Mark Mendola believes in re-imagining restaurants, and that’s just what he’s done with D’Marco’s and The Backdoor in downtown Rochester. D’Marco’s, which is celebrating its sixth anniversary, just got an oven to make wood-fired pizzas and renovated its dining room, and The Backdoor is literally the back door of D’Marco’s – formally a private dining area – featuring Mexican cuisine, 150 different tequilas and an intimate speakeasy vibe. Enjoy craft cocktails, Bourbons, wines and more at either place, as well a wide range of Italian and Mexican dishes.

Located in the historic Western Knitting Mill in downtown Rochester, Rochester Mills Beer Co. is not only a fixture in Rochester, but is the largest beer-producing brew pub in the state. Director of Marketing Jon Lapolla told us about the pub’s ten house brews, plus seasonal offerings. Rochester Mills also offers a full bar and a wide range of food, including goulash, jambalaya, salads, sandwiches, pizza and more. Seating up to 400 people, the brew pub offers plenty of musical entertainment. Lapolla invites you to stop by and enjoy a seat on the patio when the weather warms up, or book your next party at the Lazy Daze Lounge inside the brew pub.

The owner of Impreza Catering, Sonia Kobylecki, has always enjoyed cooking and is happy to have made her passion into a career. The 15-year-old business has catered events like Al Kaline’s birthday party, Williams-Sonoma events and more. Kobylecki enjoys doing smaller private chef events as well as catered dinners for 600. Her all-natural turkey brine is available in specialty markets around the country and on her website.

Local Business News talked with Phil and Maryanne Munroe, proud owners of The Spice & Tea Exchange in downtown Rochester. They invite you to step into their specialty tea and spice store and enjoy the rich aromas of more than 80 custom spice blends and 80-plus loose teas. Take home an iced or hot tea of your choice made at the tea bar, or just enjoy it as you shop. You might come across some surprising finds, like Bourbon-flavored honey and other unique culinary delights. The couple is looking forward to Spice & Tea’s one-year anniversary celebration on Oct. 6.

Boris Jovanoski, executive chef for Park 600, located inside the Royal Park Hotel in downtown Rochester, told us about the upscale restaurant’s offerings. There you can get anything from a great brunch to a steak or salmon dinner to oven-fired pizzas. Park 600 focuses on locally sourced food and changes its menu seasonally. Visit the eatery for upcoming events like the Maker’s Mark bourbon dinner, or stop by for drink and appetizer specials during happy hour.