Welcome to the Highlands: White Plains’ Hidden Culinary Gem
Tucked away from the city bustle, the Highlands neighborhood in White Plains offers more than just leafy streets and charming homes—it’s a food lover’s paradise waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a long-time local or a first-time visitor, this cozy enclave is packed with standout restaurants, neighborhood cafés, artisanal bakeries, and delightful food traditions that capture the warm spirit of the community. Ready for a tasty adventure? Let’s eat our way through the Highlands!
Main Dining Clusters: Where the Flavors Gather
The heart of Highlands’ food scene centers around the Albany Post Road and Mamaroneck Avenue intersection, where you’ll find a delightful mix of old-school favorites and trendy newcomers. Don’t overlook side streets like Ridgeway and Soundview Avenue—these less-trafficked avenues are home to some real culinary treasures!
Standout Restaurants for Every Craving
*### L’inizio (698 Saw Mill River Rd)*
Just outside the Highlands but well-loved by locals, L’inizio is where Italian comfort gets an imaginative upgrade. Think hand-rolled pastas, creamy burrata, and wood-fired pizzas. The exposed brick and friendly staff create a casual-yet-special vibe, perfect for everything from weeknight family dinners to anniversary dates. Entrées range from $18-$35.
*### Emma’s Ale House (68 Gedney Way)*
A true neighborhood staple, Emma’s brings hearty American fare and gastropub favorites to the table. Juicy burgers, Guinness-glazed ribs, and killer mac & cheese are standouts here. If you want a laid-back vibe with pub trivia or local brews, this is your spot. Mains are $15-$28.
*### Sushi Nanase (522 Mamaroneck Ave)*
Hailed as one of Westchester’s best kept sushi secrets, Sushi Nanase impresses with meticulous technique and incredibly fresh fish. The omakase is a splurge ($60-$100), but you’ll be talking about it for weeks. It’s tiny and often booked, so reservations are essential.
*### Taco Project (200 Hamilton Ave)*
Craving something casual? This local favorite food truck-turned-takeout spot brings bold Mexican flavors right to Highlands. Their citrus-marinated pork tacos and zesty street corn are must-tries. Expect to pay $3-$5 per taco—affordable and delicious!
Cozy Cafés and Sweet Treats
*### La Renaissance Patisserie Francaise (9 Harwood Ct)*
This charming French bakery dazzles with flaky pastries, delicate macarons, and the city’s *best* croissants. Pair your pick with a strong cappuccino and people-watch from the sunny window seats. Baked goods are $3-$6.
*### Martine’s Fine Bake Shoppe (10 East Parkway)*
Not far from the main Highlands drag, Martine’s is beloved for classic cakes, oversized cookies, and buttery rugelach. Their almond horn is legendary, and the cozy ambiance—think handwritten chalk menus and the smell of fresh bread—makes it a favorite for both locals and students.
*### Little Drunken Chef (91 Mamaroneck Ave)*
More than a café, Little Drunken Chef fuses global tapas with a laid-back lounge vibe. The eclectic share plates and signature sangrias are delicious, but don’t skip their brunch! Dishes are $10-$25, offering a great value for eclectic flavors.
Highlands Food Trucks: Flavor on Four Wheels
The Highlands neighborhood has a soft spot for food trucks, especially around school and weekend events near Ridgeway and Mamaroneck Ave. Look for:
- *The Empanada Truck* – Golden, crispy pockets stuffed with beef, chicken, or cheese; $3 each.
- *Westchester Pizza Truck* – Mobile Naples-style pies with charred crust and gooey mozzarella, slices starting at $5.
Check neighborhood social pages for the latest schedule—these trucks rotate, bringing fresh flavors to every visit!
Hidden Gems Only the Locals Know
*### Ida’s Italian Ice (Mamaroneck Ave, summer pop-up)*
What’s summer in Highlands without Ida’s famous lemon and cherry ices? Served from a humble cart near Highlands School, it’s a local tradition through and through—and perfect after a game at YWCA’s Goodman Field.
*### KEE Oyster Bar (126 E Post Rd)*
A cozy, understated bistro with some of the freshest seafood in Westchester. Locals rave about the lobster rolls and dollar oyster happy hours (Mon-Thurs). Nestled just north of the Highlands, it’s the neighborhood’s secret date-night spot. Dishes $14-$35.
Local Food Traditions
The Highlands springs to life with seasonal food festivals and block parties, especially along Ridgeway and at the YWCA. The annual “Taste of Highlands” event in early fall lets you sample bites from all the best local eateries, while summer’s farmer’s markets are a weekend must-do for fresh bread, juicy peaches, and artisanal cheese.
The Ultimate Highlands Food Crawl
Ready to plan your own Highlands food tour? Here’s your blueprint:
- Start at La Renaissance for a croissant and coffee.
- Head to Emma’s Ale House for lunch—split a burger and their famous truffle fries.
- Stroll down to Sushi Nanase for a mid-afternoon sushi snack.
- Track down The Empanada Truck for a savory bite on your way to Ridgeway.
- Unwind with dinner at L’inizio, lingering over homemade pasta and a bottle of wine.
- End with dessert at Martine’s—or grab Italian ice if you catch Ida’s open!
Why the Highlands Food Scene Stands Out
What makes the Highlands so special for foodies? It’s the perfect blend of local tradition and new tastes. You’ll find family-run bakeries with decades-long recipes, innovative chefs, and friendly neighborhood vibes wherever you go. Prices run from budget to splurge, and the variety of cuisine—Italian, Japanese, American, French, Mexican—means there’s always something new to try. It’s White Plains’ “best kept secret” for anyone who loves to eat well and support small, passionate businesses.
So next time you’re in White Plains, skip the big chains and come savor the flavor in the Highlands. Whether you’re hungry for adventure or just a slice of cake, this cozy neighborhood serves up the best of local dining, one delicious plate at a time.