When you’re looking for a casual bite in Brewster, New York, try a fast and fresh local restaurant offering ethnic to comfort cuisine from local business owners. With quick service and a laid-back atmosphere, our list of fun and casual dining spots lets you choose from simple but tasty roadside snack bars to high cuisine served in a pub. Check out our sampling of favorite spots in the Brewster area.

Red Rooster Drive-In

Started as a small custard shack in the 1960s, Red Rooster Drive-In serves cooked-to-order food with a focus on quality. Try one of its 100% Angus beef burgers topped with chili, fried onions, or bacon, or make it deluxe with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Red Rooster also serves up tasty dinner baskets with fried favorites, hot and cold sandwiches, hot dogs, veggie burgers, and wraps.

It’s almost impossible not to stay for the ice cream. Order a sweet cone of soft serve dipped in cherry or chocolate, covered in sprinkles, or topped with other goodies. Red Rooster also serves shakes, sundaes, and other ice cream novelties. If you need some time between dinner and dessert, head over to the miniature golf course open seasonally for big fun.

Location: 1566 state Route 22

Phone Number: 845-279-8046

La Guadalupana Restaurant

Open every day at 6 a.m., La Guadalupana Restaurant offers hearty breakfasts and an extensive menu of classic Mexican cuisine. Start with its huevos Mexicana, which are eggs served with jalapenos, tomatoes, and onions, or its chilaquiles, which is a dish of tortilla chips layered with your choice of chicken or beef, red or green sauce, and topped with avocado and sour cream.

Visit at lunch to order the three-taco combo with rice and beans. Choose from pork, beef, chicken, or Mexican sausage. La Guadalupana also offers grilled plates with your choice of steak, chicken, and shrimp served with a salad, tortillas, rice, and refried beans. For something unique, try the pork meat stew with cactus or crispy fried pork skin in red or green sauce. One visit is hardly enough to sample all the delicious plates at La Guadalupana.

Location: 64 Main St.

Phone Number: 845-279-8891

McKinney and Doyle

McKinney and Doyle offers diners a relaxed pub atmosphere with scratch cocktails and elevated cuisine. Far from bar food, the pub menu on Tuesday nights delivers small plate choices, like ahi tuna poke with ponzu, ginger, and peanuts and Buffalo cauliflower with a crispy rice crust and honey hot sauce for dipping. Or you can try large plate delicacies, like the chipotle bison burger smothered in melted Jarlsberg cheese and caramelized onions.

The regular dinner menu offers expanded small and large plate choices like the Moroccan spiced lamb meatballs with a harissa olive tapenade or creamy Maine lobster risotto with asparagus and asiago cheese. McKinney and Doyle gives diners a chance to taste flavors from cuisines and cultures around the world with bold spices and ingredients that you won’t find in a typical pub menu. Spanish octopus anyone? Stop into McKinney and Doyle’s Corner Bakery for luscious desserts plus a soda fountain and juice bar.

Location: 10 Charles Colman Blvd. in Pawling

Phone Number: 845-855-3875

Wandering Dave’s

Wandering Dave’s serves up mouth-watering farm-to-table food from a humble shopping center storefront. Featuring a menu that shifts with the seasons, this fun and casual stop offers diners plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with a classic steak and eggs or eggs benedict. Move on to lunch fare with sandwiches, soups, and salads, or order a big entrée. Wandering Dave’s offers handmade pasta with pesto, red sauce, or a black pepper cream sauce.

From comfort food like meatloaf and mashed potatoes to chicken roulade served in a brown butter thyme sauce, Wandering Dave’s offers variety. Try its Korean tacos with chicken, steak, or shrimp served on a bed of crisp slaw with Sriracha mayo or the tempura-battered cod with avocado. For creamy goodness, order macaroni and cheese with the toppings of your choice, including steak, bacon, or Buffalo chicken. Using local produce and catering to area events, Wandering Dave’s offers an array of fresh choices with customizable options for every palate.

Location: 1515 state Route 22, Unit D-4

Phone Number: 845-582-0668

George’s Place

Enjoy breakfast or lunch at this family-owned diner overlooking Lake Gleneida in Carmel, New York. Breakfast options include egg specialties like its George McMuffin with your choice of breakfast meat on a cream cheese smothered English muffin or farm-fresh baked eggs with feta and tomato. George’s Place offers comfort food with plates like open-face turkey and hot roast beef salads, along with sandwiches and soups. Sip a milkshake or order a pie a la mode to satisfy your sweet tooth.

You’ll find quaint seating on the patio or dining in the restored restaurant that the owner’s rebuilt after a kitchen fire in 1985. There’s more to the story of this restored property that you can discover over its Carmel Big Apple Waffle.

Location: 36 Gleneida Ave. in Carmel

Phone Number: 845-225-3933

Empire Bagels

Empire Bagels is so much more than a bagel joint with a menu that goes on and on. If you come for the bagels, you still have to choose from nine cream cheeses. Other breakfast offerings include crisp and chewy bagel breakfast sandwiches, omelets, pancakes, and French toast. Enjoy hearty lunch and dinner fare with nearly three dozen gourmet sandwich options also encased in a signature bagel or an 8-ounce Angus burger. Empire Bagels also features a long list of vegan sandwiches, soups, and fresh salads.

Empire’s drink menu rivals its food with smoothies, cafe beverages, and protein shakes. Try the What’s A Matcha With You smoothie for a green tea blended with fruit, milk, and honey, or the Tropical Fiesta with mango, pineapple, banana, apple juice, and mint. Empire’s also offers a fresh-pressed juice menu with healthy elixirs like Sweet Greens with spinach, pineapple, green apple, and celery or sips like a Cold Buster with ginger, lemon, carrots, oranges, and pineapple.

Location: 1515 state Route 22

Phone Number: 845-302-2757

You just read Brewster Ford’s list of fun and casual restaurants to check out in our area. We named some spots with quick service, while others offer a casual, fun atmosphere to enjoy time with friends and family. If we missed one of your favorites, let us know. We’d love to update our list. Stop by Brewster Ford to enjoy our casual atmosphere and browse our new vehicle stock and pre-owned inventory. Brewster Ford offers a relaxed showroom with friendly and knowledgeable staff members ready to help you find and finance your ideal vehicle.

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As the owner of a Ford Focus, you know you’re driving a solid vehicle backed by the quality of the Ford brand. To keep your car driving at peak performance levels, it’s important to follow a regular service schedule. Consistent maintenance benefits you by preserving the key driving components of your vehicle, extending the vehicle’s lifetime, and saving you money from costly emergency repairs.

To understand the best maintenance schedule for your Ford Focus, consult your owner’s manual and check with your dealership. For more guidance about your specific model, you can also check the Ford Focus service support website. Here’s a quick guide on how to maintain a Focus from the experts here at Brewster Ford in Brewster, New York.

5,000-Mile Service

The first maintenance check on Ford’s service schedule at 5,000 miles is considered a minor service update. Technicians change your oil and filter, rotate your tires, and do a safety inspection for any leaks or malfunctions in the vehicle. This initial service establishes your baseline car performance and prepares your vehicle for peak operation with an initial assessment and oil change. Any time you get your vehicle serviced, it’s also a good idea to ask the technicians at your dealership to check for any recalls that affect your model.

7,500-Mile Service

The 7,500-mile service typically includes another oil and filter change with a tire rotation. During the oil change, technicians perform a safety inspection for brakes, belts, hoses, and any fluid leaks. The technician will also listen to the vehicle for any strange noises and look for proper vehicle functions, including head and tail lights. For some vehicle owners and dealerships, the 7,500-mile tuneup may serve as the recommended initial service.

10,000-Mile Service

For the milestone of the first 10,000 miles, technicians will again change the oil and filter in your vehicle. They’ll also perform a thorough tire rotation and inspection and an assessment of essential brake elements, including brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors. Technicians will inspect the brake lines and hoses and check out the parking brake. Professionals check the cooling system and hoses, heat shields, and exhaust system in your vehicle, too.

Additional inspections on your Ford Focus involve nonsealed steering areas, including suspension, ball, and u-joints, and a check on the fluid level of your automatic transmission. A multipoint inspection to cover other areas, like wiper fluid, cabin filters, and battery life, concludes the 10,000-mile service. From here forward, the best way to maintain your vehicle is to continue service inspections every 10,000 miles.

20,000-Mile Service

The 20,000-mile service includes many of the same inspections as the 10,000-mile tuneup. This includes common replacements and updates, such as the cabin air filter, engine oil and filter, and a tire inspection and rotation. Technicians will also assess the brakes and brake elements, the cooling and exhaust systems, transmission fluid level, and the steering column. Another multi-point inspection completes this service.

30,000-Mile Service

The 30,000-mile service includes most of the same inspections and assessments as the 20,000-mile service. The main difference is the 30,000-mile service includes replacing the engine’s air filter. Technicians once again will check systems and inspect key vehicle components for optimal performance levels. They’ll complete another multipoint inspection and make any necessary recommendations for further service needs.

40,000-Mile Service

The 40,000-mile service includes the same inspections as the previous mileage checks. This time, the cabin air filter typically is replaced to coincide with the changing of the oil and oil filter, the key systems inspections, and the multipoint inspection. After the 40,000-mile service, most recommendations move the next tuneup to 60,000 miles because it often coincides with a vehicle’s warranty from the manufacturer.

60,000-Mile Service

Servicing your vehicle at the 60,000-mile mark is an important step in maintaining optimal performance. As you near the end of many standard manufacturer warranties, this essential tuneup provides key diagnostics for vehicle systems and components. Your Ford Focus will undergo the typical oil and filter change, engine air filter replacement, and tire inspection and rotation. However, this service is an opportunity for technicians to check parts of your vehicle that may undergo some common wear and tear from daily use.

The 60,000-mile service is an important time to check the timing and drive belts, which may require replacing at this point in your car’s life. Another common repair you may need at this time is to replace spark plugs or brake pads in the vehicle.

70,000- to 80,000-Mile Service

A tuneup at some point between these mile marks offers another chance for trained technicians to check key systems for wear and tear and maintain important vehicle components. You’ll also change the oil and filters and undergo a tire rotation during this service.

100,000-Mile Service and Beyond

Although it’s important to continue changing the oil and filters in your Ford Focus, your next major maintenance usually happens around the 100,000-mile mark. This is another important time to check for wear and tear to major vehicle systems and replace any parts that require attention. Your technician will provide a full diagnostic as with other scheduled tuneups, offering suggestions to help you keep your Focus in prime condition and extend the life of the car.

For additional service, consult your dealership and owner’s manual to continue maintaining your vehicle. Purchasing an extended warranty for your vehicle can also affect the duration of scheduled or recommended maintenance on your Ford Focus.

Ford also recommends running a vehicle health report (VHR) regularly to track the maintenance of your model. A VHR gives you a snapshot of your vehicle using real operating conditions to calculate diagnostics. When you complete regular VHRs, you can set up the report to send you regular updates or reminders about maintenance and recalls, helping you stay current on important vehicle checks, replacements, and repairs.

At Brewster Ford, we want to make maintenance simple for you. That’s why we offer shuttle service to and from your home and a comfortably furnished sitting area for your convenience while waiting in our service center. Trust our friendly and knowledgeable staff to provide quality maintenance and repairs on your vehicle with original parts from the manufacturer in a Ford-approved facility. Ready to schedule your next maintenance check? Contact us today to set up an appointment, or make a service appointment quickly through our online scheduling portal.

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Dining out at a nice restaurant can be an excellent way to celebrate a special occasion. Putnam County residents know they have no shortage of delicious places to choose from when looking for an upscale dining experience. We created this guide about some local fine dining restaurants around the Brewster, New York, area to help simplify your search.

The Arch

The Arch provides a fine dining experience with a casual feel. Enjoy a unique dining experience in this restaurant in a home from 1929. During the winter months, cozy up by the fireplace in the main dining room, and, once the weather warms up, enjoy your meal on the patio. It’s important to note the restaurant enforces a business or country club casual dress code with no shorts, T-shirts, or flip-flops.

The menu at the Arch primarily draws inspiration from French cuisine, but the restaurant aims to provide an eclectic offering of classic dishes. Choose from baked French onion soup, beef Wellington, escargot, house-cured gravlox, Grand Mariner souffle, and baked king salmon. It also updates its menu often to include seasonally inspired dishes.

The Arch is located at 1292 Route 22, and it recommends reservations. It’s open for dinner Wednesday through Friday from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., Saturday until 10 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. It also offers brunch on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. On the first Wednesday of each month, it provides its Supper Club, a flat-rate, three-course meal from a prix fixe menu. This requires reservations to attend.

Rraci’s Restaurant

Rraci Restaurant blends innovative and traditional Italian cuisine in an upscale, romantic setting. Choose from a menu of entrees with handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and fine cuts of meat. One of its signature offerings is the Seafood Tower for Two, an impressive feast of chilled fresh clams, jumbo shrimp, king crab legs, Maine lobster tail, and oysters. Pair your entrée with an option from its expansive wine list, and finish your meal with a dessert prepared by the in-house pastry chef.

Rraci’s Restaurant is located at 3670 Danbury Road, Route 6. It’s open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m., and Sunday from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. It requires reservations, and it has a banquet menu and room available for special events.

Las Mananitas

Las Mananitas brings authentic Mexican cuisine to Putnam County in a rustic-chic setting. The indoor dining room features high ceilings with lights strung throughout. Once the weather warms up, enjoy your meal on one of the beautiful terraces, providing you with breathtaking views of the hills and water in the area.

The menu includes a selection of authentic Mexican dishes. Choose from items like mole, ceviche, and paella valenciana. If you’re dining with a vegetarian, they may enjoy options like chiles rellenos or vegetable fajitas.

Las Mananitas is located at 1250 Route 22. It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 12 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 12 p.m. until 11 p.m. It also has takeout and delivery options.

Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine

Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine serves classic Indian dishes in a historic New York site. It’s located in a mansion built in 1856, and it was home to the Charlie Chaplin Studios in the 20th century. While it was a speakeasy in the 1920s and a bar in the 1980s, the current restaurant owners purchased it to open Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine in 1993.

Enjoy a menu of Indian classics, such as samosas, tandoori dishes, kabobs, vindaloo, and curry. This includes entrees with bases like chicken, seafood, lamb, or vegetables. Pair your meal with a side of one of five types of naan, whole wheat roti, or raita, and finish it off with a serving of refreshing mango sorbet or tasty rice pudding.

Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine is located at 280 Route 22, and it’s open every day except for Tuesday. For lunch, it’s open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. For dinner, it’s open Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. until 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m., and Sunday from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. It also offers catering services and online ordering for takeout meals.

Dolce

Dolce is a restaurant and wine bar. Choose from a range of steak, seafood, chicken, and pasta options. It even offers gluten-free pasta upon request. Pair your meal with one of its wine options or signature cocktails, such as the Dolce Pink, Mediterranean Mule, or Salted Caramel Martini.

Women looking for a night out with their girlfriends may enjoy Ladies Night at Dolce. This happens in the bar, including discounts on select drinks and appetizers. It offers this every Thursday from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.

Located ten minutes from Brewster in Danbury, visit Dolce at 39 B Mill Plain Road. It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. It accepts reservations online, and it offers catering services.

That concludes our list of some of your options for local fine dining restaurants around the Brewster, New York, area. Have another good dining recommendation that Putnam County residents may love? Drop us a line to share it with us. We welcome your feedback and may even update our guide to include your suggestion.

At Brewster Ford, we’re proud to serve the Brewster area for all of your Ford needs. We proudly offer the area’s best selection of new Ford vehicles and pre-owned models. No matter what you’re in the market for, our friendly, qualified staff can help you find the right vehicle and assist you with exploring your financing options. We also have a service center where trusted technicians provide a range of routine maintenance and repair services to promote the optimal performance of your Ford.

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If you’re in the market for an affordable sedan with all of the comfort and safety features you love, you’re definitely going to want to check out the Ford Focus. The Focus has been a fan favorite amongst Ford drivers for years, and not just because of the stylish exterior design. With an adjustable back row of seats, the Focus comes with more storage space than your typical sedan, and it doesn’t sacrifice performance. Even though Ford has discontinued this iconic model, people still love their Focuses.

To help you learn more about what people love about the Ford Focus, our staff put together this overview.

Incredible Exterior Design

The sophisticated and streamlined exterior of the Ford Focus is just one of the many things that people love about this iconic model. Featuring dynamic accent lines and multiple different color choices, the Focus is a sedan that makes a statement on the road. Even though you can’t buy a new Ford Focus anymore, you have nearly two decades worth of models to choose from. Because the exterior design of this car changed over the years, it’s easy to find a model that matches your exact style.

A Versatile Interior

Even as a compact sedan, the Ford Focus has always featured a spacious and versatile interior that can handle any job. With five standard seats, you can comfortably fit the whole family in the Focus even when going on long road trips. If you need extra storage room, many of the different models come with the ability to fold down the back row of seats. With this extra capacity, you can easily store all your snowboards, skis, surfboards, and more.

In addition to the ability to fold down the entire back row, if you only have one passenger, you can use the 60/40 configuration to increase storage space while still keeping one of the rear seats. This versatility is just one of the reasons that people have always loved the Focus model. It’s the perfect choice for families of all sizes, and anyone who wants a sedan that offers plenty of interior storage space.

Innovative Tech Features

Every year that it was in production, the Focus continually delivered all of the most modern tech features. If you’re in the market for a used car, buying one of the more recent Focus models gives you access to features like touch screen displays, digital connectivity, smartphone integrations, and more. While the older models won’t have access to some modern features, they still come with systems like satellite radio connectivity and built-in navigation depending on the year.

2018 was the last year that Ford designed a new Focus, so if you find one of these models, you can experience the same features that their original owners loved. The 2018 model came with an expansive screen that acted as a control panel for all of your car’s important systems, as well as an innovative digital display next to the speedometer. This was one of the first cars to feature this type of display, something that has gained popularity in recent years. Even though it was built years ago, the latest Focus fits right in with modern cars.

Exceptional Fuel Economy and Performance

Since its inception, the Ford Focus has always been a car that prioritizes fuel economy. Focus drivers have always loved the amazing savings they earned at the pump with this car, and the fuel economy of 2018 still matches up to some of the most modern cars on the market. The 2018 Ford Focus came with 19-30 miles-per-gallon in the city and an outstanding 26-40 miles-per-gallon on the highway. Even with this incredible efficiency, the Ford Focus still packed a punch with horsepower that ranged between 123 and 350.

This explosive performance made the Focus one of the most dynamic driving experiences of its day, and that’s just one thing that people loved about owning this car. The turbocharged engine gave the Focus explosive speed that was matched by its superior handling. With both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive models available, the Focus has always been known for its incredible handling. No matter what model you drove, the Focus hugged tight corners and breezed through rugged mountain roads.

Safety Features You Can Trust

With excellent fuel economy and an affordable price, the Ford Focus was many young drivers’ first car. As the first car for many, it’s always been a priority for the vehicle to come with all the safety features you need to keep your loved ones safe. If you’re in the market for a used Focus, you might want to start your search with the 2015 model. While drivers have always loved their Focus no matter the year, the 2015 model was the first to introduce a variety of safety features that are now considered standard in the industry.

The 2015 Focus came with a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and a lane departure alert system as options. These features give the Focus an incredible amount of visibility both on the road and when parking in a tight space. if you’re looking for incredible value on a used car, then you can trust the safety features of the 2015 Focus to stand up to the test of time. The incredible safety rating of the focus has always made it a well-loved vehicle by both parents and drivers alike, so you truly can’t go wrong with this choice.

These were just a few of the reasons that people have always loved the Ford Focus. While Ford decided to move away from the sedan market in 2018, older Focus models have continued to hold their value as reliable cars with excellent fuel economy. If you want to learn more about what people love about this car, or to see if we have any used models in stock, please give us a call. Here at Brewster Ford, we are dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality used vehicles, so we hope you stop by.

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The Brewster, New York, area has plenty of entertainment and leisure options available to its visitors and permanent residents. Whether you enjoy taking hikes down scenic trails, visiting historic mansions, or dining at some of the best restaurants in the state, the Hudson Valley is a melting pot of culture and entertainment that brings people back again and again.

While all of these activities may sound fun to adults, where do kids fit in? Luckily, our team at Brewster Ford has compiled a list of the top places to go toy shopping in and around Brewster that both kids and adults can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a gift or a fun outing with your kids, you’re sure to like what these toy stores offer.

The Imperial Castle Toy Shop

The Imperial Castle Toy Shop, located in nearby Pawling, New York, has everything a child could ever want and more. With a massive selection of the hottest new toys, your kids are sure to find something to bring home. Popular items include Nerf guns, Funko Pops, Legos, LOL Dolls, and even slime kits for kids who like getting their hands dirty. In a hurry? Just use Imperial Castle’s online store.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? The staff at Imperial Castle are more than happy to custom order items upon request. Parents can enjoy their time at this shop thanks to their massive collection of vintage toys. Take a look at some relics from the past that will transport you right back to your childhood. Their vintage toys include Barbies, Transformers, Smurfs, Star Wars, and other items from iconic franchises. Unlike many other locally owned toy stores, Imperial Castle accepts several forms of payment, including cash, credit, debit, Venmo, PayPal, and Facebook Pay.

Location: 33 E. Main St., Pawling, New York

Phone: 845-493-0428

G. Willikers Toys and Games

Next on our list is G. Willikers Toys and Games, located just a short drive south from Brewster in Katonah, New York. This toy shop has three locations throughout New York, with the other two situated in Saratoga Springs and Albany. G. Willikers has a massive selection of toys, gifts, and games from the past and present that are sure to enthrall kids and parents alike.

Kids will love what this toy shop has to offer thanks to its wide selection of items geared toward children of all ages, ranging from infancy to school age. They can enjoy some of the store’s most popular items, such as stuffed animals, play dough, toy trucks, art kits, books, dress-up costumes, chalk, Frisbees, action figures, and much more.

Location: 29 Katonah Ave., Katonah, New York

Phone: 914-232-0706

The Toy Room

Just a quick 20-minute drive across the state line is The Toy Room, located in Bethel, Connecticut. Since 2006, this toy store has brought nostalgia and excitement to the community thanks to its wide selection of toys new and old, including board games, dolls, science kits, dress-up costumes, and books. Much like the other shops on this list, the vintage aesthetic of The Toy Room means it’s perfect for adults to roam as well. Take a look at some of the popular toys of the past decades, including Jack in the Box, Roller Wheels, and Ravensburger puzzles.

If you’re on the look for a vintage toy shop that offers competitive pricing and discounts, look no further. They also offer shipping to specific locations through their website or if you custom order an item in-store. If you’re in a hurry, you can order any of the store’s items on their website or call ahead and pick up your order in-store and even have them expertly gift-wrapped.

Location: 180 Greenwood Ave., Bethel, Connecticut

Phone: 203-791-0531

Play Toys and Gifts

Play Toys and Gifts is a toy store located nearby Brewster, across the state border in Connecticut. Play is unique because it’s specifically designed to be just as enjoyable for adults as it is for children. Here, you can find a wide assortment of retro toys, board games, and classic children’s books. They also have a wide selection of infant and toddler toys, making this store truly perfect for all ages.

Besides their more traditional toy selection, Play also has plenty of jewelry, artwork, candy, magic tricks, and other novelties. Find funny postcards, birthday cards, magnets, action figures, and other novelty products you likely won’t find anywhere else. A trip to Play is sure to satisfy everyone in your party, no matter their age or interests.

Location: 49 Bank St., New Milford, Connecticut

Phone: 860-355-2134

The Toy Chest

The final spot on our list is the Toy Chest, located just 20 minutes south across the state line in Ridgefield, Connecticut. This store has a wide variety of toys, games, puzzles, and arts and crafts kits that are sure to bring joy to children of all ages. They also have a wide selection of workbooks perfect for homeschooling or additional practice.

The Toy Chest offers personal shopping and curbside service, so if you’re not in the mood to browse in person, you can still buy everything you want. They also have a huge selection of toys from the past and today, including dolls, kites, Legos, Pokemon, Ravensburger puzzles, dress-up costumes, Russian nested dolls, putty, stuffed animals, and much more. They also offer complimentary gift wrapping, so if you’re looking for toys for a birthday or holiday gift, the Toy Chest has you covered.

Location: 441 Main St., Ridgefield, Connecticut

Phone: 203-431-9227

So, those are our top five picks for the best toy shops in and around Brewster, New York. We hope you found this list helpful and can use it the next time you’re in need of an entertaining outing for your little ones when you’re in the lower Hudson Valley. Did we accidentally leave out your favorite local toy store? If so, feel free to contact us at Brewster Ford, and we’ll be more than happy to add your suggestions to our list.

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Constantly putting air into your tires can be tiresome, especially when there’s usually an underlying issue, like a slow tire leak, that can be fixed to eliminate the problem altogether. As a car owner, the best course of action is to get your vehicle regularly serviced at your Ford service center, but if you start to notice symptoms of a tire leak, you may want to go in as soon as possible. If you own a car, staying on top of your tire pressure levels is important to ensure the vehicle is operating safely and functionally.

As soon as you suspect that you may have a slow tire leak, you must get help from a professional who can identify the issue. Whether it’s a tire pressure warning light, a flat tire, or poor steering, any sign of low or leaking tire pressure should be taken seriously to avoid possible accidents or further damage to the vehicle. Not sure how to tell if your Ford has a slow tire leak? Our team at Brewster Ford has compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding these leaks, including what causes them and how to deal with them.

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The small, quaint Northeast town of Brewster, New York, may not be on most people’s travel guides, but it has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike in terms of entertainment, lodging, dining, and nature. Situated just a short distance from the Hudson River and the Connecticut state border, Brewster’s convenient location just an hour north of New York City makes it a perfect place to enjoy the best of what suburban and city life has to offer. With spring just around the corner, the demand for fun weekend activities will increase as people yearn to get back outdoors.

If you’re on the lookout for some fun ways to spend a weekend in and around Brewster, you’re lucky. Our team at Brewster Ford has compiled a list of the top four attractions in the area, perfect for families and singles alike in search of fun spring outings.

Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden

The first spot on our list goes to the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden, located just a short drive south of Brewster in North Salem, New York. This location features a museum filled with rotating exhibits highlighting the beauty of Eastern culture and its intersections with the West. Perhaps this site is most known for its authentic 3.5-acre stroll garden filled with beautiful Japanese-inspired landscaping. Learn about the rich history and intricacies of Japanese gardens and the intentions behind each aesthetic detail, including the appeal to four senses: sight, sound, touch, and smell.

Hammond Museum showcases artistic performances, lectures, and films depicting elements of Eastern and Western cultures. You can also take part in a variety of classes detailing aspects of Eastern customs, such as tai chi (Chinese movement meditation), ikebana (Japanese flower arranging), and Chanoyu, or the Way of Tea, which honors the art of the Japanese tea ceremony and its emphasis on the Zen principles of respect, purity, tranquility, and harmony. The Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden are closed each winter and reopen just in time for the spring and summer seasons’ beautiful blooms and warm weather.

Location: 28 Deveau Road, North Salem, New York

Phone: 914-669-5033

Bedford Post Inn

The next spot on our list is the Bedford Post Inn, located just 30 minutes south of Brewster. This charming and luxurious inn provides the best of what the historic Hudson Valley has to offer, including scenic countryside views, extraordinary dining, and various daytime activities that are sure to charge your mind, body, and spirit. The property where the inn currently sits dates back to the 19th century, when it was transformed from a decaying old mansion into the luxury inn it remains to be to this day.

A stay at the Bedford Post Inn is sure to relax you, thanks to its gorgeous and plentiful amenities. Check out their award-winning Yoga Loft, a bright and tranquil studio where guests can attend group classes, private sessions, workshops, lectures, and more. The property also has three restaurant options ranging from casual to fine dining, a patio and reflecting pool for lounging and relaxation, an outdoor fireplace for nighttime comfort, and a guest lounge where visitors can sit and unwind with a book, snacks, a glass of wine, or some new friends.

Location: 954 Old Post Road, Bedford, New York

Phone: 914-234-7800

The Arch

If you’re looking for some dining recommendations in the lower Hudson Valley, consider taking a visit to The Arch restaurant, located right here in Brewster. This beautiful restaurant offers the luxury and relaxation only a fine dining establishment can guarantee, complete with adventurous meal options and the harmonious sounds of soft jazz. Enjoy some time sitting by the wood-burning stone fireplace inside the main dining room during the winter or on the small outdoor patio during warmer weather.

While the restaurant began serving solely French cuisine, they’ve since added more diverse menu options, with some iconic French dishes like beef Wellington, escargot, and baked French onion soup still available. If you can’t get enough of the beauty and luxurious aesthetic of the restaurant, you’re in luck — The Arch hosts a variety of events at their craftsman-style home property, including wedding receptions, baby showers, birthday parties, and family gatherings. They also offer Sunday brunch, making this spot perfect for a weekend daytime outing.

Location: 1292 Route 22, Brewster, New York

Phone: 845-279-5011

Green Chimneys Farm and Wildlife Center

The final spot on our list goes to the Green Chimneys Farm and Wildlife Center right here in Brewster. This farm is home to over 300 farm animals and rehabilitates and houses injured wildlife. Each year, thousands of visitors from around the Northeast visit the Green Chimneys Farm and Wildlife Center to tour the property and learn all about the various animals that inhabit it. Individuals and small groups can freely roam the barn and paddocks, but groups of six or more are required to schedule a tour.

All of the farm animals housed in the teaching barn, horse barn, paddocks, and wildlife area are open to the public each weekend, making this an ideal weekend daytime outing that the whole family can enjoy. This spring, take advantage of one of their seasonal group tours, where a guide can take you all throughout the property from mid-April to mid-November. A general farm tour takes you to see various species of animals, including horses, donkeys, camels, llamas, and pigs.

Location: 400 Doansburg Road, Brewster, New York

Phone: 845-279-2995

So, there you have it. These are our picks for the top four ways to spend a long weekend in and around the Brewster, New York, area. We hope you find this list helpful when deciding on your next weekend activities near the lower Hudson Valley. Did we leave out one of your favorite local spots? Feel free to contact us, and our team at Brewster Ford would be more than happy to add your suggestion to the list.

Tags: Road Trips
Posted in Local Tips | No Comments »

We’ve all been there: it’s the day before your long-distance driving trip, and you’re panicking. You’re pretty sure you’ve packed every piece of clothing, medication, and toiletry you could need, but a small voice in the back of your mind is telling you otherwise. Driving long distances requires more than a packed bag — you also need the proper equipment and access to resources for food and rest. Our team at Brewster Ford has assembled this checklist to help you make sure you’ve finished and gathered everything you need for a successful and enjoyable car journey.

Start a Week Early

When preparing for a long-distance drive, the first step is to start preparing at least a week in advance. If you leave all of your planning and packing for the night before, there’s a greater chance you might leave behind items. Instead, start creating a preliminary list of what you need to do in the week before your trip, such as purchasing supplies, packing, or preparing your vehicle. This will give you a more organized method for planning and packing for your trip.

Create an Itinerary

Once you have a generalized plan of what you need to do before you leave, the next step is to create a detailed itinerary of your trip. Start by writing down what you plan on accomplishing each day of your drive (or vacation, if that’s your final destination). If you want to schedule excursions or visits to locations that require advanced planning, plan around them. This can make it easier to visualize what you’ll need for each day in clothing and supplies.

Plan Out What You’ll Need Each Day

An efficient way to organize your items and decide what you do and don’t need is to determine how many outfits you may need per day, depending on your plans. For example, if you plan on driving the entirety of one day, you may only need one outfit of sweatpants and a T-shirt. If you’re planning on hiking a trail the next day, then workout clothes and sneakers may be a more appropriate outfit choice.

Get Your Car Checked

The most important component of your long-distance drive is the vehicle you’re using to get to your destination. Even if you’ve recently taken your car in for maintenance or repairs, consider visiting us at Brewster Ford so we can take a look at your car’s oil levels, tire pressure, engine, and battery. This entire process is typically short and can provide you with important information about the state of your car. Even if it all turns out fine, at least you can proceed with your long-distance drive with peace of mind.

Create an Emergency Kit

No matter how long you plan on being on the road, it’s essential to have an emergency kit within reach in case of any unexpected occurrences, including both small and significant accidents. When putting together an emergency kit, consider including basic first aid staples such as band-aids, pain medication, alcohol wipes, hand sanitizer, gloves, and gauze. You can also include additional items in your emergency kit like extra clothes, water, a flashlight, an umbrella, and chargers.

Buy a Portable Charger

Portable chargers have become one of the most popular traveling essentials, especially for those going on long-distance drives using navigation apps. These navigation apps, while helpful, can also consume a significant amount of your phone’s battery. Car chargers are always a good idea to have, but when more than one person needs to charge their device or the car’s battery is out, having a portable charger can undoubtedly be helpful.

Pack a Blanket

Before going on a long-distance drive, you may not think about comfort. Sure, you may commit to wearing sweatpants and comfy shoes on long driving days, but what about when it’s time to nap? We recommend bringing a blanket to keep you cozy during those long hours. This can be especially helpful if the driver prefers a colder temperature than the passengers, as it allows everyone to stay warm and content with the car’s conditions. In an emergency, a blanket can also become a multiuse tool for shelter, clothing, and warmth.

Fill up Your Gas Tank

Consider fueling up the day before your trip, or set aside time before you officially begin your journey to pump gas. If you’re driving long distances, you’ll more than likely have to refill your tank multiple times along the way. It’s helpful to plan ahead, like when you’re making your itinerary, to determine the general area of where you plan on stopping. This can take away the pressure of having to find a spot quickly if you’re low on fuel.

Stock up on Water and Snacks

Water and snacks are vital to making sure everyone in the car on your long-distance drive are happy. Especially if you’re planning on driving through more rural areas, it’s essential that everyone in the vehicle has access to ample food and water whenever they need it to ensure they all remain healthy and capable of contributing to the drive or other planned activities. In the case of an emergency, you’ll be grateful if you have some sustenance to hold you over until help is available, so don’t hesitate and pack those granola bars.

Pack Headphones/Entertainment

While the conversation may be fresh and exciting at the start of your journey, those attitudes are likely to fade once you’re several hours in. To avoid boredom, try packing a pair of headphones so you can enjoy your own selection of music, podcasts, shows, and movies along the way without disturbing the driver or other passengers. Have trouble napping on a long drive? Try popping in your headphones and playing some white noise to tune out your surroundings and lull yourself to sleep.

Now that you know all the essential items and procedures for a successful long-distance drive, you’re ready to take on any and all scenarios that come your way. Have your own suggestions for long-distance trips? Contact us here at Brewster Ford, and we can add it to our list. Are you looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle for your next road trip? Please browse our selection of vehicles to find one that fits your needs and budget.

Tags: Road Trips
Posted in Driving Tips | No Comments »

The Ford Edge is a midsize, reliable SUV perfect for road-trip adventures or family fun. Since its initial release, the Edge has featured a luxurious leather-wrapped steering wheel, powerful mechanical under the hood, and top-of-the-line interior features, like music systems and temperature control. Ford revealed its second generation of the Edge in 2015 with improved headlight technology, a backup camera, and more interior space amid other updates. Ford has released a new model of the Ford Edge every year for six years, with ever-improving features and sleek modern design options. The most recent version of the Ford Edge is the 2022 model. These vehicles offer top-notch safety, style, and power. Here are a few exciting features that you might enjoy.

Touch screen Infotainment

The 2022 Ford Edge features a 12-inch SYNC 4A adaptive dash touchscreen display in the dashboard’s center stack. With the tap of a finger, you can change radio stations, manage a playlist, adjust volume, and access temperature controls. The touch screen also features time, temperature, Wi-Fi options, and telephone capabilities, so you can chat with your favorite people hands-free and safely. You can also use the touch screen as a GPS navigation system.

Hands-Free Liftgate

One optional feature of the new Ford Edge is the hands-free liftgate. Are you constantly juggling heavy items, shifting them from one arm to the other to open the trunk of your car? The 2022 Ford Edge invites you to put those days behind you with a motion-activated sensor in the middle of the rear bumper. Move your foot under the sensor, and the trunk will automatically open. No hands are required.

Rotary Gear Shift Dial

The new Ford Edge leaves clunky gear shifting in the past with its sleek rotary gear shift dial. This exciting innovation makes changing between the park, reverse, neutral, and drive easy. It also compacts the traditional gear shift mechanism into a single knob. The result is a modern and sophisticated driving experience, with the bonus of more room between the two front seats for cup holders, storage, and USB ports. The car also includes paddle shifters. This secondary gear change option allows you to shift gears without moving your hands off the steering wheel.

Sleek Outer Design

From the 20-inch gloss black-painted aluminum wheels to the sleek gloss black grille, the 2022 Edge’s exterior design is a masterclass in craftsmanship. It also features door trim and signature LED headlights with a dark bezel for added style. You can also explore trim options like the 2022 Edge SEL for unique LED fog lamps and silver roof rack side rails. Whatever your style, the 2022 Edge options have you covered.

Luxurious Interior Design

The 2022 Edge’s superior craftsmanship doesn’t end when you enter. Inside, you’ll find leather-trimmed sport bucket seats designed for comfort and safety. The steering wheel features leather wrapping with alluring red stitching. Other features include a metallic pedal, floor mats in the front and back of the car, and a skylight that adds to the ambient lighting.

Safety Alert Systems

The new Edge comes with top-grade alert systems to help keep you safe on the road. The blind-spot information system technology can sense cars and obstacles around you, including objects in your blind spots. This system pairs perfectly with the cross-traffic alert, detecting cars and objects behind your vehicle. Whether you’re backing out of a parking spot or changing lanes on the highway, the 2022 Ford Edge has your back.

Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology

Another exciting technological safety feature is the Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology, which includes a wide range of driver-assist features to help keep you safe behind the wheel. These include pedestrian sensors that can trigger automatic emergency braking procedures, a rear backup camera, and a blind-spot information system.

Drivers can also benefit from the lane-keeping system, which helps individuals stay centered in their lane. You can set this system to alert you to lane-drifting with steering wheel vibrations. Alternatively, you can set it to aid you in your driving with steering torque that directs you back to the center of your lane. All these safety features can help you keep yourself, your family, and your fellow drivers safer than ever before on the road.

Wi-Fi Hotspot

Want to connect to the internet to stream your favorite music on the road? Are you worried about losing the signal to your cell phone on a long road trip? The 2022 Edge also features a FordPass Connect 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot that lets passengers and drivers connect with in-vehicle Wi-Fi. This powerful internet connection opportunity can simultaneously provide service for up to 10 devices. Devices can also link from up to 50 feet from the car.

Superior Engine Power

The 2022 Edge offers power and fuel-efficient performance with two engine options available. One engine is the direct-injection twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost, which uses the latest technology to boost your driving to the next level. The other is the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, which combines a lightweight frame with extreme horsepower and torque for a powerful driving experience. Both options also come with automatic start-stop technology to help increase fuel efficiency. When you bring the 2022 Ford Edge to a stop, your engine automatically shuts down until you begin driving again.

Intelligent All-wheel Drive

The Ford Intelligent all-wheel drive is an exciting safety feature perfect for those who often drive in difficult conditions or uneven terrain. The system uses data like steering wheel angle, accelerator pedal position, wheel speed, and the rate of acceleration to increase the torque it sends to the rear wheels. This can help automatically improve driving in bad weather or adverse road conditions. Alternatively, if the system senses mild driving conditions, it can send all the power to the front wheels for a more fuel-efficient driving style.

If you’re looking for a new ride for 2022 that combines comfort and safety with power and technology, the latest Ford Edge might be the car for you. Our team seeks to provide the most expansive inventory and inclusive car-buying experience, including opportunities to browse new or pre-owned vehicles. We can also offer a wide range of services, including helping you research financing options and getting you set with regular maintenance. If you’d like to learn more about the latest Ford features and options, don’t hesitate to visit our website or contact us with questions.

Tags: Ford Edge
Posted in Ford Models | No Comments »

If you’re staying in or around Brewster, New York, you may want to stop somewhere to get breakfast. Luckily for you, there are several breakfast places in this location that serve tasty meals. Start your day right with any of these delicious restaurants and cafes. From bagels and muffins to breakfast sandwiches and omelets, you’ll find a tasty breakfast that will motivate you to have a great day. Let’s take a look at some of the best breakfast places around Brewster.

Country Kitchen & Cafe

At Country Kitchen & Cafe, you can enjoy a delicious homestyle breakfast that will prepare you for the day. While it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, breakfast is this location’s specialty. Country Kitchen & Cafe offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery within 5 miles of the cafe. So even if you want to stay in, you can still eat the cafe’s tasty breakfast.

This breakfast spot has a large menu with several categories, including pancakes, egg dishes, and more. It even sells fresh baked goods like homemade muffins. Country Kitchen & Cafe also serves French toast, waffles, and breakfast sandwiches. If you’re a fan of eggs, try the cafe’s eggs benedict, which they offer in seven different varieties.

Bob’s Diner

If you’re looking for a traditional breakfast in a diner setting, stop by Bob’s Diner. Bob’s Diner is a locally owned breakfast spot that’s open 24 hours a day. It offers both dine-in and takeout so you can take Bob’s food home with you. Bob’s Diner is the only retro-style diner on this list, making it a must-see location.

Bob’s Diner has a large breakfast menu with several tasty options. One of its specialties is pancakes, which you can customize with toppings or side dishes. For a more savory breakfast, try one of the many four-egg omelets or breakfast sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, Bob’s Diner offers several large combination plates, like the Lumberjack, Hash Hound, or Hungry Man.

Brewster Pastry

Brewster Pastry is a quaint bakery that serves a variety of fresh sweets, such as pastries, cakes, cookies, and pies. If you want a quick bite of breakfast, stop by in the morning to grab one of its homemade bagels, Danish pastries or doughnuts. Its owner, Thierry Danvin, grew up in France and enjoys sharing his culinary skills and French baking with the locals.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try one of the bakery’s coffee cakes. Brewster Pastry is also known for its apple cider donuts, along with its other baked goods, like its plain, almond, or chocolate croissants. Remember to pick up extra sweet treats for later.

Paradise Bakery & Cafe

Formerly Chester Heights Pastry, Paradise Bakery & Cafe is a restart of a deep-rooted bakery that served the community for over 100 years. The current owner, who’s been with the bakery for nearly 20 years, reopened this cafe under a new name. It still serves the same favorite pastries, baked goods, and a large selection of coffee.

If you’re in the mood for a quick and convenient breakfast, this is a great place to stop. You can enjoy a cup of coffee with your morning pastries and baked goods on the cafe’s cute front patio. Although Paradise Bakery & Cafe is a lovely place for breakfast, it also sells several other goods, including cookies, pies, pastries, cakes, and Italian ice.

JV Bagels

If you love bagels, consider visiting JV Bagels, where the staff makes their baked goods from scratch daily. Of course, JV Bagels is known for its bagels. However, this location also bakes and sells fresh muffins, pastries, and other breakfast items. You can enjoy your homemade bagel with some of the shop’s freshly brewed coffee or iced coffee. At JV Bagels, the staff is committed to giving you the best service and making the highest quality goods.

JV Bagels has a large breakfast menu that includes bagels, baked goods, and breakfast sandwiches. This place differs from an average bagel shop, with its toppings, spreads, and bagel add-ons. For example, you could ask for a savory bagel with jalapeno spreading and egg whites on top. Even if you’re not a huge fan of this breakfast item, you can enjoy the store’s muffins, croissants, scones, or Danishes.

Millie’s Cafe

Millie’s Cafe is a cute little restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch. It’s only open on weekends, so if you’re around Brewster on Saturday or Sunday, make sure you stop in. Millie’s Cafe is devoted to serving fresh food and great quality service. This is a lovely place to stop by for a cheap and delicious breakfast.

Millie’s has a simple breakfast menu, but there’s a lot of variety, so you’re sure to find a dish you love. Consider trying its egg sandwich or breakfast panini, which is a unique menu item. The cafe even has several omelets, including a cheese, western, or Italian omelet. Of course, this cafe has all the classics, such as pancakes, French toast, and waffles.

General Bakeshop

General Bakeshop serves fresh baked goods for a perfect, quick breakfast. From doughnuts and pastries to homemade bread and muffins, there’s a baked good for everyone. If you’re looking for a quick breakfast, stop by here to grab a pastry and be on your way.

Once you walk in, you’ll see several glass displays that contain the bakery’s homemade goods, including muffins, croissants, and fresh-baked bread. Along with its pastries, the General Bakeshop serves egg sandwiches and coffee. This location is a great mix between a breakfast spot and a bakery, making it one-of-a-kind.

With such a large selection of restaurants, you’re bound to find a great breakfast. These locations will give you a great start to your day with a bounce in your step. Whether you want a sweet or savory dish, you’re sure to find it in a Brewster area breakfast restaurant. Did you find our list satisfactory? Did we miss one of your favorite breakfast spots in Brewster? If so, please contact us so we can highlight your experience.MIKI Yoshihito. (#mikiyoshihito)

Tags: Breakfast Eats
Posted in Local Cafes | No Comments »