a gem in rhinebeck

Hi darlings, hope you're enjoying your weekend so far! I hear there are good times (and some sun) to be had. Please welcome Aubrey as today's Plate from Around the World guest. She's an awesome blogger, culinary student, and all around great gal whom I was lucky enough to meet last year in San Francisco and dine with a few weeks later here in New York. Take it away, my dear...

Well hello, my name is Aubrey from i talk to food. 

I am currently finishing my last year of my bachelors degree at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. I adore cooking(obviously), getting my sweat on and writing all about it on my blog. 

One thing I love writing about are places that I've been lucky enough to eat. 

Hyde Park is a pretty small town 90 minutes north of New York City. It's sort of secluded other than my gorgeous school. 

There's a town close by called Rhinebeck. It is such a quaint little town that is typically quiet. Well, until the rich NYC folk come up for the weekend. 

Then there's one restaurant in Rhineck that is an adorable little gem. 

Arielle

I have built many memories at this tiny restaurant. When I discovered Arielle, I was visiting the CIA with my mom for the first time. We were driving around and spotted this tiny nook and was immediately intrigued as we walked by. 

Bibel Gilberto was playing softly, the napkins were side towels, there's only 12ish tables and the menu is French/Mediterranean. 

Upon sitting down, you're quickly given a basket of warm bread with olive oil and herbs to dip. 

We ordered sandwiches. My mom got a Curried Chicken and Grape Salad on a long baguette. I got Roasted Vegetables and Goat Cheese on a long baguette. We shared two cappuccinos and enjoyed our lunch for 2 hours. 

When I came back to attend school, I told everyone about Arielle. It slowly became the one restaurant we would frequent as a treat. 

They have the BEST calamari. It's served in a small colander with spicy red tomato sauce. Super crunchy and seasoned perfectly. 

We order it every. single. time. 

Another favorite we order frequently is their Crispy Artichokes with Aioli

The wine they serve is lovely. In the summer we sit outside, order wine, share calamari and order their cold gazpacho. 

Brunch is just as lovely. Omelet with roasted vegetables, reduced balsamic vinegar...heaven. 

For dessert I am obsessed with their Lemon Bar. Classic lemon curd, buttery crust and perfectly sour and sweet. 

I love having a place close by that I can count on for great wine, crispy calamari, calming music and decent prices.

Thanks for popping in to read my guest post! I adore Danielle and all of her adventures. I'm lucky to know her!

What's your favorite neighborhood gem?