Introduction
The aroma of woodsmoke and freshly baked bread hung heavy in the air, a stark contrast to the familiar scent of exhaust fumes I was used to. It was a smell that promised something different, something richer, something… northern. I had driven a few hours north of my city, drawn by whispers of artisanal cheeses, hearty stews, and breweries crafting unique beers. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a pilgrimage in search of delicious food north of me, an exploration of a culinary landscape that had beckoned for far too long. This article serves as my recounting of this exciting journey!
My exploration focuses on the region of Upstate New York, a vast expanse stretching from the suburbs just above the city to the Canadian border. It’s a land of rolling hills, sprawling farms, and tight-knit communities, a world away from the frantic pace of my daily life. Upstate New York boasts a culinary history deeply rooted in agriculture, shaped by waves of immigration and the natural bounty of its land. Dairy farms dot the countryside, producing award-winning cheeses and creamy yogurts. Orchards overflow with apples and pears in the fall, while maple trees yield their sweet sap in the spring. This rich agricultural heritage has fostered a strong farm-to-table movement, with chefs and artisans embracing local ingredients and traditional techniques. The area is truly a food north of me paradise.
The Heart of the Matter: Unveiling Culinary Specialties
One dish that immediately captures the essence of Upstate New York is chicken riggies. Don’t let the seemingly straightforward name fool you; this dish is a flavor explosion. Chunks of tender chicken, sautéed with peppers, mushrooms, and a creamy, spicy tomato sauce, cling to ridged rigatoni pasta. The sauce, often made with a blend of hot and sweet peppers, delivers a satisfying kick that’s balanced by the richness of the cream. Every cook has their own rendition, so the flavor is slightly different depending on the eatery! I found a particularly memorable version at a small Italian-American restaurant in Utica, a town known as the birthplace of this beloved dish. The restaurant, which had been serving chicken riggies for generations, offered a comforting and authentic experience that transported me back in time.
Another culinary staple is the salt potatoes. These small, round potatoes are boiled in heavily salted water until tender and then served with melted butter or sour cream. The salt imparts a unique flavor and texture, creating a creamy interior with a slightly salty skin. Salt potatoes are a simple yet satisfying dish, particularly popular at summer picnics and barbecues. Their origins can be traced back to the salt mines of Syracuse, where miners would cook potatoes in brine as a cheap and easy meal. The unique flavor profile is unlike anything I’ve ever tasted.
Beyond the savory delights, Upstate New York is also renowned for its apples and apple cider donuts. During the fall, orchards burst into color, offering pick-your-own experiences and roadside stands overflowing with freshly picked apples. Apple cider donuts, warm and fragrant with cinnamon and nutmeg, are a quintessential fall treat. They are perfectly paired with a cup of hot apple cider. I can vividly recall the taste of these donuts during a fall festival, and the aroma is an experience I cherish.
Places of Palate: Dining Establishments That Deserve Attention
No culinary journey is complete without exploring the restaurants that bring these regional specialties to life. The first notable establishment is “The Brewster Inn,” a lakeside restaurant in Cazenovia that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, with stunning views of the lake. Their menu features seasonal dishes that showcase the best of Upstate New York’s bounty, including pan-seared scallops with butternut squash risotto and grilled ribeye steak with roasted root vegetables. The prices are on the higher end, but the quality of the food and the breathtaking setting make it worth the splurge. I was particularly impressed by their commitment to sustainable practices and their support of local farmers.
For a more casual experience, consider ” Dinosaur Bar-B-Que,” a Syracuse institution known for its smoky, slow-cooked barbecue. The atmosphere is lively and boisterous, with live music and a menu featuring ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and all the classic barbecue sides. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. Be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours, but trust me, it’s worth it! The ribs were particularly memorable, falling off the bone with tender meat and a rich, smoky flavor.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a hidden gem, seek out “The Red Rooster Cafe” in Cooperstown. This unassuming diner serves up classic American comfort food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their breakfast menu is a particular standout, with fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and farm-fresh eggs. The prices are incredibly affordable, and the service is friendly and welcoming. It’s the perfect place to start your day before exploring the charming town of Cooperstown. The Red Rooster is a testament to the fact that simple food, done well, can be incredibly satisfying.
Beyond the Menu: The Thrill of Food Markets and Craft
Venturing beyond established restaurants offers a deeper appreciation for the food culture of Upstate New York. The Regional Market in Syracuse is a vibrant hub where farmers, artisans, and food vendors come together to showcase their wares. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to homemade jams and handcrafted goods. It’s a great place to sample local delicacies, meet the people behind the food, and stock up on ingredients for your own culinary creations. I was particularly drawn to the artisan cheese vendors, who offered samples of their award-winning cheeses and shared stories about their family farms.
Visiting a local brewery is another must-do experience. Upstate New York is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries popping up in small towns and rural areas. Many breweries offer tours, tastings, and food pairings. I enjoyed sampling different styles of beer and learning about the brewing process. One brewery in particular, “Ommegang” in Cooperstown, stood out for its Belgian-inspired beers and its stunning farmhouse setting. Their tasting room offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a flight of beers and soak in the beautiful scenery.
For a sweeter ending, a stop at a maple syrup producer is a must. This is definitely a treat I looked for north of me! Several of these producers welcome visitors for tours and tastings during the sugaring season. You can learn about the process of tapping maple trees, boiling the sap, and grading the syrup. And, of course, you get to sample the finished product! I was amazed by the different grades of maple syrup, ranging from light and delicate to dark and robust.
A Culinary Journey Comes to Conclusion
My journey north to explore the food north of me was more than just a culinary adventure; it was an immersion into a different way of life. It was a reminder of the importance of supporting local farmers and artisans, of savoring simple pleasures, and of connecting with the food we eat. From the hearty comfort of chicken riggies to the sweet simplicity of salt potatoes, Upstate New York offered a feast for the senses. It was an experience that not only tantalized my taste buds but also nourished my soul.
I highly recommend venturing out and exploring the food north of you, wherever you may be. You might be surprised by what you discover. Perhaps you’ll find a hidden gem of a restaurant, a unique local product, or a new favorite dish. But more than that, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the people and places that make your region so special. As for me, I’m already planning my next culinary adventure. The woodsmoke aroma, and the fresh flavors are calling! And I now feel like I have some strong, local food memories to share!
