With summer one foot out the door, you may be looking for some indoor places that will give you an amazing experience. Those of our residents who are looking for destinations that will keep them inside and out of the cold can start planning trips to these unique restaurants in Upstate New York that you'll fall head over heels for.
1. The Pandorica - Beacon
If you've ever visited Beacon before, then you already know that Main Street is lined with nothing but delicious eateries. But if you're interested in checking out a dining destination that's a bit out of the ordinary then it's time you pay a visit to The Pandorica. Fans of the show Dr.Who will love this place seeing as it's completely designed and themed to make you feel like you've stepped into the famous extraterrestrial world. Between the whimsical decor and amazing food, you'll find it hard to want to leave this great New York restaurant. You definitely won't find any place quite like this!
2. Foote's Port Henry Diner - Port Henry
Not too far from the shores of Lake Champlain is one of the most charming little diners that you'll ever stumble upon. Foote's Port Henry Diner is situated inside of an old train car, making for one unique dining experience. They have been giving customers amazing breakfast dishes for years, and you haven't lived until you've tried one of their drool-inducing breakfast sandwiches. You will definitely want to come back again and again.
3. Last Chance Antiques & Cheese Cafe - Tannersville
When you're walking through the town of Tannersville, it feels like every business and restaurant is incredibly unique here. Known as our "Painted Village in the Sky," Tannersville's cute Main Street features lots of buildings covered in vibrant colors and quirky depictions that showcase what can be found inside. Last Chance Antiques feels like the most glorious combination of an old time general store and an amazing cheese cafe. Giving you the best of both worlds, you can do some shopping in the store after you're done feasting on their delectable menu. It's a rare treat to be able to shop and eat in the same charming establishment!
4. Henry's at Buttermilk Falls - Milton
Down along the Hudson River in the small town of Milton is a beautiful spot that everyone should visit at least once. At the Buttermilk Falls Inn, you'll not only find a great place to stay, but also an amazing restaurant that gets ingredients from local farms throughout the area. Enjoy an amazing menu while you're surrounded by rural settings at this unique little farm. It's one of the best places to eat in New York! If you are looking for a fun getaway from the city, Henry's at Buttermilk Inn is a fantastic choice for a major contrast.
5. Funk 'n Waffles - Syracuse
It might be easy to find waffles at most restaurants in New York that are serving breakfast, but not all places come equipped with such vibrant decor and mouthwatering dishes. Step inside this Syracuse restaurant and you'll find waffles that look almost too good to eat. You will also get to listen to incredible live music! Funk 'n' Waffles is sure to make an excellent impression and keep you coming back for more.
6. Wayside Irish Pub - Elbridge
Another restaurant that can often be deceiving, Wayside Irish Pub has quite the unique history. The restaurant is not only known for having delicious menu options, but it's also talked about because it's reportedly quite haunted! Wayside even uses an Irish ghost as its logo, so they definitely embrace the legends surrounding this place. People who have dined at Wayside Irish Pub have reportedly felt the presence of a male ghost who can sometimes be not-so-friendly. From mysterious hair--pulling to ghost sightings, there's something spooky going on here. If you love experiencing the paranormal, you have got to check out this unique restaurant for yourself and see if you run into any spirits.
7. Enoteca Maria - Staten Island
From the outside, Enoteca Maria may look like your average restaurant, but once you step inside and see who's cooking up these unforgettable dishes, you'll realize why this place is so special. Serving up hearty home cooked meals that will leave you wanting more, Enoteca Maria's kitchen is made up of that's right, only grandmothers! It doesn't get any more tasty than this. And what a cool concept for a restaurant. Everybody who is making the food knows exactly what they are doing, and you will be able to taste the difference.
8. Big Mountain Deli & Creperie - Lake Placid
One town that's full of fantastic places to eat is lovely Lake Placid, which is home to the charming Big Mountain Deli & Creperie. Right on Main Street and easy to find, this restaurant has a menu that is made up of sandwiches and crepes that are all named after New York's 46 tallest mountains. Big Mountain Deli & Creperie is a fantastic place to enjoy a delicious meal.
9. The '76 House - Tappan
While The '76 House may grab your attention with its old-time appearance on Main Street, something you may not realize is that The '76 House is the oldest restaurant in all of New York! Dating back to the late 1700s, this restaurant has been visited by historical figures like George Washington and will take you back in time. There is nothing cooler than being able to feel the history of the place as soon as you walk in the door.
10. Beardslee Castle - Little Falls
A romantic destination that's unlike any other in the Empire State, those who visit Beardslee Castle can dine in one of the most magical settings they'll ever come across. Right in Central New York, you can choose to either dine on the main floor of this 1860 castle or head downstairs to the Dungeon Bar & Grill for more great tasting food and beverages. Where else can you literally dine in a castle?
11. Maureen's Kitchen - Smithtown
A cow-themed restaurant where you can find green pancakes and Oreo covered breakfast items? We're already there! A favorite breakfast spot out on Long Island, Maureen's Kitchen is one place that you're guaranteed to fall in love with. Here you can find ceramic cows for sale amongst other cow merchandise that you can take home with you after you check out the unique and over-the-top menu.
12. The Playhouse Swillburger - Rochester
What was once a local church and theatre is now one of the most fun restaurants you can discover out in Rochester. The perfect adult playground, The Playhouse Swillburger features a ton of arcade games, an electrifying bar, and unbelievable burgers and tater tots. What could be better than that?
Where's the most unique restaurant in Central New York or Upstate New York that you've dined at? Have you been to any of the ones on this list? We would love to hear about how you liked these spots and what your favorite items on the menus were.
To continue quenching your hunger, make your way to these nine New York restaurants that will give you an amazing outdoor dining experience!
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