Some of the best ice cream you will ever have in your life! They also have an amazing bakery and coffee selection. This is one of our favorite spots to go together. (They also have a satellite location - coffee/ice cream only - on Park Ave, if you're checking out one of those restaurants!)
Our favorite restaurant in the city. It has a unique menu that leans "modern Thai." The food and vibes are incredible. They are very small and we recommend making a reservation!
Another one of our favorite restaurants in the city. They have an eclectic/funky menu that leans "modern Italian." Amazing service and atmosphere every time. They don't take reservations and fill up quickly! We recommend getting there right when they open at 4:00, or put your name in and grab a drink at one of the many other bar/restaurants on Park Ave! (Roux, next door, is a fav for cocktails!)
The best soup and sandwich spot in the city. (The tomato artichoke soup is a must!) Fun Fact: President Obama visited here back in 2013 when he passed through Rochester. There is now a menu item named after him.
Authentic NYC style bagels with dozens of different homemade cream cheeses!
Arguably the best wings in Rochester. Great place to go if you're looking for something more casual/a little divey. If you luck out with a nice day, take a walk down the pier off of historic Charlotte Beach on Lake Ontario right down the street.
Another casual dive. If you've never had a "garbage plate," THEE Rochester culinary staple, this is a good place to do so. The classic garbage plate is one red hot (hot dog), one cheeseburger, mac salad, and home fries, topped with ketchup, mustard, onions, and (absolute must) meat hot sauce. They have all different combinations though!
Probably the most fun indoor spot for kids in the city. It's totally worth a visit if you have the time. (Fun for adults too!)
If you end up with a nice fall day, there are so many beautiful places to visit in the Finger Lakes (just south of the city). There are hundreds of wineries and breweries. They are the most densely populated on Seneca and Keuka lakes, but all of the lakes are gorgeous. If you're looking for specific recommendations, just ask!