Rolling scones: Peggy’s Sweet and Savory
Michael Cobb Sr. enjoys the sunshine at Peggy’s Sweet and Savory in Amenia. 
Photo by Mike Cobb

Rolling scones: Peggy’s Sweet and Savory

AMENIA — Last summer, I missed my train from Wassaic to New York City. Looking to kill a few hours until the next train rolled in, I searched online for a place to pass the time. 

My father and I found Peggy’s Sweet and Savory at 3312 East Main St., which was rated 4.5 on Yelp and was highly recommended for its scones. I usually find scones to be as hard as hockey pucks, but being hungry, I was willing to give it a go.

Located in a green brick townhouse complete with a black cast-iron staircase outside, Peggy’s has a vibe that’s as much Brooklyn as it is rural upstate New York. The menu features coffee, tea, homemade sandwiches and fresh baked goods.

Once inside, my eyes were drawn to the back of the building where a Vermeeresque shaft of light illuminated a small kitchen. Presumably Peggy prepared baked goods, gently stirring dough in a metal bowl.

We were served excellent coffee while awaiting the main attraction. When the scones finally arrived, fresh out of the oven, they had a flaky crust with a warm and chewy interior. My dad and I took a table outside under a shade tree and had a lovely second breakfast. 

Peggy McEnroe has been at this particular establishment for 12 years. Thanks to her friend Michelle Haab, McEnroe connected with Claire Houlihan, who owns the building that would become Peggy’s Sweet and Savory. 

“Claire had a building in Amenia where she wanted to create a cafe, and Michelle thought I would be a good fit,” McEnroe explained.

She runs the business with her niece Katerin McEnroe, a Housatonic Valley Regional High School student who works weekend shifts. She said scones are one of the more popular items, followed by cakes. Carrot cake in particular sells well. “I enjoy making pies, sweet or savory. Baking is an enjoyable and calming pursuit,” she said. 

Materials are locally sourced from farmers’ markets for in-season products. McEnroe uses food distributors such as Ginsberg’s and Baldor Specialty Foods, occasionally making trips to Restaurant Depot for supplies. 

As is the case for many food establishments and small businesses, getting good help is difficult. “It is a universal problem, and it forces one to get more creative and figure out how to get the work done. There is never a dull moment in this business,” she said.

McEnroe understands the frustration people have when hours are curtailed due to being short-staffed: “It’s just as frustrating from the business side. We are in the hospitality and service business, and we strive to create enjoyable experiences for people.”

She added: “I am grateful for my customers and staff who have supported me through all the challenges and successes. I look forward to many years to come.”

To see Peggy’s menu and hours, go online to www.-peggyssweetandsavory.com

Latest News

Ann Beizer

CANAAN — It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ann Beizer, who died on Nov. 13, 2024, at the age of 80 after a courageous battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare and debilitating disease that took away her ability to move, see clearly, and swallow. Ann’s strength and resilience throughout her illness was an inspiration to all who knew her, even as the disease took its toll.

Born on Sept. 12, 1944, in Washington, DC, Ann was raised in Glasgow, West Virginia, where both of her parents were school teachers. She earned a Master’s degree in counseling from West Virginia University and went on to teach high school history. Later, she led a not-for-profit organization before becoming the Director of Academic Advising at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). At WPI, Ann also served as a Project Advisor, guiding students on international work projects in Italy and Puerto Rico. Her commitment to education and mentorship earned her a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to Germany, further advancing her career in academic advising.

Keep ReadingShow less
Dr. Fred G. Kantrowitz

SHARON — Dr. Fred G. Kantrowitz, 78, of Medfield, Massachusetts, Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts and Sharon passed away Nov. 13, 2024, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. He was the loving husband of Anne Kirby, devoted father of Gregory and William, father-in-law of Katie and Brittanny, and proud grandfather of Jack, Ava and Jameson.

Fred was born Dec. 10, 1945 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of the late Theo and Dinah (Kotick) Kantrowitz. His own health struggles as a child, intellectual curiosity and desire to help others led him to a career in medicine. Fred’s illustrious medical career was highlighted by nearly 50 years on the Beth Israel staff, more than 30 published works and a chapter as teamdoctor for the Boston Celtics. Later in his career, he developed a reputation for being the doctor to handle only the most complex cases, including long Covid.

Keep ReadingShow less
Rose Moskowitz

CANAAN — Rose Moskowitz, 98, of Geer Village in Canaan, passed away on Nov. 9, 2024. She was the loving wife of the late Bernard Moskowitz.

Rose was born Aug. 2, 1926, in New York City, the daughter of the late David and Regina (Shanker) Gunn.
Rose graduated from high school in the Bronx.

Keep ReadingShow less
Doreen B. Newton

WASSAIC — Doreen B. Newton, 76, a lifelong resident of Wassaic, died on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at Kindred Hospital in Passaic, New Jersey. Ms. Newton was an assistant social worker at Taconic Developmental Disabilities Office in Wassaic, for 30 years, retiring in 2005.

Born on Nov. 24, 1947 in Sharon, she was the daughter of the late William and Doris (Shook) Barlow. She was a graduate of Webutuck High School Class of 1965. An avid reader, Ms. Newton enjoyed mystery novels and crossword puzzles. Above all, she loved her grandchildren.

Keep ReadingShow less