Wayne
New Hampton (New York)
I grew up in Rochester but its been about a good 20 years since I've really explored the city. This year, the wife and I will be spending the holidays with my family in Rochester, and I was wondering if there were any new places that I should visit. I'm sure everything's changed, so what are the newer restaurants, bars, stores, parks, and what have you, that I should try to visit? I usually only stay for a day or two during visits, but this time, I plan on staying at least 5.
That's awesome, Wayne!
I continue to be surprised by all the new restaurants and urban renewal projects going on in the city.
As far as restaurants go, I would definitely recommend checking out:
If you're a serious coffee drinker (or am just curious to visit a pour-over coffee bar), there's Joe Bean Coffee Roasters right in the city. Or, for a more low-key coffee experience but great soups, salads, sandwiches and pastries, there's the Village Bakery & Cafe in Pittsford.
Also, I can't talk about Rochester and not mention Wegmans. Their new store on East Ave -- have to check that out! (They have an Italian restaurant in the store, too. But I haven't been there yet.)
The weather might not be the best, but taking a walk through Cobbs Hill Park, down Park Ave, or along the Canal, while the leaves are on the ground, is still a great activity.
The Culver Road Armory is brand new, with shops and restaurants, too. Nice to at lest see what they've done with the place -- it looks great.
Sorry for not linking this places on the top -- did this pretty quickly. But considering you're from Rochester, and the fact that it's not very big, you'll have no trouble finding them -- they're all in the city (or Pittsford).
Enjoy Ra-cha-cha.
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The Revelry is our go to special occasion spot. Others have mentioned it and they are not wrong. It is can't miss. Dorado on park ave is a tiny Mexican place with great fare and really park ave in general is a great place to spend some time. Pour coffee house is a fun hang out spot. Or Joe bean just down the street from the revelry. Both coffee spots have great coffee and more adult evening drinks.
And if you need somewhere to worship over the holidays Edgewood free Methodist is Brighton is lovely. :) be blessed!
Park Avenue and Monroe Ave are still the best areas to visit for a variety of restaurants and shops. There is also a new CollegeTown that is connected to the University of Rochester.... variety of shops and restaurants.
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Debbie
Wayne
Ephram
