The 15 Best Restaurants in Rochester, NY You Need to Try

From legendary BBQ joints to award-winning cocktail bars, here are the Rochester restaurants that locals love and visitors rave about.

Rochester's food scene has exploded in recent years, earning recognition from national publications and food critics alike. Whether you're craving slow-smoked barbecue, farm-to-table small plates, or the city's iconic Garbage Plate, Rochester delivers. Here's our curated guide to the best restaurants in the Flower City.

The Icons

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

No list of Rochester restaurants is complete without Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. Located in a converted railroad building on Court Street, this legendary joint has been serving slow-smoked Southern barbecue since 1998. The live blues music and craft cocktails make it an experience, not just a meal. Source: Rochester Community's Choice Awards

Nick Tahou Hots

The birthplace of the world-famous Garbage Plate, Nick Tahou Hots has been a Rochester institution since 1918. Over a century later, this no-frills restaurant on West Main Street continues to serve the dish that put Rochester on the culinary map. If you haven't had a Garbage Plate, have you really been to Rochester?

Dogtown Hots

For a modern take on the classic hot dog and Garbage Plate, Dogtown Hots on Monroe Avenue is where it's at. Creative toppings, quality ingredients, and a fun atmosphere make this a favorite among locals.

Fine Dining & Cocktails

Good Luck Restaurant

Good Luck Restaurant was named one of Esquire's Best Bars in America — and the food matches the cocktails. This intimate spot on Anderson Avenue serves creative farm-to-table small plates in a cozy, candlelit setting. Perfect for date night. Source: Esquire Magazine

Nosh Rochester

Located in the Neighborhood of the Arts, Nosh Rochester has become the preeminent evening destination for inventive cocktails and seasonal American cuisine. The ambiance alone is worth the visit.

The Owl House

The Owl House proves that plant-based dining can be exquisite. This semi-fine dining spot on Marshall Street serves creative dishes that satisfy omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike.

Casual Favorites

The Gate House

The Gate House in Village Gate Square is beloved for its gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizza, and one of the best weekend brunches in the city. The Neighborhood of the Arts location adds to the charm.

Bitter Honey

For Mexican-inspired cuisine with a creative twist, Bitter Honey in the Public Market district delivers bold flavors and vibrant energy. Their creative tacos are a must-try.

Sweet Treats

Cheesy Eddies

Rated #1 on TripAdvisor among all Rochester restaurants, Cheesy Eddies has won Best Desserts two years running. Their cheesecakes are legendary — worth the trip to the South Wedge alone.

Hedonist Artisan Ice Cream

Also in the South Wedge, Hedonist Artisan Ice Cream crafts small-batch, chef-driven flavors that change regularly. The fresh waffle cones are made in-house.

Craft Beer Scene

Rochester's brewery scene is thriving, and these spots combine great food with exceptional craft beer:

Genesee Brew House — Overlooking High Falls with a rooftop patio, pilot brewery, and pub-style restaurant. Brewing since 1878.
Swiftwater Brewing — A South Wedge farm brewery pushing boundaries with novel craft beer.
Rohrbach Brewing Company — One of Rochester's first craft breweries since 1991, with a beloved beer hall in the Public Market district.

Looking for more Rochester dining options? Browse our full business directory or check out our guide to Rochester's food scene.