Main Street News

The summer season is finally upon us. Locals and tourists will be flocking to towns scattered around the Hudson Valley to enjoy the serenity of our region. They’ll also be escaping the heat at our many restaurants, breweries, and wineries. Those of us who are fortunate enough to call the region home will have our fair share of weekend guests.

A new name with familiar faces

If you are looking for a warm, welcoming spot to spice up the midday hours or to take a break from prepping breakfast and lunch, head to Tousey NY Café and Bar in Clermont for a fun, festive brunch complete with bloody Marys and mimosas. These libations always seem to kick things up a notch.

“It’s a neighborhood spot where everyone is welcome,” said Kimberly Tousey, owner, Tousey NY Café and Bar. “We are open weekly from Thursday through Sunday; Sundays primarily focus on a brunch experience inspired by my childhood in Denmark. Guests can enjoy a hospitable Danish flair, great food, and unlimited mimosas and bloody Marys,” she added.

The menu includes seasonal salads, pretzel charcuterie, grilled cheese with pork belly, and fresh baked bread. Desserts include homemade cheesecake, flowerless chocolate torte, and ice cream. Beverages include a house made black currant juice and The Honeybee, created with honey from the family’s hives. Local beers are also on tap as well as a selection of wines and nonalcoholic cocktails.

A new vision

The building that houses Tousey NY Café and Bar was recently home to Tousey Winery, which closed a few years ago. After spending the last 15 years in the wine industry, Kimberly Tousey is excited to channel her own vision, creativity, and spirit into this destination, which is so dear to her heart. 

“Now that my three babies are teenagers, I think it’s time for this new chapter,” she said. For many years, this building was an important part of the community, and it was also a meaningful place for the Tousey family. 

Family ties

Kimberly’s father, Ray Tousey, is a well-known beekeeper in the region and sold his honey from the building when it was functioning as Tousey Winery. His honey is also available at local farmers’ markets. 

“When I was a child, the building was home to the Blue Roof Market. Underneath the most recent sign for Tousey Winery is the original sign from when my family was in the apple business and operated a fruit stand here,” said Kimberly. “Reopening this building is both a personal and meaningful moment for me. I look forward to welcoming old friends, new neighbors, and visitors alike as we create new memories together.” 

Through the years, the building has also served as a coffee shop and travel agency. 

Join the Touseys as they turn the page on this new chapter set in a familiar destination where so many memories have been made. Although this new iteration of the business was inspired by Tousey’s childhood living abroad, it is fueled by the entrepreneur’s passion for food, hosting, and transforming customers into lifelong friends. •

Tousey NY Café and Bar in Clermont is open every Thursday and Friday from noon to 9pm, and from 11am to 9pm on Saturdays. Sunday exclusively offers a brunch service from 11am to 3pm. The venue is available for private parties. Families and pups are welcome. Check them out on Instagram @touseyny.