Watkins Glen, NY used to be the honeymoon capital of the world. Or so I believed growing up, as my parents had (I still believe, though who knows if it is true!) honeymooned there. It is a lovely place, on the very south end of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes, known for car racing, for an amazing state park, and for . . . a new to me restaurant called Graft Wine and Cider Bar. Yes, this particular part of the local is terrific features food -- especially small plates -- and wine -- but somewhat more uniquely, ciders.
And this right here is the actual website with the actual dinner menu.
The space is, in my view, terrific. We sat at the bar, which seems normal, and I loved running my fingers over the small stones bordering the bar itself. I had two different beers, and my partner had a lovely wine. And, yes, we dined. We were happy -- and there were more options than we could order, despite sharing. We had some chicken liver crostini -- technically called the chicken liver tartan -- that were amazing. And more.
We will return.
A few things to know: they do NOT take reservations.
And: Graft Wine + Cider Bar is located at 204 North Franklin Street in Watkins Glen. They are open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and are closed on Sunday and Monday.
For a review from Mountain Home, click here.