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Hit the road this summer with a good food destination in mind…

Alex’s Bar & Grille: I have been enjoying Alex’s Bar and Grille, 577 North Broadway, White Plains, for more than a decade. Proprietor Alex Ahmetaj has matured this restaurant beautifully. You can sit in the warm dining room with its cozy nooks and crannies or take a seat in the bustling bar/lounge. The classic Italian American fare coming out of this strong kitchen are hearty and pleasing. Check out the Oysters Rockefeller, delicious fresh Halibut with seafood, an awesome Osso Bucco the size of Mt. Vesuvius. Steaks and chops here rival the very best. There is a big juicy burger on the menu, too. The smooth house made cheesecake is a must for dessert.  www.alex577.com 

 

Mumbai Katta: Anita Gawde is a dynamo! The owner of Mumbai Katta Indian Restaurant, 227 Westchester Avenue, Port Chester, is always on the move. At one moment, she greets guests at the door, the next she disappears into her kitchen, the next she is on the dining room floor touting her dishes. It is her heartfelt tribute to the tasty street foods of regional India. Anita and her husband Jayant have been marking a second anniversary with a newly expanded menu that now includes Tandoori and regional Kebabs. The dishes are loaded with flavor. Reserve ahead for a traditional Thali banquet. www.mumbaikatta.com 

 

Tesoro D’Italia: I first met Peter Lucaj when he was managing Ciao in Eastchester. Just over a dozen years ago, he and his brothers Mark and Don took over Tesoro d’Italia, 160 Marble Avenue, Pleasantville. I have enjoyed watching them evolve this expansive multi-faceted restaurant into a destination for fine regional Italian cuisine and full service catering. You can sit along the handsome wine wall. Lovely private rooms are available for groups. Dive into such specialties as Chicken Payard, Black Linguine Pescatore, Chicken Scarpariello, Broiled Veal Chop, or Grilled Pork Chops with the works. Happy hours in the bar/lounge are most inviting starting at 3 PM weekdays. There is a weekday luncheon special: $24.95, noon to 3 PM. www.tesoroditaliany.com 

 

Squire’s: Squire’s, 94 North State Road, is approaching a milestone 60 years in Briarcliff Manor. Kudos to owner Kurt Knox and his team. You may have heard about their classic Burgers and massive Prime Rib (served on weekends). They offer a big menu filled with delightful tavern specialties. There is literally something for everyone in your group from tasty finger foods and sandwiches to a giant portion of Fish & Chips. All reasonably priced. www.squiresofbriarcliff.com 

 

Las Mananitas: This Mexican restaurant on top of Route 684 in Brewster offers dramatic views of the East Branch Reservoir and a multi-tiered outdoor patio for relaxing and picture taking. There are plenty of window seats and a fireplace room for comfort, too. They often host Mariachis, DJ and drink specials at their big bar. Look for such kitchen specialties as: El Aquacate, avocado stuffed with crabmeat and shrimp; Carnitas, three soft pork tacos; Sizzling Fajitas; and Sinaloa, jumbo shrimp wrapped in bacon stuffed with Manchego cheese. Ample free parking. www.lasmananitasrestaurant.com 

 

Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in greater Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at 914-235-6591. E-mail gutreactions@optonline.net.