Looking for the Best Restaurants (and drinks!) in Old Forge, NY? Look No Further!

If you’re searching for the finest restaurants and top-notch drinks in Old Forge, NY, your quest ends here! Old Forge, a charming hamlet nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks in Upstate New York, is the ideal place to anchor your Adirondack adventure. This delightful village is central to numerous exciting Things to Do in Old Forge, NY and boasts various outstanding restaurants serving delectable cuisine.

Situated conveniently along New York State Route 28, Old Forge has a cozy population of less than a thousand residents. Accessing this Adirondack gem is a breeze, whether you prefer traveling by train, bus, or even plane, as it has its airport. However, it’s essential to note that this airport is privately owned, so securing tickets is more complex than a quick Google search, given its two runways.

Old Forge is the perfect destination for your Upstate New York vacation, especially if you’re a group of adventure seekers and nature lovers. With activities like snowmobiling, camping, hiking, and access to its 150 lakes, you’ll find yourself in the heart of an incredible adventure!

Now that you’ve arrived in Old Forge and experienced all the excitement, it’s time to satisfy your appetite with some excellent dining options, relaxed ambiance, and delectable food in general. Fortunately, many choices are available to cater to various tastes and preferences.

The Best Local Restaurants in Old Forge, NY

Old Forge Eats: A Culinary Adventure for Every Palate!

Join us on a culinary exploration of Old Forge, featuring diverse flavors, warm hospitality, and the town’s unique charm. From cozy breakfast spots to dinner venues offering delectable options, you’ll encounter a range of delightful dining experiences. Come along for a journey through the culinary treasures of this picturesque corner of Upstate New York.

1. Five Corners Cafe: Eclectic Dining with a Warm Welcome

Image via fivecornerscafe.com

Five Corners Cafe, conveniently located just off New York Route 28, is a fantastic little spot brimming with eclectic dishes. This small neighborhood restaurant offers warm hospitality and a casually modern dining experience, with a great selection of craft beers and wines.

Notably, Five Corners Cafe has been honored with the Adirondack Life Readers’ Choice Award for Fine Dining from 2016 to 2019.

Their standout dish, the short rib, is a delight for meat lovers, with tender, succulent meat, rich marbling, and exquisite flavor.

The restaurant is a joint venture of Chef Paul Rivet, a 1993 Culinary Institute of America graduate in Hyde Park, NY, and his wife, Kathy.

Remember that their menu changes with the seasons and is always prepared “with love from scratch.” You can find their latest menu on their Facebook Page for planning.

2. Frankie’s Taste of Italy: A Slice of Italy in Old Forge NY

Image via frankiesitaliancuisine.com

Take advantage of Frankie’s Taste of Italy if you have a penchant for authentic Italian cuisine. This Old Forge institution has been serving delectable Italian dishes for the past 24 years.

With a diverse menu spanning pasta, seafood, chicken, and veal dishes, there’s something to please every member of your party. Be sure to sample their homemade gelato, a treat loved by many.

One of their signature dishes is the Chicken Riggies, a creamy pasta and tender chicken delight with a mild spicy kick. Pair it with a fine bourbon, and you’re in for a delightful Old Forge dining experience.

3. Keen Kitchen: Homemade Delights in a Quaint Setting

Image via keenkitchen.net

For those with a keen taste for excellent food, Keen Kitchen is the place to be. This family-owned restaurant offers many homemade dishes, creating a delightful dining experience.

Keen Kitchen, a newcomer in Old Forge since 2020, is open for lunch and dinner. They feature a variety of dishes, including a daily soup, crab cakes, a pork flat iron, and a mouthwatering Pasta Bolognese. Their New York Strip, known for its intense flavor and satisfying chew, stands out as one of the best dishes.

Additionally, if you prefer to dine outdoors, Keen Kitchen offers a shady outdoor patio to enjoy the fresh air of New York.

4. Brewside Grill & Test Kitchen: Unwind with Craft Beer and Delicious Fare

Image via Brewside Grill & Test Kitchen

The Brewside Grill & Test Kitchen is a hidden gem in Old Forge, offering a concise menu filled with delectable items. With a relaxing atmosphere and ice-cold beers, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure.

Attached to the Fulton Chain Craft Brewery, the Brewside Grill & Test Kitchen serves a delicious brunch and fantastic soups. Their crab cakes are a highlight, and if you crave a juicy, authentic American hamburger, theirs is a must-try.

Outdoor seating is also available, making it a top-choice restaurant for those seeking a memorable culinary experience in Old Forge NY.

5. Billy’s Restaurant: Italian-American Fusion for All Tastes

If you’re looking for a fusion of Italian and American cuisine, Billy’s Restaurant is the ideal destination. Despite being one of the most popular restaurants in Old Forge, there’s no need to worry about crowding, given the hamlet’s small population of under 1,000 residents.

Billy’s Restaurant provides a casual dining experience with a relaxing atmosphere. Everything on their menu is made to order, offering various dishes to cater to various tastes.

While their dinner options are appealing, take advantage of their delectable desserts, including cannolis and a hot chocolate lava cake served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

6. Keyes Pancake House & Restaurant: Hearty Breakfast in Old Forge, NY

Okay, we’ve covered enough dinner and lunch places to cover most of your trip – so let’s talk about the best meal of the day: breakfast! Keyes Pancake House & Restaurant is one of the best breakfast restaurants in Old Forge, NY. 

If pancakes aren’t you’re thing they also have delicious breakfast burritos and fantastic desserts to soothe your sweet tooth. 

Keyes is open 6 days a week from 7 am to 2 pm with outdoor seating available. They offer a cozy setting with great staff and great food. They’re often quite busy and lively in the mornings but it is well worth the lively atmosphere. 

7. Tony Harper’s Pizza and Clam Shack: A Taste of Classic American Comfort

Image via tonyharpers.com

Tony Harper’s Pizza & Clam Shack, established in 1992, offers a wide selection of classic American lunch specials. Open year-round in the heart of Old Forge, their original location in Raquette Lake, which features the region’s only roadside Tiki Bar, operates exclusively during the summer.

The restaurant boasts homemade pizza, both traditional and extra-thin crust, along with 100% Angus Beef Burgers, Whiskey Wings, and steamers.

Their extensive offerings include a full liquor bar and microbrews to complement your meal.

A standout dish at Tony’s is their signature BBQ wings, known for their satisfying crunch, juiciness, and rich flavor.

Tony’s presents fantastic prices for daily, in-house-prepared meals, making it the go-to spot for American cuisine in Old Forge.

8. Ozzie’s Coffee Bar: Fresh Bites and Comfort

Image via Ozzie’s Coffee Bar

Ozzie’s Coffee Bar, nestled in the heart of Old Forge, is more than just a coffee spot. It offers irresistible coffee, breakfast sandwiches, Brooklyn bagels, and fresh-baked goods.

Open daily from 7 am to 4 pm, Ozzie’s menu features a lox sandwich, paninis, homemade soups, and salads to please your palate.

The welcoming atmosphere in a quaint red building resembling an old barn house provides a homey ambiance perfect for starting your day, especially during the colder winter months.

9. Mountainside Smokehouse & Grill: Savor Smokehouse Goodness

If you’re seeking delicious food in a casual, homey setting, Mountainside Smokehouse & Grill is the place to be. Located on Route 28, this restaurant is renowned for its smokehouse offerings and homemade barbecue sauces.

The moment you walk through the doors, you’ll be enveloped in the delightful aroma of their smoked meats.

Open from Wednesday to Monday, 4 pm to 9 pm, with special brunch hours on Sunday. Mountainside Smokehouse & Grill caters to various dietary preferences with vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Families and larger groups will appreciate the Fulton Chain combo, featuring smoked turkey, brisket, and ribs that practically melt off the bone.

The menu includes delectable sandwiches, salads, catfish, and even a smoked vegetable burger. Mountainside Smokehouse & Grill ensures a satisfying dining experience in Old Forge.

10. Adirondack Dog House: Hot Dogs and More in a Charming Spot

Image via Adirondack Dog House

No, no, no not a dog house like Snoopy’s…dog house like hot dogs. This delicious little spot sits right along Route 28 right next to the water park and is well known and loved for its desserts, delicious flavors, and wonderful ambiance. Adirondack Dog House is a great place for mouth-watering hot dogs!

Open seven days a week, Adirondack Dog House offers Texas-style hotdogs with various mouthwatering toppings, including homemade chili, coleslaw, cheese, sauerkraut, peppers and onions.

Picnic tables are available, allowing you to soak up the sun, and there’s even a water bowl on the gazebo for any canine companions you may have with you.

The menu includes fresh burgers prepared daily, nachos, mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, sweet potato fries, and more for those who aren’t hot dog enthusiasts.

Take advantage of their Southern Dog, topped with slaw and barbecue pulled pork, which is easily a top choice.

11. Walt’s Diner: Cozy Restaurant in Old Forge, NY

We’ve come full circle back to breakfast! Walt’s Diner is renowned for its oversized homemade pancakes and omelets, a tradition they’ve upheld for over 30 years.

Walt’s opens every day except Tuesdays at 6 am. They serve breakfast until noon, offer lunch until 3 pm, and have a special dinner service on Fridays from 4 pm to 8 pm.

The extensive menu caters to all your breakfast favorites, along with salads and sandwiches for lunch.

The cozy and homey atmosphere at Walt’s Diner has earned it the title of the best breakfast and diner in the area for three consecutive years. This recognition comes from Adirondack Life Magazine, despite the setting not being the most upscale. Be sure to savor their giant, buttery pancakes.

12. Slickers: Live Entertainment and Classic Flavors

Slickers, established in 1984, offers a lively atmosphere and delightful food. This tavern is beloved by locals and tourists alike, with its French Dip Sandwiches and classic American cuisine.

Slickers offer not only food but also live entertainment and a craft beer selection, creating a fantastic spot for drinks and appetizers.

Their renowned French Dip sandwich, topped with fresh-sliced round roast and melted provolone on garlic-grilled French bread, is a truly unforgettable dish.

While you might not actually “die” for it, the delicious, high-quality ingredients have kept Slickers thriving for nearly 40 years. It’s a must-visit for an enjoyable dining experience in Old Forge.

Explore the restaurants in Old Forge, NY, where every meal is an adventure for your taste buds. Enjoy the Old Forge culinary journey and savor the flavors of this charming destination.

Okay, We Found All Your Eats, Now Let’s Talk Drinks!

In the heart of Old Forge, NY, where Finger Lakes and Long Island’s wine regions often take the spotlight, hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. So, let’s raise a glass and dive into the vibrant restaurants and beverage scene of Old Forge, NY!

1. Montezuma Winery – Old Forge

While Finger Lakes and Long Island often dominate as New York’s wine regions, there’s a hidden wine gem in the Adirondacks. Montezuma Winery in Old Forge opens daily from 10 am to 6 pm, inviting visitors to indulge in wine and spirit tastings.

Situated just off Route 28, Montezuma Winery proudly showcases the artistic creations of Sandra Hildreth, vividly capturing the essence of Old Forge.

The Martin family, beekeepers for over 30 years, began with honey production and pollination services across Maine, New York, South Carolina, and Florida.

The winemaking journey began when one of the Martin sons, Bill, delved into home brewing and mead crafting. In 1999, they began producing honey wine and in 2001, ventured into crafting fruit wines, giving birth to Montezuma Winery.

Montezuma Winery, Martin’s Honey Farm, Meadery, and Hidden Marsh Distillery have collectively earned numerous accolades. They’ve been recognized as Best Fruit Wine and Commercial Mead Champion, among other honors.

During your visit, you can sample a wide range of wines, from dry to sweet. It includes Riesling, Blueberry, Rhubarb, and the famous Cranberry Bog.

2. Fulton Chain Craft Brewery

While we’ve already mentioned Fulton Chain Craft Brewery in connection with Brewside Grill & Test Kitchen, visiting the brewery is a must!

FCC Brewery is open daily from 11 am to 11 pm and promises an exceptional experience. Founded in 2014 by Justin Staskiewicz and Richard Mathy, this brewery is dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients. They aim to provide the Adirondacks with an exceptional beer-tasting experience.

With ten beers on tap, you’re bound to find one that suits your taste. Furthermore, they proudly use 100% New York Hops and 85% New York Grain to craft their brews in Old Forge.

Make it a point to drop by for a fantastic atmosphere, an unforgettable experience, and a great selection of beers.

Hidden Gems in Old Forge: Discovering the Best Restaurants and Diners

Old Forge is not just a picturesque haven in the Adirondack Mountains but also a treasure trove of exceptional dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the best restaurants in Old Forge promises unforgettable meals and delightful encounters. Here’s a closer look at some standout spots where you can enjoy everything from fresh seafood to hearty steak dinners.

The Best Place for Good Food and Great Service

When it comes to dining in Old Forge, the best Italian restaurants are those that combine good food with excellent service. Among the notable spots, Frankie’s Taste of Italy consistently earns rave reviews. This Italian bistro has become a local favorite for its homemade Italian dishes and friendly atmosphere. With daily specials and an extensive menu featuring shrimp, steak, and delectable desserts, Frankie’s is always a great choice.

Frankie’s is known for its prime rib and shrimp dishes, which are consistently praised for their flavor and quality. The service is excellent, with attentive waitresses who make you feel like family. The cozy decor and the fresh mountain air from the outdoor seating area add to the charming dining experience. For those seeking a memorable dinner for two, Frankie’s is a top pick, especially with their reasonable prices and delicious cocktails. Their daily specials are always good, and the glass of wine selection complements the meal perfectly.

Frankie’s also stands out for its excellent food and service. Their dishes, often topped with fresh ingredients, are known for their unbelievably delicious flavors. Despite a few bad reviews about occasional overpriced items or service that was poor, the overall experience remains positive. The nice place atmosphere and able to eat at a leisurely pace make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Adirondack Attractions: Dining at Slicker and Other Must-Try Spots

While exploring the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, you’ll find that Old Forge offers a range of dining options that cater to various tastes. Slickers, a local favorite since 1984, is known for its lively atmosphere and classic American fare. Their French Dip sandwiches and cocktails are among the highlights. Slickers combines a friendly environment with great food and excellent service, making it a must-visit attraction.

For a delightful bistro experience, Mountainside Smokehouse & Grill stands out. Located conveniently along Route 28, this place offers a menu full of smoky, flavorful dishes, including homemade mac and cheese and wontons. The smokey flavor of their barbecue and the friendly staff create an unforgettable dining experience. Despite some bad reviews about the occasional greasy food or service that was poor, the overall experience is positively rated for its cleanliness and friendly food. Don’t miss their daily specials and the chance to enjoy a meal with a view of the fresh mountain air.

Mountainside Smokehouse & Grill also benefits from its location near the shore, offering a pleasant dining experience with views that overlook the surrounding beauty. Although the place can be packed at times, and reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, it remains a popular spot.

Italian Cuisine in Old Forge: A Taste of Authentic Bistro Delights

If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine, Old Forge has some fantastic options. Five Corners Cafe offers a delightful selection of dishes with a cozy, bistro-like atmosphere. Their homemade Italian specials, including salmon and pasta, are served with fresh ingredients and are always a hit. The decor is charming, and the table service is prompt and friendly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Five Corners Cafe stands out for its best Italian offerings, including its dessert menu that is praised for its unbelievably delicious options.

For a more upscale Italian experience, Frankie’s Taste of Italy remains a top contender. Their dedication to providing homemade Italian meals and a welcoming environment makes it a standout choice. Whether you’re enjoying a classic pasta dish or their famous Chicken Riggies, you’ll appreciate the quality of the food and the warmth of the service. Frankie’s is considered by many as the best Italian restaurant in the area, praised for its excellent service and homemade Italian cuisine.

Old Forge is a dining destination that offers something for everyone. From the best local diners to standout Italian bistros, you’ll find plenty of places in Old Forge that serve delicious food and provide great service. Make sure to explore these dining gems on your next visit and enjoy the vibrant culinary scene of this charming Adirondack town.

Top Dining Spots in Old Forge: Restaurant and Bar Experiences

Old Forge’s restaurant and bar scene offers a diverse range of dining experiences, each with its unique charm. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a lively atmosphere or a quiet dinner, you’ll find that some spots stand out more than others. Here’s a look at some of the top places to dine, and what you can expect based on previous reviews and personal experiences.

1. The Best Restaurant and Bar Experiences

Old Forge is home to some of the best restaurant and bar experiences in the Adirondacks. The Old Time Tavern stands out for its traditional atmosphere and classic American fare. With a focus on good food and great service, this spot has been a favorite for years. However, it’s worth noting that during peak times, the place can be packed, and wait times may vary. Despite some bad reviews about inconsistent service, the majority of diners find it to be a pleasant experience. The bar offers a great selection of cocktails and a cozy spot to unwind.

2. Dining During COVID and Its Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected dining out in Old Forge, and many restaurants have adapted to new regulations. The Shore Grill & Bar has done an excellent job maintaining cleanliness and providing a safe dining environment. Though some diners have noted that the service was poor during high-traffic periods, the overall quality of food remains high. From fresh seared steaks to French fries topped with fresh ingredients, the menu offers something for everyone. While some might consider the prices slightly overpriced, the experience is generally well-regarded.

3. Reservations and Dining Experiences

When planning your visit, making a reservation at popular spots like Mountain View Bistro is recommended. Known for its exceptional dessert options and ability to serve dishes hot and fresh, this restaurant has been praised for its ability to handle high volumes of guests. Previous reviews highlight the friendly service, though some mention the occasional long wait due to the place being packed. Diners especially love the unique flavors and variety of options available, but it’s essential to keep in mind that the place can get quite busy, leading to mixed experiences in food and service.

Unique Dining Experiences in Old Forge: From Classic to Contemporary

Old Forge’s culinary scene offers a blend of classic and contemporary dining experiences. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic meal or something more modern, these unique spots provide a variety of options to satisfy any craving.

1. The Old Forge Experience

For a touch of nostalgia, consider visiting The Historic Inn. This place embodies the old-time charm of Old Forge, offering hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere. While some might find the food and service to be hit or miss, especially with the occasional bad food review, it’s still a notable spot for its historical ambiance. The Inn is known for its warm décor and classic dishes, making it a memorable part of the Old Forge dining experience.

2. Contemporary Dining with a Twist

If you’re in the mood for something more contemporary, The Modern Diner offers a fresh take on classic dishes. With an emphasis on modern twists and unique flavors, this spot is praised for its innovative menu, including standout items like seared scallops and gourmet French fries. Though some reviews mention that it can be pricey and the place was packed during peak times, many diners find it to be a worthwhile visit for its exceptional food and service.

All in all, Old Forge offers a range of dining experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. From classic taverns to modern bistros, each location provides a unique atmosphere and menu. Whether you’re looking for a traditional meal or a contemporary twist, you’re sure to find a spot that meets your expectations.

At The End of the Line – Looking For A Place to Stay in Old Forge, NY?

We’ve found all of the best restaurants and drinks right here in Old Forge, NY. In this adventure-filled small town, you’ll be surprised by the wealth of delicious choices for your Adirondack vacation!

Make sure to check out New York Rental by Owner’s Old Forge Rentals such as this cozy Adirondack cabin in Old Forge or this large Adirondack Lodge. Come be in the center of adventure!

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