Scenic Root — Restaurant in Town of Manlius

My family and I have visited Scenic Root multiple times now and each time has been wonderful. Our most recent trip was the most exceptional due to the level of service we experienced from the server and the chef. Our daughter is allergic to all dairy, peanuts, and eggs and she was having a rough time selecting from the kids menu that didn't necessarily cater to vegan options. (And to be clear, we typically order her a protein and then a vegetable--all the other options we lean more towards vegan because they eliminate her allergens.) Unfortunately, but fortunately we ordered from the adult menu and they accommodated us with pricing due to the situation. We didn't expect that and nor did we expect to get a visit from the chef explaining his process, but it happened. This really went over well with us as a family, but most importantly with my 8 year old daughter who felt left out due to her allergies. Our family doesn't expect an entire establishment to change their menu for her, but when we experience a restaurant that is caring and flexible, and communicates like Scenic Root did, we are loyal patrons. Thank you for making this day really work for her. Our family...

Wife and I came here for our anniversary dinner a few weeks ago. While I think anyone can appreciate the ambience of a quieter, darker restaurant, we were seated at a table that was so dark, we couldn't even read our menus. Rather than lights over every table, the nearest light was on the wall, over the next table away from us. We saw one open table nearby with better lighting and asked if we could move there, but waitress said they were holding it for a reservation, even though it was the same size as the table where we were sitting. We asked about any other open tables, explaining our table was too dark to read the menu. They said we could sit at the bar. We're not too picky, so we gladly relocated to the bar. Bartender asked what we would like to drink. I gave my choice, she said they had kicked that keg, and then before I could come up with a backup choice, she just walked away and started talking to co-workers. After a few minutes of being ignored, it became apparent that "office gossip" was more important than our business... since we hadn't actually ordered anything yet, we walked out and enjoyed a great...

This is a restaurant near the landmark Swan Pond in Manlius. There is parking to the right of the building with more across the street.

My dinner was cooked by a chef who clearly understands how to be a chef. Cooked well with excellent presentation. It was too heavy on the sauces for my liking but it was correct. That may sound strange but hopefully my meaning comes across. My meal was very filling. I very rarely get a doggie bag but I did this time.

For people who want simpler food when eating with someone who wants fancier cuisine, they also have burgers and fries.

However, this is an adult restaurant with a bar. Good for a date but not a good place for younger children. Good for older teens wanting an adult dining experience.

Update Winter 2021-2022 - the menu has changed slightly but generally the same with many dishes based on the name of the restaurant such as the Root burger. The clam chowder special was excellent.

Update June - pretty much the same as last winter. They have a flourless (gluten free) chocolate...