Forth Annual Exclusive Culinary Event at the Culinary Institute of America
Thursday, November 19, 2026 | Hyde Park, New York
Join Skål International New York and our Twin Club, Skål Albany/Upstate New York, for our annual exclusive culinary gathering at the renowned Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York!
Following the success of previous years, we’re delighted to return for another memorable evening of exceptional cuisine, hospitality, and friendship.
This year’s event features a specially selected three-course dinner at The American Bounty Restaurant, one of the CIA’s acclaimed student-staffed restaurants, celebrating seasonal ingredients and the flavors of the Hudson Valley.
Before dinner, reconnect with fellow Skålleagues over cocktails or join an optional, informal walking tour of the CIA campus.
Preliminary Event Schedule
Thursday, November 19, 2026
- 4:30-5:00 PM – Optional CIA Campus Walking Tour
- 5:00–6:00 PM – Pre-Dinner Reception at the American Bounty Bar
- 6:00 PM – Three-Course Dinner at The American Bounty Restaurant
Join us for the full program or just for dinner — your choice.
Our Exclusive Three-Course Dinner Menu
THE AMERICAN BOUNTY RESTAURANT
FIRST COURSE
Warm Duck Confit and Frisée Salad
Glazed Hudson Valley Apples, Marinated Red Onions
MAIN COURSE
Sautéed Wild Salmon
Braised Cabbage, Potato Croquettes, White Wine Butter Sauce
OR
Port Wine Braised Short Ribs
Herbed Mashed Potatoes, Root Vegetables
OR
Vegetarian Entrée
Details to be announced
Guests will select their preferred main course during registration.
DESSERT
Tropical Layer Cake
Almond Dacquoise, Coconut-Lime Sorbet, Coconut Mousse, Passion Fruit Ganache, Lime Zest
Event Pricing & Reservations
- Skål Members & Guests of Members: $125 per person
- Non-Members: $140 per person
Seating is limited, and we encourage early reservations to secure your place at this exclusive culinary experience.
Tickets can be reserved through the Tickets tab on this page.
Accommodations
For those wishing to extend their visit to the Hudson Valley, accommodations are available at the Inn at Bellefield/Hyde Park, conveniently located directly across from the CIA campus.
Special Skål Room Rate: $159 per night
Inn at Bellefield/Hyde Park
25 Old Vineyard Place
Hyde Park, NY 12538
Visit the Inn at Bellefield website
Group booking details and any updated special rates will be provided as soon as confirmed.
Train Service to Poughkeepsie
The CIA is conveniently accessible by train from New York City and Albany via Poughkeepsie Station, approximately 3 miles south of the campus.
Metro-North Railroad — Hudson Line
Grand Central Terminal ↔ Poughkeepsie
Suggested outbound trains:
| Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|
| 1:43 PM | 3:40 PM |
| 2:43 PM | 4:39 PM |
| 3:18 PM | 5:09 PM |
Suggested return trains:
| Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|
| 8:49 PM | 10:43 PM |
| 9:48 PM | 12:08 AM (next day) |
These are planning times based on previously supplied schedules and should be verified for November 19 before travel.
Check Metro-North schedules and fares
Amtrak — Empire Service and Other Routes
Moynihan Train Hall (NYC) ↔ Poughkeepsie
Amtrak offers service between New York City’s Moynihan Train Hall and Poughkeepsie, including afternoon departures suitable for attending the event.
Albany-Rensselaer ↔ Poughkeepsie
Amtrak also provides direct service from Albany-Rensselaer to Poughkeepsie, with return trains available later in the evening.
Train schedules and fares vary by service and date. Guests should select Thursday, November 19, 2026, when booking.
Check Amtrak schedules, fares, and reservations
Getting from Poughkeepsie Station to the CIA
The Culinary Institute of America is located approximately 3 miles north of Poughkeepsie Station on Route 9.
Taxi and rideshare services are available in the area. Guests should allow approximately 10–15 minutes for the transfer, depending on traffic and vehicle availability.
Please arrange transportation in advance, particularly for your return journey. Any organized shuttle arrangements will be announced if confirmed.
Driving Directions
The Culinary Institute of America
1946 Campus Drive
Hyde Park, NY 12538
The CIA is approximately two hours by car from New York City and 90 minutes from Albany, depending on traffic.
Driving directions and campus information
Skål New York and Skål Albany/Upstate New York look forward to welcoming you for another exceptional evening of fine dining, friendship, and hospitality at the Culinary Institute of America!
Happiness, Good Health, Friendship, Long Life — Skål!
