The Best Restaurants in the Finger Lakes & Ithaca Area
The Finger Lakes dining scene is one of the region’s best-kept secrets — rooted in farm-fresh ingredients, local wine pairings, and a genuine sense of place. From the walkable spots right in Trumansburg to the acclaimed kitchens of Ithaca, there’s no shortage of memorable meals to plan around your stay. Below are our personal recommendations, the places we send our own hotel guests when they ask where to eat.
The Best Finger Lakes Restaurants
The Cayuga and Seneca Lake region is a true destination for food and drink lovers, where vineyard-covered hills, working farms, and creative kitchens come together in memorable ways. The best Finger Lakes restaurants have award-winning wine lists, farm-driven menus, and some offer al fresco dining with lake views; the flavors here feel deeply connected to the land.
You’ll also note during your travels that there’s a lovely selection of Finger Lakes wineries offering beautiful food pairings for your wine tastings. Head out on foot and explore the cozy cafes in Trumansburg or take a quick scenic drive to the best Ithaca restaurants, often bustling with a lively atmosphere frequented by coeds, academics, and locals of this arty college town.
Real, Authentic, Farm-to-Table Dining
Farm-to-table is not just a trend at the restaurants in the Finger Lakes: it’s a way of living and sharing the area’s bounty! You’ll find locally grown produce, cheese made from a nearby creamery, and even honey from hives in the countryside. Whether you are enjoying a relaxed meal overlooking the water or discovering a hidden gem along a scenic drive, every experience is the perfect addition to your next getaway to the Finger Lakes.
We always have our list of favorite Finger Lakes restaurants for lunch and dinner to recommend to our Wine Country Hotel & Spa guests. We’re always happy to help with reservations, if needed.
The Top Restaurants in Trumansburg
Main Street Market: 21 E. Main St., Trumansburg, NY, Healthy take-out comfort food.
Atlas Bowl: 61 W Main St, Trumansburg, NY, Renovated grocery store turned bowling alley with vintage bowling lanes from Detroit.
Garrett’s Brewing Co.: 1 W Main St, Trumansburg, NY, Craft beer and classic pub grub.
NY Pizzeria: 2 W. Main St., Trumansburg, NY, Casual pizza joint.
Tacos and Tequila El Amigo: 19-23 W Main St, Trumansburg, NY, Mexican restaurant with great tacos, Santa Fe burrito, and cheese dip.
Finger Lakes Cider House: 4017 Hickok Rd, Interlaken, NY, Farm-driven comfort food.
Graft Wine + Cider Bar: 204 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY, Curated small plates paired with beverages.
F.L.X. Table: 22 Linden St, Geneva, NY, Prix fixe tasting menu.
The Best Ithaca Restaurants
Le Cafe Cent Dix: 110 N Aurora St, Ithaca, NY, Refined French-inspired dining. No reservations, open at 5:30 pm.
Mercato Bar & Kitchen: 108 N Aurora St, Ithaca, NY, Italian eatery with seasonal menus. No reservations, open at 5:30 pm.
Gola Osteria: 115 S Quarry St, Ithaca, NY, Elevated Italian in a relaxed setting.
The Heights Restaurant: 903 Hanshaw Rd, Ithaca, NY, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with sweeping views.
Ithaca Beer Co.: 122 Ithaca Beer Dr, Ithaca, NY, Craft beer and casual American fare.
Cafe Dewitt: 215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY, Fresh, seasonal, comfort food.
Viva Taqueria: 215 E State St, Ithaca, NY, Healthy Mexican.
Walkable to Great Restaurants!
Loved our stay here to celebrate our wedding anniversary! Very charming house in a nice little town. The room was cozy, the breakfasts delicious, and location was great. Walkable to several good restaurants and shops, and a short drive to many sights. Definitely recommend the Inn at Gothic Eves!