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Welcome To The Rook
Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, The Rook offers a delightful fusion of elevated comfort food and a relaxed ambiance. Guests are treated to a creative menu featuring standout dishes like the aromatic fried chicken and waffles, and beautifully caramelized roasted Brussels sprouts. The open kitchen invites diners to witness culinary artistry firsthand, enhancing the overall experience. Creative cocktails, from refreshing spritzes to smoky bourbon blends, complement the rich flavors on the plate. With attentive yet unobtrusive service, The Rook creates an inviting atmosphere for friends and special occasions alike, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
GRILLED DATES
4-PIECE
CAMBOZOLA
BUTTERMILK SALAD
About
The Rook
Welcome to The Rook, a delightful culinary gem nestled in the heart of Ithaca, New York. Located at 105 W Court St Suite 100, this modern eatery perfectly balances an inviting atmosphere with an elevated twist on comforting American classics. As soon as you step inside, you'll be embraced by a stylish yet relaxed vibe, making it an ideal spot for any occasion—be it a memorable date night or a casual outing with friends.
The menu at The Rook boasts an eclectic selection that truly surprises and delights. Start with their Grilled Dates—succulent morsels wrapped in bacon, paired with creamy goat cheese and crunchy marcona almonds. This appetizer not only satisfies cravings for something savory but also introduces a touch of gourmet flair. Another crowd-pleaser is the Buttermilk Salad adorned with a dill buttermilk dressing and delicate greens, which offers a refreshing contrast to the heartier mains.
Speaking of mains, make sure to indulge in the highly praised Fried Chicken. Duck fat-fried to perfection, this dish delivers a crisp exterior combined with juicy tenderness that melts in your mouth. The accompanying ham-braised collard greens add a flavorful layer, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully. Similarly, the Pork Schnitzel is a must-try, featuring a cornflake-crusted pork loin that's easy on the palate yet packed with flavor. The roasted mushrooms and house spaetzle elevate this dish further, creating a satisfying experience.
The Rook also impresses with its creative cocktail menu. From refreshing spritzers to robust bourbon-based drinks, there is a concoction for every palate. These innovative beverages harmonize with the rich flavors of the dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. It's clear the talented bartenders here understand the art of crafting cocktails that captivate the senses.
Service at The Rook is notably attentive without feeling intrusive. The knowledgeable staff is eager to recommend dishes and ensures that every detail contributes to a memorable meal. Plus, the open kitchen design offers a captivating glimpse into the culinary artistry at play, making each visit feel both intimate and exhilarating.
In summary, The Rook stands out as a culinary destination in Ithaca. With its mouthwatering menu, impressive cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it guarantees an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, remember to save room for dessert—rumor has it that they are nothing short of divine. Don't miss the chance to explore this lovely spot and discover the creativity that defines The Rook!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ The Rook is an exceptional dining experience in Ithaca that seamlessly blends a relaxed atmosphere with refined, elevated comfort food. This modern, stylish spot is perfect for those looking for a unique twist on classic American dishes, all while enjoying great drinks and an inviting vibe. The menu at The Rook is eclectic, with plenty of options that surprise and delight. One standout dish is their fried chicken and waffles, a perfect balance of crispy and tender, with just the right amount of sweetness from the syrup and savory depth from the chicken. Another favorite is the roasted Brussels sprouts, which are perfectly caramelized and sprinkled with a zesty vinaigrette, making them a delicious and unexpected side dish. The cocktail list at The Rook is another highlight. They serve up creative drinks that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the food. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing spritz or a deeper, more robust cocktail, their talented bartenders have you covered. The smoky bourbon-based cocktails are especially popular, offering a unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the hearty food. The service is attentive but not overbearing, with the staff being both knowledgeable about the menu and eager to ensure you have a great experience. The open kitchen design allows guests to see the chefs at work, adding an interactive element to the dining experience that makes it feel both intimate and lively. Whether you're enjoying a night out with friends, a date, or a special celebration, The Rook is a must-visit in Ithaca. With its mouthwatering dishes, creative cocktails, and friendly atmosphere, it's the perfect place for a memorable meal in a sophisticated yet approachable setting. ”
“ Fried chicken was very fragrant, crispy outside and juicy inside, collards on the bottom eased dryness, plus not too salty as common collard though. Pork schnitzel was a good dish to try as well. Easy to eat compare to fried chicken thigh. Mushroom was very munchies. Servers were very attentive and nice. Would love to come back here again ”
“ I give this restaurant overall 3 stars due to the lackluster food. The fried chicken was highly recommended by the waiter and is supposedly the most popular dish. He explained that it was sous vide and then deep fried. I expected the dish to be very tender and bursting with flavor, but to be honest the chicken was dry and the batter was pretty bland. I have had better fried chicken from Popeyes, and it doesn't cost $24 for just a drumstick and breast. The chicken is rubbed with a rosemary spread, breaded in a batter that is very very lightly seasoned and is very floury, and of course fried. I would have liked if they served the thigh instead of the breast meat, and I think it could have been improved with a gravy or hot sauce on the side. The collard greens were tender but didn't have the vinegary bite that they should have. The fries were fine and cooked well. Lastly, the pork milanese was actually tasty. I thought they did a good job cooking it; it was crispy and not dry, and the anchovy was a nice touch. The restaurant had great service, and I liked that I was seated right away. They also have an extensive wine list and seasonal cocktails, if that's your thing. ”
“ The Rook Never Disappoints Come to The Rook to experience a chill vibe, lovely atmosphere, and friendly, engaging service. Picture: 5-star food, wine, and service that is welcoming, not intimidating. The menu is unique, inventive, creative, and accommodating to a range of food preferences. Their attention to detail goes beyond the food and wine. It seeps into how they connect with their customers, remembering anniversaries, birthdays, and intimate details about their tribe of devoted fans. Save room for dessert, because they are divine. Explore the aperitifs and digestifs; they know exactly how to pair them with your meal. The Rook never fails. The food is consistent, the service is always a joy, and you are guaranteed to have a good time. Update: They are now serving cocktails and spirits. ”
“ We happened upon The Rook one evening in Ithaca and it was such a lovely time! The atmosphere and food are both outstanding. Service was also great. I’d like to return and try more dishes! We all got burgers which doesn’t sound too exciting, but they were the best in my opinion. The fries were fantastic, too. We also ordered a salad and it served 3 of us. Next time I return I hope to try the salmon! ”
“ Incredible experience. Good place with low music and not noisy. The dessert was incredible. I enjoy it so much. ”
“ Love their new location. Much more room and open feel. The best fried chicken in town and honestly some of the best I've had anywhere. SO loves the Salmon and I've had many say it's the best in the area. Only thing I've had a few times and not liked is the burger. They have an odd sauce and seasoning I just don't like, but the quality is there. Just a short walk from the Commons and totally worth the stop. ”
“ Great food, great music, delicious drinks, and kind and intelligent servers! The new location is elevated, classy, and ever so charming with a relaxing atmosphere and upscale styles. The menu is small but mighty and did not disappoint. A truly sensational meal. ”