A new chapter is set to begin for the historic Cornell Steamboat Company building on the Kingston waterfront. Most recently Ole Savannah, the lofty creekside brick building will reopen with a rebranded and redesigned interior as the Cornell Restaurant + Bar on Monday, April 14.
Still under the ownership of local restaurateur Dave Amato, who also runs Uptown’s popular bar and grill Brickmen, this new concept is a collaboration with Jessica Mino. The Cornell promises a fresh take on dining in Kingston, combining innovative global fusion dishes with the warm, familiar comfort of neighborhood hospitality. The menu, developed in collaboration with executive chef Anthony Colon, includes everything from dim sum to a handcrafted cappelletti bistecca, sushi, fried chicken, and even mini lobster rolls—all designed with sharing in mind.
The restaurant draws its name and inspiration from the Cornell Steamboat Company, which once powered the Hudson River’s maritime industry. Operating for over a century, the company played a vital role in the region’s economy and daily life. The Cornell Restaurant + Bar honors that legacy, not only in its name but in its mission to gather people around food, drink, and community.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of the revitalization of the Rondout district with this new dining destination,” says Amato. “The Kingston community has been a great supporter of our restaurants, and I’m happy to continue our tradition of good food, good drink, and good friends here at The Cornell, while also paying homage to Kingston’s rich maritime history.”
The space itself has undergone a thoughtful transformation led by Rhode Island-based design firm Jackson Creative Group, who reimagined both the interior and exterior to reflect the city’s industrial past while welcoming guests with a warm, modern feel. The aesthetic updates aim to match the evolving tastes of Kingston diners while keeping the history of the location front and center.
Open seven days a week for lunch, dinner, and drinks—plus Sunday brunch—The Cornell is designed to serve locals and visitors alike. In addition to its daily offerings, the venue will also host private events and celebrations, continuing the legacy of hospitality that Amato and his team have built over the years.
With its waterfront views, innovative cuisine, and deep roots in local history, The Cornell Restaurant + Bar is poised to become a new staple of Kingston’s growing culinary scene. Whether you’re dropping by for a cocktail, sharing a spread with friends, or hosting a special event, The Cornell aims to offer something memorable for everyone—just as the steamboats once did on the Hudson.
