We Love Rochester!

February is here—our favorite month. It’s the season of Valentine’s Day, a time to show love.

There is so much to love about Rochester, from its charm to its unforgettable food.

My dad’s love for Rochester was so great that he moved back to Rochester after he and my mom retired to Virginia. How many people do you know who choose to move?north?in their retirement years? That is just how much this city meant to him. He adored Rochester's unique character, and also one of its 'culinary' delights, Pontillo’s Pizza.

My daughter was fortunate to grow up in Rochester and spend a lot of time with her grandpa. One of their favorite activities was picking up Pontillo’s pizza together.

“Daddy, Grandpa let me drive to get the pizza,” she would say with a big grin. No big deal, right? Except she was only 8 years old!

Together, they would pay for the pizza in pennies, creating a cherished memory she still holds dear.

My daughter loved attending our Rochester Americans hockey games. When she was little, her bedtime was 7:30 p.m., so we would leave after the first period of the game, which started at 7. As she grew older and her bedtime stretched later, we stayed for the second period. That year, her first question was, “Daddy, why are they playing another game?” Moments like these made our Amerks outings unforgettable.

Years later, when we welcomed my son-in-law into the family. We made it our mission to give him the full “Rochester experience.” Our day began with a trip to see the Rochester Red Wings, our beloved minor league baseball team. As a Washington Nationals fan, he was thrilled—after all, the Red Wings are the top farm team for the Nats.

After the game, we went out for two Rochester "classics". We visited the historic Genesee Brewery, one of the largest and oldest breweries in the country, for a Genesee beer. Next, we made a must-stop to Nick Tahou’s for a Famous Rochester Garbage Plate—two burgers (or hots) topped with hot meat sauce, onions, home fries, and macaroni salad. It is the ultimate taste of Rochester. He loved every bite, though he may have needed a Tums afterward!

Last summer, we introduced my grand daughter to more of what we love about Rochester by taking her to the Strong National Museum of Play. Watching her explore the same exhibits my daughter had loved 30 years earlier was a heartwarming full-circle moment. She adored the Wegman's Grocery Store exhibit, even donning the Wegman's Uniform just like my daughter did at her age. She pushed her child-sized cart through the aisles, and stocked up on play groceries. It was a very fun experience.

Rochester is more than just a city – it is a community that will make you feel right at home. From its family-friendly atmosphere to its welcoming residents, you will feel the warmth and hospitality of Rochester from the moment you arrive.

Rochester is a great place to visit. Rochester is also a smart investment opportunity. With its growing economy, affordable real estate, and promising job market, Rochester is an attractive option for investors. The media ranks Rochester investment real estate as some of the best in the country.

Perhaps you should plan a trip to Rochester and see for yourself. It is a city that will capture your heart. It is a destination that you will not want to miss. And you too will love Rochester!

Happy Valentine’s Day, and may February bring you love and joy!

To view 100 reasons to Love Rochester,

Please CLICK HERE