Valentines on the Lake

Valentines on the Lake

5959 E Main St, Olcott, NY 14126, United States

+1 716-638-4104

Polish restaurant, Family restaurant
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About This Place

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario in Olcott, NY, Valentines on the Lake is a charming family-run Polish restaurant that invites you to savor the heart and soul of authentic homemade cuisine. This delightful eatery masterfully blends traditional Polish flavors with comforting family favorites, bringing a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels just like home.

The menu bursts with enticing options, each dish crafted with care and brimming with rich, authentic flavors. Start your culinary journey with their famous Polish Platter, a generous medley showcasing tender pierogies, savory Polish sausage, and melt-in-your-mouth golumpki that captures the essence of classic Polish cooking. Breakfast lovers will find themselves enchanted by offerings like the fluffy Egg Benedict and the hearty Breakfast Burrito, perfect for fueling a day by the lake. For those craving a sweet finish, the Funnel Cake and luscious Tres Leches Cake deliver a taste of indulgence that dances on the palate.

Valentines on the Lake is not just about food — it’s an experience. The aromas of fresh, homemade dishes mingle with the inviting ambiance created by owners John and Cheryl, whose genuine hospitality makes every guest feel like family. The cozy, lakeside setting enhances the meal, offering stunning views that complement each bite. Whether you're indulging in the spicy warmth of their clam chowder or unveiling the delicate flavors of their seafood etouffee, every dish is a lovingly prepared work of art that delights the senses.

Patrons repeatedly praise the exceptional quality and heartfelt service found here. Jeanette McCullough called it “a gem in Olcott,” enchanted by the homemade goodness and exceptional desserts like coconut cream pie and white chocolate raspberry tart. Samantha Sikora raved about the “absolutely wonderful” pierogi platter and unique funnel cake fries — a playful twist that keeps visitors coming back for more. Others, like Shannon Ashley, lauded the tender short ribs and moist carrot cake that make it impossible to leave without planning your next visit.

The family’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond the food to an inviting dining experience infused with warmth and laughter. Jennifer McKenzie, visiting all the way from Scotland, described the encounter as a “home-from-home” with host Jon’s infectious humor and heartfelt banter making her and her partner feel truly welcomed. Such genuine interactions turn first-time diners into lifelong fans.

Whether you're a local or a traveler exploring the lakeside charm of Olcott, Valentines on the Lake offers an unforgettable blend of delicious Polish fare, heartfelt hospitality, and a cozy environment that's both invigorating and comfortingly familiar. Come for the pierogies, stay for the friendship, and leave already planning your next visit.

Address: 5959 E Main St, Olcott, NY 14126

Phone: +1 716-638-4104

Service options
Outdoor seating Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Great cocktails
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Small plates Spirits Vegan options Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Brunch Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Tourists Transgender safe space
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    Closed
  • Wednesday
    Closed
  • Thursday
    Closed
  • Friday
    Closed
  • Saturday
    04:00 PM - 09:00 PM
  • Sunday
    02:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Jeanette McCullough
    3 week ago

    What a gem in Olcott. Not only was the food homemade goodness, John & Cheryl made us feel welcome and at home. Everything we ate was excellent, the seafood bisque, tomato gnocchi bisque, seafood etouffee, pierogies, coconut cream pie and white chocolate raspberry tart were all delicious! Cant wait to pick up my paczki’s on Tuesday

  • Samantha Sikora
    4 week ago

    Absolutely wonderful food the Pierogi platter was as authentic as they come & their funnel cake fries were a delicious treat after ! It is a family restaurant which I feel other patrons should consider when it comes to wait times as their food and services was worth it,we can’t wait to come back !

  • Shannon Ashley
    4 week ago

    What a great restaurant. Family run restaurant with food that tastes like home. The food was all homemade and so delicious. They serve wines from local vineyards, which i love. I had never had golumpki and it was incredible. The short ribs literally fell off the bone. The carrot came was homeade and super moist. The food was so good we ordered 4 meals to take home. The family was super friendly and really made you feel welcome. We noticed a sign on the way out that said come as friends leave as family and that was exactly how we felt.

  • Karthik Rachakonda
    2 month ago

    I tried this place for the first time and it will not disappoint you. A decent, lake side breakfast place with some amazing options! I was particularly amazed by how the food has been presented. Waffles with strawberries were my favorite. I bet you'll fall in love with the in-house fries! I'd definitely recommend checking this place out if you ever make it to Olcott.

  • Jennifer McKenzie
    2 month ago

    We had the absolute pleasure of dining in this sweet little diner, and as a couple travelling a long way from home (Scotland, UK), we were welcomed into a proper home-from-home, family-feel spot. Jon, our host, was an absolute gem! funny, comical, and full of good banter, mate! He had us in stitches and filled our hearts with joy. Honestly, we’ve never had service as warm and genuine as we had here. His gorgeous (braw) partner was just as lovely, a total doll, like a mother from another, so kind and caring. And her cooking? Pure belter! Her meatballs were bloody quality, and that buffalo soup had the right kinda kick to it! Since we’re from another land and hadn’t a clue about the salad seasonings, they gave us tasters and samples, along with bites from the buffet. The fried shrimp felt like a munch straight from home, and the ranch sauces were banging!! If you’re after cracking food, belly laughs, and the kind of chat that makes you feel like you’ve known folk forever, this is the place. You won’t just leave fed; you’ll leave feeling part of the family. Big thanks as well for the subs and meatballs to take away, what a treat to top off an adventure to celebrate our anniversary we’ll never forget!

  • Julia Saunderson
    3 month ago

    Outstanding. The owners are so sweet and personable. Everything was made from scratch which is awesome. I follow their page on Facebook where they always post fun speciality items. Tonight was a German themed dinner. On the plate below is potato pancakes, pork schnitzel, creamed cabbage, beef rouladen, and buttered spaetzle. I definitely want to go back in the summer where they have outside dining right on the water. The owners even surprised us with free dessert. Definitely planning to come back.

  • Jesse w
    3 month ago

    My family and I love valentines on the lake. we have been there a few times now and will keep coming back. My wife and I love their polish platter all the different homemade perogies we have tried have been delicious their homemade soaps have been really good. Are kids love their grilled cheese. We like the atmosphere it has a nice small town feel to it. You have to be patient with the service. Everything is homemade and they are a little short handed. But the little wait is so worth going. The waitress is super nice and funny and the owner is really funny. So yes it's a great restaurant that everyone should try and I hope your experience is just as good as ares.

  • CA Walton
    3 month ago

    While traveling on a great American road trip, we were able to experience this unique gem. Valentines is a very sweet unassuming and welcoming restaurant. We ordered the pierogi, sausage, and potato pancakes. Chefs Kiss! Pierogi was made by hand as you order, tender overfilled and mouthwatering. Pancakes and sausage on point. I only wish that this restaurant was closer to us by 500 miles. The owners were so gracious and welcoming. Well worth the drive and have an empty belly when you get there! Yum!

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