You Don't Have to Leave New York for a World-Class Meal

When you think about some of the best restaurants in the world, you might picture New York City, Paris, or somewhere across the ocean.

But a restaurant in the Finger Lakes just earned a spot on a list of the world's best hotel restaurants, and it's a whole lot closer to home for those of us in Central New York.

Travel + Leisure named Fields Restaurant at Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa one of its 25 Best Hotel Restaurants in the World for 2026.

a person cutting up vegetables on a cutting board
Photo by Or Hakim on Unsplash

What Makes Fields Restaurant Stand Out?

Fields is located at Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa, a resort in the Finger Lakes region. The restaurant's approach centers on seasonal ingredients, local farms, and letting fresh food speak for itself.

Executive Chef Esperanza Guzman works with local producers to bring fresh vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers to the menu. The cooking combines Italian and French influences, with creative touches.

And there's more to the experience than what's on the plate. Fields has an extensive wine selection, including 65 from the Finger Lakes region, along with cocktails and options from around the world.

More New York Restaurants Worth a Visit

Fields isn't the only place in New York worth planning a meal around.

From New York City and the Adirondacks to Western and Central New York, there's no shortage of restaurants earning attention for their food, atmosphere, and overall dining experience.

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Central New York & Finger Lakes

  • Pastabilities, Syracuse – A local favorite known for its pasta and signature spicy hot tomato oil.
  • The Tailor and the Cook – Utica: Looking for a special night out? This restaurant is known for seasonal American cuisine, creative dishes and an upscale dining experience.
  • mōtus – Utica: Located downtown, mōtus offers a modern take on American dining, with creative food and craft cocktails. It's another option for a date night or dinner with friends.
  • The Willows of Utica – Utica: This longtime dining destination offers an upscale atmosphere and a menu featuring American and Italian-American influences.
  • Sugarbeets – Rome: This contemporary bistro is an option for diners looking for a more modern atmosphere and a meal that's a little different from the usual dinner spots.
  • Vine & Fig – Rome: If you'd rather enjoy a relaxed evening with wine and small plates, this is another Rome restaurant to explore.
  • Vescio's Franklin Hotel – Rome: For those who appreciate classic Italian-American food and local history, this is another name to look into when planning a meal in Rome.
  • The Krebs, Skaneateles – A historic restaurant offering an upscale dinner in the heart of the village.
  • Moosewood Restaurant, Ithaca – A longtime name in vegetarian cooking, with a history deeply connected to the Finger Lakes food scene.
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Adirondacks

Western New York

  • Toutant, Buffalo – Southern-inspired cooking, including comfort-food classics and seafood.
  • Las Puertas, Buffalo – A Mexican-inspired fine-dining experience built around creative seasonal dishes.

Hudson Valley & Capital Region

Long Island

New York State Standouts

Make Your Next Meal a Destination

Sometimes a great meal is worth the drive, whether that means heading to Skaneateles for a taste of a restaurant recognized on a world stage or making a weekend out of exploring somewhere new.

New York has plenty of places where a good meal can be the highlight of the trip.

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