When I arrived at Ithaca College for the first time as an accepted student in July 2008 one of the first questions I asked my orientation leader was where to go to get delicious food. The orientation leader took no time replying, the Boatyard Grill, it’s my favorite restaurant in Ithaca, everything is amazing.
Well, after over a year and a half, and many disappointing nights of cafeteria food, I finally made the trip over to the Boatyard last Friday with my girlfriend, Lindsay. Since the Boatyard doesn’t take reservations, I “called ahead” (Boatyard’s clever twist on reservations) to decrease my wait time once I arrived at the restaurant.
After about a 20 minute wait – with all the delectable fragrances it felt much, much longer- we were seated. The table was located at the farthest section from the front door. Not more than 10 feet looking out the window was a boat deck and Lake Cayuga. I immediately visualized the beautiful sights that we would be able to see if it were a different time of year.
Our server for the night, Mika (pronounced like Mike with an “a” at the end) took our order and was a delight all evening. The food was as advertised, outstanding. The buffalo chicken egg rolls, what I found out is a Boatyard best-seller, were delicious with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy and savory. Lindsay ordered a salmon dish, which in her words was “sooo good”. I got the filet mignon medallions and jumbo shrimp with mashed potatoes and spinach. The wonderful flavors exploded on my palate, as pure enjoyment overtook my body. For dessert we ordered a piece of banana cream cheesecake, with two forks. I indulged on the cake, while Lindsay picked at the whipped cream suffocating the plate.
It was a great experience, one that will most definitely be duplicated in the near future. One thing is certain, it won’t be another year and a half before the Boatyard Grill gets my business again.
Talk about the Boatyard or other good eats Ithaca has to offer in Comments.
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