You could easily drive by here., on Route 414 in Hector. There are so many scenic vistas and so many wineries to check out on the east side of Seneca Lake that you might miss the big sign with an arrow reading “here.,” and calling attention to the unassuming restaurant in a former fruit stand/market.
I heard about here. on social media, but it’s the kind of diamond in the rough you always hope to find on the road: local owners (previously of Just a Taste in Ithaca), local ingredients, creative menu and a casual, convivial vibe. The place was full of locals dining in and getting food to go, a good sign in an area that sees lots of tourist traffic. (Editor’s note: I’m spelling here. as the restaurant does in its branding, with a lowercase h and a period, unless at the beginning of a sentence.)
Here. is a great place to get some food in your belly before or between wine tastings, or just because. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch Friday to Monday (in season) and the menu changes each week. You order at the counter and can get something as simple as a cup of coffee and a buttermilk biscuit with honey butter and homemade rhubarb preserves or as stick-to-your-ribs as The Hot Mess: pulled pork, coleslaw, BBQ baked beans and cornbread.
I ordered the huevos rancheros, corn tortillas layered with refried pinto beans, cheddar cheese, sour cream, salsa fresca and ancho chili sauce, topped with two over-easy eggs. I like to order huevos rancheros when I see it on a menu because I’m unlikely to take the time and effort to make this hearty, flavor-packed, Mexican-style breakfast at home. Multiple orders of huevos rancheros were lined up at the counter, so maybe others feel the same way.
The bakery case caught my eye and I headed on my way with a ginger spice cookie and slice of Linzer torte, one of my favorite desserts, to enjoy later. They even included a small container of whipped cream for the torte. I love that kind of attention to detail (and always pack a cooler this time of year).
Here. is at 5646 NYS route 414, Hector, about 90 minutes from Syracuse. Summer hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday to Monday.
P.S.: Next time I’m having the Spicy Scramble or the focaccia French toast.
Note: All photos © Margaret McCormick unless otherwise indicated.