Savoring Ithaca: A Gastronomic Journey through New York’s Hidden Foodie Paradise

Welcome, foodies, wanderers, and lovers of all things sublime and delicious! If your taste buds are tingling with adventure, you’ve stumbled upon the right place. As a dedicated food blogger, I have been on countless culinary journeys, but today, we’re setting sail to the paradise known as Ithaca, New York. A small town famous for its educational institutions, wild gorges, and waterfalls, Ithaca is also home to a burgeoning food scene that will make your palate leap with joy.

When you think of Ithaca, the first thing that might pop up in your mind would be Cornell University or Ithaca College, but did you know that Ithaca is a gastronome’s delight? From hearty breakfast cafes to sumptuous fine dining restaurants, diverse global cuisines to farm-to-table delights, the city is a hidden gem in the food world. This humble town, nestled in the Finger Lakes region, is making some serious noise in the gastronomy universe.

As we embark on this food tour, we’ll be exploring vibrant farmers markets, charming vineyards, quirky diners, and elegant dining rooms. Along the way, we’ll meet passionate chefs, innovative brewers, and food-loving locals who are passionately putting Ithaca on the culinary map of the world. So, tighten your seat belts and get ready for a tantalising journey through Ithaca’s finest foods and unforgettable dining experiences!

Most Popular Restaurants in Ithaca

When it comes to gastronomic experiences, Moosewood Restaurant takes the top spot in Ithaca. Located at 215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850, this landmark restaurant is famous for its innovative vegetarian and vegan meals. Moosewood has been delighting the palates of locals and tourists alike since 1973. Their award-winning cuisine is inspired by dishes from around the world, providing wholesome, health-conscious meals with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. From delectable soups to savory main courses and indulgent desserts, their menu is teeming with flavors that cater to all taste buds.

Next on the list is Ciao!, a delightful Italian bistro located at 2 Hickory Hollow Ln, Ithaca, NY 14850. Ciao! is renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. Their menu features traditional Italian dishes, made from scratch and using only the freshest ingredients. Whether you fancy a plate of perfectly cooked pasta, a crispy pizza, or a hearty meat dish, Ciao! offers an array of choices that will surely satisfy your Italian cravings.

For Asian cuisine enthusiasts, Miyake on 416 Eddy St, Ithaca, NY 14850, is a must-visit. Miyake’s offerings run the gamut from sushi and sashimi, ramen, teriyaki, and a variety of Japanese favorites. Patrons of Miyake must not miss their Sushi and Sashimi A La Carte. The freshness and quality of their ingredients combined with the mastery of their chefs make for a truly unforgettable Japanese dining experience.

If you fancy the best breakfast in town, a visit to Carriage House Cafe at 305 Stewart Ave, Ithaca, NY 14850, is a must. This quaint brunch spot not only features baked goods made from scratch daily but also serves lunch and dinner. Their menu includes a selection of classic breakfast dishes, omelets, sandwiches, and salads, all made with local, seasonal produce. The café’s highlight is their extensive variety of donuts, from classic glazed to unique combinations like maple bacon.

Moving on to dessert, Purity Ice Cream, located at 700 Cascadilla St, Ithaca, NY 14850, has been serving mouthwatering homemade ice cream since 1936. They offer a delectable selection of classic flavors along with seasonal specialties and vegan options. The smooth, creamy texture and unforgettable flavors at Purity are a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition.

Most Unique Restaurants in Ithaca

If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience with a twist, you should check out Moosewood Restaurant. Located at 215 N. Cayuga Street in the Dewitt Mall, this restaurant has been serving up some of the finest vegetarian and vegan dishes since 1973. The menu is a testament to the creative possibilities of plant-based cuisine, including globally inspired dishes from Asia, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and more. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with an eclectic selection of artwork from local artists decorating the walls. Be sure to try favorites like the African peanut soup or the spinach ricotta lasagna.

Next on the list is Ithaca Beer Co., nestled at 122 Ithaca Beer Drive. The brewery has a full-scale restaurant and taproom, set in a modern, industrial-chic setting. They offer a host of unique, quality craft beers and a diverse menu to match. Their dishes, often featuring local and seasonal ingredients, are expertly paired with their beers for a flavor-packed dining experience. The beer cheese soup and the Ithaca Ale braised chicken pot pie are just a few standout options to try. With ample seating both indoors and outdoors, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy Ithaca’s craft beer culture.

Anyone with adventurous taste buds must visit Red’s Place. Found at 107 North Aurora Street, this unique, locally-owned restaurant blends the best of western and Asian cuisine. The menu mashes up American diner classics with Asian favorites – think fluffy pancakes topped with a Korean-style bulgogi, or a cheeseburger complete with Vietnamese pickled vegetables. While the ideas seem wild, the combination works beautifully and delivers a unique taste that’s bound to leave your palate wanting more.

If you’re a music lover looking for some culinary delight, Lot 10 Bar and Lounge is the place for you. It’s located at 106 South Cayuga Street and is Ithaca’s only two-floor cocktail lounge and nightclub. Apart from the opportunity to dance the night away, they offer a top-notch menu packed full of mouthwatering delights. Try the black bean hummus with local pita chips, or the eggplant fries served with a spicy tomato dip. Add a hand-crafted cocktail to the mix and your night is sure to be unforgettable.

Last but certainly not least is Casa Toucan. Based at 111 The Commons, this restaurant serves a delicious fusion of Mexican and Middle Eastern fare. Indulge in their falafel tacos or hummus quesadillas. They also feature an impressive selection of beverages, including rare craft beers and tequilas. The vibrant interior gives off a playful, energetic vibe that’s truly representative of the exciting dishes served within.

Best Casual Restaurants in Ithaca

Upstate New York’s hidden gem, Ithaca, is not only famous for its beautiful waterfalls, but also for being a haven for food lovers. This small town offers a wide range of dining experiences, from farm-to-table to Asian fusion, that are both delicious and budget-friendly. Let’s explore some of the best casual restaurants that Ithaca has to offer.

One of the town’s most cherished spots is Moosewood Restaurant. Located at 215 N Cayuga St, it’s a pioneer in the realm of vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Since its inception in 1973, Moosewood has been preparing meals that are as nutritious as they are flavorful. Famous for their daily soup and salad specials, they also offer an assortment of mouthwatering sandwiches and desserts. Known for their eco-friendly practices and dedicated community service, a meal at Moosewood is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a sustainable choice.

If you’re in the mood for a hearty burger, then head over to Ithaca Beer Co. Taproom at 122 Ithaca Beer Dr. This is not simply a brewery, but a destination for beer connoisseurs and foodies alike. Their farm-to-table menu features locally sourced ingredients, ensuring maximum freshness. Their Taproom burger, made with pasture-raised beef topped with an IPA-infused sauce, is a crowd favorite. Pair it with one of their handcrafted beers for a truly unforgettable meal.

Next, take a culinary trip to South East Asia by visiting Hawi Ethiopian Cuisine, located at 113 S Cayuga St. This family-owned restaurant serves authentic Ethiopian dishes packed with distinctive flavors and spices. Enjoy injera, a sourdough-risen flatbread, with different stews and salads in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or a meat lover, Hawi offers options for everyone.

Finally, make sure to stop by Le Café Cent-Dix, located at 110 N Aurora St. This French brasserie-style restaurant brings a touch of Parisian charm to Ithaca. The menu is filled with French classics like croque-monsieur, moules frites, and crème brûlée. The relaxed and laid-back ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list to complete the French dining experience.

Experience these culinary delights when in Ithaca, New York. Each of them provides a unique and delightful dining experience, coupled with a casual and relaxed atmosphere, that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Best Family Restaurants in Ithaca

If you’re searching for a family-friendly dining scene, look no further than Ithaca, New York. Known for its beautiful waterfalls, the bustling college town of Ithaca is equally celebrated for its diverse restaurants. So let’s dive right in and share our top picks for a wholesome family meal in this cozy town.

First on our list is Northstar House. Located at 202 E Falls St, Ithaca, Northstar House is more than just a restaurant. With a mission to provide high-quality, locally-sourced meals, this spot offers a menu that’s as diverse as it is delectable. From their famous burger to the unique, seasonal dishes—everything is prepared fresh and from scratch. Plus, its patio dining area is perfect for families wanting to enjoy a sunny afternoon outing.

Next on our list is Maxie’s Supper Club. Nestled at 635 W State St, Ithaca, Maxie’s Supper Club brings a taste of New Orleans to upstate New York with its indulgent Southern comfort food. From jambalaya to crawfish étouffée, the lip-smacking menu suits both adults and children. The restaurant also has a kids-meal option that includes a free ice cream dessert—a surefire hit with little ones!

Another must-visit is Moosewood Restaurant. Renowned for their award-winning vegetarian and seafood dishes, Moosewood, located at 215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, crafts meals that are both healthful and flavorful. The restaurant offers an extensive kids’ menu and is sensitive to dietary restrictions, making it an excellent option for families.

Moving on to Italian cuisine, we present Gola Osteria. This charming Italian eatery, located in the historic Quarry Arms building at 115 S Quarry St, Ithaca, offers a modern take on classic Italian dishes. Children are catered to with a menu that includes pasta and chicken dishes. The welcoming ambiance and mouth-watering meals make Gola Osteria a must-visit for families that appreciate good Italian cuisine.

For families craving Asian cuisine, Sushi Osaka is the perfect choice. Located at 2300 N Triphammer Rd, Ithaca, Sushi Osaka serves up an impressive selection of sushi, sashimi, and hibachi dishes. In addition to classic rolls, they also offer a variety of creative rolls, allowing sushi enthusiasts to experiment. They also have child plates making it a friendly choice for families with diverse taste buds.

From locally-sourced American meals to exotic foreign cuisine, the family-friendly dining scene in Ithaca, NY, has something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these restaurants are sure to provide a memorable dining experience.

Best Takeout Food in Ithaca

If you’re looking for top-notch Asian cuisine, look no further than Tamarind Thai Cuisine. Located at 503 N Meadow St, Ithaca, NY 14850, this eatery is an oasis of authentic and flavorful Thai dishes. The menu offers a wide variety of options, from the Pad Thai to the Gaeng Daeng (Red Curry), all made with fresh ingredients. The food is always cooked to perfection, with each dish packed full of traditional Thai flavors. Plus, the takeout service is swift and efficient, ensuring your food is ready to go when you arrive.

Moving towards Mediterranean cuisine, Agava Restaurant at 381 Pine Tree Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850 offers an impressive variety of dishes influenced by both Southwest America and the Mediterranean. The menu promises a mouth-watering selection of takeout options including wood-fired pizzas, tacos, and their signature Agava salad. If you are a fan of tequila, don’t miss their handcrafted cocktails that are also available for takeout. It’s no wonder this has become a firm favorite among local residents.

For an Italian fix, Maxie’s Supper Club & Oyster Bar located at 635 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850 is the place to be. With a menu that changes with the seasons, Maxie’s dishes are always bursting with fresh and innovative flavors. Their takeout menu features a variety of seafood, steaks, and New Orleans-inspired dishes. Not to mention their decadent dessert options, sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Their takeaway services are highly reliable, providing well-packaged, hot food in a timely manner.

If you fancy pizza, the choice has to be Napoli Pizzeria. Found at 401 Eddy St, Ithaca, NY 14850, Napoli Pizzeria boasts one of the best pizzas in town. From the classic Margherita to their signature Stuffed Pizza, these pizzas are generously topped and come with a perfectly crisp crust. The pizzeria also offers an assortment of other Italian classics for takeout, with their spaghetti and meatballs being a firm favorite among locals.

Finally, for those seeking comfort food, it’s difficult to beat the offerings from Ithaca Beer Co. Taproom. Located at 122 Ithaca Beer Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850, the restaurant offers a takeout menu featuring comforting classics like their famous grilled cheese sandwich and burgers, with a gourmet twist. Also noteworthy are their craft beers, available for takeout, which make a perfect pairing with their hearty dishes.

What Foods is Ithaca Known For?

Eating Your Way Around Ithaca: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary

On your culinary exploration of Ithaca, start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Carriage House Cafe. They offer a playful array of breakfast items that are sure to satisfy any palate. Head over to 305 Stewart Avenue, Ithaca, NY 14850 to enjoy their famous brioche French toast or scrambled eggs with goat cheese.

For lunch, we’re keeping it straightforward and delicious with a visit to Gorgers. Located at 116 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, they offer fantastic handmade subs and tacos that will hit the spot for any foodie. Their Mongolian beef sub and chicken chorizo taco are must-tries.

A perfect afternoon snack or drink can be found at Ithaca Beer Co., situated at 122 Ithaca Beer Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850. Their craft beers, soft pretzels, and laid-back vibe make it the perfect relaxing stop before your evening meal. Their Apricot Wheat beer and Flower Power IPA are local favorites that you really shouldn’t miss.

For dinner, we’re heading to the Mediterranean with a stop at Agava Restaurant. Located at 381 Pine Tree Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, Agava offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience with a southwestern twist. Their wood-fired pizzas, mac n’ cheese, and lamb meatballs are incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

To satisfy your sweet tooth, visit Purity Ice Cream at 700 Cascadilla St, Ithaca, NY 14850. From creamy, dreamy ice cream flavors to delightful pastries, this place is a dessert lover’s paradise. Try their classic hot fudge sundae or their unique sweet corn ice cream for a perfect end to your day of food exploration in Ithaca.

If you’re a night owl and a foodie, then grab a bite at Midnight’s Kitchen. It is situated at 402 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850 and is the perfect spot for late-night munchies. They serve up fusion dishes like Korean BBQ tacos and Lobster Cheese Fries that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are some of the best restaurants to try in Ithaca?

A1: Ithaca is a foodie paradise with an incredible array of restaurants. Some of the favorites among locals and visitors include ‘Moosewood Restaurant’, renowned for its vegetarian and vegan dishes. ‘Maxie’s Supper Club & Oyster Bar’ offers fresh seafood, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere. For an upscale dining experience, ‘Gola Osteria’ serves exquisite Italian cuisine, while ‘Ithaca Beer Co.’ is the local haunt for craft beer enthusiasts and serves a superb food menu.

Q2: Are there any great pizza places in Ithaca?

A2: Absolutely! ‘The Nines’ is a beloved fixture in the Ithaca community serving deep-dish style pizza. ‘Collegetown Pizza’ is perfect for a quick and tasty slice. ‘Sal’s Pizzeria’ is another favorite with their wide variety of toppings and delicious crust.

Q3: I love brunch. What are the best brunch spots in Ithaca?

A3: ‘Carriage House Cafe’ is a charming spot for brunch with its unique dishes and cozy atmosphere. ‘Ithaca Bakery’ offers a wide selecition of bagels, pastries and sandwiches. ‘Waffle Frolic’ is the place to go for sweet and savory waffle combinations, while ‘Cafe Dewitt’ offers a fancy twist on classic brunch items.

Q4: What vegan/vegetarian-friendly restaurants would you recommend in Ithaca?

A4: Ithaca caters well to vegan/vegetarian diners. As mentioned earlier, ‘Moosewood Restaurant’ is a world-famous vegetarian restaurant. ‘The Piggery’ is a farm-to-table restaurant with several vegetarian and vegan options. ‘GreenStar Natural Foods Market’ also has an in-store eatery with plenty of fresh, vegan and vegetarian-friendly choices.

Q5: I’m looking for something exotic. Are there any international food places you can recommend?

A5: Yes, Ithaca is rich in diversity when it comes to international cuisine. ‘Taste of Thai Express’ is popular for its Thai dishes. ‘Saigon Kitchen’ offers delicious Vietnamese cuisine. ‘Just A Taste’ is a wine & tapas bar serving international small plates. For those craving Mediterranean cuisine, ‘Mediterranean Grill’ is a great option.

Q6: Where can we grab a quick bite to eat in Ithaca?

A6: ‘Ithaca Bakery’ is perfect for a quick sandwich or pastry. ‘Collegetown Bagels’ offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads and coffee. ‘Wegmans’ is a grocery store with several ready-to-eat options, while ‘Shortstop Deli’ is open 24/7 and serves made-to-order sandwiches.

Q7: What are the best dessert spots in Ithaca?

A7: For dessert lovers, Ithaca won’t disappoint. ‘Purity Ice Cream’ is a classic ice cream shop that’s been around since 1936. ‘Sweet Melissa’s Ice Cream Shop’ serves homemade ice cream and is another favorite. ‘Ithaca Coffee Company’ not only offers great coffee, but also an impressive assortment of gourmet chocolates and baked goods.

Q8: Are there any notable fine dining restaurants?

A8: For a special occasion or fine dining experience, ‘Gola Osteria’ and ‘The Heights Restaurant and H Bar’ are highly recommended. They offer an intimate setting, exceptional service and gourmet dishes.

Are you a globetrotter with a passion for discovering unique culinary delights? Do you yearn to uncover the flavors and foodie hotspots that are hidden in cities around the world? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve crafted an array of travel food guides that dive into the gastronomic treasures of many fascinating cities. From the pizza havens of New York to the tapas trails in Barcelona, we’ve got it all covered. So why not take your taste buds on an adventure and check out our collection of food travel guides? You can explore them right here. Bon Appétit!