Home » Dining Out » The Inn Between

The Inn Between

From the moment you step into the historic and charming embrace of The Inn Between Restaurant, it’s as if time itself unwinds its tightly wound clock and invites you to savor an experience that transcends the ordinary. Celebrating its 51st year of culinary magic, The Inn Between isn’t just a restaurant; it is a testament to tradition, an ode to hospitality, and a shrine to the art of fine dining. The Inn Between is located just a short drive from Syracuse at 2290 W. Genesee Turnpike in Camillus, and they are open for dining with reservations Wednesday through Saturday with seating from 5:00-7:30pm. To reserve your spot give them at a call at 315-672-3166. Remember that in February love is in the air and what better way to treat your special someone than to an unforgettable meal! The Inn Between is the perfect spot to celebrate romance, galentines, or even your bromance!

Upon entering, one is struck by the rich tapestry of history that adorns the walls and the warm welcome that fills the air – a legacy nurtured by the Colman family and now brilliantly carried forward by Penny and Chef Chris Cesta. The building, a grand manor home from the 1880s that was once the heartbeat of Thomas Hill Munro’s renowned dairy farm, tells a story at every corner; it whispers tales of a time when it stood as a cornerstone of Onondaga County’s history and a birthplace of significant political movements. The Inn Between, with its roots deeply embedded in the past, stands as a culinary landmark in the Village of Camillus, NY. The dining experience at The Inn Between is nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Cesta, a two-time recipient of the “Chef of the Year” medal awarded by the American Culinary Federation, crafts a symphony of flavors with locally sourced ingredients, each dish a masterpiece that captivates your senses and leaves a lasting impression. It’s no wonder he is an award-winning advocate for his craft, with numerous recipe contest wins and cooking competition medals to his name. As Chef Cesta himself reflects on the secret to the restaurant’s enduring success, it becomes evident that it is the combination of exceptional servitude, unwavering commitment to excellence, and a work ethic that is as robust as the flavors on the plate. It is a place where hundreds of thousands of guests, regulars and newcomers alike, have been made to feel welcomed, valued, and indulged with great service and an even greater meal.

My dear friend Yvonne and I stepped into the embrace of this beautiful historic Manor on a foggy Thursday evening, and we were immediately transported to a culinary paradise. What I love the most about The Inn Between is how warm and welcoming every member of the staff is; I love John’s warm hellos and Kayla’s friendly demeanor! This evening our journey began with a delightful amuse-bouche that set the tone for the evening – Utica greens that were a burst of flavors, awakening our taste buds in the most delightful way. Our appetizers were a testament to the chef’s creativity and skill. The calamari frite with chili aioli was a crispy symphony of textures, while the Baked Oysters Rockefeller were a divine combination of spinach, parmesan, and garlic butter mornay sauce, elevating the dish to a whole new level. As we indulged in the freshly baked bread, featuring the renowned date nut bread and honey butter, we couldn’t help but marvel at the attention to detail and dedication to excellence. The salads with raspberry vinaigrette were a refreshing interlude, showcasing the commitment to using only the freshest and most vibrant ingredients. For the main course, I opted for the special of the evening – a NY Strip adorned with fresh crabmeat and an Italian cherry sauce. It was a culinary masterpiece, each bite a revelation of harmonious flavors and perfect execution. Yvonne’s choice (and one of my all time favorite dishes), the Seafood Chambertine with shrimp, lobster, and scallops sautéed with mushrooms, green onions, lemon garlic wine, and herb butter, presented in a crispy phyllo shell, was nothing short of extraordinary. The combination of ingredients and the meticulous preparation showcased the chef’s expertise in creating a symphony of flavors. To cap off this unforgettable meal, we shared a warm almond-stuffed pastry wrapped apple for dessert. The sweetness and warmth of the pastry, coupled with the apple’s natural tartness, created a finale that left us in awe.

The Inn Between, with its over 90 years of operational talent, stands as a beacon of what it means to serve others with humility and passion. The dedication of its staff, a crew that shares in the restaurant’s vision, ensures that each visit is memorable, each bite is an encounter with culinary delight, and each moment is a celebration of the history and community that The Inn Between so lovingly preserves. In a world that often forgets the value of heritage and the power of a shared meal, The Inn Between reminds us of the beauty in both. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that feeds the soul and warms the heart. Here’s to The Inn Between, a venerable institution that has not only stood the test of time but has become a timeless treasure for all who have had the pleasure of dining within its welcoming walls. Check out their website at https://www.inn-between.com/, like them on Facebook so that you never miss a special or event or better yet give them a call at 315-672-3166 today!

Kerilyn Micale
Kerilyn E. Micale is a Cicero native.