Mirbeau Inn & Spa :
Perfect Romantic Weekend
They said they'd surprise me. They were right.
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that dispense either a full, half, or tasting glass. They will match appetizers to your choice of wine - ask the bartender for recommendations.
Local Restaurants:
Here are a few recommendations if you’d prefer to venture outside of Mirbeau for dinner:
Sherwood Inn (Skaneateles, 26 West Genesee): This local staple offers both tavern and classic dining settings, the former being a bit more casual. I suggest you go on Friday when they have the local raw bar (clams and mussels and shrimp). It’s a great place to go on the first night after traveling that day – it gives you the option to hang out in the tavern if you don’t feel like a traditional sit down. I had pecan encrusted salmon, oysters, and French Onion soup – all delicious. For menus and more information, visit thesherwoodinn.com.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (Syracuse, 246 W. Willow): I strongly suggest that before departing for home you cap off the weekend and fuel up for the drive with a feast at one of America’s best barbecue joints. Located in downtown Syracuse (again, only a thirty minute drive), Dinosaur was voted America's best barbecue in ABC's "Good Morning America" poll in May 2009. It is a fantastic spot to sit and eat at the bar – the staff is very friendly and it’s packed with locals. Wait times can be lengthy, so show up right when they open at noon on Sunday before you head out of town (they don’t take reservations).
Empire Brewing Company (Syracuse, 120 Walton): While I did not eat here, it’s a great spot located under the city streets with a long bar and solid local brew. Get there early on game days as it tends to be rather popular. Empire draws the water for their brewing process from Lake Skaneateles, which is where the comment about it being the cleanest Finger Lake comes into play.
Al’s Wine and Whiskey Lounge (Syracuse, 321 South Clinton): If you’re not feeling beer, visit Al and his “Wall of Booze” – it looks like a library bookshelf, complete with those old-school ladders that allow the bartender to reach the highest shelves. It’s a great spot for a nightcap with live music and leather couches.
Downtown Lodging Options:
I recommend spending a night in the city in addition to one (or two) at Mirbeau, and here are a few places I found to be quite comfortable:
The Jefferson Clinton: Within walking distance to 50 bars and restaurants, the Jefferson Clinton puts you in the heart of downtown Syracuse. Check out one of their 68 luxury suites – visit www.jeffersonclintonhotel.com for rates and availability.
Hotel Skyler: This LEED certified hotel rests atop the hill adjacent to the campus of Syracuse University – a good spot to find yourself on a game day (it is within walking distance to the Carrier Dome). My room was decked out in green décor, a symbol of the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. Ask about the availability of a “Tree House” suite, designed to resemble the childhood classic. After dark, step back into your college years as you peruse the student bars, or hop a quick cab (5 minutes) to the downtown area for dinner and drinks. For rates and availability, visit hotelskyler.com.
Area Shopping
Carousel Center: Once the renovations and additions are complete at the end of this year, the Carousel Center in Syracuse will be the 6th largest mall in America (and the name will change to Destiny USA). Visit www.destinyusa.com for information on shops, promotions, and new developments.
For more information on Syracuse and Skaneateles, write Danica Kaltaler of the Syracuse Convention and Visitors Bureau at dKaltaler@visitsyracuse.org.
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