McKinney and Doyle…….Pawling N.Y.

We’ve been dining at McKinney and Doyle for many years. The restaurant has been in existance since the early 90s, and the bakery has been in operation since the mid 80s. When I first began going there, they would always bring fresh baked rolls to our table. Then they began asking if you’d like rolls with your meal. Now you have ask them if you can have bread. Come on!!!!! You’re a bakery for crying out loud. Would it kill you to give us some bread without asking. That’s the only negative point that I can make about this restaurant, except for their famous cup of Jerry’s Soup. It’s absolutely delicious. Made with shrimp and scallops in a velvety cream broth, but you have to cut the shrimp and I don’t want to use a knife to eat my soup.

Now for the many positives, and there are many! First of all, upon entering, you are always greeted by a friendly smiling host or hostess. If you’re lucky it’ll be Andrew, the front end manager. I usually try to get there at least one half hour before my reservation so that I have an opportunity to enjoy one of their signature cocktails at the bar, most of which were created by Andrew. Try the “Bakers Dozen” with carmelized apple infused rum. The bar area is pleasantly upbeat and filled with locals enjoying lunch or dinner at the bar and hightop tables. When you’re ready to eat, your host or hostess will seat you at your booth or table. This is when you’ll realize that the wait staff has been impeccably trained. Their wine list is extensive, reasonable priced and they also offer flights of wine. The appetizers are incredibly creative and large enough to share. Be sure to try the avocado eggrolls and the Asian Tuna salad. You’ll have a difficult time deciding on your entree because you’ll want to try all of them. I’ve eaten there on numerous occasions, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, and I can honestly say that everything that comes out of the kitchen is consistently good. If at all possible, leave room for dessert, after all they are a bakery. Their carrot cake is insanely good. Visit their website, McKinneyandDoyle.com and make a reservation. You won’t be disappointed. Located in the center of Pawling near the train station. 10 Charles Coleman Blvd.                                                                     845-855-3875. Enjoy!!