The best way to get New Yorkers to actually leave the city? Lure them with pasta - and lots and lots of wine. Not that it took much convincing for city dwellers to join the Catskills cool kids for a cozy weekend with Scarpetta at the beyond-charming Deer Mountain Inn.
Just in time to catch one of the last snowfalls of the season, the beloved Italian eatery from LDV Hospitality hosted a special three-night residency at the Tannersville locale, bringing out a stylish crowd of foodies and drink enthusiasts for the dreamiest wine-and-dine experience.
On Friday and Saturday evenings, things kicked off with a lively aperitivo hour in the hotel's Attic lounge, where guests gathered around the billiards table and sunk into vintage sofas to sip Upstate Americanos and Smoked Old Fashioneds. When it came time to make their way down to the dining room, attendees were greeted with crackling fireplaces, deer heads galore, and the soothing tunes of live musicians.
An indulgent chef's tasting feast commenced by candlelight, showcasing Scarpetta's signature dishes like the Ravioli Cacio e Pepe, Short Rib and Bone Marrow Agnolotti (a personal favorite, I might add), and Muscovy Duck, all paired perfectly with a selection of Italian wine. For dessert? Sips of Amaro alongside the truly decadent Espresso Budino, made of layers of salted caramel, chocolate biscotti, and topped with hazelnut gelato.
On Sunday, the fun continued with a cheeky yet educational VINVIVO wine class hosted by Scarpetta's own wine expert, Alessio de Sensi. While learning all about the core components of a good bottle, guests grazed on a lavish spread of Italian cheeses and charcuterie, testing out their newfound vinophile skills with glasses of Sicilian sparkling wine, Kerner from Alto Adige, Lo Troilet Gamay, and LDV’s Super Tuscan Sangiovese.
The night ended as all good nights should end: with rich, creamy swirls of Scarpetta's renowned spaghetti. Now that's livin' la dolce vita.
Click through for a look inside the deliciously upscale Upstate weekend!
[Photos by Autumn Jordan courtesy Scarpetta]