My experience with the food in Tarrytown was that the diner Bobubas just mentioned was so-so, and the prices definitely didn't match the quality (or lack of) of the food. I did, however, eat at the hotel and enjoyed the food and the service. I even had a room-service breakfast one morning which was fabulous. As for Ruth's Chris, I love that place, but it wasn't in my budget. For those of you who CAN splurge, you just have to eat there! Believe me, their steaks are just out of this world!
Now, I have an observation about the mystery guest and the reason the fest is in New York again: Could it be that this particular someone wanted a venue that was close enough to drive/fly to without too much time and trouble? Hmmm? Any guesses?
Oh, one other thing: Those of you who are upset it's in New York again, there was that Halloween event in Hollywood last October. I know it wasn't a fest, per se, but many of us here on the East Coast wanted to fly out but couldn't for just one night. So, in effect, the West Coast hasn't completely been shut out, IMHO.