Timothy S.
Yelp
The restaurant at Green Lakes State Park formerly known as Justin's is every bit as good as its predecessor and maybe even a bit better! Situated high above the jewel-toned waters of Green Lake and overlooking the 18th green at the Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course, the patio at Yards has some of the prettiest vistas of any in CNY.
Yards is not just a pretty face though. It offers an eclectic New Classic American menu that is sure to make ordering difficult, as you struggle to choose between multiple tempting options. (Don't worry, you're going to want to come back over and over to try them all!)
I've been there twice now. The first time, our party kept it basic: Utica greens dip for the table, two burgers, and a fresh berry salad with grilled chicken. The double beef patty burgers are generous and served on brioche buns. Both the mushroom Swiss burger and the Juicy Lucy (double beef patties, cheddar, pickles, bacon, and special sauce on a brioche bun) came exactly as ordered (not something common these days) and tasted every bit as good as they looked.
Forcing patrons to choose between the short rib, Mahi Mahi, and Peri Peri chicken tacos is a form of torture, however. It would be nice if they offered a combo plate of one of each. On my second visit, I went with the Mahi Mahi and wasn't disappointed.
Do not pass up the strawberry shortcake for dessert. The whipped cream is dense, like Bavarian schlag, and the homemade biscuits are light and fluffy. And it's so big that you're going to want to share or, better yet, take half home for later!