RHINEBECK, N.Y. — A well-known Hudson Valley restaurateur is facing criminal charges following a heated confrontation that allegedly involved threats with a handgun during a dispute over a chainsaw.
Arrest in Rhinebeck Over Chainsaw Argument
On the evening of July 3, New York State Troopers responded to a report of a disturbance involving violent threats on Long Dock Road in the town of Rhinebeck. Upon arrival, officers say they encountered Joseph Z. Dalu, the controversial owner of one of the area’s most prestigious dining establishments.
According to police, Dalu was involved in a confrontation with another individual over the cutting down of trees. It remains unclear whether Dalu was the one using the chainsaw or objecting to someone else doing so. However, during the dispute, Dalu allegedly pulled out a black handgun, racked it, and threatened to shoot the other party involved.
Police arrested Dalu at the scene and charged him with:
Menacing in the Second Degree with a Weapon
Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree with Intent to Use
Both charges are classified as misdemeanors under New York law.
Acclaimed Restaurateur With a Controversial Past
Dalu is best known as the owner of Le Petit Bistro, a French restaurant located on East Market Street in the Village of Rhinebeck. The bistro, which has been serving diners since 1986, was taken over by Joseph and Jennifer Dalu in 2000. Under their ownership, the restaurant has gained a stellar reputation for its classic French cuisine and old-world charm. Celebrity chef Eric Ripert, of the three-Michelin-starred Le Bernardin, is among those who have visited and praised the establishment.
However, Dalu has also made headlines for reasons beyond his culinary achievements.
In 2023, the 55-year-old Culinary Institute of America graduate sparked local controversy after sharing a political post on social media containing the message “F— Israel.” The post drew sharp criticism and led to protests outside his restaurant, including counter-protests by supporters of free speech and Palestinian rights.
Rather than back down, Dalu responded by hosting a “Brunch for Justice” event at Le Petit Bistro, further inflaming tensions in the otherwise tranquil town of Rhinebeck.
Upcoming Court Appearance
Following the arrest, Dalu has been ordered to appear in Town of Rhinebeck Court on Thursday, where he will face both weapons-related charges. As of now, no public comment has been made by Dalu or his legal representatives regarding the incident.
Nearby Historical Spotlight: Wilderstein, FDR’s Family Estate
While the chainsaw dispute has put Rhinebeck in the spotlight for unfortunate reasons, the town is also home to some of the Hudson Valley’s richest history—including the stunning Wilderstein Historic Site.
Located in nearby Dutchess County, the Wilderstein estate was home to Thomas Suckley and Catherine Murray Bowne, relatives of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Designed in the 1800s, the estate was named “Wilderstein,” meaning “wild man’s stone,” a reference to a Native American petroglyph found on the grounds.
Over the years, Wilderstein grew into a magnificent Queen Anne-style mansion, thanks in part to renovations by the Suckleys’ son, Robert Bowne Suckley, and his wife, Elizabeth Philips Montgomery. The estate became renowned for its Victorian architecture, scenic vistas, and lush landscaping.
Margaret Suckley: FDR’s Trusted Confidante
The most notable resident of Wilderstein was Margaret “Daisy” Suckley, a cousin and close confidante of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Margaret traveled extensively with FDR during his presidency and was by his side when he died in Warm Springs, Georgia. She also gifted FDR his beloved dog, Fala, and helped him establish the FDR Presidential Library in Hyde Park.
Margaret lived at Wilderstein until her death in 1991 at the age of 100, making her the estate’s final resident. Today, Wilderstein is regarded as the Hudson Valley’s most important example of Victorian architecture and remains open to the public as a preserved historical site.
A Town of Contrasts
From high-profile restaurant disputes to presidential legacies, Rhinebeck stands as a town where history, controversy, and culture collide. As Joseph Dalu prepares to face his day in court, locals are once again reminded of the complex and often unpredictable stories that shape this picturesque corner of New York.
Whether you’re drawn by fine French cuisine, Victorian mansions, or Hudson Valley history, Rhinebeck offers a mix of old-world charm and modern drama that continues to captivate residents and visitors alike.
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