August in the Finger Lakes with Chef Samantha
There’s something magical about August in the Finger Lakes. The vineyards are lush, farmers markets are overflowing with summer produce, and there’s no better time to gather around the table with friends and family. Chef Samantha Buyskes is thrilled to be back in the Finger Lakes, bringing fresh seasonal flavors, memorable dining experiences, and a little Southern hospitality to some of the region's favorite destinations.
Whether you're joining us for a vineyard dinner, shopping the farmers market, or spending an afternoon at the winery, we'd love to see you this month.
Monday Nights at Bright Leaf Vineyard
August 3, 17 & 31 | 6:00 PM
Kick off your week with one of our signature Fire Table Dinners at Bright Leaf Vineyard. These intimate three-course dinners celebrate the best of the Finger Lakes season, prepared over an open fire and paired with the beautiful vineyard setting.
Each menu highlights fresh ingredients and is designed to bring people together around great food, conversation, and unforgettable summer evenings.
Southern Style Mondays at Bright Leaf Vineyard
August 10 & 24 | 5:00–8:00 PM
Join Chef Samantha alongside Richie Stearns & Friends for an evening where Southern comfort food meets live music and vineyard views.
Expect hearty seasonal favorites, plenty of flavor, and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that makes summer nights in the Finger Lakes so memorable. Bring your appetite, grab a glass of wine, and settle in for an evening of great food and company.
Trumansburg Farmers Market
August 5 & 19 | 4:00–7:00 PM
One of Samantha's favorite places to connect with the community is the Trumansburg Farmers Market.
Stop by to say hello, enjoy freshly prepared food, and discover what's inspiring the seasonal menus. With so many incredible local growers and producers, every market visit offers something new, and it's a wonderful opportunity to experience the flavors that make the Finger Lakes so special.
Fridays at Living Roots Winery
August 7, 14 & 21 | 12:00–6:00 PM
Spend your Friday afternoons enjoying handcrafted wines paired with fresh seasonal cuisine at Living Roots Winery.
Whether you're planning a tasting, meeting friends, or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon, Chef Samantha will be serving delicious menu favorites designed to complement Living Roots' exceptional wines.
Italian Summer Nights at Bright Leaf Vineyard
August 1, 8, 15 & 29 | 4:00–7:30 PM
Italy meets the Finger Lakes during our popular Italian Summer Nights.
Enjoy handmade Italian-inspired dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients while soaking in vineyard views and warm summer evenings. From comforting classics to seasonal specialties, every menu is crafted to transport you straight to an Italian countryside table.
It's one of our favorite traditions of the summer, and we hope you'll make it part of yours.
We Can't Wait to See You
August is one of our favorite months in the Finger Lakes. From vineyard dinners and live music to farmers markets and winery lunches, there are so many opportunities to gather around the table and celebrate the incredible flavors of the season.
Whether you're a familiar face or joining us for the first time, we'd love to welcome you. Be sure to follow along on social media and visit our website for the latest menus, event updates, and exciting announcements - including details about our upcoming Sunday Soirées.
We'll see you around the Finger Lakes this August!