Central New York Magazine - July/August 2022 preview

ICE, ICE BABY

WINNER BEST MAGAZINE 2021 SYRACUSE PRESS CLUB

AREA BARTENDERS’ FAVE SUMMER COCKTAILS

A TASTE OF OM FINE DINING IN A SPA SETTING

THE

FOOD

ISSUE

ALL THE WHEY A TASTY TOUR OF CNY’S CHEESE SHOPS

ON THE COVER

PRESIDENT Tim Kennedy ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER OF THE GOOD LIFE Annette Peters 315-282-8527 apeters@advancemediany.com SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Lindsay Marlenga lmarlenga@ advancemediany.com

EDITOR MJ Kravec 315-766-7833 mkravec@advancemediany.com CONTENT EDITOR Amy Bleier Long 315-282-8553 ableierlong@advancemediany.com DESIGNERS Susan Santola ssantola@advancelocal.com

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Thomas H. Brown 315-470-2053 tbrown@acssyr.com MAGAZINE/EVENTS SALES MANAGER Jennifer K. Queri 315-282-8622 jqueri@advancemediany.com

The flower petalsand-herbs-crusted Alp Blossom is an Alpine-style cheese available at The Curd Nerd in Syracuse. See story page 54. Photo

by Alaina Potrikus.

JoAnne Coughlin Walsh jwalsh@advancelocal.com CUSTOMER SERVICE 315-282-8622 SUBSCRIPTIONS Contact Jennifer Queri or visit readcnymagazine.com

The Good Life, Central New York Magazine (ISSN 1931-194X) is published six times a year by Advance Media New York, 220 S. Warren St., Syracuse, New York 13202. The Post-Standard © 2022. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic/digital, mechanical photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission.

All material submitted to Central New York Magazine becomes the property of Advance Media New York, publishers of The Post-Standard and Central New York Magazine. It will not be returned. Such a submission, to name a few examples, may be a letter to the editor, a cartoon, a picture, a poem and the like. Any such material may be excerpted, edited for length or content, and may be published or used in any other way.

For example, on Syracuse.com or in The Post-Standard.

Concept to Completion It’s in our attention to detail and customization that we can truly make a difference, as we can offer options and resources to create a room like no other, one that is uniquely you.

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14 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles, NY 13152 (315) 685-7389 S10333674-01 4

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Brand Names

Editor ’s letter As always, we’d love to hear from you. Got a favorite summer recipe? Did you visit a local shop featured in the magazine? Drop us a line at cnymag@ advancemediany.com And now, a word from our contributors:

Ken Sturtz

Strawberry fields, forever sician assistant who’s been volunteer-

growing up, my moth-

ing his time and talent to collect medical

er and sister and I would

supplies for Ukraine, read about the re-

pile into the car with

vival of rollerskating in CNY, learn how

our next door neighbor

to make compost at home, get a recipe

and her daughter and

for Provençale Tomato Confit from Bistro

head out to Hafner’s U-Pick. Using the

1926 in Syracuse and get to know danc-

same green cartons sporting berry stains

er-turned-antiques dealer Bruck Block. Fi-

from previous seasons, we’d step into our

nally, in Last Word, meet Alicia Cuadrado,

assigned row and kneel in the trench-

founder of the local foodie group Syracuse

es looking for the fattest, redest, juiciest

Eating Club.

strawberries. There were always a few too

Before closing, we invite you to enter to

tempting to place in the basket — warmed

win a spa getaway at The Lake House on

by the sun, emitting a satisfying snap

Canandaigua. On August 15, we’ll choose

when picked — that you couldn’t help but

one lucky reader at random to win a two-

bite into. It’s what summer tasted like.

night stay at The Lake House, along with

Here’s to savoring local and all the

dinner at the resort’s Rose Tavern and

freshness and flavor that comes with it.

a treatment at Willowbrook Spa. To en-

In our second annual food issue, we spot-

ter, visit readcnymagazine.com/spa-get-

Lorna Oppedisano

light the refreshing cocktails of summer

away-sweepstakes. Good luck! And don’t

from local bartenders, highlight some of

forget to take us with you.

“Interviewing local bartenders about their favorite summery drinks was a treat; I’m excited to try some of these recipes at home myself!”

the region’s specialty cheese shops, fea-

Cheers.

ture spa resorts for foodies, show you how to take on a week of vegan eating in CNY and introduce you to in-home personal chefs and meal prep services.

In other departments, meet a local phy-

6

On writing about the newly redeveloped, energy efficient Whitlock building

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MJ mkravec@advancemediany.com 315-766-7833

On writing about CNY bartenders’ favorite seasonal sippers

PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSTOCK, COURTESY KEN STURTZ, LORNA OPPEDISANO

E

very summer when I was

“I lived in a LEED gold certified townhouse in college and was familiar with energy-saving techniques in new construction, but it was fascinating to learn how many of those same systems could be applied to an existing historic structure like the Whitlock building.”

Contents 46 Sipping on Summer

8

54

68

78

84

All the Whey

A Taste of Om

Veggin’ Out

Dinner is Served

A taste bud tour of CNY’s extra sharp, buttery, tangy, smokey, nutty cheese shops.

CNY resorts offer picturesque settings, soothing treatments and seasonally inspired menus.

Where to go for a week of vegan eating in the Syracuse area.

Meet eight chefs that will come to your home and make you dinner.

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PHOTO BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

Local bartenders share their favorite hot-weather libations.

Departments

11 It’s All Good 11 Ways to embrace the season 14 Positive Vibes: Digging in the dirt 16 Our Town: Homer 19 Market Trends: Make a splash

29

68

Good News 29 Madison County Open Farm Days 30 Behind the Scenes: Whitlock Building 34 Caught Doing Good: CNY medical professional sends aid to Ukraine

PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS, COURTESY TURNING STONE RESORT & CASINO, MADDIE RHODES, LITTLE YARD FARM

38 The Seen: A pictorial review of CNY’s social gatherings

99 Making Good 99 Working clay studio opens in Skaneteles 100 CNY Scout: Roller skating’s resurgence 103 Farm to Table: Bistro 1926’s Provençale Tomato Confit

78

103

106 Down to Earth: Composting at home

In every issue

108 Art Profile: Dancer-turnedantiques dealer Bruce Block

6 Editor's Letter 112 Galleries 114 Flashback: Fishing in CNY 115 Last Word: With Syracuse Eating Club founder Alicia Cuadrado

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It ’s all good

SURF’S UP Coastal Grandmother is one of the latest lifestyle trends on TikTok paying tribute to all things Nancy Meyers movies and her successful female characters who live in lush homes by the sea. (Think Diane Keaton in “Something’s Gotta Give.”) The look incorporates fresh whites, neutral colors and pops of light blues and greens, fresh flowers, natural textures, clean, minimalist lines, blue and white ceramic pots and coastal prints. While you’re redecorating, be sure to wear soft denim with a white button-down shirt, oversized sunglasses and a bucket hat to completely immerse yourself in the theme. Bonus points for music by Etta James, white wine and gourmet cooking at home.

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M E TA L- I N G A R O U N D Hold onto your metal accents. Use them to accessorize a flower or vegetable garden. The patina of old pieces gets new luster surrounded by lush plant life.

PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSTOCK, MJ KRAVEC, COURTESY PARAMOUNT

HERBAL ESSENCE Put a summer spin on a glass of wine by doing what many ancient cultures did — infusing your vino with fresh herbs. This practice dates back to ancient Egypt according to science.org.

Infuse red wines with woodsy, piney rosemary, white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc, with sweet, savory basil and bright citrus peel or rosé with lavender. Simply pour wine over herbs and allow to infuse for 2-3 days, stored in a cool, dry place out of sunlight.

B E T T E R B R U S C H E T TA This is the best time of year to make bruschetta with fresh basil, tomatoes and garlic. Chop 4-5 Roma tomatoes and combine with 1 clove minced garlic, ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, ½ cup chopped red onion, 2 Tbsp. olive oil and 1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar, salt and pepper to taste. Top on toasted baguette slices brushed with olive oil.

GO FOURTH

PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSTOCK, COURTESY ERIE CANAL MUSEUM, DON CAZENTRE

Create your own rustic yard décor for summer holidays. Paint stars and stripes on an old wooden pallet or section of tin roofing and allow to dry. Display on a wooden fence or against a tree trunk. Add fairy lights to display at night.

TRAIL BLAZING Cyclists get pumped for Beers, Bikes and Barges, a state-wide bike tour series held biweekly on Thursdays until Sept. 15. Cyclists can learn about the history of alcohol and the modern renaissance in brewing on the Erie Canal. Afterwards, guests are invited to enjoy a pint from partnering local breweries. For more information, go to eriecanalmuseum.org/cycling

IN THE WEEDS Keep garden weeds in check with this tip from Mother Earth News. Once a week in the morning, use a hoe to unearth weeds in garden beds. To make the most of your worktime, aim for a windy or sunny day to ensure weeds wilt and die.

CA L L I T A CO M E BAC K After closing in December 2020 during the height of the pandemic, Laci’s Tapas Bar is back. New owners Brian and Michal Raphael bought the Hawley Street restaurant from past owner Laura Serway, who will serve as consultant. The husband and wife team plan on maintaining Laci’s original concept of serving quality drinks with shareable plates and hope to reopen Laci’s in August. For updates, visit lacistapas. com and follow them on social @lacistapascuse.

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It ’s all good

OUR TOWN

Homer

BY AMY BLEIER LONG

Amid rolling hills, active farmland and small lakes formed by glaciers, the town of Homer boasts 19th-century architectural gems and a village green that serves as the activity hub of the community. A sizeable portion of the village of Homer is designated on the National Register of Historic Places and, thanks to the stewardship of residents, much of the Victorian business district is relatively unspoiled. With its multiple ties to President Abraham Lincoln, the civil rights movement and abolitionism, women’s rights and Native American rights, the town is a gateway to heritage tourism in Central New York. Homer is a bedroom community; residents largely work in Cortland, Ithaca, Binghamton and Syracuse.

GRAB A BITE Kory’s Place diner is a favorite for its fish fry and homemade pies. Don’t miss the burgers on the roadhouse-style menu at Hobo’s 281 Bar & Grill. For pizza, pasta and more, try Little Italy Pizzeria and Nicky C’s Hometown Pizzeria and Meatball Shop. Fill up on dumplings and specials at Lucky Kitchen. Grab lunch and a treat at Byrne Dairy & Deli. Bob’s Barbecue is renowned for its barbecue chicken and macaroni salad. If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck; find ice cream at Country Flavors and Super Cream Dairy Bar, and homemade fudge at Sinfully Sweet Café.

Order a cake or pie from Three Little Birds Cakery for your special occasion.

HAVE A DRINK Relax at Origins Café by Coffee Mania with a coffee or tea and a bite to eat.

Dasher’s Corner Pub (shown at left) utilizes an antique hand-cranked shaker to mix cocktails and has extensive food and drink menus. On the old turnpike, where stagecoach horses and riders used to stop to refuel, Homer Hops Brewing is a modern watering hole with craft brews, New York State wines and hard ciders.

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Homer Men and Boys attires men, women and children with durable, quality clothing and footwear. Bev & Co. has fashions, accessories and gifts for women. Pick up decorative accents at Ash Décor and Olde Homer House.

This year, Arnold’s Florist of Homer celebrates 130 years of providing floral arrangements to the community.

Explore handmade goods by artists and crafters at Artisan Elements or items from the 1890s and early 20th century at Gail’s Antiques and Collectables.

Find hair, nail and makeup styling and formal wear at Elizabeth Marie Salon and Bridal Boutique. Pamper your pups at Groomingdales Dog Salon.

Embrace the area’s agricultural bounty: Join the produce CSA at Main Street Farms; find seed packets, hot and cold deli items and bakery goods at Anderson’s Farm Market; visit Dave’s Veggies for produce and hard-to-find herbs; pick up milk, cheese curd and fresh baked goods at Trinity Valley Country Store & Bakery; don’t miss the sweet corn and other veggies at Neumandale Family Farm’s self-service farm store. Browse the greenhouse and garden shop at Little York Plantation.

Residents have bought their groceries at the Village Food Market for more than 130 years. Find out more about raising alpacas or snag sweaters, scarves and more at Tartan Acres LLC. Start your adventure at K & H Motor Sports, which has 3-wheel motorcycles, ATVs, dirt bikes, snowmobiles and more.

Shop at Forest Fisheries for kayaks, fishing boats, trailers and docks.

PHOTOS BY KATHE HARRINGTON

SHOP LOCAL

ANNUAL EVENTS Celebrate winter at Winterfest, with activities including a chili cookoff, snow sculpture contest, children’s events and a human dog-sled race.

Enjoy free ice skating on the Green. From May to October, find fresh produce, baked goods and hand-crafted items at the Homer Farmers’ Market. Honor fallen soldiers at the Memorial Day Parade and ceremony. The Homer Fire Department hosts Fireman Field Days with a parade, food, live music, carnival booths and rides. Bring your chair and listen all summer long at the Homer Summer Concert Series.

Gather at the Green for the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence where attendees each read a line of the document. During the last weekend in July, peruse for artifacts and antiques at the massive Route 90 garage sale which stretches from Homer to Montezuma.

In August, Magic on Main transforms Main Street into a celebration of community with vendors, live music, food stands and candle-lit tables. Find a gift at Holiday in Homer, an arts and crafts festival sponsored by Homer Congregational Church; plus join in the 3K/5K run. Gather for the Tree Lighting ceremony, an annual fundraiser for the Hospice Foundation of Cortland County, where the high school choir performs carols, a fire truck arrives with Santa and attendees enjoy hot chocolate and cookies.

THINGS TO DO Catch national performing acts or take a class at Center for the Arts of Homer. Join a league or enjoy Rockin’ Bowl at Hi-Lanes Bowling Center. At Buckets Golf Practice Range, hit a few balls or sign up for lessons. The par 72 course at nearby Cortland Country Club has been a destination for nearly 110 years. With three museums in one, CNY Living History Center highlights a collection of Brockway Trucks, military and railroad history and antique tractors. The Landmark Society of Cortland County works to adapt the community to modern times without sacrificing its historic charm. Phillips Free Library features a well-equipped MakerSpace and a variety of book clubs. Engage in STEM activities for kids with Highkey Science. Be well at Carol Horton Massage, Main Street Acupuncture and Homer Massage Therapy.

“We love the friendly, charming, quaint small-town community of Homer — it’s one of the best kept secrets of New York.”

Renee Neiderman and Ashley Neiderman, co-owners of Bev & Co.

GET OUTSIDE The Village Green is the heart of Homer.

George Vernum Memorial Park offers a basketball/tennis court and box lacrosse.

Harry A Calale Park features athletic fields for multiple sports. Play ball at Griggs Memorial Park, the home of Homer Little League and Tee-ball. Enjoy the pavilion, picnic facilities, playground and fishing dock at Albert J. Durkee Memorial Park. There’s an inclusive playground and space to run around at Newton Park. Host a group at the Newton Water Works Park pavilion.

Drop a line at Casterline Pond to catch trout. Join the Seven Valley Snow Goers snowmobile club and hit the trails. Fish in or paddle down the Tioughnioga River.

The picturesque Village Green, dressed for winter.

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MARKET TRENDS

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL

CHAIN REACTION Red/blue neon drop earrings, $22, Drooz + Company, 36 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-920-8888, droozandcompany.com.

DAPPER CAP Baby golf cap, $12, The Rose Cottage, 214 S. Manlius Street, Fayetteville, 315-637-1330, therosecottageny.com.

STAR CROSSED Wooden Ships Seeing Stars sweater, $125, Fashion Rescue 911 Boutique, 52 Oswego Street, Baldwinsville, 315-857-6690, fashionrescue911.com.

LOVE IT OR WEAVE IT Woven basket by Nancy DiNiro, $27, Pomodoro, 61 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-0085.

SECURE SACK Vera Bradley RFID mini hipster patriotic plaid, $55, Bev and Co., 18 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-5064, bevandco.com.

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CRACKING UP Zipper Romper in Firecracker, $40, Pride + Joy, 88 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-7576, skanbaby.com.

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OLD GLORY GH stars/stripes square pouf, $65, Fringed Benefits, 6825 E. Genesee Street, Fayetteville, 315-802-4353, fringedbenefitsdesign.com.

TAKE A SPIN Pinwheel dish towel, $10, BeeKind, 118 Milton Avenue, Syracuse, 315-299-6073, beekindsyracuse.com.

SUMMER WIND Holebrook Classic WP windproof men’s sweater, $240, Paul Karaz Shoes, 414 E. Genesee Street, Fayetteville, 315-663-0200, paulkarazshoes.com.

JUST CRUET Ramekin, $5.50, blue and white cruets, $11.95 each, Rhubarb Kitchen and Garden, 59 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-5803.

PLANT YOUR FLAG Art Planter, $32, Colorful Inspirations, 170 Township Boulevard, Camillus, 315-320-4364, colorfulinspirations.com.

RISING STOCK Lobster 18-quart enamelware stock pot, $185, Nest58.

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MARKET TRENDS

DOWN BY THE WATER

WELL SUITED Hilde swimsuit, $207, Skaneateles 300, 2. W. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-1133, skaneateles300.com.

KEEP COOL Blue Vacation cooler bag, $45, Homie, 68 Main Street, Camillus, 315-663-4034, homieish.com.

SUN BLOCK Wallaroo sun hat, $42, The Rose Cottage.

HAVE A SEAT Striped Sun Lounger portable folding beach mat, $44, Salt Point Shop, 100 Brooklea Street, Fayetteville, saltpointshop.com.

- CNY MAGAZINE IT’S CUT AND DRY FULL-SIZE ADULT SUNSCREEN TOWEL, $TK, FIRST NATIONAL GIFTS, 2 E. GENESEE STREET, SKANEATELES, 855-810-9076, BUG OFF FIRSTNATIONALGIFTS.COM. (CREDITS: Amelia Beamish) Kingsley Street bug/tick spray, $10 for 4 oz., Citronella candle, $14 for 14 oz., BeeKind.

IT’S CUT AND DRY Full-size adult sunscreen towel, $31, First National Gifts, 2 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 855-810-9076, firstnationalgifts.com.

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CHILL OUT Collapsible Presto bucket, $26.99, Paola Kay Gifts, 105 Brooklea Drive, Fayetteville, 315-632-2192, paolakaygifts.com.

POST-SUN SOFTNESS CoCo Glow coconut body oil, $28, Breathe, 6823 E. Genesee Street, Fayetteville, 315-446-4141, syracuse. breatheyoga.com.

COOL CUBES Water-activated lightup sensory toy, $10, Lillie Bean, 57 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-655-0677, lilliebean.com.

FALL TWO PIECES Catarina bikini top in Kiholo, $55, Caribbean bikini bottom in Kiholo, $36, The Wandering Kind, 46 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-291-7177, thewanderingkindshop.com.

PARTY, PEOPLE Scout soft cooler in Sun’s Out Fun’s Out, $54, First National Gifts.

DIVE IN Whitecap 6.5-inch Boardshort, $98, Sea Culture, 11 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, seaculturebrand.com.

DOGGY PADDLE Dog flotation device, $85.99, Lucky Dogs, 22 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, 315-663-5579, luckydogsservices.com.

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MARKET TRENDS

THOSE SUMMER BRIGHTS

HOT METAL Neon votive holders, $4.99 each, The Station 603, 603 E. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-682-8741.

SHARP DRESSER Children’s Great White Blacklight Graphic short sleeve tee, $34, Chloe’s Closet, 107 Brooklea Drive, Fayetteville, 315-637-2513, facebook. com/chloesclosetny.

DURABLE DRINKWARE Silicone wine cup, $9.95 or $18 for 2, $34 for 4, Fashion Rescue 911 Boutique.

FLOWER POWER Mini floral dress, $71, Synple, 70 Main Street, Camillus, 585-615-3934, shopsynple.com.

THINK PINK Bamboo dual bands jelly pink beach sandals, $21, Homie.

ON FIRE Lollipop Trees dip dye neon candles, $19, Drooz + Company.

SHORT AND SWEET Crop top rib bralette, $24, Sakran &Shaw, 11 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, 315-345-1091, sakranandshaw.com.

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HOOP, THERE IT IS Reversible hoop earrings, $20, Dazzle, 119 W. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-682-7499, thedazzlestore.com.

I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW Handmade Dutz frames, $399, Eye Love Optical Boutique, 1 Lincklaen Street, Cazenovia, 315-825-1143, eyeloveboutique.com.

BLAZING FAST Hoka Clifton 8 in Fiesta/bluing, $140, J Michael, 173 Marshall Street, Syracuse, 315-471-4237, jmichaelshoes.com.

LET THE SUN SHINE Sun table runner, $46, The Rose Cottage.

HOOKED ON A FEELING Justina Blakeney Emuna Tassel hook pillow, $60, Drooz + Company.

IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND Large carrier bag in palm, $192, Paola Kay Gifts.

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MARKET TRENDS

SOUTHWEST STYLE DESERT DREAM Polymer clay earrings, $18, Tavish at Wildflowers at the McCarthy Mercantile, 217 S. Salina Street, Syracuse, 315-546-4919, wildflowersarmory.com.

A NEED FOR BEAD Navajo beaded leather cuff, $65, Accents at the McCarthy Mercantile, 217 S. Salina Street, lower level, Syracuse, 315-436-9349.

RING AWAKENING Navajo genuine turquoise ring, $120, Accents at McCarthy Mercantile.

INDIGENOUS INSPIRATION Minnetonka Thunderbird II white smooth, $51.95, J Michael.

FAUX FUR FIND JS convertible wristlet and wallet in brown cow, $62, Boutique Joycé, 119 W. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-692-2122, boutiquejoyce.com.

CUT A RUG Peach zig zag rug, $24 for 2- by 3-foot, Olive + Fern, 19 North Street, Marcellus, 315-200-2464, facebook. com/shopolivefern.

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CRACKLE AND POP Delphine round vase with handles, $76, Synple.

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PERFECT MATCH Pink ceramic cowboy hat incense holder (includes sticks), $24, and ceramic cowboy boot terracotta ceramic match holder (includes matches), $24, Emma + James, 25 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-2747, shopejclothing.com.

COMMON THREAD Embroidered Tassel top green/multi, $68, Boutique Joycé.

TRI TO KEEP IT ALIVE Geo planter, $17, Olive + Fern.

THAT’S THE POINT Cactus trinket dish, $4.95, Smith & Bell Trading Co., 25 Main Street, Camillus, 315-753-9875, smithandbell.com.

HANG TOUGH Cowboy boot metal wall hook, $21, The Station 603.

BLANKET STATEMENT Bandy Blanket clog in Birch Blanket Combo, $100, Paul Karaz Shoes.

THROW DOWN Alpaca Threads fair trade throw, $150, 20|East, 85 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-815-4540, 20-east.com.

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SIPPING O N S UM M E R Local bartenders share refreshing drinks, plus recipes to make in the comfort of your own home

BY LORNA OPPEDISANO PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

Nothing says summertime in Central New York like sitting outside at your favorite restaurant and sipping a fresh cocktail. With each year comes a myriad of new drink options.

We spoke with six experts from restaurants across the Syracuse area about which drinks they’re recommending this year, what food pairings are best and what makes a great summer cocktail.

Left, frozen rosé or Frosé from XO Taco in Syracuse.

Above, bartender Ryan Sahm mixes up a Summer Breeze at The Craftsman Wood Grille & Taphouse in Fayetteville.

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A L L T H E W H EY Prep your taste buds for a tour of CNY’s extra sharp, mild, tangy, smoky, spicy, nutty, salty, cheese shops.

BY A M Y B L E I E R LO N G A N D M J K RAV EC

Cheese has the power to transform the ordinary into the sublime. A cracker, an apple, a flatbread, even kale all become something extra when paired with cheese. There are thousands of varieties in the world today. And luckily for us, CNY shops offer their own creations along with domestic and imported specialties. Here’s a sampling.

PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

Opposite, just one of the types of Gouda available at The Curd Nerd in Eastwood.

Above, crackers and cheese, constant companions.

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A TA ST E O F OM CNY spa resorts offer tranquil settings, soothing treatments and seasonally inspired menus

BY NICOLE MOSS UNDERWOOD

Gone are the days when spa food was considered bland. In Central New York, resorts are proving otherwise with menus that emphasize fresh, seasonal produce, local flavors and a chef’s unique take on creating a masterpiece on a plate. But that’s just a piece of the pie. For a completely nourishing experience, take your meals by the lake or under the stars, enjoy the picturesque scenery and indulge in some of the resort’s activities. Here are four local retreats that bring the spa experience for foodies to an extra level.

THE LAKE HOUSE ON CANANDAIGUA The Lodging: Voted #1 Resort Hotel in NYS by Travel + Leisure Magazine, the Lake House on Canandaigua puts the Finger Lakes region on the map as the place to visit this summer. The Lake House is a family-owned luxury boutique hotel with panoramic views of Canandaigua Lake and a year-round outdoor pool and hot tub with a seasonal pool bar. The hotel has 124 charming guest rooms with elegant hand-carved furniture by the Brooklyn Home Company and upscale amenities, like in-room Nespresso machines with exclusive blends from Joe Bean.

Guest rooms are painted in a soft cream to enhance views of the sun reflecting off the water with décor that is reminiscent of traditional lake houses. Custom hand-carved pieces by sculptor Fitzhugh Karol are featured around the hotel, including the front desk, which Karol made from local reclaimed wood.

PHOTOS COURTESY THE LAKE HOUSE ON CANANDAIGUA

The hotel has a library with communal wooden tables and leather sofas where you can enjoy a cocktail from the Library Bar in the evening or coffee and pastries in the morning. Outside, along the water’s edge, Adirondack chairs circle fire pits where guests can make s’mores at night.

The Lake House on Canandaigua was voted #1 Resort Hotel in NYS by Travel + Leisure Magazine.

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E AT C O M P L E T E LY VEGAN IN

SYR ACUSE

FOR

A

WEEK

BY MADDIE RHODES

As vegan diets increase in popularity, customers are searching for restaurants that can accommodate their preferences. Whether you’re a plant-based foodie or want to incorporate more vegan meals into your repertoire, here’s a week’s worth of suggested eats in Syracuse.

B R E A K FA S T

STRONG HEARTS’ NACHOS, CHICKEN BACON RANCH SANDWICH, CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CUPCAKE

Start off your week with Rise N Shine’s Kind Burger (a Beyond Meat patty) or the Vegan Scramble, which features tofu, veggies and vegan cheddar. Coincidentally, Monday is also the spot’s Mimosa Monday 2-for-1 drink special. Rise N Shine is noted for their picture-perfect meals and exotic drinks. Be sure to join the waitlist on their website, as there is almost always a line to get in.

LOCATION: Rise N Shine, 500 Westcott Street,

Syracuse, 315-907-3710, risenshinediner.com

LU N C H Since 2008, Strong Hearts Cafe has served up completely vegan menus. Order the nachos with melted “cheese” made from cashews; a textured vegetable protein-based chorizo replaces meat. It’s the closest thing to vegan heaven. Or try the Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich with Mac Salad, “milk” shakes or “mozzarella” sticks. Don’t forget to order a cupcake for a treat. If you’re indecisive, be prepared to spend some time with their pared-down yet still extensive menu.

LOCATION: Strong Hearts, 315 Irving Avenue, Syracuse,

315-478-0000, stronghearts315.com

DINNER Oh My Darling has options for vegans, gluten free, dairy free, and people with no dietary accommodations. This adorable restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner but if you’re there at night, opt for the Grilled Cauliflower Steak, which comes with asparagus and a coconut curry sauce. Choose the hummus as a starter, or pair it with one of their popular cocktails, which they also serve at brunch.

LOCATION: Oh My Darling, 321 S. Salina Street,

PHOTOS BY MADDIE RHODES

Syracuse, 315-290-3330, darlingsyr.com

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DIN N ER IS SERV ED GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK WITH IN-HOME PERSONAL CHEFS AND MEAL PREP SERVICES

B Y B E C C A TA U R I S A N O

Our calendars are full once again with work, school and social events, and time is more valuable than ever. Grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning up can be downright tedious.

These eight area chefs are providing scrumptious cuisine prepared in your kitchen or

PHOTOS COURTESY LAURA HAHN, SHELLY WITCHLEY, BILLY-BRENDAN GINTY AND BRIAN ISBELL

delivered to your door. So, sit back and relax — the only thing you have to do is eat!

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Making good CN Y SC OU T • FA R M T O TA BL E • A RT PROF I L E

PHOTO BY AMY BLEIER LONG

CLAY THERE! Artisan shop Imagine and Rusty Wheel Pottery

The gallery highlights art and handmade

studio — owned by potters and married couple

goods, with an emphasis on work by ceramicists

Sarah Panzarella and Jeremy Randall, respectively

and the artisanal jewelry that had been the core

— have consolidated and relaunched (in Imagine’s

of Imagine.

Skaneateles storefront) as Papavero Clay Studio.

Hand-building and wheel-throwing classes are

Papavero is still a destination for handcrafted

held at large tables and pottery wheels overlooking

goods, with a downsized retail gallery, but now

the lake. Times and lengths of sessions vary for

incorporates a working clay studio that hosts

flexiblity within busy schedules. “Pinch-and-

classes for beginner to experienced makers.

sip” experiences can be booked on Tuesdays and

Panzarella says they wanted to connect with the

Fridays, ideal for small staff parties or a creative

community on a different level and allow the

night out. Check their calendar for events in

experience of making art to be more accessible.

collaboration with other local businesses.

For more information: visit papaverostudio.com

Making good

FA R M T O TA B L E

Yeah, ripe!

Summer tomatoes inspire this Provençale Tomato Conit from Bistro 1926

BY M J K RAV EC | P H OTOS BY A L A I N A P OT R I KUS

At Drumlins Country Club, the view of greens stretching back to meet blue sky is accompanied with the thwack of golfers teeing of and gentle splashing from the swim club next door.

Flashback

WITH OHA

Fishing has long been a favorite pastime in Central New York.

FOR REEL

BY THOMAS HUNTER

Lake Ontario, Oneida Lake and the Finger Lakes — it’s only

Fishing in Central New York stretches back millennia, from

natural that fishing is a popular summer pastime and sport.

the Haudenosaunee who used nets, spears and weirs, to the

Up on the Black and Salmon rivers, fly fishers cast their rods

world’s most famous nineteenth-century fly fisherman, Reu-

for river salmon raised at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery in

ben Wood, who hailed from Syracuse. Today, it also includes

Altmar. Over 80,000 brook, brown and rainbow trout that stock

the St. Croix Bassmaster National Open, a tournament on

local streams are hatched and raised at Onondaga County’s

Oneida Lake held every July since 2016 that offers cash priz-

Carpenter’s Brook Fish Hatchery in Elbridge.

es. In between this long timeline, thousands have enjoyed

Along with salmon and trout, Central New Yorkers and visitors also fish for bass, perch, pike, bullhead and other catfish,

fishing during the summer and winter in the waters of Central New York.

black crappie and the common carp for sport and/or eating

So, as you enjoy a few lazy days during this always too-short

in dozens of fishing locations. Fishing licenses are available

summer season, perhaps you will fish at one of Central New

throughout the region and New York state offers free fishing

York’s many fishing holes.

days between February and November. Free days are oppor-

Thomas Hunter is curator at Onondaga Historical Association.

tunities for children and adults to try fishing for the first time 114

or experience the sport again after a hiatus.

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PHOTO COURTESY OHA

With so many bodies of fresh water in Central New York —

Last word

WITH

ALICIA CUADRADO

Founder, Syracuse Eating Club

BY M J K RAV EC

Alicia Cuadrado started Syracuse Eating Club, a membership-based group that brings people together over good food to support the local economy, with a Facebook post in 2019. Today, the group hosts events several times a month at restaurants all over CNY — from tasting menus at an a la carte restaurant to casual dinners at the newest spots in town. Members gather to try new things and meet new people, while the organization works with restaurant owners to increase foot traffic and brand awareness. We caught up with Alicia to find out more about her food group.

What time do you get up in the morning and how do you

Your club brings people together over delicious local

take your coffee? Well, I get up about 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on

food — such a welcoming vibe. Our club events set the

average. Sometimes earlier, sometimes later. I’m a night person

tone for positivity, ease and inclusion. I have experience in

and a late riser. I work from home (both part time and on the

management consulting through a lens of diversity, equity and

Eating Club) and have really flexible hours so that helps. I

inclusion. Making friends as an adult can be awkward and even

have been drinking coffee for ages and take it light and sweet

nerve racking. To mitigate this, I take careful consideration

in general. I spent a semester in Europe and developed a love

when it comes to the guest list, venue layout, seating chart,

for espresso-based drinks — so cappuccinos are mostly what

menu and more for each and every event, to create ease and

I drink at home these days but I love a good diner coffee on

accessibility so that members can kick back and have fun.

the weekends. And by good, I mean good in the nostalgic not-

Even self-identified introverts have told me or messaged me

exactly-great-but-drinkable hometown diner type of way.

saying they’ve had an amazing time despite their anxiety... I

PHOTO COURTESY ALICIA CUADRADO

also want to give due credit to my members for always coming Favorite place to enjoy the great outdoors in CNY? I really

in with good intentions and positive attitudes. Because I

enjoy the gorges in Ithaca. I have fond memories of Fillmore

constantly send out a message of uplifting the local food

Glen and Buttermilk Falls from high school times through

industry, I feel that our club members tend to be more open-

now. Every year on my birthday, I go on a hike with my family

minded and accepting and less critical or pessimistic when

somewhere in Ithaca and it has become a sweet tradition.

dining out.

Any favorite foods

What are some of your favorite dining experiences in CNY?

growing up? My

My all-time favorite dining experiences tend to be times I got

favorite foods growing

to interact with the chef/owner, often immigrant entrepre-

up were definitely

neurs. Dosa Grill has given me so many amazing dining ex-

Colombian-style

periences. I always go to their Monday dinner buffet with my

empanadas and arepas.

boyfriend. The general manager, Rahul, knows us as regulars

Still among my all-time

and once I walk in, his greeting is soon followed by “dosa is

favorite foods. Also NYC-

coming, dosa is coming.” Dosa — a South Indian street food

style pizza and bagels;

that I love — is included with the buffet on Mondays only. Ra-

though, I am gluten free

hul knows I will eat like ten of them so he always assures us

now so I only eat them

‘it’s coming’ and points at our table when the servers emerge

about once a year when

from the kitchen with dosa. While there is a language barri-

I visit NYC and the risk-

er between us and Rahul, I always enjoy the time he takes to

reward is worth it. My

crack a joke, ask us about our life, or update us on his.

dad is a first-generation Colombian American who grew up in Long Island, so I think we can see some correlation between

For more info: visit TheEatingClub.co or facebook.com/groups/

that and my favorite foods.

SyracuseEatingClub; @syracuseeatingclub on Instagram J U LY/A U G U S T

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