Stonecat: Regional Cuisine & Bar

We stopped in the end of summer and this place did not disappoint. They have a smaller menu but that allows for each dish to come out perfectly made and presented. Highly recommend stopping in and let time slip away while sitting in their back space. It was the perfect way to unwind and relax. Please stop on and give them a try.

My daughter and I discovered Stonecat on a recent visit to the area. We were blown away from the moment we stepped through the front door. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and both the staff and local patrons were very friendly and the views at sunset were stunning. We both enjoyed an excellent and unique cocktail/mocktail followed by very generous portions for our entrees. Our dessert was over the top, delicious and so fresh. We enjoyed everything so much we went back for another visit before we left the area. I highly recommend visiting this restaurant if you’re in the area.

Great local establishment with locally sourced ingredients and an ever-changing seasonal menu. The burger is great but so are their vegan and vegetarian options. You can’t go wrong with one of the cocktails or local wine selection.

Stopped by on the hunt for local vegan options and were blown away with the lovingly handmade and local quality of this food! The smoked tofu knocks it out of the park, best and most flavorful tofu my vegan partner and I have had, anywhere (we eat a lotttt of tofu including decades in California). The cornmeal crusted catfish and seasonal Autumn Spice cocktail were perfection as well! The cozy artsy atmosphere, lake view, and friendly service put it over the top. I wish we lived closer to this place! 10/10 highly recommend!

The jalapeño pineapple fizz mocktail is the coolest drink I’ve ever had—it almost tastes like pizza! I tasted pineapple juice, felt a spicy peppery feel in my throat, and almost tasted the ham and smelled the cardboard box that a hawaiian pizza would come in (in a good way!) The cornmeal crusted catfish is delicious and the ambiance and service is so lovely. However, it’s very pricey — a bit too much for the size of the small portions. The cornbread and dill-cabbage slaw were also disappointing. I think the catfish (and the pineapple fizz lol) is the main thing worth ordering.

Lovely place with a lot of both indoor and outdoor seating! It’s a sit-anywhere-you-like and order from the counter type of service. You get a nice view of the greenery sitting outdoors. We ordered the smoked pork chop, maple juniper sausages and smoked tofu. All pretty good, except for the green peas that came with the pork chop that was made quite raw. Overall, we had a good time here.

Amazing food, amazing views, highly recommend. The food is so amazingly paired to give you a flavorful meal. The drinks are very good as well. There is a deck which gives you great views of the lake. The wait staff is very friendly and welcoming. If you're going for a special occasion or just a great meal this is your place.

Friendly staff, chill environment, solid foods and drinks. Order up front, pay and your foods are brought out to the table. There are a few decks to choose from for beautiful outside eating or indoor if you prefer AC, pick a table and it’s yours. Amazing locally sourced ingredients and flavorful. Highly recommend the corn bread, battered cat fish, tamari tofu. Everything we had was well balanced, fresh, even the drinks.

Little gem of a restaurant on Seneca Lake. Great food and of course wine! Super friendly staff, cozy patio in the back. We'll be back!

The special cucumber soup was too sweet. The catfish was crispy outside yet light and moist inside. The pulled pork was slightly on the sweet side but we wolfed down as soon as it arrived. After 6+ hours driving and an hour of wine tasting, the dinner was perfect without being too heavy. The strawberry shortcake is a little on the dry side and lacked strawberry flavors. I won't mind coming back to try more on their menu.

It's out of the way and certainly nondescript, but don't be fooled, this place is all that. Just check the parking lot and you'll see how much the yocals like this place. Order at the reception counter and they will deliver to your table, inside, outside, or barside. Organic and sustainable ingredients are their mantra. My mantra is YUM. My companion had the grilled chicken leg. Scoff if you like but it was terrific, easily the best leg either of us have ever tasted...and the cornbread crumble and snow peas were just as great. I passed on the corn dog with homemade sausage only because I feared carb overload alongside the poutine and veggie wrap with smoked maple tamari tofu (my first ever tofu). The poutine was just okay while the fries themselves were terrific, as was the wrap. But the star of the night was the blueberry pecan cornbread pudding. Simply put, it's the best bread pudding I've ever had. Not dunked or soaked in anything, the cornbread is allowed to stand on its own complemented with a dollop of blueberry compote and some pecans and some whipped cream. That dessert alone is worth the drive. In fact this place deserves a shot on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives for the corn dog, grilled chicken leg, and cornbread pudding. Hey Guy, turn that Camaro towards Hector NY! So don't judge this book by the cover, instead come take a look and get the cornbread pudding. Highly recommended.

Fantasic food. So fresh with amazing flavor. I enjoyed it so much. I went 3 times. Twice for dinner and once for brunch. Their cocktails are amazing. At first I was put off that you oder at a counter, but then they bring the food and you can order more. They keep your accout open. They do it to be efficient. The location is also very beatuiful with great views and for brunch and at other times, they have music. I am sad to no longer have access to this great place.

An enjoyable evening, sitting on the deck, listening to live music, drinking cold beers and chowing down. We ordered from the "Market Fare" (à la carte) section of the menu and all was satisfying. --Local Pasture Raised Beef Barbeque, smoked, pulled and marinated in a Korean style barbeque sauce. Large tasty portion. --House Made Fried Falafel, really good flavor combo, not greasy at all --Beans & Greens, local black beans, black eyed peas, hominy and smoked tomato juice with braised local greens. Another great choice. --Purple Coconut Sticky Rice, perfect side dish Their system of ordering up front and then having the food delivered to the table worked perfectly. Staff was friendly and accomodating to anything we needed.

The restaurant itself is beautiful and has a great view off the back deck, the food is delicious, and the staff is friendly and helpful. 10/10 recommend to anyone in the finger lakes area.

My wife and I came here for dinner. The food was excellent. "Stonecat was doing farm to table before it became cool" is what the owner of the house we rented said. The setup is nice and simple. Grab a table that's open, look over the menu, order from the counter, took your number, and wait for the food to be brought to you. It eliminates the need for waiters. Everyone was just a glorified bus person. When our dinner was about half-eaten, I went back and ordered dessert. It came out within 10 mins. Our bill was $80 after tip. Very reasonable for all organic, local, house made food with enough to take home.

Love this place!! Great food and drinks. The outdoor patio is fantastic for sunset dinners. We always make sure to bring guests here for that sunset ambiance.

At the end of a day exploring New York State wineries, we headed to Stone Cat on advice of friends. It does not disappoint. The great view and ambiance are surpassed by the food, Especially the BBQ and catfish. We were pleasantly surprised by the local wines and we are California Kids. We cannot wait to get back. Easy to find with free parking at a crossroads north of Watkins Glen, NY

Had takeout from here and it was fantastic, we had a few different entrees and starters between us and it was all lovely. A very cool space as well, although on a rainy night with our pup in tow, take out ruled the day.

This is our favorite place to eat in the Watkins Glen area. The food, staff and atmosphere are top notch. Casual but not sloppy. It's obvious that all who work there are part of a big (staff) family and truly care about everyone having an excellent experience. We went on a Wednesday Pub night and the local band that played was very entertaining. I am gluten free and found several great options. This place is a must if you are visiting the Finger Lakes!

Cornmeal crusted catfish sandwich is it. Just get it and thank me later. The hubs and I stopped here on the way around the lake after a Watkins Glen hike. We were hungry so the menu was hard to choose from. Everything looked great. The staff was super helpful in helping us decide. But you just gotta get the catfish and a root beer. It was a beautiful day so we sat outside looking into a green area. It was so quiet we were practically whispering -- enjoying a moment of nature and great clean food. Inside also had some merch and a cooler of healthy and unique drinks. I could see this being a tourist stop for those looking to take a second from the wine and enjoy some peaceful vibes and quality food. So glad we found this quiet and quaint lunch spot!

Beautiful view and great wait staff! Great for a glass of wine and appetizer. Beet tart and field green salad was delicious. However the main course missed the mark and the margaritas were very watered down. The chicken was good, the pulled pork was ok but could have used more flavor and the "risotto" was like a cold porridge. Our 2 friends who ordered that immediately did not feel well. For the cost of the food my expectations were higher than what was delivered. However, I would try again if I was just getting a light appetizer and glass of wine. The views and outdoor seating were beautiful.

Went to an early dinner here during the week. Sat outside, and there was fantastic live acoustic music. My companions loved their food (pulled pork, catfish, poutine); as someone who doesn't eat meat or dairy, I was really pleased with the options for me. Ended up with a beautiful salad (with awesome candied nuts and cranberries) and a side dish of greens and beans. Cocktails and a mocktail were also excellent. Really loved the vibe, which was both sophisticated and casual/affable.

Amazing ! Tons of vegan options. The view is great. It is kind of like a self service style but other than that it's really cute.

I read many reviews about this place and have seen it traveling up and Down Senaca lake and this is the time we tried it. First when you arrive you're greated by staff who give you a menu and show you the specials and tell you to decide what you want and come back up to the counter and order. Ok. For 23 bucks for an order of catfish you cant have a waitress take my order? My wife ordered the organic field salad for 14 dollars and I got the catfish platter for 23. The salad was just a salad of lettuce, some cranberries and pumpkin seeds (she had a salad earlier in the day that was just as big but was full of eggs, cheese, meats and lettuce for less) My fish was just fish with dill coleslaw which was ok, it was coleslaw with dill and beans and greens, again, a bean dish with greens cut in. Nothing spectacular nor mundane for the price and experience. The service is very good that we had 5 different staff come up and check to see of everything was OK. It was just that, OK. But suggestion, have your staff take the order and give it a feel of a nicer resturant. Overall nothing spectacular and a 3 star review is a little generous.

I really wanted to love this place. I mean let's face it, these days its a special treat to eat out at a restaurant. Overall, they made me feel safe, which is an important aspect these days. The service was kind and the views outstanding. While the menu was creative, the food fell short as did the execution of some of the items. I have to say, the next time I am in the area, I dont think Ill return. SO the skinny on the food. The menu SOUNDED good, but the flavors fell flat. And it wasn't just me. When the others at my table request salt, honey, pepper, etc for their meals, you know its an issue. We all splurged and ordered the specials (about 30+ for each) so you hope that it would be extra good, but nope. The salmon was tasteless and the duck bland. How does that even happen! We also ordered a pricey side of foraged mushrooms and it was so tiny (it came in one of those things you serve a side of ketchup in). We also had the warm brownie with ice cream, but the brownie was cold and the ice cream had ice crystals in it (they explained that because of COVID staffing structure they couldnt warm brownie... strange). Best parts were the cocktails, yum! , and our service was quite pleasant. We loved the view and the ambiance of the patio. Really well done and a bit magical. We also had an issue with reservations. I called ahead of time and requested an outdoor seat. They said no problem, just to call about 30 mins before we get there to remind them. I did that and then they said that they couldnt accommodate but could fit us inside. When I said no thank you we would eat somewhere else, she said call back 5 mins before your reservation and Ill let you know if I can make it happen. While I so appreciated the young woman efforts, I just wanted them to be honest. I call and they say she has a table for us, that they would be done in 15 mins. So we arrive in that 15 mins, thinking we are good to go. NOPE. We waited, standing outside for 40 mins before we were seated. While the young woman was apologetic, nothing from the server etc. A cocktail on the house or something would have been a nice gesture honestly. Anyways, I am not wowed. I thank them for the ambiance and polite service. That is all.

Memorial Day weekend NIGHTMARE. Ambience - We made reservations 2 months in advance, for my wife's birthday, and asked to be seated inside, only to be told no space was available. We were placed outside where we were bitten up by mosquitos. It didn't help that we waited over 25 minutes for a server to show up, only to apologize and say they are "understaffed tonight and every night" The Drinks- mojito came out in a huge half a litter cup, diluted completely with just sprite; and ice. Not sure you can call this a mojito. Disgrace to serve cocktails in this type of cup. The food - chicken under a brick ($28) smallest chicken breast I've ever seen, which was over cooked, served with a nasty dry and over salted bread clumps (did not eat). How can you charge nyc prices for such a small portion size and disgusting food??? And how is this rated so well??? I left starving Smoked bbq beef ($26)- was really just a sloppy Joe mess of a dish. The meat was dry once again and attempted to be saved with a sauce. It's listed on the menu as "smoked bbq beef" wish they described it better Overall a terrible experience $80 dinner for two where bother people left hungry, and didn't bother drinking their "sprite" if I'm paying nyc prices in a small town i expect stellar service and amazing food. StoneCat fails to deliver in all areas. Id say it's a tourist trap and should be avoided at all costs - especially with the many great options nearby.

So so delicious, and I love how they emphasize sourcing from local farmers! They have a lovely outdoor patio that's covered and overlooks the meadow in the backyard and separate lawn seating that's serviced by the bar. I believe their menu rotates throughout the year and they also have daily specials for appetizers and entrees. We ordered the baked brie and pate to start, and I was surprised at how generous a portion they gave for both. They served us a large portion of pate along with a healthy serving of local blue cheese and other fixings, which were all delicious. The baked brie was perfectly toasted and gooey, and we practically licked the plate clean, it was so delicious. I ordered the catfish, which was really crispy and delicious, although after the appetizers, I was pretty stuffed. I definitely recommend adding on the house hot sauce for whatever dish you get; its texture is more similar to relish than liquid hot sauces, but it's perfectly spicy and fresh, and complements any dish well. I've come here a few times and they've never disappointed. With delicious food and a great atmosphere, there's not much else you could ask for!

Excellent location overlooking Lake Seneca. We were fortunate to be able to see sunset from the window of the restaurant. I suspect the people dining outdoors behind the restaurant had an even better view of the lake. My husband and I shared the gravlox appetizer. The portion size seemed perfect for two of us and too big for one person. The two of us didn't finish the food. The gravlax was very tasty, almost sweet. I disliked the dressed field greens; tasted like vinegar to me. Enjoyed the gravlax plain with the little pieces of bread that came with the dish. I didn't try the other accoutrements: pickled green beans, onions and herbed cream cheese. Both my husband and I ordered the salmon entree. I enjoyed it more than he did. I thought the salmon was well prepared. He thought the salmon was a bit dry; I told him that's because it looked like wild-caught salmon, which I understand is lower in fat than the farm-raised salmon many restaurants use. I enjoyed the green beans, quinoa and citrus sauce. Was a good entree for me. Our server provided good service but didn't smile. The hostess who greeted us at the entrance not only didn't smile, but did not make us feel welcome and tried to seat us near a very noisy large group. Thankfully, she was willing to let us switch to a quiet table in the next room.

Loved everything about our experience there, right from the start when we walked in; we felt very welcomed; the lady who was at the front was extremely nice, gave us a table near the window as we'd requested, the waitress was super super nice (everyone at the restaurant was unbelievably nice - ), food was great we had mushroom risotto & Chicken both were amazing, the field salad was super fresh & the desert (strawberry & apple crisp with vanilla ice cream) was amazing. The trip to the restaurant took us through the vineyard trail, lake views & a beach park & a waterfall. Highly recommended when visiting Watkins Glen.

The smallest container of hummus for $12. I would not recommend this place. Stingy portions and high price.

We stumbled across stonechat while hitting up some wineries and I'm glad we stopped in for a quick bite to eat! The workers were all super helpful and friendly. They genuinely seemed like they cared about the food and the business. They have a really cute (and quite large) inside area (no AC) and tons of outside seating with beautiful views. You order at the front counter and get texted when your order is ready. The drinks are brought out to you. The menu is simple, but slightly unique and everything was really delicious. The standouts were the Korean beef and the catfish. They also have a lot of good drink options (non alcoholic and alcoholic).

This place was recommended to us by the woman we rented our Airbnb from. Definitely the best meal of the week. Sat on the covered patio, cool breeze blowing. Great music. Got the catfish with black bean posole and dill slaw. All excellent. I highly recommend for a good dinner in a casual, cool atmosphere. So glad she recommended it!

This is one of the best places in the east side of Seneca lake. I've come here plenty of times over the years and the food is always good. I keep coming back for the catfish which I think is best as a sandwich which can only be purchased if you sit in the bar room. If you order something with fries DEFINITELY get the Hector Pepper Mayo as a dip - it's SO good. The staff are always really friendly, we had a great server in Natalie and the assist staff was very attentive. This is one of the few places I've been to recently where the servers still dictate all the daily specials which was really pleasant and impressive. My one criticism is that the menu is identical to how it was when I was here last, five or six years ago. It would be great to see the talented chefs get a little more creative. Overall, always a great experience and I highly recommend it. If the weather is nice, definitely request the outdoor deck seating, it includes an awesome view of the lake.

ABSOLUTELY HORRENDOUS EXPERIENCE, incredibly rude and demeaning staff. Manager was completely arrogant and unprofessional. I found multiple strands of hair in my food. They clearly shouldn't be in the hospitality industry if they are going to treat their customers with the uttermost disrespect.

We stayed next door at the Stonecat Guest House and were fortunate to get to eat at the Stonecat Cafe 4 times in the week we were there. During that time between my husband and I, we tried 8 different meals and each one was wonderful! The staff is amazing, especially Mary who was the bartender on our first night. She took the time on our first night to there to chat with us about wineries and restaurants to try in the area during our stay.

love love love this place, HOWEVER i am sad to see that the catfish sandwich is served with half the amount of fish as it used to be and no longer comes with slaw and a pickle. I would suggest ordering a Cat Snack on the side to add onto your sandwich.

Great food , great staff , great location Early evening and Sunset hours Stunning; All food wine cider local; delicious , relaxing and fun ! Go!

We could not be more pleasantly surprised with a random find. Sunset view at bar seating, good food, welcoming people, and music in back patio. Thank you so much ladies who waited on us at bar... fabulous overall experience.

I do love the food here but it's changed so much. I understand Covid has forced many permanent changes but I miss a bigger variety on the menus here. The new way of serving is ok as long as there is not a crowd waiting to get in. It takes too long to show new people how it works. Sorry to give a neg to a place I really like. The catfish is still the best I've ever had!! I do recommend going here if you are in the Seneca lake area, just go early!

So delicious and so accommodating. The view was spectacular as well. We sat indoors and there was great music. Building is unique. All around wonderful. FYI. The children's portions are very generous.

It is a beautiful little restaurant! The views were fabulous! Our food was fresh, local and most of all delicious! The staff was terrific and super friendly! The cocktail I had was a lime Ricky margarita with home strawberry syrup! I must say one of the best I have had!! Our appetizer was called Olivlada, which was kalamata olives puréed with olive oil, garlic and fresh herbs, served with a variety of fresh breads, fresh greens and feta cheese! For lunch my husband had falafel wrap with fresh made chips! Soooo good! I had the Reuben special! Let me tell you I have never had a Reuben like this! The bread was fresh and made right on the premises! The bread was topped with thousand island dressing roast beef, goat cheese and I think Swiss cheese! This was served with fries! Everything was so yummy! We enjoyed our lunch so much that we made reservations for our anniversary next month!

Food was good but not for the price. Pork chop couldve been cooked better. Wine was great but its the finger lakes so that's obvious

Ate dinner here on 5/5/23 and was thrilled to see Stonecat getting its groove back. Carrot ginger soup, special salad, and pork chop entree were all delicious. Leidenfrost Cabernet Sauvignon was a nice surprise. Our dining partners loved their catfish dinner and their "Manhector" cocktails looked great. Please support this local restaurant. Some of the best local fare in the area.

I did not go out here on a normal evening, I was there on the pub night on Wednesday. There was live music, which was great, little bit cheaper food, which was also great. I ordered the burger which was fantastic, they're not cooked medium like I asked. It was over cooked. But still tasted great. The beers were fantastic, service was great, and the vibe was definitely very local. I would recommend this place at least for the pub night, as I have not been there any other night.

Delicious farm-to-table French/American fare. Service was impeccable and our server was very knowledgeable about the wine list. I got the special soup of the day: golden bisque, which is golden oyster mushrooms and chanterelles with truffle and crispy mushrooms to finish. Delicious! Appetizers to share were the house-baked bread (pretty good), the olivada with chevre (also pretty good), and the wild mushroom torte (delicious). For entree I got the duck breast special with sweet potato mash and roasted cauliflower, zucchini, and squash. This was amazing. Duck was cooked perfectly medium rare. The sauce (which I forget what it was) was delicious. And all the veggies were flavorful. As for wine, we had the pinot noir champagne, which was delicious. Rich golden color, lots of flavor. The only gripe I have is that we went during a heat wave and the central dining room only has fans. Not great to eat delicious hot soup when sweating bullets :/

We went there for lunch. We needed reservations due to Covid 19. Accommodating helpful staff. We had 6 feet physical distancing. Good ambiance. We sat out side. I had the tacos. Excellent with slaw. My wife had pulled pork, she liked it. My kids had yummy grilled cheese. We will go back when we return.

The staff is very friendly& attentive to our needs. The view is okay. Try the BBQ Pork Cornbread ,& their signature salad! All this for $37 for 2 people

The food at this cafe is unreal. Went with my family and we all enjoyed our meal. I had a bacon burger and it was cooked to perfection. Also, the drinks are awesome. I would recommend their homemade cream soda. Long story short, go. :)

This was a great spot with a really nice vibe and view. The food was solid and service was excellent. We went for a bachelorette and had a terrific time. Halibut special was really good, although with a sweet beet cherry sauce that was not my favorite. Friends got the chicken under a brick (very good, a tad dry), the duck confit (also a tad dry), mushroom risotto w maple sausage (pops in your mouth - nice and creamy), duck special with sweet potato mash (very good, right temperature). Mushroom torte was a table hit! Olive and chèvre nothing really special. Pinot noir champagne was amazing! The only MAJOR CON was that we were seated inside where there was no AC. We were seriously MELTING with 80 degree weather outside. There was a secret room next to us that was curtained off with TWO ACs... felt a little odd. Like they were first class or something. The seating outside felt more casual but had a beautiful view and the benefit of fresh air. As a larger party, it would've been nice to be seated well. But perhaps we should've asked!

The food, beverages, atmosphere, and staff are the best! I love this place. I've go back to this place ever time I'm in the area, and I've always been very happy that I did.

If you drive by this restaurant you would never imagine what food wise jewel will be inside. More looking like a typical road restaurant / bar from outside also the interior is more the same spartan style nothing extraordinary but the service is great and the food even better. They also care very highly about the COVID-rules, very much appreciated. Yes, you have to pay $2.50 for the bread but you get a nice basket with about 3 different styles and a good olive oil for it. As an appetizer I had the Gravlox a nicely marinated, smoked salmon which was exquisite. My wife took the Garlic Bulb (an appetizer) as main and she liked it very much. I had the Catfish which was very classical done but well prepared and presented. To finish a great dinner we shared the Cobbler where I definitely fall "in love" with the Chef. And all is really very reasonable priced. No visit to culinary Finger Lakes can be complete without visiting the Stonecat Cafe. But do not expect any "niminy-piminy".

I was part of a wine tasting group of four friends and we all enjoyed the Sunday Jazz brunch at the Stonecqt! It was great that they offer full meals and components separately. We each felt like we all got exactly what we wanted! Highlights were the shredded beef, fried catfish, cornbread, house sausage, felafel and burger.

There was a service dog in the group I was traveling with. The hostess told us we would have to wait a few minutes because we would have to sit outside, at the last table on the deck. We were ok with that, even though the hostess was a little rude. We were seated and the hostess said the dog would have to lay on the grass, off the deck. The dog laid nicely by our feet, on the deck, under the table. Hostess- how is the dog supposed to alert the owner that they are about to have a seizure, if they dog is not next to the owner? The only reason why I am giving three stars to this place is because the grass fed burger was so delicious. I really liked it. It was juicy, and you could tell the ingredients were fresh. The fries were also crispy and good. I also didn't care for the server. She was not friendly and had an air of pretentiousness about her.

We came here during COVID on our trip to Seneca lake. The food was beyond expectations. Really unique dishes that were so delicious! The views, were by far, some of the best we've seen in the finger lakes. A must go-to restaurant if you're visiting Seneca Lake!

What a fabulous meal in a comfortable, unassuming atmosphere! Service was accommodating and the food was wonderful. We came based on a recommendation from one person in our group who had been here previously and said it was great. We had A group of 3 and everyone loved their meals. We had the veggie bisque, cornbread, halibut, pork chop and steak. The blueberry peach cobbler with ice cream and fresh whipped cream perfectly completed a delicious meal. This was by far our best experience in the Watkins Glen area over a few days stay. Cant wait to visit again!

I will lead off this review that our server, Andrew - completely blew us away! He was incredibly kind and did his best to accommodate us. We chose Stonecat Cafe to celebrate our elopement which took place earlier in the day. About 1 month before I E-Mailed the restaurant to make a reservation, informing them that it is for a wedding celebration and request a table outside. Kassidy, the manager, informed me that they don't take reservations for specific tables but she'll do her best. Our reservation was for 830 pm. Upon our arrival we did not get an outdoor table, we were sat a folding table in a backroom that had no ambiance, no music etc. just a window AC that was set on 60 degrees. I was obviously upset that after canceling our dream wedding we couldn't manage to get just a nice table to enjoy a dinner with our 3 friends. I spoke to the hostess and she tried to get Kassidy for me as she was on duty - Kassidy refused to speak to me and sent back the hostess to say "oh well, sorry." I should note that I've worked in hospitality in all various roles including hostess, server, FOH manager etc for most of my adult life. I always was able to accommodate special requests, especially if those were after the dinner rush. Half way through our dinner, Andrew our savior managed to get us a table outside - the patio was nearly empty and seemingly so for a while. The food was just okay - we had two orders of the swordfish, risotto and the NY strip - the flavors of the risotto did not wow me. The appetizers were super small portions but tasty. The price is very fair, we had 1 bottle of wine, 3 appetizers and 5 entrees and our bill was about $330. We left Andrew a 25% tip to thank him for trying his best. Overall its fine for dinner as the options in the area are limited but if you are really looking for a special night out, I would make the drive to Geneva or Watkins Glenn.

A seemingly rundown place along the main highway running through Hector. This was our dinner spot, chosen by our resident cousin and their former resident mother, all of which know the Stonecat and wanted us to enjoy it as they do/did. Well, it was OK, certainly not at the fan level or greatest place ever. Run down building reminded me of the hippy places in California. OK clean, but no real attention paid to decor. Any way, it is a restaurant, so that should be the focus. And the emphasis is on organic...with great pride. Menu was limited and eclectic. Seven appetizers to include bread with extra virgin olive oil ($2.50), olives and herbs with bread ($7.50), a beet salad ($14), gravlox ($12.50) a corn and scallion crepe ($11) and a bar plate of assorted sausage, goat cheese and veggies with their bread ($12). Not too exciting to wife and me, but everyone seemed very excited about it. There were four entrees, with emphasis on seasonal. Duck confit ($25) which I had and it came, as I requested, well-done. Wife had chicken under a brick ($28) which she was not thrilled with. The other two entrees were spinach and mushroom risotto ($26) and grilled NY strip steak ($36) which cousin had and he had to saw his way through it, the vigorous display he put on was the focus of our table. Two $18 cult classics were the pulled port BBQ and fried catfish, which I wish I had ordered. And one other cult classic was the falafel salad ($12.50). We drank cocktails and whooped it up with a couple of bottles of wine which helped to wash down the relatively flavorless meals. The descriptions fell far short of the plated items. A memorable experience, especially if you are in the area or receive a suggestion to go there and recall your experience. Back to the hippy analogy: whatever they do it wonderful and who are you to question it. Cannot understand the rave reviews; but when you read through them, the underlying theme is less than rave.

This place has a lot of potential but the food is just okay with very few vegetarian options and the service was subpar. Also, while they have a really nice deck space out in the back with a great view, the bushes / plants were very overgrown, obstructing a lot of the view. I had made a reservation over a week in advance specifying that I would prefer an outdoor tables, weather permitting. The weather definitely permitted when we arrived and I reminded the hostess of my preference for an outdoor table. She replied with something to the effect that the preference does not indicate guaranteed outdoor seating, which I thought was unnecessarily abrupt, especially when she was actually able to seat us outside. Maybe wait with that line until you confirm a table is not available? It made me think we were somehow inconveniencing them and set a bad tone for the rest of the experience. The menu is very limited with only one vegetarian entree, a risotto. I ended up ordering a salad and a side of mashed potatoes. Our waiter started off good but seemed overwhelmed later in the meal. As we were waiting to checkout, he opted to take orders from a large party near us that was very chatty and we had to wait a long time to pay. I would not rule out returning here on a future visit as dining options in the are are a bit limited but they could really improve this place with more vegetarian options, trimming some shrubbery and training the staff in better service. Don't judge it from the exterior because it looks like a roadside dive from the outside. The outdoor seating is nice and classy.