Westchester Dining Event Targets 2.5 Billion Dollar Tourism Sector

Visitor spending in Westchester County reached 2.53 billion dollars in 2025. This figure represents 45 percent of all visitor spending across the Hudson Valley. The county is now leveraging this economic weight through a coordinated dining event designed to keep visitors within local boundaries.

Hudson Valley Restaurant Week runs for two weeks this fall. It features prix fixe menus at more than 50 restaurants. These establishments are located in 23 towns, cities, and villages across Westchester. Diners select from four price points for meals: 24.95, 29.95, 39.95, and 44.95 dollars. Taxes, beverages, and gratuities are not included in these prices.

The culinary sector generated 932 million dollars in economic activity in Westchester in 2025. Tourism supported more than 22,000 hospitality jobs in the county during that same period. County officials frame the event as a direct mechanism to sustain these figures by driving foot traffic to independent operators.

Ken Jenkins, the Westchester County Executive, described the event as a key vehicle for local visibility. He stated that the initiative adds exposure to restaurants while supporting small businesses and hospitality professionals. Jenkins invited residents and visitors to use the event to discover new dining favorites within the county.

Natasha Caputo, the Westchester County Tourism and Film Director, emphasized the connection between dining and lodging. She noted that the event encourages visitors to extend short trips into overnight stays. She cited the combination of exceptional dining, welcoming hotels, and seasonal attractions as reasons for travelers to remain in the region.

Lauren Buerger, the Associate Publisher of Hudson Valley Magazine, highlighted the role of seasonal ingredients in the participating menus. She described the event as an opportunity to explore hidden dining gems. She noted that chefs are creating flavor-packed menus using the freshest local produce available in the fall.

Transportation officials and hoteliers are also involved in the initiative. Justin Vonashek, President of MTA Metro-North Railroad, said the rail line serves as a gateway to communities with distinct food cultures. He pointed to car-free travel as a method for riders to support sustainable growth in local towns. Sean Meade, President of the Westchester Hotel Association, expressed the sector's readiness to welcome leisure and business travelers to the region's hospitality offerings.

Ramon Perez, Executive Chef at Sonesta White Plains Downtown, led the kickoff of the event. He created a savory menu inspired by roasted squash, orchard pears, warm spices, and baked apples. Dishes included sweet potato gnocchi with duck confit ragù and salmon with a pomegranate glaze. Perez stated that the event is a way to welcome the holiday season through food and memory.

More than 30 hotels and boutique accommodations operate in Westchester. These range from family-friendly and pet-friendly spots to business-ready locations. The event positions these properties alongside the 50 participating restaurants to offer a complete hospitality experience within the county.