“A pub from over there, over here” is what the Old Toad promises, then delivers right down to the food, drink, and staff. Along with the British university students who come to Rochester to work for the year and gain experience in the industry, the Old Toad offers authentic pub fare, including a changing selection of ales and ciders, served atop a vast wooden bar imported from Great Britain. Both carnivores and vegetarians dig the Arrogant Beer Bangers, a meatless sausage made with portabellos, red onions, walnuts, craisins, spinach, Stilton and Arrogant Bastard Ale.
Good Luck opened in 2008, repurposing a high-ceilinged retail warehouse space, and quickly made a name for itself at the vanguard of Rochester’s craft cocktail and shared plates movements. The atmosphere is hip and skews slightly upscale, the food served largely family style, even in the case of Good Luck’s mammoth burger. Chef and co-owner Dan Martello’s menu changes along with the seasons, its constants including pizza and charcuterie. Across the street is Good Luck’s good-sized garden, which supplies the kitchen with exceptionally fresh produce.
340-6161