Local Lodging and Culinary Recommendations
Lodging Recommendations:
1. The White Inn
The property now occupied by The White Inn, once the exclusive domain of Indians, came into the hands of Dr. Squire White early in the 19th century. He was the first medical doctor to settle and practice in Chautauqua county. In 1811 he erected a wood frame house on this site.
After a fire destroyed the home, Dr. White’s son, Devillo, built a more substantial structure in 1868. The University Room and several rooms on the second and third floors are part of the original 1868 structure. The wrought iron fence surrounding the property dates from this period.
The property stayed in the White family until 1918, when Miss Isabel White, the last remaining White family resident, sold the property to Murray Hill Bartley of Westfield, New York. Mr. Bartley expanded the property considerably, and in 1919, opened the hotel to the traveling public.
Located on scenic Route 20, The White Inn flourished and became a gathering spot. In the 1930′s, Duncan Hines discovered The White Inn, and was so impressed with the restaurant that he included the Inn as one of the 50 finest establishments that became his “Family of Fine Restaurants.”
In 2011, Jeff and Melanie Gambino acquired The White Inn and have promised to continue the tradition of excellence in outstanding food and lodging. Jeff and Melanie Gambino have been in the hotel and hospitality business for a number of years before selling their last hotel approximately five years ago. When they learned that The White Inn, which is a local landmark, was for sale they seized the opportunity to purchase and return it to its grandeur.
Culinary recommendations:
1. Rocco’s
Owners: Mike Doino
716-679-0044
44 Orchard Street, Fredonia, NY 14063
Directions
Hours: Tuesday -Saturday 4-10 PM
Don’t be fooled by the building’s modest facade, this place serves some of the best food in western New York and the best martinis in the Northeast. This is a local hangout for families, professionals and visiting steelheaders. Mike is an avid steelhead fisherman and always has the pulse on what is happening in the streams. He loves a good fishing story so share yours with him. Embellishments are welcome. Family owned and operated since 1934, this Fredonia gem offers upscale Italian dining in a casual atmosphere. Loyal customers return for friendly service, nightly seafood specials and old-school Italian favorites. I recommend their calamari appetizer and any pasta dish.
Located a few blocks from the White Inn.
2. The Brick Room
716-672-5547
49 West Main Street, Fredonia, NY 14063
Directions
Hours: Open Wednesday – Mondays, Closed Tuesdays
Dinner 4 pm–9:30 pm
This is a quiet little get-away that is reminiscent of a soho bistro. The food is consistently very good. I recommend the daily soups, Ceasar salad and their filet steak. Some folks here are addicted to their crab cakes.
Located a few blocks from the White Inn.