Food and Wine in and around Ithaca

The Fingerlakes Region has a lot to offer, especially in terms of food and wine. Whether you are looking for some tasty treats, or looking for cooking classes, the Fingerlakes Region has it all. There are more than 15 wineries along the shores of Cayuga Lake, many of which have restaurants and bakeries with food made in house. Not to mention the wineries along Seneca and Keuka Lake. Bakeries in Ithaca, such as Sarah's Patisserie, offer baking classes that teach about different desserts from chocolates to tarts. The New York Wine and Culinary Center in Canandaigua, New York offers baking classes for all levels of expertise. There are classes devoted to pasta making, others to vegetarian entrees for everyone, and still others that can teach grilling techniques. There are couple classes and classes for wine education, as well. You can also learn about local produce, how to prepare it, and how to match local wines for the perfect dinner. It's a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, or even one of your slower Tuesday nights. Canandaigua is only an hour and 30 minutes away, but stopping at one of the 15 wineries along the way can definitely make the trip a little more interesting. Williams Sonoma in Rochester or Syracuse also offer cooking classes, which range from basic baking techniques to "How to make the most of your Kitchen-aid." So, if you ever find yourself wishing you weren't getting take-out again. Try looking up a cooking class to spice up your meals.