Allechant 903 Hanshaw Road, Ithaca, NY 14850

"I’ve lived in Ithaca for 15 years and this was the worst meal I’ve ever had at a restaurant. Our table was near the bar and the only table without the plush chairs that are at all the other tables, very uncomfortable. Our server was not knowledgeable about pairing wine and their suggestion of a bottle didn’t remotely match either of our entrees. Then the food was a HUGE disappointment. The butternut squash gnocchi tasted like cheep Mac and cheese and was clearly not fresh. Honestly I would have enjoyed Mac and cheese from a box more! We were hoping the dessert would redeem the meal, but the chocolate cake was lack luster, and somewhat gritty. Our server didn’t even ask if we wanted digestives, tea, or coffee. Also had to request our water be refilled three times during the meal. I’ve heard rave reviews about this restaurant for many years and unfortunately our experience wasn’t remotely close to what we had heard. We won’t be going back."

"A small cozy bistro that has an excellent brunch. The bistro is tastefully decorated, and the seats are well spaced out. The staff is attentive and friendly. Reservations are strongly recommended. We had the waffle, with pecans, pear, and cinnamon honey butter and Eggs Edinburgh. They were delicious and the portions just right. Te OJ was freshly squeezed, and the hot chocolate was a tad too sweet but chocolaty. Do note the very unusual opening hours. The bistro is opened on Thursday to Saturday from 5.30pm to 9pm and on Sunday from 10am to 2pm."

"The 26 letters of the English language seem measly when trying to form any sentence adequate enough to express my true love for Allechant. I know that’s an outrageous statement, but everything this place offers—the incredible food, the amazing people and management, the wonderful atmosphere—makes it the best restaurant in Ithaca, bar-none. My partner and I have probably been to Allechant 20+ times in the past two years, and it never disappoints. The brunch menu is full of fantastic staples and seasonal takes, the dinner menu is inventive and substantial, the desserts are to die for, and the serving sizes are perfect (you always feel satisfied, but rarely like you’ve over-eaten). Plus, the coffee and chai are among some of the best we’ve had locally, and the wine selection is solid, too. Plus. (And a big plus here.) The workers are INCREDIBLE!!! Seeing Matt and Katie truly brightens our week whenever we come by. Wherever we go, Allechant will always be in our hearts, and we cannot recommend this place enough."

"A fantastic little restaurant. The small kitchen puts out some amazing food. The poached eggs were perfect. The espresso was wonderful and had some nice dark chocolate flavors. The Belgian hot chocolate was the best I have had. Extremely dog friendly."

"Had an amazing time here! Enjoyed the eggs Edinburgh for myself and shared the sweet toast éclair with friends. Food tastes like it it made with high quality ingredients. Sat outside and enjoyed the lovely weather with my dog. Highly recommend coming here and making reservations in advance. Owner is incredibly kind and welcoming, servers are great too."