Where to Eat in Skaneateles

 

Patisserie – This is the definitive place to get stretch bread, a local delicacy.

Elephant and Dove – Mexican restaurant inspired by the work of Diego Riveria and Frida Kahlo. Of course there is Mexican food to be had most anywhere, but it is rare that Mexican food is done right. The three cheese empanadas are amazing, and guacamole is wee done. Drink specials make this a popular place, and often difficult to get in.

Doug’s Fish Fry – Doug’s is iconic in every sense of the word. Its location, its food, and the nostalgia it invokes. I have fond memories of getting fried fish on Friday evenings growing up, a latent habit for Lutheran families no doubt. The fish was good and hot, with sides like baked beans, green beans, and coleslaw that were flavorful. A neighbor, Mr. Metcalf, urged us to attend his VFW’s monthly fish fry, which was a treat. Later this evolved into ordering fish from local restaurants. As chains evolved and sought increased profits, often sacrificing quality in favor of cheap food, eating fried fish fell out of favor. But Doug’s harkens back to those days when a fish-fry was something special.

Opened in 1982, Doug’s has a loyal following and there is more available that fish and one can opt for non-fried options.

Clover’s – A breakfast and lunch café that has great food.

Sherwood Inn – The restaurant at the hotel, which dates to the 1850s.

Elderberry Pond Restaurant – A farm-to-table restaurant that is located outside town, Elderberry Pond’s rather limited seating and hours makes it a special place to eat.

Kreb’s – A high-end restaurant that is on our “want-to” list.

(updated: 27 December 2024)