25 Essential Rochester Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Rochester.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
New York
Barbecue chain serving Southern-style meats & draft brews in a retro setting (most have live music).
Fiorella
New York
Minimalist-chic bistro plating wood-fired pizza & housemade pastas made with local ingredients.
Park Avenue Paninoteca
New York
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Rochester's most persuasive italian restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 87.7.
Swan Market
Rochester, New York
Time-tested deli serving German standards & beer in utilitarian digs with communal tables & music.
Cedar
Rochester, New York
Straightforward, counter-serve stop for hummus, falafel, shawarma & other Middle Eastern favorites.
Nosh
Rochester, New York
Modern American fare & craft cocktails served in a restored factory with industrial-chic decor.
Fedele's Brook House
Rochester, New York
Photos line the walls of this roomy Italian eatery featuring a tranquil patio with a waterfall pond.
Bloom & Blend
Rochester, New York
Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Solo dining. Accessibility.
Shema Sushi
Rochester, New York
Calm, urban nook since 2007 offering Japanese noodle dishes, along with beer & sake.
Halla Kabab
Rochester, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Polska Chata LLC
Rochester, New York
Unassuming, homey Polish restaurant, deli & market with many sausages & housemade pierogi.
Johnny D's Family Restaurant
Rochester, New York
Service options: Curbside pickup, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast.
Pub On The Green
Rochester, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Fireplace, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Live music, Serves local specialty.
Texas de Brazil - Rochester
Rochester, New York
Upscale Brazilian eatery featuring all-you-can-eat grilled meat carved tableside & a salad bar.
Taqueria Monterrey
Rochester, New York
Service options: Curbside pickup, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
El Greco by Mike
Rochester, New York
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Fuji Sushi Station
Rochester, New York
Service options: Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Hose 22: Firehouse Grill
Rochester, New York
Restored 1916 firehouse with historic memorabilia is the scene for American fare & a vast beer list.
José Joe's Burgers & Burritos
Rochester, New York
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Texas BBQ Joint
Rochester, New York
Texas-style BBQ joint specializing in ribs, brisket, chicken & homemade sides in casual environs.
South Wedge Diner
Rochester, New York
Big breakfasts & American comfort eats are joined on the menu by Asian dishes at this basic diner.
Parkside Diner
Rochester, New York
Classic, unpretentious American restaurant with outdoor seating & an adjacent mini-golf course.
Dogtown
Rochester, New York
Tiny shack known for German-style franks named after dog breeds, with burgers & veggie options.
Windjammers
Rochester, New York
Family-run sports bar serving up wings with creative flavors & sauces, plus burgers, salads & more.
Taka House Restaurant
Rochester, New York
Japanese kitchen entrees, clever maki & imported beer served in a casual space with sushi bar seats.