The Bistro Mountain Store, at the intersection of Routes 299 and 44/55, is tucked onto a well-traveled ledge of the Shawangunk Ridge at the gateway from Gardiner to Minnnewaska State Park and the Mohonk Preserve. The Bistro combines a down home prettiness and cleanliness with the practicalities and necessities of an outpost oasis. It’s a fairly long way to anything else from here, and thanks to the proprietors, Joan Fall and her husband, Terence McConnon, who have owned the store for the past three years, you can get things ranging from a box of bandaids to one of their famous “Crankin Sandwiches” on your way to (or over) the mountain. The atmosphere is always friendly and helpful, and there are great sandwiches and wraps, pastries and bagels and a wide selection of drinks to take out, or eat there.
The Bistro Mountain Store is a family business in the truest sense of the word. Joannie’s brother Rick is there too, and they characterize it as a “Mom and Pop” store with community values. Spring has definitely sprung on the mountain. Stop by the store for a picnic lunch to take on up with you, or just eat it on the Bistro’s outdoor deck and enjoy the looming view of the Ridge. Open 7 days. Ph. 255-2999, www.bistromountainstore.com.