Perhaps the best option in Watkins Glen is to hang with locals at The Crooked Rooster Brewpub, 29 N. Franklin St. (tel. 607/535-9797), which serves up its own Rooster Fish craft ales, plus a good list of Finger Lakes wines, live music, and pub grub. Around the bend of the east bank of Seneca Lake, though, there are three surprising options about 10 miles from town. One is the live music on Friday and Saturday nights (from jazz and blues to folk) at Stonecat Café, a cool restaurant near Hector (recommended above). Another is Big Johnsons, 800 Rte. 414, Hector (tel. 607/546-5800), a congenial roadside bar that's not so far removed from a Texas honky-tonk or roadhouse blues bar. It's got stuffed moose heads and other taxidermy, and a large and rocking bar, with tables out front where the regulars tend to gather. Big Johnsons is the big draw for locals, who come to knock back beers and listen to live rock and country bands on weekends. The crowd isn't just kids -- there are plenty of older "friendly folks," as the sign outside says. Wagner Vineyards features live music outdoors on Friday evenings at Ginny Lee Café, 9322 Rte. 414, Lodi (tel. 866/924-6378), a fun spot that's a big draw for locals and visitors alike.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
