Sarrasin’s On the Lake

Steeped in history bout Sarrasin’s and the village of Penn Yan offer enticing little extras to diners. At the entrance to the parking lot sit two giant paddlewheels, once part of the Keuka Maid Paddle Boat, presently docked in Hammondsport. As you come into the driveway you will notice two large round stone wheels at the base of our sign. These actual grinding stones were once used to grind buckwheat to flour. Penn Yan is the Buckwheat Capital of the World and the name Sarrasin’s is derived from the French is derived from the French word for “buckwheat.”

Just outside our door is a stone commemorating this as the former site of the Empire State Winery. As you step inside the lobby you will find one of our favorite historical pieces, a large mirror from the former Keuka Hotel. The hotel, in the early 1920’s and 30’s hosted many famous big bands and performers. It has been said that this is where Hoagy Carmichael wrote his famous song, “Stardust.”

Located on the north end of Keuka Lake, the natural beauty, pristine waters and bucolic countryside of the area now known as the village of Penn Yan, attracted many early settlers. Waterpower from the outlet connecting Keuka and Seneca Lakes was harnessed to run factories doing milling and manufacturing. Of course the fertile land was then, as it is now, found to be perfect for a variety of crops, especially grapes and wheat.

Today Sarrasin’s is owned by the Keuka Maid, Inc, a Robert Pfunter Group Company.