Elephant and The Dove — Restaurant in Town of Skaneateles

I recently visited this restaurant with my mother and boyfriend for lunch earlier today, and what started as a pleasant experience quickly turned into something quite concerning. We were seated downstairs, and our server was genuinely kind and attentive throughout. However, when one of our dishes — the Fried Chicken Torta — arrived, we were shocked to find that the chicken was completely raw on the inside. It wasn’t just slightly undercooked — it looked as though it hadn’t been cooked at all. This was not only unappetizing but extremely dangerous, as undercooked chicken poses serious health risks, including salmonella and food poisoning.

Our server immediately apologized and handled the situation as best she could, but it was clear that resolving an issue of this magnitude was beyond her authority. We asked to speak with a manager, but were told that none were available at the time. That in itself was frustrating, especially given the seriousness of the situation. After a significant wait, a woman with blonde hair — who may or may not have been a manager — eventually came over to speak with us. She was very polite, apologetic, and appeared to be genuinely concerned, which we appreciated. However, she was not the person we had requested, and the delay made us feel as though our concerns weren’t being treated with the urgency they deserved.

What made this even more disappointing was that the restaurant was almost completely empty during our visit. There was no excuse for the delay in addressing a food safety issue, especially when the staff was not overwhelmed. We also felt bad for our server, who was clearly doing her best but was left without the proper support from management. It seemed like there was a lack of clear communication and accountability among the team, and most concerningly, a lack of empathy for our situation.

As visitors who traveled to enjoy this beautiful town, we were looking forward to trying local food and supporting small businesses. Unfortunately, this experience left us deeply disappointed and concerned. Given the severity of the issue and how it was handled, we won’t be returning. When food safety is compromised and management is slow to respond, it sends the message that customers wellbeing isn’t a priority — and that’s simply not acceptable. As the bill was comped, it still doesn't make what happened today right...

I just want to say the building was absolutely beautiful. The waiters/waitresses were nice as well. But…….Absolutely terrible service. Don’t get me wrong the waiters/waitresses were very nice but forgot our entire bottle with our drink round to start. Then didn’t see her for one of the longest waits in history and I eat out every night as I love to explore new restaurants, this was my first time and I gotta say it may be my last. I could not believe the service, we were there a total of almost two and a half hours and got 2 drinks, they got me the wrong food as I ordered the house/Monday tacos and got chicken fajitas, “as they said as they set them down”, they looked like street tacos to me, but they were indeed different. I lifted the first “taco” (not fajita) and it fell apart and landed back on the metal taco holder. The margaritas were literally tiny and so tart it was terrible. I eat Mexican foods 3 times a week as it’s one of my favorite styles of food to eat so I will say I try many of this style restaurant often. The tables were not full and the entire upstairs was empty when we finally got the table I spotted since we sat outside and waited. Again beautiful establishment but literally one of the worst experiences of my entire restaurant life, unorganized, overwhelmed, more staff also then I could expect for something feeling overwhelmed. Sorry to leave this review but man! I really had such high hopes for this place. And coming from me people I know take it serious. I’ve also heard from about 18 people now the same experience and even people who live 5 minutes from the establishment itself. I don’t care for the special deal/ Monday night special but happened to arrive on that night but the food was wrong, service was bad, and the drinks were far too tart/mix over tequila, maybe I shall try again on another night but the “special night”. But at this point it’s looking like my service will go to other places that value their customer over the dollar…🙏...

Want to visit an upscale, classy, Mexican restaurant well......Elephant and The Dove located in Skaneateles, New York is the place for you! The inside is such a classy clean, neutral colors that are inviting. The second floor was my favorite as it has a large amount of natural light coming in. They have a basement for large private parties. They have seating for family like intimate dining. This restaurant feels like home! From the lighting that's unique to the wall art to the pillows on the chairs! There are two entrances one in the front that has an inviting home like cozy feel and then the back entrance that you can enter from the parking lot. The back entrance was a tad bit confusing to get to the main dining area however go through the front and exit out the back.

The service was amazing. My server was prompt. She allowed me enough time to review my menu. She offered recommendations, and when I asked, for her honest opinion, she was able to assist me, and it did not fail. The food was amazing. I got the triple dipper which was a sample of salsa, guacamole, and queso. When I tell you, the guac was amazing with the right amount of garlic, and the queso was superb. It's making my mouth water just thinking about this appetizer and even the tortilla chips were the exact amount of salt and crisp. I got the Mexican mule to drink, which was an average drink. Nothing to talk about. My dinner was the burrito bowl and I got a side of Mexican street corn that was off the cob. The food was quick to the table. After ordering I cannot brag enough about how great the food was, and the service was great too!

I highly recommend visiting Elephant and The Dove! I will definitely be bringing my family and friends here when they come to visit! To the owners you're doing a great job with food and service! I cannot brag enough about Elephant and The...