Best General Stores Of The Catskills & Hudson Valley
In the same way that some people love spending time in a good bookstore, shelves filled with adventures to be had, all packaged up in interesting designs, a great General Store also serves up endless possibilities for those who savor the allure of the new, of the “hand-crafted”, the “artisanal” and most especially the product of of the hands, imagination and labors of real people who live nearby. We hope you enjoy our completely subjective picks for our favorite General Stores.
Rosie General, Kingston
Step inside the historic corner location in the Rondout neighborhood of Kingston and immediately be transported to a cafe in Paris. Behind the millioned windows is a provision market meets Italian/Jewish deliocatessen, with some noteworthy baked goods. If you’re passing through Kingston or planning a day exploring the city, you’ll definitely want to carve some time out to make a pit stop at Rosies!
Otto’s Market, Germantown
Germantown may be a tiny hamlet, but it packs a punch — we like to think Otto’s Market is one of the primary reasons. This charming brick building was originally a central market dating back to the 1920s, and has recently been revived to continue serving the community. This market carries locally sourced produce, classic deli sandwiches, and a robust selection of local craft beers. But it also carries a prideful responsibility in bringing the town together through sustainable practices, partnerships and events. You can order your food and groceries ahead and pick them up when you swing through town, but we think it’s worth sitting down and staying a while, especially on Pizza Night.
Main Street Farm, Livingston Manor
Main Street Farm is all about “local”. With nearly everything in the store coming from area New York makers, you can easily pick up some of the tastiest honey, maple syrup, craft beer and so much more. This larger than average store is stocked with produce and meats from nearby farms, and specialty items that range from coffee table books to trout jerky from a nearby smokehouse, Van Smokey. Post up on their back patio overlooking the Willowemoc Creek with a house-made soup or sandwich, and stay for a fun grocery run — not only of essentials, but of unregrettable indulgences to remind you of your visit.
Circle W Market, Palenville
Not far from some of the best waterfall destinations in the Catskills, the Circle W Market in the tiny hamlet of Palenville dates all the way back to 1908. After a 20 year hiatus, the market was brought back to life in 2009 and has been serving its grateful community of locals and weekenders with specialty goods, superb coffee, and deli sandwiches. Some may say they have the best coffee in all of Greene County, but you didn’t hear that from us.
Narrowsburg Proper, Narrowsburg
This anything but general, general store adds to the pulse of Narrowsburg’s beloved Main Street. Aside from being a specialty grocer, this shop has a good spread of random finds— clothes included— in the event you forgot to pack something for your weekend upstate. Their assortment of domestic and imported cheeses, meats, olives, and spreads will help you whip up one dreamy charcuterie board to graze at all day long.
Kitty’s Market, Hudson
If you’re coming into Hudson via train, you won’t make it into town without walking by Kitty’s. You can stock up on locally sourced produce and pantry items of course, but we highly recommend showing up with an appetite to indulge in their cafe’s breakfast, lunch or dinner-to-go. With food this good, its no wonder the owners also have a restaurant underway.
Tivoli General, Tivoli
This is likely the smallest and quaintest of all the general stores on the list, but no less noteworthy. Owned by a pair of Bard College graduates, Tivoli General is stocked full of local pantry and produce, many of which comes from Five Maple Farm under the same ownership. Their cafe serves scrumptious breads and baked goods as well as a selection of sandwiches and salads. But what we really love about Tivoli’s general store is that it acts as a venue for the goods of local craftspeople and designers. Trust us when we say, you’ll want to pay a visit next time you’re in the cute Dutchess County town.
Barryville General, Barryville
Adding a buzz to the small river town of Barryville since it opened in 2021, with its deli counter and grab-and-go meals, Barryville General is a snack haven that’s sure to put fuel in your tank before embarking on the day’s adventures. If you’re in need of vegan or gluten-free options, this general store has plenty to choose from. Whether you need a quick cup of joe for the road, or are looking to stock up on pantry essentials for the long weekend, Barryville General is a must-stop spot.
