ELRE Top 5
Top 5
Date Night Restaurants
Whether they are moving locally or relocating from afar, clients are always asking me for various local recommendations. And it's really a perk of the job - I need to check out the best attractions frequently to be able to give you my opinion!
This month I'm focusing on Date Night Restaurants. Most of these are centrally located in the city so they are relevant to everyone whether you are an East-sider, a West-sider, or somewhere in between.
Enjoy! And be sure to let me know your favorite!
April 2022
ELRE Top 5
#5
Char is located on the first floor of the Strathallan Hotel off East Avenue. It is hip and trendy with a beautiful patio complete with firepits to keep you warm on those chilly summer nights.
Both the food and the service are top notch. I tend to lean toward filet mignon whenever I'm there - sides are meant to be shared and are delicious.
It is the place to see and be seen - which is why it's in the #5 slot for me. I prefer a quieter, more secluded spot for date nights.
Try: filet mignon
April 2022
ELRE Top 5
#4
Tournedos (tour-ne-doe-s) is the OG of fancy spots in the city. Located in the Inn on Broadway, its decor is ornate and can make you feel like you're stepping back in time (in a good way!)
In my opinion the food is very similar to Char's (although I like the sides just a tiny bit more). Servers are very knowledgeable and the wine selection is fantastic!
It has the quiet ambiance that Char lacks and so it bumps it up a notch for me. Plus, you end your meal with some chocolates and a warm towel!
Try: the crab cakes
April 2022
ELRE Top 5
#3
Redd is owned by Richard Reddington, a James Beard award winning chef who owned a Michelin starred restaurant in California. If that's not enough to get you to try it. - this might not be the blog post for you.
The menu is seasonal, but the last time I was there I enjoyed the caramelized scallops. Delicious! Fantastic wine, fantastic service, and located in the heart of the East End, this is a must try for any Rochesterian.
Try: the caramelized scallops
April 2022
ELRE Top 5
#2
Owned by Josh Miles (who is the owner or partner of many other restaurants in our area), Revelry couples a trendy vibe with delicious food.
Walk in and enjoy a cocktail from a master mixologist at the bar before stepping over the glass cutout in the floor that showcases the wine cellar. I love to eat upstairs where it is a little quieter.
Try: the buttermilk biscuits
April 2022
ELRE Top 5
#1
Vern's is always the top choice for me and my husband. Nestled next to Dorado on Park Ave, Vern's is the cozy Italian restaurant you've been searching for. This is another restaurant owned by a dynasty - the Swann family also owns Dorado, Roux, and Ox and Stone.
The small bar boasts personable and knowledgable bartenders - they've frequently recommended amazing cocktails for me based on just a few of my likes. Be sure to listen to the specials because they are usually unreal.
Try: the roasted garlic
April 2022