In NY foodie news, High Street on Hudson is buzzing. The Philadelphia transplant had made headway into its sister states food news, and there was simply no way I was moving into 2017 without having dined here; the question was more a matter of strategic timing.

And having a day job and all really puts a damper on strategic restaurant eating. So naturally I ended up there at prime brunching hours on a Saturday morning. Nonetheless, after being told the wait would be upwards of 45 minutes, our table of two was seated in no more than 15. To say we were in good spirits by the time we reached our seats would be an understatement.

Deviating from my regular meat-involved dish choices, The Forager breakfast sandwich (pictured above) stood out to me. The delicate and runny farm egg blended in excellently to the seared king oyster mushroom. The melted Swiss added a muted tang to the whole ensemble and the black trumpet mayo was a necessity. My friend ordered the Pastrami & Hash, which was a winner. Combined with roast peppers, onions, and also egg, his dish was a standout; the meat was incredibly juicy. The side of old bay potatoes was also a hit. Thick and roasted with garlic aioli, it reminded me of patatas bravas, save for the Spanish spices.

Although perhaps expecting a tad more variety in breakfast options from the menu, the fact that High Street serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is a likely option why the menu choices are paired down. A rustic atmosphere that combines relaxed wooden tables, friendly waiters, and an open style kitchen, immediately puts diners at ease.

Last to note: all sandwiches are made with house-baked bread. Pillowy, crunchy, and fresh – nothing seems to beat the flavor and feeling of freshly baked bread. I’ll no doubt have to return for the highly regarded pastries. Not to mention a pastrami & hash all for myself…

3.5/5