Lowdown: The Captain's Table in Monroe

(Credit: Chris Serico, Metromix)

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Monroe might not exactly have a lot of beachfront property (OK, there's none) but try telling that to the people partying at The Captain's Table. Short of places with a sweeping view of a lake, beach or river, this summer hot spot is where you'll find lots of great drinks, fun people and nautical-themed goodness.

Founded way back in 1931, the Table is open year-round, but picks up big-time in summer months because of all the open space, picnic tables, stage and one-third of an acre of sand in the back yard.

Vibe: Unlike the Newburgh waterfront — where you'll find packed bar after packed bar when temperatures are at their hottest — the stretch of Route 17M surrounding the bar may look a little sleepy to the casual driver. That said, it's tough to miss when you drive by, because the first of three bar areas in the place is an open-air structure that looks onto the street.

There's a neighborhood feel to the place. Like most bars, the locals-to-visitors ratio is higher earlier in the evening and tilts more toward 20- and 30-something out-of-towners as the night goes on. Plenty of Harleys sparkle in the front parking lot on weekends.

Even with the down-home vibe, famous faces from Hollywood and the big leagues have been known to stop by. Autographed photos hang in the hallway that takes visitors from the front bar to the indoor dining room, where bands often gig on weekends. Just beyond that dining room, there's a section of tables that sit underneath a tent, and even more picnic tables that sit under the sky and next to torches, grass and sand.

Attire: Like other Metromix Hudson Valley favorites, it's a place where you can just show up in your most casual clothes, but the people who show up might inspire you to wear something a little nicer. It's also probably a good idea to dress in layers, even in warmer weather, because the night air can cool in a hurry.

Pick me up: Singles and couples dominate the scene on weekends and it's pretty easy to see who's with whom. Break the ice by offering to buy that special someone one of 30-plus beers from one of the three on-site bars.

If you're looking for grub in all the wrong places, The Table has something for everyone: soup, seafood, salads and apps aplenty. And carnivores rejoice: There's a portion of the menu dedicated to building your own Angus burger. Don't mind if I do!

Entertainment: Because the Table is like three bars in one, there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself. Sidle up to the bar in the front to people-watch as they arrive and watch the game on one of two high-def TVs. On weekends, watch bands rock the indoor stage in the dining area. And if the conditions are right outside, head to the back to watch everyone mingle and the party unfold.

Want a look inside? Check out All Access: The Captain's Table in Monroe

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