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Yes, we know New York has some of the best bars and restaurants in the world—it’s kind of all that we talk about. However, the designation for being the best extends to what lies up north. While plenty of coverage focuses on what’s found within our concrete jungle, Westchester has much to discover, even more so thanks to USA Today.
On February 12, the outlet released its 2025 Restaurants of the Year ranking. The list celebrates “local flavors and stories, curated by reporters from across the country who know that a meal of Italian cuisine in Mamaroneck can be just as rewarding as one in Manhattan.” Of the 44 restaurants featured, an authentic Italian eatery in Westchester was named the state’s best.
According to USA Today, Augustine's Salumeria (213 Halstead Avenue, Mamaroneck, New York) is one the best restaurants in New York, chosen for its “farm-driven food and an emphasis on authentic Italian cooking.”
The destination is run by husband-and-wife team Marc Taxiera and Brianne Myers. With a background working at the Russian Tea Room and the now-closed Beppe, chef Taxiera shares his Italian heritage through imported meats and cheeses, housemade pasta and proteins sourced fresh from the market. Myers, who formerly worked at Eataly, BLT Steak and Loring Place, runs the front-of-house operations. While only two years old, the operation has received various nods from standout publications, including Wine Spectator and the Michelin Guide.
Alongside salumi and the dramatic grilled strip steak served under a dome, the publication listed the pappardelle with duck ragu as a “must try.” Prepared with red wine, herbs and spices, the pasta itself is “made in-house from flour that’s grown and milled in Pennsylvania from a pre-Revolutionary War grist mill.” Standout dishes continue on with the cannoli and the chocolate ganache-based s’mores for dessert.
"To be recognized like this is amazing," Taxiera told USA Today. "It makes all the blood sweat and tears worth it."