While this page is currently under construction, some of the links below are hot and ready for you to read! However, most of what you see right now is a draft version.
As we at TeamFingerLakes are just beginning this informational site for you, we are actively researching venues and properties to include in our “Best of” lists. Keep checking back to see which places we have chosen as worthy of being included with The Best of the Finger Lakes!
Even if you’re only visiting the Finger Lakes for a short day-trip, you’re going to need to eat something. We’ve got you covered.
We’re out there right now identifying the best eating establishments in the Finger Lakes region in several different classifications.
We will add our best choices below, by category, as we finish research on a particular venue. If you see a category title is highlighted, there is a link to a post with at least one establishment reviewed for that category.
ELEGANT EXPERIENCES
Every once in a while, you just want that really elegant dining event. The good news is that these opportunities thrive here in the Finger Lakes. These establishments don’t just offer great food alone, they also bring you the best in the overall experience of dining.
LAKESIDE DINING
The region is called the Finger Lakes, after all. So let’s get you down on the water. In this post we show you the best dining experiences you can have being right along the water’s edge, at lake level. At these great restaurants, you feel the energy that comes with being so close to the reason this area is so famous. You can read our list HERE.
ABOVE THE LAKES
If the energy of being lakeside isn’t what you’re looking for, but still want to enjoy the beauty of the lakes from above, these are the best restaurants of the Finger Lakes that have a view to stun you. Bring your camera.
CITY-WORTHY
The Finger Lakes region is decidedly rural, however that doesn’t mean they can’t bring the urban when it comes to dining. Here are the finest eating establishments that make you think you just walked in off a busy city street after a great show around the corner.
GREAT KITCHENS
These restaurants are known for having fantastically outstanding menus, created by creative and uber-talented chefs (or kitchen staff). The best ingredients (usually local) have been worked with magic to please the most demanding palates.
FUN WITH VALUE
While these eating venues won’t necessarily be featured in any famous culinary reviews, they do offer great food at reasonable prices, along with a fun experience for your group.
LOCAL FAVORITES
Want to know where the locals go to eat? Here are some of the long-established popular dining venues that you might not find in your regional guide-book.
AT A WINERY/BREWERY
Several of the region’s wineries or breweries house great restaurants or cafes. Here are the best restaurants located at either a winery or a brewery in the Finger Lakes.
ICE CREAM
Ice cream is a food, right? Well, we think so, and we’ve gathered a list of the best local ice cream stands in the Finger Lakes. Whether for dessert after a fine meal, an afternoon treat, or in place of dinner, these great local favorites never disappoint.
PIZZA
Who doesn’t like pizza? We all have our favorite styles, but here are the best places to get this popular family staple in the Finger Lakes. Let the arguments begin.
BBQ
You don’t need to be down south to find great BBQ for your lunch or dinner. Upstate New York is home to one of America’s best BBQ establishments, with 7 locations (1 in New Jersey), and its first locations began on the fringes of the Finger Lakes. But Dinosaur BBQ is not alone in offering this traditional American smoke-based delight in the Finger Lakes region.
ITALIAN
The aroma. Possibly from the parking lot, but as soon as you enter the door for sure, your mouth salivates and your stomach growls. You need some of momma’s love. These are the absolute best places to get this most famous of comfort food genres.
ASIAN
The Finger Lakes does Asian, too, and they do it well at these popular Asian-based restaurants. Chopsticks optional.
DINING IN THE FINGER LAKES
Many popular, some even famous…but also some great little lesser-known culinary establishments for your enjoyment. No matter your preference for the moment, we hope our lists above help make your stay in the Finger Lakes more enjoyable!