A Food Lover’s Guide to Beacon, NY: Top Stops on Our Walking Tour

As Hudson Valley Food and Farm Tours wraps up its second full season, we’re constantly reimagining ways to bring you the rich flavors, historic sites, and scenic beauty of the Hudson River Valley. For our inaugural blog post, we’re spotlighting a selection of beloved stops on our Gourmet Beacon Food Tour—a culinary journey featuring iconic shops and artisanal eateries that embody Beacon’s vibrant spirit. Just a short train ride from NYC, Beacon’s lively food scene is a haven for day-trippers and locals alike.

Featured Stops on the Beacon Food Tour

1. Beacon Bread Company
   Known for its classic French-style sourdough, Beacon Bread Company is a brunch favorite, with loaves that undergo a labor-intensive, two-day process for that perfect crust and airy center. A staple since 2014, this bakery also shines for its house-made pastries and savory breakfast items. Hudson Valley Magazine has given a nod to its breads as some of the best sourdough in the region, making it a must-visit stop.
2. Glazed Over Donuts
   No tour would be complete without a visit to Glazed Over Donuts, winner of Hudson Valley Magazine’s “Best Donut” for several years running. Their uniquely crafted donuts—praised by Travel and Leisure as the best in New York State—let visitors choose their glaze, toppings, and drizzles for a deliciously personalized treat. According to Hudson Valley Magazine, “Each donut is a blank canvas, allowing you to create something truly unique.”
3. Håkan Chocolatier
   Step into the world of Håkan Martensson, a Swedish-born chocolatier whose award-winning creations brought home gold medals from the World Cup in Luxembourg and the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt. Their exquisite packaging and delectable flavors make each box a perfect gift—or a well-deserved personal treat. Håkan’s shop offers a masterclass in artisanal chocolate, with each piece meticulously crafted to be as visually stunning as it is flavorful.
4. Scarborough Fare
   Next, experience the world of gourmet oils and vinegars at Scarborough Fare. This unique shop boasts an impressive collection of over 40 olive oils and vinegars, allowing visitors to sample and select their favorites. With creative flavors like Blood Orange Olive Oil and Maple Balsamic Vinegar, Scarborough Fare offers an immersive experience that’s as educational as it is tasty. The store has been praised by Inside+Out Upstate NY as a must-visit for foodies and the perfect place to “transform your home cooking” with premium products sourced from around the globe.
5. The Cheese Shop of Beacon
   For cheese lovers, The Cheese Shop of Beacon is a paradise. Featuring a curated selection of international cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet foods, this shop is the ideal place to pick up a picnic treat or learn more about the art of cheese. Owned by a passionate local expert, The Cheese Shop showcases cheeses from around the world, including rarities that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
6. Miss Tea
   What began as a seasonal stall in NYC’s Bryant Park has evolved into a cherished tea shop in Beacon, where Miss Tea offers an array of loose-leaf teas, tea accessories, and wellness products. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and thoughtfully curated blends, Miss Tea has attracted a devoted following both for its unique selection and its role as a welcoming space for tea lovers.