The Rook

Brian Bessire

Unexpectedly delicious and beautiful dishes, with service that made us feel like VIPs. Really interesting north/south fusion flavors and terrific cocktails. Way, way better than Fine Line Bistro (which occupied this space years ago) ever was. We're coming back soon!

Natalie Cross

Great food and service! Tried the Salmon appetizer.Delicious!! Fried Chicken and Pork schnitzel... donut dessert...Fresh lemonade was perfect!! Not too many places in Ithaca I rave about, but this is one I would definitely recommend. Delicious!! Friendly and quick service!! 10 stars

M. F.

I selected The Rook as a spot to meet up with a good friend who I hadn't seen for two years. We arrived at 7:15PM on a Wednesday. The Rook was scheduled to close at 10PM. The place was probably 75% full. We ordered drinks (all were delicious) and small plates (fries good, collard greens okay, smashed small potatoes okay, bacon wrapped dates delicious). Around 8PM, our waiter told us the kitchen had decided to close at 9PM. We thought it was odd, but we accepted the information. However, by 8:30PM everyone else had been pushed out and our check was on our table. As we paid, we noticed all the staff gathering at the bar and socializing. I don't know what was happening at the bar that night, but it was incredibly disappointing to be rushed out so early - especially with so little warning. If we had been informed when we arrived that they would be closing early, we would have gone somewhere else and tried The Rook at a later date. Such a disappointing experience. We won't return.

Mike Ertel

Been to Rook twice, a few years apart. It's great! Menu is not large, but covers most preferences. Apps, salads, entrées, desserts. Food is delicious, great presentation. Menu seems is to adjust seasonally. Beer, wine, cocktails. Dining Ambience inside is small, cozy, not loud. Bar area is classical. Highly recommend! When all the other local restaurants have a 1 hour wait, go to The Rook, you won't regret it!