't rate this a 2-star based on this one experience. I've been to Shadows several times before and have never been impressed. It's a lot of flash but not much to back it up.
I went here visiting some family. The atmosphere and the view of the Hudson is amazing! The river is especially beautiful at night!
The interior is very hip and chic and great for parties. They had a live band when I went but before the band started playing they were playing party music from the top of the music charts. The music was very very loud though and it was hard for even me to hear some of our conversation.
We ordered fried calamari and chips and dip to start off which weren't all that bad. The chips seemed to be homemade and very tasty albeit a bit too crunchy. Then I had the macaroni and cheeseburger which I thought was an interesting concept. It wasn't bad necessarily just very... meh. The meat wasn't juicy or flavorful; it was just beef. I also tried some green beans and mashed potatoes which were just very plain.
Our server was very friendly and the food arrived promptly but the bottom line is that you're paying for the view and the atmosphere. It's a fun place but not necessarily very good.
Came here for my mom's birthday. Â Had a pleasurable meal and the wait staff was wonderful. Â Thank you Dawn.
The view is fabulous. Â The bar seems like it is well stocked and really would be nice to spend some time.
There were 9 of us, so our orders were across the board. Â Started with the corn and crab chowder. Â Seemed to have a hint of sherry and was very tasty. Â The menu kept me torn and we, as a group, went the full gamet of surf, to pasta, to turf. Â No complaints from anybody. Â This coming from a very picky and opinionated crew.
Me, I had the rib eye. Â Am now sleepy... Â Double expesso better work, cuz I'm driving....
Had a birthday party here last night.
The place puts off a very high end vibe. Â The view is stunning. Â The bar area looks very cool, with a giant tv. Â Nice long rack of Crystal Head Vodka.
We shared some apps to start off. Â The garlic bread tower, with a tangy cheese sauce and the Buffalo Calamari. Â Both were delicious. Â I highly recommend the Buffalo Calamari. Â Wonderful buffalo sauce with blue cheese, tastes very much like any good pub staple.
I had the steak and chicken teriyaki for my main course. Â The steak was cooked to perfection, nice and juicy. Â The chicken was also very good, not tough at all. Â Both had a very nice teriyaki glaze, that went well with the fries and veggies (green beans and carrots).
Overall, I really enjoyed this place. Â Not as expensive as people make it out to be. Â With drinks, apps, and dinner it came to about $50 a person.
Went to Shadows on the Hudson this past Friday for a celebratory dinner with 5 other people. Â I have been here several times before for both lunch and dinner. Â
Shadows gets a perfect score for the ambiance and location, although the main dining area is huge and tends to make one feel like they are lost in a large sea of dining tables filled with strangers. Â It lacks that "comfy" feel that can make a romantic dinner feel very special. Â
My biggest disappointment is related to the food and drinks. Â I feel that the quality of the food was mediocre and is not indicative of the image that Shadows portrays and advertises. Â I agree with an earlier reviewer with regard to the steep cocktail prices which do not feature top-shelf derived concoctions. Â When I pay $10.00 for a lousy drink, I expect to feel the alcohol by the end of the drink. Â When I don't feel the effects of alcohol from a $10.00 drink, I know that there was hardly any liquor in the beverage, which constitutes a total rip-off in my book. Â
Service is spotty- good on some occasions, lacking on others, but has never been terrible. Â
Once again, I left Shadows with a feeling of "Eh", and therefore, I don't think I will continue to patronize their establishment. Â Time to try the Bull and Buddah!!
I enjoyed visiting this place. It gave me the sense of a high volume mass production meal and I think I expected this before we arrived. We sat on the deck near the outdoor bar and even though it was Marist College parents weekend we only waited about 5 minutes to be seated. I think the other reviews have covered the restaurant layout so I'll stick to our specific meals. Oh, it seemed that the dress code covered the entire range, we were casual in jeans and others were celebrating anniversaries and some larger dinner parties so some folks were dressed very formal. Interesting to have the entire range in the same place at once.
I would rate our meal and service good. There are tons of waitstaff and our particular waitress was friendly and helpful. We ordered drinks, I had a straight up dry vodka martini w/olives, prepared well and dry, the olives were standard out of a jar and with the pimentos removed, nothing to boast about and nothing wrong with them either.
We ordered a dozen oysters on the half shell as an appetizer and they were good. Fresh and tasty. I may not have noticed although I don't think the menu informed you what type of oysters they were. I also noticed that the appetizer menu had pretty standard offerings, Fried Calamari, Buffalo wings etc. nothing very interesting.
Entrees we ordered grilled tuna and grouper. Both entrees came with a standard salad, mass produced but good, mescalin greens that were fresh as well as the rest of the veges, although didn't use much of the house vinaigrette dressing it tasted good. The grilled tuna was cooked as ordered, rare, and had a heavy sesame seed crust, it was good and just about what I expected. The tuna was served with green bean and julian carrots, not over cooked but smothered with butter sauce which is too much for my taste although it was to be expected. Â Also about a cup of basmati rice, nothing special and it was good. The grouper was prepared with caper, olive, and tomato, dressing based with white wine and lemon. It was good, I love olives and the fish was prepared well, probably just a little over cooked although not dried out at all. Grouper came with the same rice and I think the same veges.
We skipped desert and headed to an event we were attending. Overall was a pleasant experience with a beautiful view, which is really why we visited this place.
Okay, so in all fairness to other reviews already posted. Â I can see the confusion with the overall "feel" of this location. Â It has one room that is very chic, and modern on the left as you walk past the hostess station. Â Just past it to the left is a room that is almost "VIP" in look and feel, being all white behind a semi curtain of beads. Â The main room is more like 3 start restaurant meets sports bar in some weird fusion... complete with giant sports screen behind the bar.
Then of course your outdoor seating, which was using large plastic patio chairs.
However, if you can negate what you see for a bit, and just relax your mind to the view of the river - I think you'll have the same experience I did... which is 4 stars and pushing for 5 really.
First, the one that everyone seems to agree on here, the view. Â It really is nice! Â We actually got a chance to see a cargo train traveling up the opposite river bank. Â While simple, and nothing to really call home about, it added a subtle visual ambience that was nice. Â You can see up and down the river, with rolling hills directly across from the restaurant and following the river. Â It really, truly is, quite lovely.
Second, there has been mixed reviews on the food, but I'd like to be one to say that everything I had was delicious. Â To the point of surprise. Â After reading reviews here, and the minimal confusion by the "look" of Shadows, I was already on edge and expectant of "chain" style food. Â Little flavor, and "micro-waved". Â What I had was anything but what I expected, and was amazing. Â I couldn't stop eating!
I started with the crab cake, which I admit was a bit soft for me. Â I like it cooked to firm up a bit more on the outsides, but aside from that was really good with nice chunks of crab through-out. Â This was followed by their house salad, which was really good... the greens were crisp and cool, no bad ones mixed into the group, and really the only downer (for me personally) was that there was a lot of onion, which I'm not the biggest fan of. Â But large slices so I could easily avoid it.
Finally - the main course. Â I went with surf and turf which was a 8-9oz filet, and a 6oz lobster tail, served with your choice of potato (I went with baked), and seasonal veggie melody (for me it was sliced carrots and string beans). Â Everything was cooked to perfection... the lobster wasn't over done. Â The steak was a nice medium pink in the middle (as requested) and the veggies were soft and tender, but still a bit of crisp to each bite. Â Perfection and tons of flavor, all in a very ample portion.
Service was also very good - the server checked on us regularly, kept drinks filled, and made suggestions for meals/deserts. Â Very friendly, polite, and courteous.
I can honestly say that this was a great experience, and a wonderful meal. Â One that I can hopefully take up again if/when I'm out in the area.
OK- I am not much of a brunch person, it's just too much pressure to decide which meal you are eating. Do I really want Crabmeat Stuffed Filet of Sole touching my eggs? It's so disturbing.
Shadows Sunday brunch is a winner. I confess I am a brunch dilettante but this is the best I have experienced.
This meal this makes you feel like a grown-up. It is a special treat and a fantastic value at just $15.bucks. It runs from 11-2, reservations are recommended.
Cheeeeeeeesy.
It's a perfect spot to take friends for a laugh if something brings you to the vicinity of the Poughkeepsie train station. Just for appetizers (the scallops are good!) and local beers (it's the place for liney Mother's Milk. Mmm).
I think where this place goes wrong is trying too hard to be too many things at once. Big screen sports-bar-style TVs, fancy-ish dishes laid out on the plate CIA-style, and decor like the Ice Room... Wow. The Ice Room... It can't decide or identify what it is aiming to be as a restaurant/bar, which makes it a challenge for patrons to walk away with a surely satiated attitude towards it.
I went here for some after work appetizers and drinks during their happy hour specials or $5 drinks (normally $10) and $5 appetizers. Â (more on their $5 drinks later).
Their outside seating was really nice. Â The decor is modern, but I cannot tell what they are trying to be? Are they a nightclub? A yuppie after work spot? A trendy college spot for pretty people(as their local commercials would lead you to believe)? Â A European sex club with weird s&m novelty rooms?
The appetizers were barely worth (actually not worth) the half price cost. Â My emulsified sauce was broken, and shrimp over cooked. Â The drinks, normally costing $10 each, were nothing more than Cuervo, Seagrams, etc. Â (not top or even medium shelf) -- WAY overpriced at $10. Â Not to mention the bartender didn't know the menu (POS wasn't updated and new menus the kitchen was cooking were not even printed nor memorized by staff). Â Instead of training the senior bartender was going over his social calendar.
Let me explain, when we arrived we were told they were in a "menu transition." Â They had a new menu, but didn't have time to print it out prior to service on this day. Â HELLO, a menu transition should be seamless, only daily regulars should even know this has happened. Â Your waiters didn't even know what was on the new menu. Â They had to keep running back to the POS to find out what the menu options were. Â Â Wow, that's great service.
In summary this place is a weird, try-to-do-it-all, restaurant/bar. Â The food was horrible, service low and disorganized, and management should be blamed for all. Â A HUGE disappointment.
With 2,000 culinarians just up the block at the Culinary Institute of America It seems that they should have no problem getting quality servers and cooks. Â Yet it seems their staff is infiltrated with typical low-skilled cooks and servers. Â Who simply don't understand hospitality. Â
An extreme disappointment and my review is generous. Â Maybe I went on a bad day, but a good restaurant doesn't have such bad days and low service standards.
I digress. Â Did I mention the view was really nice?
UPDATE:
To Shadows' credit the GM contacted me through yelp, and encouraged us to give them a try again and that my experience was an anomaly. Â I appreciate their interest in correcting my experience and we will happily give Shadow's another chance on the next nice spring weekend. Â I know how difficult restaurants are to run (I've done it), and any restaurant willing to improve is worthy of an updated review! Â And the view really is neat and will continue to improve as I believe the long term-plan is to build a marina next door. Â Thank you for contacting me directly Shadows.
Here we go. Â My first review. Â Deep breath.
This past weekend I ate at Shadows along with my wife and parents. Â My extended family originated from the once-booming city of Poughkeepsie. Â As a result, my parents are relatively familiar with what the city has to offer. Â Though they're database is somewhat outdated.
On my Dad's suggestion we went to Shadows.
The Good: Â The restaurant's interior and view exceeded my expectations. Â The restaurant does a good job with aesthetics. Â Further, plenty of glass windows permit spectacular views of the Hudson.
I should also add that the (most) of the service was pretty decent. I say "most" because of a few questions I had, and which I discuss below.
The food tasted a little better than average, and the prices for lunch were pretty reasonable.
The Bad: Â To some, my gripes with Shadows might sound petty. Â Nevertheless, I believe my concerns were justifiable.
I politely asked the waiter whether he knew the vendor of the meat they served. Â The reason for asking is that I'm concerned with how meat gets to my plate. Eg., environmental and health issues surrounding poorly raised meat. Â The waiter, a college-age kid, said he didn't know but he could ask his manager. Â That sounded reasonable; he just serves the food.
I was less than impressed with the manager's response. Â The manager stopped by the table to clarify what I type of information I was requesting. Â After a brief conversation, I clarified that I was seeking to know the vendor of their meat, or at the very least whether the meat was organic and/or sustainably raised. Â I figured my request was uncommon, so I internally excused the manager's initial feigned concern.
The manager said he could find out. Â He too returned without knowing much about the meat that Shadows served. Â His response was also discourteous.
The source of the meat is the prerogative of the establishment. Â I believe, however, that the managers of the restaurant should, at least, be better versed with what they serve. Â More important, the manager should be concerned and knowledgeable about the environmental and health issues surrounding the products they sell. Â In fact, I could argue that economics plays into the choice of meat: Shadows should support local Poughkeepsie-area farms to ensure that the food its serves is food that (environmentally, hygienically, and economically) serves its customers.
The rehearsal dinner for my cousin's wedding was here and I can see why they chose it. Â First off the view from the patio seats is breathtaking in the evening. Â On the other side of the river is nothing but trees and a bridge in the distance, no businesses or homes, not even a single lamp post. Â After the sun sets that side of the Hudson is just blackness.
We all started out picking away at 4 appetizers:
- chicken tenders were good and crispy, not a dry bite
- coconut crusted shrimp a bit on the greasy side but juicy and a lot of coconut there
- baja chicken egg rolls, think SW egg rolls from Chili's but noticeably better (cilantro does it)
- crab and artichoke dip with wonton "chips", good to see it didn't skimp on the first 2 ingredients and just go heavy on the cream cheese.
I don't remember all the entrees but the shrimp scampi with the garlicky buttery sauce was excellent, and someone was raving about the ribeye (lots of steak addition options too). Â I wasn't privy to the drunk orgy of obnoxious pompous college kids or the "trendy" atmosphere, but then we left before the big clubbing hours.
Another bonus - I left my ring in the bathroom after washing my hands, came in the next day to get it and they already had it waiting for me.
I think the wide variety of ratings for Shadows is due to the fact that everyone wants it to be something different. Â No matter how nice a place is, it can't possibly be everything to everybody. Â
I like: Â Outdoor dining, tasty cocktails, accomodating service, good food, and a place to have romantic dates with my man, as well as drinks and conversation with the girls.
Shadows offers: Â A gorgeous patio with a view of the Mid-Hudson Bridge, an extensive cocktail menu, friendly servers, and a more than adequate menu. Â I've NEVER had a bad meal here, and I could make love to the desserts.
I dislike huge groups of college students binge-drinking all around me, but that scene is avoidable if I choose to go for an earlier dinner and drinks. Â (I mean, I get it; I went to college too, but there comes a time when that scene is just obnoxious).
Yes, the prices are higher than other local spots (martinis are $10), but so what? Â In my opinion, you get what you pay for at Shadows. Â If you're on a budget, this is more of a splurge than you might be used to. Â
I've read the negative reviews, but I take them with a grain of salt. Â I've had great experiences at Shadows in the past, and I look forward to many more enjoyable meals there.
The place is pretty spacious and i think they have put in a lot of effort to make it look somewhat nice.But i must agree that the view is great,and this place is apt to sit out in the patio and have some wine and just relax.But
 -If you are really depressed and need some time for yourself .
 -If you need to talk to people about how your life sucks
 -If you need to breakout a sad news
For any of these occasions,this place is amazing!!!! :) Maybe that's why its called Shadows!
-Smriti
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