If you grew up in Hudson Valley, chances are you remember this iconic family-friendly restaurant.

It wasn’t just a place to eat; it was an experience. With its rustic lodge vibe, quirky traditions, and a talking moose head that became the star of the show, this spot created memories that still bring a smile to your face.

This restaurant was the place for birthdays, celebrations, or just a fun night out. Who can forget the famous birthday tradition of "kissing the moose"?

You’d gather with your family, laugh at the talking animals, and dig into hearty dishes that hit the spot every time.

It also had a winter charm that made you feel at home:

“I miss it. Something about it in the winter was comforting to me. It felt so cozy. I loved going there during the winter days when it was snowing. I miss it.”

And the food? Absolute classics. Loyal fans still rave about the menu:

“Whitewater Shrimp as the appetizer and then bring on that Snowbird Chicken!! I’m not sure, but I don’t think I ever got anything but that every time I went there…”

But what made this restaurant truly unique was its Canadian lodge theme, despite being based in Rhode Island. As one Hudson Valley resident put it:

“As a kid I loved the place. As an adult I'm confused by it. They were a Canadian-themed, American cuisine restaurant based out of Rhode Island. How did that ever become a thing? Maybe the animatronics?”

So, what was this magical place? None other than Bugaboo Creek Steak House.

Sadly, it closed its doors around 2016 after financial struggles and shifting dining trends. Its Poughkeepsie location on Route 9, now home to El Toro Loco, has become infamous for its revolving door of restaurants but none have recaptured the same magic.

Here’s a deeper dive into Bugaboo Creek’s rise and fall:

Whether it was the talking moose, the cozy cabin vibes, or the unique menu, Bugaboo Creek was more than just a restaurant—it was a piece of Hudson Valley history. And while it’s gone, the memories live on.

Would a place like this work today? Maybe. But one thing’s for sure: we’d all love one more chance to kiss the moose.