You don’t have to visit a crowded, expensive city like New York City in order to find a meal fit for a foodie. In fact, branching out to the suburb of Syracuse will offer the fine dining fix you seek at a fraction of the price. Plus, you won’t have to make your reservations months in advance in order to secure a table. Check out these top foodie destinations during your visit to Syracuse, New York.
Pastabilities
Image via Flickr by yoppy
Pastabilities has been a staple in Syracuse for over 30 years. Though it’s known for classic Italian fare made from scratch and prepared to perfection, the restaurant also features a few foodie-friendly options that take the dining experience to the next level.
Don’t miss Pastabilities’ famous spicy hot tomato oil, which has been featured on the Food Network. Also known as the “hot tom,” this concoction features a perfect mix of tomato sauce, spices, and olive oil. The sweet yet spicy result is ideal for dipping crusty bread or pairing with perfectly cooked pasta. Order some off the menu, then buy a jar to take home for at-home foodie dining.
Lemon Grass
For authentic Thai food, head to Lemon Grass in downtown Syracuse. This restaurant has won numerous regional awards for food, and the wine list is the recipient of some international awards. The service is top-notch and the atmosphere is on par with some of the finest New York restaurants. The Armory Square location of Lemon Grass makes it especially convenient for those who are staying at one of the many affordable downtown Syracuse hotels.
When it comes to the food, you can’t go wrong with the well-curated menu at Lemon Grass. The beautiful, Instagram-worthy dishes are inventive and flavorful, including options like seafood curry and crispy spring rolls with tuna and asparagus. Don’t miss the chance to pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s many fine wines; servers are prepared to give expert recommendations if needed.
Wildflowers
Venture just outside Syracuse to Verona to try Wildflowers at Turning Stone. This intimate restaurant has just 65 seats and is the only AAA Four Diamond-rated restaurant in Central New York. It’s one of the top spots for a classic steak and sides, but you can also find some truly inspired dishes on the menu that will speak to your foodie spirit. Many of the ingredients are sourced from nearby farms, lending an extra boost of flavor to each dish.
Try the aged cheddar pierogi with leek cream and roasted cipollini for a vegetarian entrée that’s just as flavorful and filling as any steak, or opt for the succulent duck breast with cider jus and a side of spaetzle with Brussels sprouts and bacon. The bananas Foster, which is prepared tableside, makes for an unforgettable ending to a perfectly paced meal.
Ready to try something new that makes your taste buds dance with delight? Head to Syracuse, New York, to experience an incredible range of restaurants with top-notch dishes and a one-of-a-kind dining atmosphere. You’ll love that indulging in your food fantasies is easily within reach in this midsize city.