Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes wine region, Americus Restaurant at LaBelle Winery offers an exceptional dining experience that perfectly complements the winery’s celebrated vintages. This establishment is renowned not only for its impressive wine selection but also for a thoughtfully curated menu that highlights seasonal ingredients, creative culinary techniques, and a dedication to local flavors.
Whether you are visiting for a casual lunch, an elegant dinner, or a special event, Americus provides a warm and inviting atmosphere that elevates every meal into a memorable occasion.
The menu at Americus Restaurant reflects a harmonious balance between traditional American fare and innovative dishes that celebrate the bounty of the region. Chefs emphasize fresh, locally sourced produce and meats, crafting plates that showcase both simplicity and sophistication.
Each dish is designed to pair seamlessly with LaBelle Winery’s extensive wine portfolio, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Diners can expect a well-rounded selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts that cater to diverse palates without compromising on quality or presentation.
Beyond the food, Americus Restaurant emphasizes hospitality and a connection to place. The culinary team works closely with local farmers and artisans to ensure that each ingredient tells a story of the Finger Lakes.
This commitment to authenticity and sustainability is evident throughout the menu, making it a destination for those who appreciate both exceptional food and the art of winemaking.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer menu at Americus Restaurant sets the tone for an exquisite dining experience, offering a variety of small plates designed to stimulate the palate. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light start to a meal.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the freshness of local ingredients and to complement the winery’s signature wines.
Popular choices include the Finger Lakes Cheese Board, which features an assortment of artisanal cheeses sourced from nearby creameries. This selection pairs beautifully with crisp whites and light reds from LaBelle Winery.
Another standout is the Roasted Beet Salad, combining earthy beets with tangy goat cheese and candied pecans for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Seafood lovers will appreciate offerings such as the Smoked Trout Dip, served with house-baked crackers and accented by fresh herbs. The kitchen’s creative use of seasonal produce ensures that the appetizer menu evolves throughout the year, keeping it fresh and exciting for returning guests.
Signature Small Plates
- LaBelle Charcuterie Board: A curated selection of cured meats, pickled vegetables, and artisanal breads.
- Seasonal Vegetable Flatbread: Featuring locally grown vegetables, whipped ricotta, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
- Wild Mushroom Bruschetta: Sautéed mushrooms with garlic and thyme on toasted baguette slices.
“The appetizers at Americus are a celebration of local terroir, perfectly designed to complement the winery’s exceptional wines.” – Local Food Critic
Entrées: A Celebration of Local Ingredients
The entrée selection at Americus Restaurant showcases a commitment to sourcing high-quality, local ingredients. Each dish is crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the region, with an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability.
The menu changes frequently to reflect what is freshest and most flavorful, ensuring diners always enjoy the best the Finger Lakes have to offer.
Signature dishes like the Herb-Crusted Lamb Loin demonstrate the kitchen’s skill in balancing robust flavors with delicate preparation. This dish is paired with a rich red wine reduction, enhancing the depth of the lamb without overpowering its natural taste.
Another notable entrée is the Pan-Seared Hudson Valley Duck Breast, served with a cherry gastrique that perfectly complements the wine’s fruity notes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are thoughtfully integrated into the entrée menu, such as the Grilled Cauliflower Steak with a smoky romesco sauce. This dish exemplifies Americus’s dedication to inclusivity, ensuring all guests can enjoy a memorable dining experience.
Entrée Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Recommended Wine Pairing |
| Herb-Crusted Lamb Loin | Lamb, rosemary, thyme, garlic | LaBelle Cabernet Franc |
| Pan-Seared Hudson Valley Duck Breast | Duck breast, cherries, red wine gastrique | LaBelle Pinot Noir |
| Grilled Cauliflower Steak | Cauliflower, romesco sauce, almonds | LaBelle Chardonnay |
“Each entrée at Americus is a thoughtful composition of local flavors, designed to elevate the dining experience alongside LaBelle’s wines.” – Chef’s Statement
Seasonal Soups and Salads
Americus Restaurant takes pride in offering a rotating selection of soups and salads that highlight the best seasonal produce. These lighter options are crafted with the same dedication to quality and flavor as the rest of the menu, making them perfect choices for a refreshing start or a lighter meal.
The soup offerings often include hearty and comforting options such as a Butternut Squash Bisque in the fall, or a bright and tangy Gazpacho during summer months. Each soup is made from scratch daily, ensuring freshness and depth of flavor.
Salads are vibrant and inventive, combining fresh greens with nuts, fruits, and house-made dressings.
One popular salad is the Apple and Walnut Salad, featuring mixed greens, sliced apples, toasted walnuts, and a maple vinaigrette. This dish perfectly captures the essence of the Finger Lakes’ harvest season and pairs wonderfully with the winery’s crisp white wines.
Salad and Soup Selection
- Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad: Beets, oranges, arugula, and a honey mustard dressing.
- French Onion Soup: Slow-cooked onions, savory broth, topped with melted gruyère cheese.
- Kale Caesar Salad: Chopped kale, parmesan, croutons, and traditional Caesar dressing.
“The soups and salads at Americus are not just starters; they are expressions of the season, prepared with care and creativity.” – Seasonal Menu Curator
Artisan Breads and Sides
No meal at Americus Restaurant is complete without sampling their house-made artisan breads and thoughtfully prepared sides. These accompaniments are crafted to enhance the main dishes and offer additional layers of flavor and texture.
The bread selection includes a variety of fresh loaves such as rosemary focaccia, crusty sourdough, and multigrain rolls. Each loaf is baked daily using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients.
The kitchen pairs these breads with herb-infused butters, olive oil blends, and seasonal spreads that complement the flavors of the meal.
Sides range from simple, elegant roasted vegetables to more complex preparations like truffle mashed potatoes or sautéed greens with garlic and chili flakes. These options provide diners with the flexibility to customize their meals and enhance the overall dining experience.
Popular Bread and Side Options
- Rosemary Focaccia: Soft, airy bread infused with fresh rosemary and sea salt.
- Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes blended with truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A rotating selection based on market availability.
“Our artisan breads and sides are crafted to be the perfect complement, elevating each dish with thoughtful flavors and textures.” – Head Baker
Desserts: Sweet Finales
The dessert menu at Americus Restaurant offers a range of indulgent yet balanced sweets designed to provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal. Drawing inspiration from classic American desserts and incorporating regional ingredients, the pastry team creates dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious.
Signature desserts include the Maple Pecan Tart, which features a buttery crust filled with a rich maple and pecan filling. This dessert is a nod to the local maple syrup producers and pairs beautifully with a late-harvest Riesling.
Another favorite is the Chocolate Ganache Cake, a dense and velvety creation that appeals to chocolate lovers.
For those seeking lighter options, Americus offers sorbets and seasonal fruit plates that highlight the natural sweetness of fresh produce. These choices ensure that every guest can find a dessert that satisfies their palate.
Dessert Highlights
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Suggested Wine Pairing |
| Maple Pecan Tart | Maple syrup, pecans, buttery crust | LaBelle Late-Harvest Riesling |
| Chocolate Ganache Cake | Dark chocolate, cream, cocoa powder | LaBelle Merlot |
| Lemon Sorbet | Lemon juice, sugar, water | LaBelle Sauvignon Blanc |
“Desserts at Americus are crafted to leave a lasting impression, blending regional flavors with classic techniques.” – Pastry Chef
Beverage Pairings and Wine Selection
Americus Restaurant’s beverage program is deeply intertwined with LaBelle Winery’s extensive and award-winning wine portfolio. The menu is designed to offer expert pairings that enhance the flavors of each dish, providing a complete sensory experience for guests.
Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling selections, the beverage menu accommodates a broad range of tastes.
In addition to LaBelle wines, Americus offers a curated list of local craft beers, artisanal cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. The bartenders and sommeliers are knowledgeable and happy to suggest pairings based on your meal choice, ensuring that the beverage complements your dining experience perfectly.
Regular wine tastings and special pairing dinners are also hosted, providing guests with opportunities to explore new varietals and deepen their appreciation for the Finger Lakes wine region. This educational aspect enhances the restaurant’s mission of celebrating local terroir and craftsmanship.
Beverage Highlights
- LaBelle Cabernet Franc: A versatile red that pairs well with rich meats and hearty dishes.
- Finger Lakes Sparkling Riesling: Perfect for celebrations or as a refreshing aperitif.
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating selection featuring nearby breweries.
- Seasonal Cocktails: Crafted with fresh fruit and local spirits.
“Our beverage program is designed not just to accompany meals but to tell the story of the Finger Lakes through every sip.” – Sommelier
Special Dietary Options and Customizations
Americus Restaurant is committed to inclusivity and accommodating a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions. The menu features clearly marked vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with flexibility to customize many dishes upon request.
The kitchen staff takes care to avoid cross-contamination and to use substitute ingredients that maintain the integrity of each dish.
Guests with food allergies or specific dietary needs are encouraged to communicate with the staff, who are trained to provide safe and satisfying alternatives. This personalized approach ensures that every diner feels cared for and can enjoy a meal tailored to their lifestyle.
Seasonal menus often highlight plant-based dishes, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable and health-conscious choices. Americus’s culinary team embraces this by innovating with vegetables, grains, and legumes in ways that are both flavorful and visually appealing.
Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options: Bread and pasta alternatives available upon request.
- Vegan Entrées: Creative dishes featuring plant-based proteins and seasonal vegetables.
- Allergy Awareness: Staff trained to handle common allergens including nuts, dairy, and shellfish.
- Customizable Plates: Flexibility to modify dishes to suit individual needs.
“At Americus, every guest’s dietary needs are respected with thoughtful preparation and genuine hospitality.” – Restaurant Manager
Private Events and Catering Menu
Americus Restaurant offers comprehensive private event and catering services, making it an ideal venue for weddings, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. The catering menu is based on the same high standards as the regular dining menu, with options to customize based on the size and nature of the event.
Event planners can work directly with the culinary team to craft menus that reflect the preferences and dietary needs of their guests. Whether opting for plated dinners, buffet-style service, or cocktail receptions with passed hors d’oeuvres, Americus ensures a seamless and memorable experience.
The scenic winery setting combined with exceptional cuisine and attentive service creates a unique ambiance that elevates any event. From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, Americus Restaurant provides a sophisticated culinary backdrop that guests will remember long after the occasion ends.
Event Menu Options
- Customizable Plated Dinners: Multi-course meals tailored to event themes and guest preferences.
- Passed Hors d’oeuvres: Elegant small bites perfect for cocktail receptions.
- Buffet Selections: A variety of stations featuring seasonal ingredients and diverse cuisines.
- Beverage Packages: Including wine pairings, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
“Hosting an event at Americus means exceptional food, personalized service, and a stunning setting that impresses every guest.” – Events Coordinator
Americus Restaurant at LaBelle Winery stands as a beacon of culinary excellence within the Finger Lakes region, seamlessly blending the artistry of winemaking with inspired cuisine. The menu’s thoughtful design, commitment to local ingredients, and attention to detail offer diners an experience that transcends ordinary dining.
Each course—from appetizers to desserts—is crafted with intention and paired expertly with the winery’s celebrated wines, inviting guests to savor the unique flavors of the region in every bite and sip.
Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking a memorable occasion, Americus delivers with warmth, elegance, and authenticity. The restaurant’s dedication to sustainability, inclusivity, and hospitality ensures that every visit is not just a meal but a celebration of local culture and culinary craftsmanship.
Exploring the Americus menu is an invitation to connect with the Finger Lakes in a deeply sensory and unforgettable way, making it a destination that continues to delight and inspire.
