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"Craving Comfort"	"10 Wine Spots"
"Indoor Sports"	"Throwing A Fall Fete"

Experience the Change of Seasons
on Lake Ontario

Written by Joel P. Sero

An interior view of Pier 45 at the Port

Pier 45 is not just a summer destination for dining

As the annual reappearance of school buses on Rochester’s streets and expressways signifies the unofficial end of summer, one need not deprive one’s self of the joys of summer that will continue to linger throughout September, especially along the shores of our great Lake Ontario. In fact, some of the most pleasant weather for an evening stroll along the shore lies in the weeks ahead, before the summer verdancy gradually yields to the official coming of autumn and her vivid palette. Thus, although the kids are returning to school or college, there is still time to get out and enjoy a romantic evening amongst the backdrop of one of Rochester’s most beautiful attractions -- minus the mid-summer crowds. An excellent and easily accessible venue at which one may enjoy the Lake is at Ontario Beach Park, a popular summer spot where boaters, swimmers, sunbathers, and lake-lovers of all ages converge throughout the summer months.

And surely, no romantic evening on the shore, or elsewhere, would be complete without an elegant dinner served with style and panache. If this sounds like your kind of evening, there is no better establishment to experience it than at Pier 45 at the Port, one of Rochester’s smarter, hipper dining establishments.

The moment one steps from the elevator on the second floor of the Port Terminal Building, the tastefully trendy experience of Pier 45 begins. Walking down the corridor into the main dining area, one is immediate struck by the sparse, stylishly modern décor: low-key, relaxed, and yet excitingly chic.

A view from the veranda

As we approached the smiling maître d’, she warmly greeted me by name, as I had made reservations online. She immediately showed us to our table on the veranda, whose perspective offered a pleasing view of the harbor, which stretched far beyond the sail-speckled shore, and far off, into Lake Ontario’s seemingly infinitesimal horizon.

Once seated, we were impressed by Pier 45’s extensive wine list, which included several choices for every palate. A glance at the menu revealed a tantalizing selection of Tapas, first plates, and entrées, which were accompanied by sumptuous descriptions. We came to Pier 45 looking for a light, summery dinner; and although we had some difficulty deciding among the array of savory choices, we were pleased with our selections. Although a specific discussion of Pier 45 cuisine is far beyond the scope of this article, let me just say that the wine, salads, empanadas, and margherita pizza not only met, but exceeded our expectations!

However, those who may not be looking for a full meal can also stop by Pier 45’s well-stocked bar, which offers a wide-selection of brews and cocktails, in addition to the aforementioned wine list. Once you have been served your beverage, you can feel free to take a seat at the bar or wander onto the veranda, which features cozy, shaded lounging areas at both ends.

"Lord Fletcher" Short Beef Ribs

Pier 45 is open year-round, and, in fact, on chillier or inclement occasions, the veranda, which also features fire-pits at each end, has the capability of being closed off from the inclement weather. According to our gracious, knowledgeable, and upbeat server, Gloria, the veranda is a fantastic place to take shelter from a thunderstorm, by providing a stunning view of the thunder and lightning shows over a glass of wine and their sumptuous, creative cuisine, all from the perspective of Pier 45’s dry, comfy veranda.

I cannot think of a better place to experience a romantic summer dinner than at Pier 45. The service and staff were not only friendly, buoyant, and welcoming, but also knowledgeable about the luscious, creative dishes that they serve, as well. As Pier 45 is a more upscale restaurant that offers a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere, “smart casual” dress is encouraged.

Lastly, I cannot say enough about Pier 45’s staff. The service was superb, from the maître d’ to our server, Gloria, to the cordiality of Pier 45’s assistant manager, Mr. Jim Pizzo. We felt welcomed and valued from the moment we were greeted to the moment we departed, and we will certainly return soon!

Pier 45 at the Port
Port Terminal Building
1000 North River Street
Rochester, NY 14612
Phone: 585.865.4500
Executive Chef : Michael Dugan
Web: View Pier 45
Open - Monday-Friday: 4pm-Midnight, Saturday: 2pm-Midnight, Sunday:11am-11pm

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