Maybe I am a little biased, but there are very few places that do a crab cake as well as we did them at my restaurants, but Maggie Mae's sure comes close. It's the real deal, made with lots of jumbo lump crab meat, an old bay remoulade, and served on a soft buttered roll.
Maggie Mae's opened this past spring at, or maybe I should say "on", the New Paltz Golf Course. They are the sister restaurant of Garvan's, one of my all time favorites. Whereas Garvan's is more of a comfortable, fine dining experience, Maggie's is very casual. It is the type of place that you would go grab a beer and a bite after you get of the golf course, or when you are in the mood for a great salad or sandwich. I have been there several times since they opened, and on each visit the food and service have been great.
This past Monday, to end the July 4th weekend, Rick and I went for a late lunch. It was a beautiful day, and we took advantage of it by enjoying a seat on the patio There was a nice breeze, we had a great view of "the Gunks", and were able to watch the golfers.
For starters we began with the spinach and artichoke dip. It came out piping hot and had the perfect proportion of spinach, artichokes and cheese. It was delicious with the warm pitas. Someone could just order this and easily make it a meal.
I think this picture of my crab cake sandwich say it all! It is one of those crab cakes you will want to go back for. There is no skimping on the crab, and just enough bread crumbs to hold it together. It also comes with fries, but if you are not into so many carbs, or just want to try it, they also offer it as an appetizer. You can also get it as an entrée with rice pilaf and French beans.
For lunch, Rick had the French dip which he really liked. I opted not to show the picture because it did not do the sandwich any justice, but you can take my word, it was good! I saw a lot of Philly cheese steaks going out to other tables, I might have to try one of those next time.
This is their three layer, turkey club with bacon, lettuce and tomato. If you like turkey clubs, you will like this, it is not your "diner club". The turkey is sliced thick, and although I am not exactly sure what type of bread it is, maybe challah, it is golden and delicious.
They do not offer wings on their menu, but the, sweet and spicy chicken is the next best thing. The chicken is crusted with panko breadcrumbs and tossed in a tangy, not too spicy sauce. It comes with homemade blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Speaking of blue cheese, the iceberg wedge is delicious too. It is topped with their homemade blue cheese dressing, extra crumbles of blue cheese and bacon. It is an especially nice salad for this time of year.
The lunch menu also offers entrees such as chicken marsala, fish and chips and penne ala vodka. They have a different menu for dinner, more entrees, no sandwiches.
I haven't had the New England clam chowder at Maggie's yet, but since it is the same chowder that Garvan's serves, I know it is the best. I would tend to think the Ruben would be extremely good too. As you can see, I am already planning my next visit. See you there!
Maggie Mae's
215 Huguenot Street, New Paltz, NY 12561
Phone: 845-255-1960
Hours: Every day from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
