December 20, 2021

A Holiday Tour of Mount Vernon’s Small Businesses

The holiday season has always been a time of gathering, togetherness, and community. And nothing captures that spirit quite like the vibrant town of Mount Vernon. Here you’ll find a dynamic corner of New York that’s absolutely bursting with commerce. Whether you’re looking for a nice evening out or are working on checking off some items on your gift list, it’s always a great idea to support local businesses. So, here’s a helpful guide to shopping and eating locally this holiday season—because nothing helps you get to know the area like discovering all of the local favorites!         

Local Restaurants

The Bayou Restaurant

The Bayou is a Mount Vernon mainstay, serving up authentic Cajun Food at affordable prices. Between the catfish, po’ boys, and gumbo, this is your new “go-to” for an authentic taste of the south. The Bayou is endearingly casual, so stop by for lunch, send a gift card to a friend, or pop in over the weekend for a bit of live music.

Sugar Bowl

This neighborhood favorite has been a Mount Vernon staple since 1965. And after a quick look at their menu, it’s easy to see why. Sugar Bowl has been specializing in breakfast and brunch foods for over 50 years, but they also branch out into a host of other crowd-pleasers, like fried chicken and gyros.

Joe’s Fleetwood Pizzeria

The best pizza in town! Joe’s Fleetwood Pizzeria has been serving up fresh, authentic family-style Neapolitan food—as well as Neapolitan and Sicilian style pizza—since 1972. Located in our very own Fleetwood neighborhood, you certainly can’t beat the convenience. And you’d be hard-pressed to beat the flavor! 

Valentina’s Italian Restaurant

Can’t get enough Italian? You’re in good company! Another local favorite, Valentina’s Italian Restaurant offers a bright, charming atmosphere with delicious, family-style Southern and Northern Italian cuisine. And don’t forget dessert! With classics like Napoleon Cake and Flan, or unique twists like Cannoli-Stuffed Brownies and Chocolate Hazelnut Raviolis, you’ll want to make Valentina’s a 3-course experience!

Maggie Spillane’s

Looking for a cozy bar atmosphere and some tasty pub food? Maggie Spillane’s is the place for you! It’s great for after-work drinks, lunch and dinner, catching the big game, and late-night dancing. And once the weather turns a bit nicer, they have a rooftop patio, perfect for enjoying the sunshine or mild, starry evenings. 

Macelleria

Just down the street, in the neighboring community of Pelham, you’ll find Macelleria, a Michelin-rated Italian Steakhouse that has all of the locals talking. You’ll need a reservation, but if you’re looking to treat your loved ones to an upscale dinner, this is the perfect place to celebrate another great year.

Local Shops

Womrath Bookshop

This Bronxville gem has been selling books and hosting local events since 1938. And the nice thing about Womrath is that they also have a great selection of children’s books. So, if you’re looking for a more educational gift, think about supporting this community institution.   

Fleetwood Pastry Shop

Nothing says “the holiday season” like a little something sweet, and Fleetwood Pastry Shop is a special taste of heaven. Their cupcakes make perfect gifts. Their cookies are the star of every potluck. And their specialty cakes take any celebration to the next level.  

Candy Rox

This charming local business sells candy by the pound and takes you right back to your childhood. Are you looking to reward your kids? Are you looking to reward yourself? Are you looking for an irresistible stocking-stuffer? Candy Rox is a “must” this holiday season and beyond. 

Retro X-Change

Retro X-Change is an old-school video game shop that carries a ton of rare, hard-to-find classics. If someone in your life is really into retro gaming, and you want to be their hero, swing by this hidden treasure to rediscover Super Nintendo, the original PlayStation, and more.

Artistic Manner Flower Shop

Flowers are always a head-turning decorative piece. But they also make for a gift that stays with that special someone long after you leave. Grab a beautiful arrangement from Artistic Manner for that client, friend, or family member, or as a centerpiece for a holiday dinner.

American Christmas

When you hear about holiday shopping, most people are thinking of physical gifts. But don’t forget about tickets to seasonal events. American Christmas puts on a beautiful lighting display for the entire Mount Vernon community. Tickets are only $5 per person, so gather the whole family for this inspiring holiday spectacle. 

Thanks to an incredible small business scene, the Mount Vernon area is always overflowing with holiday cheer. So, take a night off from cooking to enjoy a local restaurant, grab a present from a neighborhood shop, or buy a gift card for someone close to you. Mount Vernon makes it easy to shop local during this special time of year.