One of the few places in the Potsdam area that has some fine dining available. It appears to be a French Style home with many rooms that has been converted to an eatery. It would probably do even better in a bigger place. They have some lovely delicacies that are wasted on the North Country to some degree. That's not to say that their is not culture here - having Crane School of music in town helps a great deal with that. They just don't really have a sense of Haute Cuisine that goes along with that culture. All that being said - the food here is great. I don't even know any negatives to tell you. Its pricey for the area and with good reason. They have a Pepper encrusted seared Yellow Fin Ahi. Which is an amazing thing to my ears. It has a port reduction. You can see the menu here http://www.1844house.com/dinner.html#Entr%E9es This place is somewhat out of place where it is. It would fit in better in a place like Berkely CA, or Davis CA, or possibly in Long Island? But, I highly recommend. read more

Meal ruined by manager. Had dinner here tonight for the second time and were very disappointed by the service and food preparation. We ordered a Charles Krug generations Can and it was served cold. The manager came to our table and explained that In old castles this was the normal serving temperature and that modern times and room temperature expectations were overrated. I laughed and told him we drink our $80 red wine at room temp and to let me know if he can get that done. He warmed the wine somehow We ordered rare steaks for dinner. 2 came rare one medium. We returned the overlooked steak. Here comes the manager explaining that tho steak was of a different consistency than the others and could not be cooked rare. They were all the same Ny strips. I now got upset as this is BS. It was overlooked. He the. Explained that this was the last steak available. This guy had some serious attitude. He told us he worked at a 4star resort or 15 years. Yet he never apologized and offered us a replacement or the meal on the house or even a glass of wine. I finally told him to get my wife the filet rare. This took 15 minutes. Now I was really upset as my wife had not eaten since noon. To say he least we left immediately after my wife got the steak. There was no apology or a gesture of good will. This place is super arrogant as not is probably the best place ranking wise around. We won't be going back and for the money an Applebees is better. read more

Considering the lack of restaurants around canton and Potsdam, 1844 house is a pleasant place to dine. However, if you've never been here, and you plan to visit here, I suggest to lower your expectations --- it's a nice restaurant, but it's not one of those fancy ones with one or two michelin stars. People say it's the best, only because there is no other option. read more

The 1884 House is a shining star in the culinary wasteland that is the North Country of New York State. I have now been here on three separate occasions. Once during a regular dinner service, once for Thanksgiving Service, and once for their Early Dining option. I now feel comfortable leaving a solid 5 star review. The food is unparalleled in this area. I have been fortunate enough to have dined in some high end establishments in the NYC area. The 1844 House brings that fine dining experience to the North Country. Reservations are a good idea as seating is limited. There is a small bar area. I have not partaken of any of the alcoholic beverages available, however the wine & liquor has many choices. The wait staff were prompt and courteous. The Early Dining option ($18.00 for a limited menu, offered 4:30-5:30) is an unbeatable value. The food is very flavorful due to the freshness of ingredients. Most people in this area are not accustomed to this level of flavor. I liken it to the difference between a store bought tomato vs a farm stand tomato. The portion sizes are fine dining sizes, so don't expect a plate loaded full of food as is common in the USA. If you've ever watched Hell's Kitchen or Masterchef, that is similar to what you will be seeing. Bread and crackers are given with a gourmet butter, to start the meal. Courses are separated with palette cleansers, usually a homemade sorbet. Dinner is ended with a mint, in my case a dark chocolate and crystallized ginger mint. The menu changes seasonally with the availability of local ingredients. They also will usually have a daily inspired dish, featured on their Facebook page. Check out the website for more details. If you are in the Potsdam area and enjoy quality food, don't miss the 1844 House. read more

See all

(3.5 stars) I have mixed feelings about 1844. As someone who doesn't live in the "North Country" I'm not sure I fully understand how exciting it must be to have an option like 1844 - so definite points for what they bring to the area. That said, I couldn't help but think that this was my grandmother's idea of fine dining - a rich amuse-bouche (essentially a Carr's water cracker with a dollop of blue cheese, a tiny piece of strawberry, and an almond), a trivial palate cleanser (basil sorbet), very slow service, and a waitress who insisted on calling us "ladies," as in "What can I get you LADIES?" over and over again. And the decor felt straight out of Laura Ashley! That said, the salmon that I ordered was as cooked to perfection, and though the sauce it sat in was a hair too salty, 1844 did manage to take what has become a banal dish -- salmon! -- and prepare it solidly. And I suppose ultimately, that's what I'd say about this place after last night - it's not inventive, but absolutely solid. read more

I went there for an anniversary dinner a while back, mostly because we just wanted to give it a try. The food was good, but at those prices you'd expect the very best, and I just don't feel that it was delivered. Instead of getting the zany specials, I should have gotten the chicken pot pie--a perfectly crafted pot pie would be a superior experience to a flavor combination that I've never had before but is only just "above average" quality, if you follow me. read more

My husband and I were on a work trip and wanted a good meal before our busy weekend started, 1844 house came up as one of the first choices in google and I'm so glad it did!! We were hauling a trailer and they let us park in the drive way next door. The food was amazing as well as our service. If we ever make it back up this way we will definitely be back!! 10/10 read more

Damn. Just after I finished slaying this place...they changed the menu. I will let you know when I get around to it. read more

The ambience at the 1844 house is great. It's a beautiful historic site. I was visiting friends and family and we ate here as it was a special occasion. The setting was right and some of the food was very good. I had the shrimp and crab bayou dish. The sauce was amazing. However, some of the dishes were a miss, and the menu was slightly over priced - Twenty two dollars for a falafel is just one example. The falafel, by the way, was terrible. I can't understand why it's on the menu. I'm also confused about the menu, which sells itself as an American bistro but offers a range of Asian, middle eastern, and American fare. What was most disappointing was the hour and twenty minute wait for our entrees. When we mentioned this to the manager, but he was sarcastic, dismissive, and unhelpful. We also waited a long time to be seated. I'm not sure what the problem was the night we went, but it was frustrating and spoiled the nice setting. However, based in the other options in the area, this is above average. read more

I've been staying in the Potsdam area for nearly 3 weeks. I leave tomorrow. I was reluctant to try 1844 House because of mixed reviews. I succumbed this evening...I'm so glad I did! My work brings me to many cities and towns throughout the North Country. I have a difficult time finding food I like...so I usually pack a lunch, and dinner, and a snack... Tonight's meal was delicious...so good that I ordered dessert. (I usually don't) The Creme Brûlée (my favorite dessert) was the best ever. I was reluctant to try it because I don't really care for white chocolate....it was superb! The service was wonderful and I liked the atmosphere. ( someone disparagingly mentioned the "Laura Ashley" decor in another review...what do you expect in an old farmhouse? I thought it was charming) I'm looking forward to another meal the next time I'm in town. read more

Elegant atmosphere. One of the few restaurants in the north country that take pride in their food and make a meal an experience worth remembering. Great service !!! read more

The 1844 House is a real treat. The food is always great and made with fresh ingredients including herbs grown on site. I'm not from the area, and I've found that most restaurants that the locals rave about serve food that is cheap, processed, and exceedingly bland. Not so here. 1844 serves real cuisine; a little ray of sunshine in the otherwise gloomy North Country. They served me what was the best steak I've ever had. The sauces they create are amazing. I have only one issue with the 1844 House. They should offer more local wines and beers from New York State. Their wine list is VERY heavily weighted towards California, which seems a little snooty. read more

Great place, great food! Definitely one of my favorite restaurants. I had the dijon-herb crusted salmon and it was really good. I've also had the lamb here, so good. Everything on the menu seems to be cooked to perfection with fresh local ingredients (except the fish). If you're coming to potsdam, canton or anywhere in the north country for any reason, make sure you get a reservation at 1844. There is really no other place like it. Slightly on the pricey end, so wait till pay-day. read more

When a restaurant this good can be located far from a major city you know it has something special going for it to bring clients from all over. We have been there 5 or so times in the last 5 months and have eaten in every "section" of the retaurant. There is the atrium which is open and airy, the cozy wine room area, the bar section, and also the old part of the house. Each area has their own advantages and we like them all. The food, with only one exception, has been wonderful. The Bayou is amazing, and the salmon and chicken fantastic. When my wife had the steak frites this past weekend the steak was incredibly sinewy and tough. I did not know until we had left, otherwise I would have said something to the waitress. Bummer, and a sad waste of $. So, the food is almost all great hence the 4 stars. Also, I give it 4 stars because the service, while very good, is not "exceptional". When plates are cleared oftentimes the knives, if used for butter, are not replaced with clean ones. Crumbs on the table are not swept away between courses. Yes, picky, but to earn a 5 star review everything should be perfect and it wouldn't take much to get there with some server training. Did I mention my son has celiac disease and they have done a great job with his meals. perhaps I should give it 4.5 stars... read more

The ambiance was as close to a meal served at home by a professional chef and wait staff as I've ever experienced. Appetizers through desserts were all delicious; with wine, and drinks for three came to under $125(2 meals off early menu), outstanding place - highly recommend. read more

1844 House - Baked Brie with walnuts was divine - New American Near Me - Potsdam, New York

This visit was to celebrate our anniversary and we were very pleased with our dinner. The food was delicious, waitstaff were all masked and attentive. Unfortunately, the evening ended on a sour note when the bill arrived with the notation, "A Surcharge of $4.62 may be added to this transaction if you use a credit card." Keep in mind that dinner for two with a bottle of wine will run over $100 at this restaurant. I would be surprised, in this time of Covid, if the majority of diners walk around with sufficient cash to cover the check. I would have no problem with the surcharge, had it been disclosed when the reservation was made so that we could bring enough cash to avoid it. To add insult to injury, when the final credit card slip was delivered the surcharge had been increased to $4.99. This is a trivial amount in the big scheme of things but it feels like gouging the customer. The restaurant could generate goodwill and reach the same end point if prices were increased just slightly and then a discount for cash could be offered. read more

nice place .... Wanted to try something new ... This came up on my yelp try ha Tried their food and drinks Ok seating .... The food was warm but they made me a free order ... Price was cheap ... read more

A gem. Jenny and team were outstanding ! I hosted a dinner at the 1844 House recently, and everything was terrific . I stayed at the guest house next to the restaurant, which was great. Highly recommend ! read more

We travel to the north country often and look forward to eating at the 1844 house. The beautiful flowers outside the entrance pull you in to a charming old home. The staff is friendly, courteous and efficient. The food is all delicious and presented beautifully. When in season, salad greens come from their own garden. I love the 1844 house salad. In all the years we have been going there we have not had a thing we didn't like. We seem to get the same sweet waitress (Terri) each time, and she actually remembers my husband's "preferences". . It's a lovely place - the owners have worked very hard to make it and keep it top notch. Keep doing what you're doing, it's great! read more

During my time at St. Lawrence, I made reservations here any time my parents came into town. Now that my brother goes to Clarkson, I don't see that changing! We're from Burlington, VT which is alllll about chef-driven farm-to-table cuisine. This place is awesome. At least as good as any of Burlington's best restaurants; 1844 definitely would not be out of place in a big city (I live in a big city now and 1844 still makes the top 3 of my list of all-time favorite restaurants). Yes, the atmosphere is on the nicer side. I found it charming rather than stuffy. Yes, service isn't super fast. A meal of this quality is meant to be an experience! Yes, it's pricy. It's right on par with any other farm-to-table restaurant anywhere else--and, honestly, cheaper than it would be if it were in NYC or even Burlington. Portions are not huge, nor should they be at a place like this. If you're looking for a classy fine-dining experience at a place with locally-sourced food and a creative chef, come here! Canton is lucky to have this place, and I miss it! The salmon is one of my absolute favorite meals ever, but the steak is also always wonderful. As is, honestly, everything I've ever eaten there. I still dream about the maple butter and the pumpkin bread pudding!! A true gem in the NoCo read more

Delicious food, nice presentation, good atmosphere and friendly staff. A nice place for a romantic evening or dinner with colleagues!

I've eaten here on about five occasions. This place compares favorably with any organic American cuisine in major cities, as well as being a good example of what fine dining should be. 1844 House has a reputation for being expensive, but that is simply not true. Yes, it is more costly than most, if not all of the restaurants in the area. However, the quality of food and service that you receive is a deal. Furthermore, the early dining menu quite inexpensive. The service can be slightly stiff, but it is clear that the owners are putting a lot of effort into helping them become skilled. The food is always top notch. Firstly, I like that there are only a few options each night. This shows that the chef is paying close attention to what goes out of the kitchen. The proportions are always just right. The entrees are very creative and unique, without using ridiculously obscure ingredients. Most of all, they taste great. I think the key is that they are tuned into the seasons as a source of inspiration. Presentation is always thoughtful, but never too complicated. read more

The portions were laughably small. Food was (of course) fantastic, that's why I keep coming back. It's a very nice atmosphere, the food is robust and the tastes are local, but my $8 salad was about 5 bites worth of food. 1844 house has a lot going for it, the portion sizes are not part of that list. It should also be noted, the wait staff were very helpful and courteous! read more

Fantastic food and service. Highly recommend. I had the salmon special and my date had the steak. Loved it and the dessert was delicious.

Service was uninviting and somewhat cold. They didn't offer the wine menu!! The room was cool and a bit drafty. A small setting. There is a lot missing in this old 1844 house and that includes some food as well as the ceiling. Plaster and lathe would restore the missing ceiling that authentic Victorian houses showcase. And what about a house dressing? I was not offered one! Pricing was way-way too high, but my complaint is not based on the money. I expect to spend on an outing. The dining felt fake. Food was not exceptional at all, it was just ok. In regards to fine dining it just passed a presentation test, but lacked grace. I'll cook home for my guests before taking them to the 1844 House (Located on Rt 11 between Potsdam & Canton). read more

Went for early bird dinner, party of 5. Choose lamb steak as entree. Lamb very grisly, tough & difficult to cut. Another lamb selection dinner at table also very tough. Told waitress & asked for doggie bag. Said would tell chef & was sorry. Did not bring doggie bag--thought I didn't want it. Again sorry. When left I spoke with female owner. Told her last time here everything wonderful but not the lamb tonight & not happy at least getting it for my dog. She also was very sorry & would talk to the chef. I recommended they NOT recommend it. Frankly I am surprised I was not offered another meat as only struggled with half of a small piece of meat. Then I was surprised when some money was not taken off the bill. I was very surprised that the co-owner could only offer sorries. Obviously they do not have much competition and are willing to have a clearly unhappy customer. If I go back and experience a bad section of a meal, after 1 bite I will demand replacement. Very disappointing: left a bad taste in my mouth. read more

Best restaurant in the north country. Great food and service with a beautiful atmosphere.

There's really nothing like this restaurant up in the North Country. Everything we had here was excellent. Everything. The cocktails, appetizers, entrees... Def try the fritters for apps and the filet entree. The small complimentary amuse bouches between courses were also a fantastic touch that just made the whole thing better. They should do outdoor seating in the summer! We would have loved to sit amongst the flowers. read more

The quality of the food is some of the best around. The soups change daily and are delicious. It is one of the few places you can get a really good creme brulee. They change the flavor seasonally, I am not sure when they will have the earl grey creme brulee but it is fantastic, and worth a trip just for that. The early bird dining menu is now 22$ which is an increase, but still worth it. The early menu changes periodically and they always have a new soup and dessert when we go. The menus are also online if you want to look at them before making reservations. My husband and I probably go once a month or so, it is worth it if you want to have a slower paced quality dinner. The portions are actual food portions and not gigantic plates many people are used to. But quality over quantity is emphasized. I would recommend reservations, it might just be our terrible luck, but if you try to go when there is any major college event you will not be able to get a seat! read more

Great food and service. Sit at the bar for extra attention. Farm to table is done well here

Came here for a small birthday dinner. We had a wonderful evening with good appetizers and service. Prepare for a nice long meal. The drinks were fantastic. Definitly will come back every time we have that very special occasion as it is quite pricey. read more

I love organic fresh food! Coming from NYC restaurants are extremely competitive. You will always find one better then another. However for the small north country a restaurant like this was a pleasant surprise. Soup and meals were very fresh, and you can taste the different in organic meals. I was not really disappointed with anything, yet I was not blown away with anything either. However I loved the ambiance and friendly wait staff. It is nice that the north country has a place like this. read more

Great food (the type you'd get in the BIG CITY) although the prices are a bit steep for Potsdam, NY. But again, the food is so elegant and fresh (and high quality) that it's worth it for a special occasion. They also try to use local ingredients, which is a plus in my book. read more

Second trip, not quite as good as the first, but still well above average. Had the Sea scallops this time. Not near as good as the lamb, but delicious none the less. The onion soup was perfect. The best part of the meal was the appetizer. We had the seared tuna, it was great. I don't remember what the name of the wine was, but it was a 2006 meritage, that was wonderful. read more

Prix fixe delight! Arrived for the early dining menu and were very pleased. I had the Gnocchi. Delish! Perfect portion for $22.00. Chocolate mousse was a great finish with cherry cordial bottom and a nice piece of chocolate protruding from the cute glass. Staff was welcoming and attentive. read more

Just awesome! The food is always different and delicious, and the staff always goes WAY above and beyond. I recommend it to anyone looking for a truly awesome dining experience. read more

A beautiful place to enjoy food and friends. It is very relaxing and well presented. Do not be in a hurry. Enjoy every aspect of the meal. Our appetizers were amazing. Loved the soup and the main entrees were heavenly. Well seasoned and prepared perfectly. A totally enjoyable evening. Thank you.!!!! read more

This restaurant belongs in NYC , should be Michelin rated!! Everything from start to finish was perfect. Wait staff was exceptional we had the pleasure of Alex serving us ! read more

See all

The 1844 House is truly a treat! The food melts in your mouth. The chefs/owners have done an amazing job of using local produce and specialties in their menu, which highlight seasonal and spectacular tastes of the North Country. I strongly recommend the 1844 house! (I'm getting hungry just writing this review :) read more

Best in the area, but you pay for it! NEWS - Went last night. Excellent. They've got an unbelievable wine deal. Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec for $22 - That's right about the retail price for an Excellent wine. A good Malbec with a lot of that deep Cabernet character. Highly recomended. Do it! read more