Introduction
The city of Ithaca is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant culture. It’s also a great place to enjoy a delicious meal. With a diverse range of restaurants, from fine dining to casual cafes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner or a quick bite on the go, Ithaca has it all.
The city’s food scene is both eclectic and exciting. From classic Italian dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, Ithaca’s culinary offerings are sure to please. With so many options, it can be hard to narrow down where to eat. To help, we’ve compiled reviews of some of the top restaurants in Ithaca, as well as insights from local foodies and information on where to find the city’s hidden gems.
Restaurant Reviews
If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience, Ithaca has plenty of options. Here are some of the top restaurants in the city:
Maxie’s Supper Club: This upscale eatery is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The menu features classic American fare, such as steaks and seafood, as well as a few international dishes. For dessert, try the house-made creme brulee. Maxie’s also offers an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Viva Taqueria: If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Viva Taqueria is the place to go. This lively restaurant serves up authentic tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The atmosphere is fun and casual, and the prices are reasonable. Plus, they have an extensive tequila selection.
Cafe Mira: Located in the heart of downtown Ithaca, Cafe Mira is a cozy spot for breakfast or lunch. Their menu features classic dishes, such as omelets and sandwiches, as well as unique creations like the “Mira Burger” and the “Tuna Melt Panini.” They also offer a variety of specialty coffees and teas.
Gola Osteria: Gola Osteria is one of Ithaca’s most popular Italian restaurants. Their menu includes traditional dishes, such as spaghetti and meatballs, as well as modern takes on Italian classics. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They also have an extensive wine list.
Local Favorites
To get an insider’s perspective on Ithaca’s food scene, we spoke to two local foodies. Here’s what they had to say about their favorite places to eat in the city.
Alice: My favorite place to eat in Ithaca is Purity Ice Cream. They have the best ice cream around! I love their seasonal flavors, like pumpkin and peppermint. They also have vegan and gluten-free options. And their waffle cones are homemade. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
John: My go-to spot is The Nines. It’s a small bar and grill with a cozy atmosphere. Their menu features lots of comfort food, like burgers and macaroni and cheese. But they also have some unique dishes, like the “Nines Burger” and the “Flamin’ Hot Mac.” The drinks are great too. I always get the “Nines Margarita.”
Food Crawl
For those who want to sample a wide variety of foods, Ithaca is the perfect place for a food crawl. Start off at Purity Ice Cream for a scoop of your favorite flavor. Then head to The Nines for a burger and a margarita. Next, check out Viva Taqueria for some delicious tacos. Finally, end your night at Gola Osteria for a romantic Italian dinner. No matter what type of food you’re craving, you’ll find it in Ithaca.
Hidden Gems
In addition to the more well-known restaurants, Ithaca is home to some lesser-known hidden gems. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out these spots:
The Lost Dog Cafe: This quirky cafe is tucked away in a residential neighborhood. Their menu is full of creative dishes, such as the “BBQ Pork Grilled Cheese” and the “Thai Peanut Wrap.” The atmosphere is laid-back and the staff is friendly. Plus, there’s a dog-friendly patio.
Big Alice Brewing: Big Alice Brewing is a hidden gem for beer lovers. They serve a variety of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts. The taproom is comfortable and inviting, with plenty of seating and TVs showing sports. They also have food trucks on weekends.
Sri Thai: Sri Thai is a tiny restaurant that specializes in Thai street food. Their menu includes noodle dishes, curries, and stir-fries. The flavors are bold and spicy, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s the perfect place for a quick, inexpensive lunch.
Street Eats
Ithaca’s street food scene is growing every day. From hot dogs to tacos, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of the top spots:
Hot Dog Johnny’s: Hot Dog Johnny’s is a classic street cart serving up hot dogs and sausages. Their signature dish is the “Johnny Dog,” which is topped with onions, peppers, and mustard. They also offer vegetarian options, such as veggie dogs and black bean burgers.
Taco Truck: The Taco Truck is a local favorite. The tacos are made with fresh ingredients and come in a variety of flavors, from carne asada to pork al pastor. They also have burritos, quesadillas, and nachos. Don’t forget to try the homemade salsa.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
Ithaca is a great place for vegetarians and vegans. There are plenty of restaurants offering meat-free meals. Here are a few of our favorites:
Greenstar Cafe: Greenstar Cafe is a vegan cafe serving up organic and locally sourced dishes. Their menu includes salads, sandwiches, soups, and smoothies. They also have a variety of vegan desserts, such as cupcakes and brownies. Plus, they offer gluten-free and soy-free options.
The Vegetable Bar: The Vegetable Bar is a cozy spot for vegetarian and vegan fare. Their menu includes salads, bowls, and wraps. They also have a selection of juices and smoothies. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is friendly.
Dining by Neighborhood
Ithaca is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Here’s a look at some of the top restaurants in each area:
Downtown: Downtown Ithaca is home to a wide range of restaurants, from upscale bistros to casual cafes. Highlights include Cafe Mira, Purity Ice Cream, and Gola Osteria.
Collegetown: Collegetown is a lively neighborhood full of bars and restaurants. Notable spots include The Nines, Hot Dog Johnny’s, and Viva Taqueria.
East Hill: East Hill is a residential area with a few hidden gems. Try The Lost Dog Cafe, Big Alice Brewing, and Sri Thai.
Conclusion
Ithaca is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal. From upscale restaurants to casual cafes, there’s something for everyone. We’ve provided reviews of some of the top eateries, as well as insights from local foodies and information on where to find hidden gems. No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in Ithaca.
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