Bemus Point is the unofficial drinking capital of Chautauqua County. Whether you live here, are just passing through, or are back to relive old memories, a night in Bemus is unlike any other spot in the area. Here is a short list of the bars to check out and what can be expected at each.
The See-Zurh House
The See-Zurh House is the staple of the Bemus Point bar diet. With affordable drinks and a blue-collar attitude, it serves as the main watering hole for most locals, but those stopping through should take care not to miss it. Go on Fridays for the biggest and best cuts of fish during their weekly fish fry (shout out Catholicism!). With the House’s cheap prices and classic WNY food, like the beef on weck, it’s a great first stop to get you in gear for a night out in the Point.
The Lenhart
The Hotel Lenhart has been owned and operated by the same family since 1880. It’s a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Come grab a spot on one of their front porch rocking chairs. Be sure to get there in time to see the sunset as the Hotel has one of the best views of Lake Chautauqua available in the county. Ask any of the employees about the ghosts that roam the halls and you will get a variety feelings from true belief to rational skepticism. Just remember to bring cash, as cards are not accepted at the bar. Try one of their famous “rocker” cocktails, known for their taste and strength. Just don’t drink too many, or the morning hangover will haunt you right along with the ghosts!
The Village Casino
The Village Casino is a must see in Bemus Point and a sort of coming of age location for locals. Young people from all across the area frequent this venue and it’s easy to see why. Pull your boat up to the dock and they will serve you drinks and food right in your watercraft. Come on the weekends for live music and the most club like atmosphere in Bemus Point. Stop in on Saturdays for 2 dollar well drinks and select drafts, making it difficult to find a cheaper bar to catch a buzz at anywhere in the country. The Casino can often be the first and last stop you make in Bemus, stop in and you’ll see why.
Ellicottville Brewery on Chautauqua
EBC is a newcomer to the Bemus night life scene, opening their doors just 2 years ago, but they are a dominant force in the local bar scene now. With a varying menu of delicious appetizers and entrees, including sesame style calamari and Argentinian Chicken skewers, Ellicottville Brewery on Chautauqua Lake is a far reach from the other bars in Bemus, more similar to a venue you would find in a large city. It has become the preeminent nightlife destination for youth in the area. Locals are sure to see old friends and tourists are sure to make new ones. Try the in-house Stainless Steel IPA for a strong beer with a smooth, hoppy finish. EBC on Chautauqua may be the newcomer, but it is quickly becoming a landmark of the Bemus Point bar scene.
Martha pashley says
Great writing!!! How can I subscribe to this ?
Loren Mayshark says
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dianne miller says
Oh the fun we had in Bemus! We would walk to Ward’s after school (now the Italian Fisherman) and for a nickel we could buy a soda, I liked the lemon lime. The upstairs of the Casino was a bowling alley where we had after school leagues. My Mom danced to the big band sound in her day upstairs of the Casino. Lets not forget the Surf Club now the Ellicottville brewery. The See-Zurh house is still the place to go to meet up with old friends when coming home to visit family. All this within a 2 block area not to mention our biggest playground the Lake. Bemus Point was the place to be on the lake and still is. Great job on your article, you have captured the town perfectly!
Barb Moseler says
Oh so true!!! Sure do miss Bemus and the fun times!!!