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Food and Wine
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Food and Wine
Source : (remove) : Democrat and Chronicle
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New wine bar opens in Pittsford's Schoen Place: Take a peek

Carmella's Wine Bar Debuts in Pittsford: A New Hub for Wine Lovers and Casual Diners

Pittsford, NY, has welcomed a fresh addition to its vibrant culinary landscape with the opening of Carmella's Wine Bar, a cozy establishment that promises to blend sophisticated wine selections with approachable, shareable bites. Nestled in the heart of this charming suburb of Rochester, the wine bar opened its doors in early August 2025, quickly becoming a go-to spot for locals seeking a relaxed yet refined atmosphere to unwind after work or enjoy a weekend outing. Drawing inspiration from classic European wine bars, Carmella's aims to demystify the world of wine while offering an inviting space that feels like an extension of one's living room.

The brainchild of local entrepreneurs Sarah and Michael Rossi, Carmella's Wine Bar is named after Sarah's grandmother, Carmella, who instilled in her a passion for hospitality and the simple joys of gathering over good food and drink. The Rossis, both natives of the Rochester area, have long dreamed of creating a venue that bridges the gap between high-end wine tasting rooms and casual neighborhood bars. Sarah, a certified sommelier with experience at several Finger Lakes wineries, handles the wine curation, while Michael, a former chef at a popular Rochester bistro, oversees the kitchen operations. Their vision was to craft a space where novices and connoisseurs alike could explore an eclectic wine list without intimidation, paired with dishes that highlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Upon entering Carmella's, visitors are greeted by a warm, intimate interior that seats about 50 guests across a mix of high-top tables, plush banquettes, and a sleek bar counter. The design incorporates rustic elements like exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood accents, and soft lighting from vintage-style pendants, evoking the feel of a hidden gem in Tuscany or Provence. Large windows overlook Pittsford's bustling village square, allowing natural light to flood the space during the day and creating a cozy glow in the evenings. The bar's centerpiece is a custom-built wine wall displaying over 100 bottles, with a focus on sustainable and small-producer wines from around the globe, including robust selections from Italy, France, Spain, and emerging regions like South Africa and Oregon.

The wine program at Carmella's is designed to be accessible and educational. Guests can choose from by-the-glass options starting at $8, with flights of three tastings for $15, allowing patrons to sample varieties like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley. Sarah Rossi emphasizes variety, rotating the list seasonally to feature limited-edition releases and hidden gems. For those interested in deeper dives, the bar offers weekly wine education sessions, where Sarah leads informal tastings on topics such as "Old World vs. New World Wines" or "Pairing Wines with Cheese." These events, priced at $25 per person, include small plates and have already sold out in their first few weeks, indicating strong community interest.

Complementing the wines is a menu of elevated small plates and shareables that encourage lingering and conversation. Chef Michael's creations draw from Mediterranean influences, with standout items like house-made charcuterie boards featuring artisanal cheeses from nearby farms, prosciutto, and marinated olives. Other highlights include grilled octopus with lemon-herb aioli, truffle-infused arancini, and a seasonal flatbread topped with heirloom tomatoes, burrata, and balsamic reduction. Vegetarian and gluten-free options abound, such as roasted beet salad with goat cheese and candied walnuts or stuffed mushrooms with spinach and feta. Desserts round out the experience with indulgent choices like chocolate lava cake paired with a port wine or affogato featuring local gelato drowned in espresso. Prices are reasonable, with small plates ranging from $10 to $18, making it an affordable luxury for date nights or group gatherings.

Carmella's Wine Bar isn't just about the food and drink; it's about fostering community in Pittsford. The Rossis have integrated local elements into their operations, sourcing produce from the Pittsford Farmers Market and collaborating with nearby vineyards for exclusive pours. They've also planned a calendar of events to keep things lively, including live acoustic music on Thursday evenings, trivia nights focused on wine history, and pop-up dinners with guest chefs from the Rochester area. One upcoming event is a harvest celebration in September, featuring wines from the Finger Lakes region paired with autumnal dishes. The bar operates from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, extending to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and offers brunch service on Sundays with mimosa flights and light fare.

Feedback from early patrons has been overwhelmingly positive. Local resident Emily Thompson, a frequent visitor to Pittsford's dining scene, praised the bar's "unpretentious vibe" in a recent review, noting how the staff's knowledge made her feel empowered to try new wines. Another customer, retiree John Harlan, appreciated the comfortable seating and the opportunity to socialize without the noise of a typical pub. The Rossis report that weekends are already booking up, with reservations recommended via their website or app. In a town known for its mix of historic charm and modern amenities, Carmella's fits right in, joining establishments like the Pittsford Pub and other local favorites while carving out its niche as a wine-centric destination.

Looking ahead, the Rossis have ambitions to expand Carmella's offerings. Plans include a loyalty program for regular visitors, where points can be redeemed for free tastings or merchandise, and potential outdoor seating in the warmer months to take advantage of Pittsford's picturesque setting. They're also exploring partnerships with local book clubs and art groups to host themed evenings, further embedding the bar into the community's social fabric. Sarah Rossi shared her enthusiasm, saying, "We wanted to create a place where people can escape the everyday and discover something new, whether it's a wine they've never tried or a conversation with a neighbor." Michael added that the focus on quality over quantity ensures every visit feels special.

In an era where dining experiences are increasingly about connection and discovery, Carmella's Wine Bar stands out as a thoughtful addition to Pittsford's evolving food and beverage scene. It caters to a broad audience—from young professionals grabbing after-work drinks to families enjoying a relaxed Sunday brunch—while maintaining a commitment to excellence in every pour and plate. As word spreads through social media and local networks, it's clear that Carmella's is poised to become a staple in the Greater Rochester area, inviting all to raise a glass to good times and great company. With its blend of passion, expertise, and warmth, this new wine bar is more than just an opening—it's the start of a new chapter for Pittsford's hospitality story.

Read the Full Democrat and Chronicle Article at:
[ https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/lifestyle/rocflavors/2025/08/14/carmellas-wine-bar-opens-in-pittsford-ny/85573842007/ ]