Dine at these Women-Owned Restaurants in the Finger Lakes
It’s a commonly known fact that more restaurants are owned by men than by women. In fact, according to the National Restaurant Association, only about a third of restaurants are female-owned. Making restaurants yet another area which is still male-dominated. But according to this Forbes article, there’s an even more disparaging statistic. Despite females comprising just over half of the Culinary Institute of America’s graduates, only 21% of head chefs across the country are female. That’s even fewer than the percentage of females holding executive positions within corporations.
But luckily, there are plenty of brave women in the Finger Lakes trying to change these dynamics. From Rochester to Syracuse and Auburn to Naples to Cortland, here are just a few of many fantastic woman-owned restaurants in the Finger Lakes.
1833 Kitchen and Bar
Aurora, NY
Part of the Inns of Aurora campus, 1833 Kitchen and Bar falls under the purview of Pleasant T. Rowland. Together with her staff, Pleasant brings an elevated dining experience to the Finger Lakes. The menu, while small, is packed with flavor and ingenuity, featuring items you won’t find on most menus in the area. The current seasonal options include arctic char, braised short rib, duck breast, and more. Nearly everything is made from scratch and sourced locally in the Finger Lakes.
Cafe 19
Seneca Falls, NY
What better place to find a restaurant dedicated to the brave women who shaped history than in Seneca Falls? Café 19, named after the 19th Amendment granting [most] women the right to vote, is owned by Casey Galloway. Casey actually wears many hats at the café, including owner, chef, and baker. As soon as you step foot inside the restaurant, their mission is clear: providing great food and service while also paying homage to the local women’s history in an artful way. Beautiful portraits of women including Susan B. Anthony and Harriet Tubman fill the walls. The café specializes in breakfast, lunch, pastries, and drinks. And no two visits are the same as they are constantly coming up with new creations!
Caruso’s Cafe
Naples, NY
This quaint eatery is located along Main Street in the valley of Naples, NY. Caruso’s Café is owned by Jodi & Mark Caruso, but their entire family has played a role in making their dream of opening a café a reality. The spot has become a community hub while featuring delicious food and drinks. In addition to an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, it’s also a great place to enjoy some locally-famous grape pie.
Ma’s Cheesy Dreams
Elmira Heights, NY
If you’re looking for some classic comfort food, look no further than Ma’s Cheesy Dreams in Elmira Heights. Owner Debbie Moody (“Ma”) has created a menu filled with generous portions. Customers can find burgers, sandwiches, salads, fried fish, and even “trash platters”, their version of Rochester’s famous garbage plates. Additionally, Ma creates over 200 different flavors of cheesecakes and milkshakes.
Salena’s Mexican Restaurant
Rochester, NY
This family-owned restaurant has been serving up Mexican and Mexican-inspired cuisine in the heart of Rochester since 1998. Salena’s prides itself on using fresh ingredients and homemade recipes in the kitchen while giving back to the community. The restaurant features an extensive selection of tequila and agave spirits. Interested visitors can even register for tequila tasting classes every month.
Sinfully Sweet Cafe
Homer, NY
The name says it all. If you’re looking for a bite to eat that will satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than Sinfully Sweet Café in Homer. Pies, cookies, chocolate covered fruit, scones, cake pops… It’s dessert heaven. In addition to their wide array of sweets, the café specializes in seasonal offerings, breakfast wraps, and paninis.
