Shelter House Café

I came across this cafe on the way to the Northern NY, and it was beyond my expectations. A small stoned-shelter matched well with its peaceful surroundings, and has cozy inside, very kind waitress, nice coffee and meals.. everything is good. Being worth stopping by when you're near.

Celebrated our 17th Anniversary here on a Friday evening. Owner was super-attentive, food was great (braised short ribs, YUM!) The setting was beautiful, and the apple pie with caramel drizzle...amazeballs.

Beautiful views. Delicious, well-crafted food. Excellent customer service. Excellent prices. Even had a lesson on coffee!

Recently open Cafe with great lunch options, varieties of teas and coffees. Wine, ice cream, indoor, outdoor sitting... what else could you wish at the summer?

Such a nice surprise exploring the park for the first time and coming across this beautiful little cafe. They have a full menu of coffee beverages, and gorgeous indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the pond and an outside ice cream cart. It was too late in the day for coffee and I was too full from lunch to try the ice cream but I can’t wait to come down and enjoy both!

Pricey, but excellent staff, at least who I've interacted with. Beautiful girl at the door with a lovely personality, as well as a gentleman with a winning amount of charm also. Only sour note to me and my party was the ending bill - $14 for a chicken patty on a burger roll with bacon and American cheese? Really? $3 hot chocolate? Hopefully they do realize that no matter how special they may feel or act, "ain't where you're from it's where you're at". You're a couple of blocks away from the same chicken sandwich and fries plus a soda for $5.

This place could be amazing if management properly trained the waitstaff. Although sweet, my waitress was oblivious to the daily selections of the day (quiche,soup,cheeses). Had to check with someone inside whenever I asked about something on the menu. Didnt know the wines, didnt know what a Pour Over was when I ordered one. I can go on and on. Even when asked for fresh pepper and salt for my salad, she said she had to ask. Very odd experience. Food was okay..
I was disappointed.

Good food. Great atmosphere, and view.

I love the Shelter house Cafe, it’s a wonderful place, and a much-needed spot in the area. great staff, awesome menu, and the view of The beautifully restored Downing Park and pond can’t be beat! I eat there every week! If you’re a fan of local history or architecture it’s a must visit destination - you may be lucky enough to chat with knowledgeable, friendly owner Stephen!

It's hard to match such a magical setting but everything here is perfect in my book. Whether you just want coffee and a pastry or breakfast or lunch or a glass of rosé with a cheese plate at the end of day. Food is fresh and tasty and the staff is warm and welcoming and the music has just the right vibe. Thank you Shelter house for bringing this historic spot to life in just the right way and making Downing Park the destination it deserves to be.