Restaurant Review

Anyone who knows me knows that I am a very big fan of Mexican cuisine. I’m an even bigger fan of margaritas, and there’s one place that (in my humble opinion) does it the best: Gaby’s in Rhinebeck, NY. 

I think that every girl in her early twenties should have a restaurant that she loves to go to with her friends to chat and eat regularly. For me, it’s Gaby’s. My best friend and I try to make it there at least once a month, and usually it’s more frequent than that. 

Gaby’s is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that was first established in Ellenville, NY, in 2008. In 2011, they opened their second location in Rhinebeck. 

The inside of Gaby’s is warm and lively, and the service is always spectacular. Even as first-timers way back when, we were treated like regular customers. Now, they recognize us and practically already have our order put through to the kitchen before we sit down. I guess we’re pretty predictable in that way. 

So, what do we order, you ask? 

For drinks, I typically either get a frozen mango margarita or a hibiscus mojito. My best friend is a loyalist and always drinks a strawberry mojito because it’s her fave. Hey, why mix up a good thing? 

This past trip, however, I decided to be adventurous and order a pina colada and oh-em-gee. I was not disappointed. Typically I find pina coladas to be a bit much, but this one was the best blend of pineapple and coconut. I will definitely be adding that into the regular rotation. 

For starters, we always get the Gaby’s guacamole, which is a staple and so, so good. We always typically get a second appetizer as well, which is usually one of three options: the steamed clams, which come with garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and white wine; the stuffed mushrooms; or the nachos Gaby, which come topped with black beans, shredded chicken, ground beef, pickled jalapenos, melted cheddar cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, and guacamole.

On the most recent trip, we ordered the stuffed mushrooms and I have to say, the filling is some of the best I’ve ever had. 

For our mains, we got our steak quesadillas, as per usual. I get mine with the sour cream, tomatillo, and poblano sauces on the side because I personally prefer to dip. My best friend, on the other hand, is the type of person who just wants to throw the sauce right on top. 

The menu at Gaby’s is pretty vast. They serve all kinds of tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, and burritos. Also on the menu are classics like paella and mariscada. The drink menu is equally as vast, offering margaritas, mojitos, and sangria, as well as a variety of nonalcoholic options including Mexican and fountain sodas. 

The dessert menu features a few different kinds of cakes – including chocolate mousse and tres leches – as well as flan, fried ice cream, and my favorite, churros. 

The food looks beautiful and is delicious, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff are always kind and welcoming. What more could you ask for? There’s definitely something to please everyone at Gaby’s. 

Gaby’s Rhinebeck
6423 Montgomery Street Suite 7
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
https://www.gabysrhinebeck.com/