A visit to the Finger Lakes region in the winter is a culinary journey that takes you from vineyards to local farms, charming markets, and exquisite restaurants, making it a paradise for food and drink lovers. This foodie haven coupled with stunning natural beauty makes the Finger Lakes an absolute must-visit. Read on to find out why you should make the Finger Lakes your next foodie getaway destination this winter.
Stop 1: Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery (Keuka Lake)
The Finger Lakes Region is famously known as the Wine Country of the East Coast. With over 100 wineries, it’s the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts. Out of those 100 wineries, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is one of the most highly respected wineries in the region, often credited with elevating the Finger Lakes region’s status in the wine world. If you are a wine lover seeking an immersive and remarkable wine-tasting experience, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery should be your next destination and is open in the winter.
With its legacy, diverse, and high-quality selection of wines, scenic views, knowledgeable staff, and unique tasting experiences, add this to your MUST-DO’s!
Stop 2: Finger Lakes Distilling (Seneca Lake)
If wine doesn’t whet your appetite, warm yourself up this winter with the district flavor of spirits like vodka, whiskey, or gin, from Finger Lakes Distilling (another MUST-DO)! This award-winning distillery uses locally sourced grains and fruits in its craft spirits. They use the traditional methods of distillation but always manage to give each of their products a unique twist. Located on the east side of Seneca Lake, the distillery provides panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape of the Finger Lakes Region.
Where to eat
Local Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Food lovers will appreciate the thriving farm-to-table dining scene. With local farmers, artisanal cheese producers, and numerous farmers’ markets providing fresh ingredients, restaurants in this region have an impressive range of high-quality offerings all winter long.
Stop 3: Brunch | Local Palate
Local Palate is firmly committed to using fresh and local produce wherever possible. It helps support the local farmers and community while ensuring the highest quality of food on your plate. From fresh pastries and espresso to breakfast sandwiches and themed brunch every Sunday (mimosas and bloody marys included!) this location offers options for everybody! Start your foodie trip right by adding this to your MUST-DO’s!
Stop 4: Dinner | Kindred Fare
Kindred Fare located in Geneva, New York is a farm-to-table ethos-inspired restaurant. Spearheaded by a talented team of chefs and food connoisseurs, Kindred Fare boasts an ever-evolving menu that brings the freshest of local farm produce right onto your plate. Kindred Fare also offers an extensive drink menu with a heavy focus on Finger Lakes wines, local breweries, and distillers! With its warm ambiance and perfect winter atmosphere, you need to add this to your MUST-DO’s as the perfect dinner location.
Stop 5: Winter Market Bites
Winning the 2023 Best Farmers’ market in the Finger Lakes, Canandaigua Farmers Market provides an exceptional farm-to-table experience. From heirloom tomatoes to artisanal cheese and specialty honey, this market is all about freshness and quality. Open for winter hours, this is a prime spot to taste what the Finger Lakes Region is all about.
