Our Story

Rene Fleming

I wanted to say Hi! And introduce myself. I’m René – co-owner of Amber Inn.

I am a proud Marcellus alum (class of ’92) and Cortland State Business Econ grad. I opened my first Cafe, JavaJuice, in the heart of Marcellus and Med West in Camillus some 20 years ago – and there began my career in hospitality. I began consulting to help others open restaurants with my first client being Creekside cafe/bookstore in Skaneateles (where Finger Lakes On Tap is now) – and the rest is history. I moved back to San Diego (moving here from SD when I was in 4th grade) where I got into the wine business. I began opening from the ground up, full-service wine and beer restaurants (RELM Wine & Beer Bistro) – 4 in total including one in Camarillo, CA that is still open and operational as a trademark location. As well, I continued my business consulting. In 2017, I decided to sell RELM, work remotely, and road trip back and forth to live bi-coastally – the best of all worlds…. until COVID. I have been back on Otisco Lake since June and am SO happy to be here.

I LOVE our local community where I have so many memories and amazing friendships and family. It's been so fun reconnecting with my roots again! I am beyond excited to re-open Amber Inn with my friend and business partner Carolyn, to continue the community space that has been so special to so many (myself included). Can’t wait to meet/see you all soon! Here is to a bright tomorrow at Amber Inn!

Carolyn Balduzzi

Hi! I’m Carolyn, co-owner of Amber Inn. I am so excited to be working alongside my long-time friend and now business partner, Rene Fleming, to reopen Amber Inn!

A little bit about myself: After graduating from Syracuse University, I began working in the advertising and graphic design industry in Central New York. During this time I also managed Rene’s first café in Marcellus and developed much of the marketing for it. Later on I managed art and marketing departments for tech companies in San Diego and Northern Virginia, before moving back home to the finger lakes area. I landed a job in the hospitality industry, at Turning Stone Resort Casino, where I became a project manager, hiring a team to manage the huge flow of marketing projects for all of the restaurants, casinos and other businesses of the Oneida Indian Nation… until COVID.

Hardship can also sometimes bring opportunity. When the time comes to open the doors at Amber Inn, I look forward to welcoming you back, or inviting you in for the first time. My goal is simply to create a comfortable environment where the drinks are cold, the food is great and the traditions live on.