A Family Affair

Michelle and James combined had over 20 years of restaurant experience under their belts before they even met. From childhood Michelle loved watching the classic PBS cooking shows like Julia Child and always dreamed of opening a restaurant. As a child, James spent countless hours in the kitchen with his Sicilian grandmother, mom, and dad; Sundays were filled with making big family dinners. So when they started their life together and Michelle presented the idea of opening a restaurant that idea came to fruition in a very natural way. In October 2001 they took a ride to New Paltz to check out the town. After falling in love with the town, and the Water Street Market, they decided to take the plunge and signed the lease on the spot.

The Mudd Puddle opened in January 2002 and one year later James and Michelle tied the knot. Since then, they have added three amazing kids to the mix, all the while serving millions of happy customers and creating a place that feels like home.

Adding to the mix in 2014 James fell in love with the hobby of brewing beer in his kitchen. He knew right away that this had to be an addition to the Mudd Puddle Cafe’ beverage menu which is how Yard Owl Beer was created.

In 2020 when the routine of work and home life was flipped upside down Michelle and James were given some time to focus more on cooking for their family of 5 instead of hundreds at a time. This is when the idea of FOOD LOVE TRADITION was born. On the website and food blog they are able to share their go to home recipes, ideas and traditions.

ENJOY!