24 Best Restaurants in Syracuse NY to Visit (For First Timer!)

Syracuse is not regarded as one of the best cities in New York State because of its entertainment hub and arts alone; its food scene and restaurants in Syracuse also contribute to its reputation.

You’ll love discovering the beautiful outdoor parks, delectable food scenes, and annual events. Here are some best things to do in Syracuse besides exploring its restaurants.

Syracuse has some of the best Italian restaurants in the country, including Spaghetti Warehouse Syracuse and Francesca’s Cucina.

In addition to the Italian cuisine, you will come across renowned steakhouses and seafood restaurants in Syracuse.

In short, you won’t have a problem looking for eateries to eat at because you will find restaurants in every nook and cranny of the city.

These are the top restaurants in Syracuse you shouldn’t miss for anything.

Restaurants in Syracuse

1. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Syracuse

If you love barbecue, then Dinosaur Bar-B-Que should be top on your list of restaurants in Syracuse to visit.

Before launching the complete bar in 1991, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que opened its Syracuse restaurant doors in 1988, selling only barbecue.

Several changes have been made to the restaurant’s layout, including adding two private party rooms upstairs in what was originally Andy’s Cycle Shop.

They feature a vast selection of meat platters and creative takes on traditional BBQ dishes.

Excellent ribs are served, delicate and smoky with a tiny amount of char. The various sauces provide the ideal blend of sweetness and spice.

Choose the Tres Nio if you’re not really hungry but want to try a modest sampling of a few smoked portions of meat. There are also vegetarian options.

Additionally, you can choose two private party rooms upstairs at the restaurant, or you can select both.

The main area contains a stage with a sound system, 125 seats, a complete bar, and many amenities.

Even though there is just street parking available, this family-friendly BBQ restaurant is lovely.

The best part? The restaurant is dog friendly, so you can bring your canine companions to dinner at one of their outdoor sitting locations.

Address: 246 W Willow St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

2. Francesca’s Cucina

Francesca’s is among the top Italian restaurants in Syracuse.

With its brick walls and “big city” vibe, the ambiance is ideal for a fun night out.

The food on the menu is tasty and diverse. However, on weekends, the restaurant is crowded, and even when you are seated, the kitchen might struggle to keep up.

Nevertheless, the meals are reasonable in quantity and very tasty. In fact, you will love the meals here.

Try the lobster ravioli; it is amazing and has a tasty sauce. Excellent eggplant rollatini is provided in a little cast iron skillet. It also includes a side of pasta.

Although they frequently switch up the desserts, butter cake is a standby and is usually on hand.

With concrete tables and chandeliers over each one, the outdoor area is also magnificent. So, remember to sit outside without a doubt if the weather allows.

Sometimes the restaurant can be a little raucous, but it adds to Francesca’s energetic personality.

Overall, the restaurant is an ideal location for a party, especially in the months when their back terrace is available! The area is just stunning, with the chandeliers, lights, and chairs around the fire pit. You shouldn’t miss here.

Address: 545 N Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13208, United States

3. Spaghetti Warehouse Syracuse

Spaghetti Warehouse restaurant is another Italian restaurant in the city. In fact, by now, you will realize there are many Italian restaurants in Syracuse, so be prepared for some Italian delicacies.

Spaghetti Warehouse restaurant in Syracuse was established in 1989. The famous full-size trolley and other intriguing relics were placed in the restaurants.

The restaurant’s interior is roomy but cozy, with lovely woodwork and stained glass throughout.

Two roomy dining spaces, an arcade, and a bar are present. A trolley vehicle that has been transformed into another dining room is also located in the middle of the main dining area.

The nostalgic ambiance is also incredibly endearing. Under a genuine traffic light, you can eat inside the trolley vehicle or an old four-post bed frame. You have to see it to believe it.

Visit the eatery to savor freshly cooked American-Italian dishes like the Warehouse Pizzas and the Incredible Warehouse Lasagna.

There’s also the famous Spaghetti & Meatballs, Chicken Parmigiana, and delectable sandwiches.

Address: 689 N Clinton St, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

4. 317 @ Montgomery Street

Voted one of the best restaurants in Syracuse, 317 is one of the must-visit restaurants in Syracuse.

Although this is a hidden gem, it is also easy to locate, as “317 at Montgomery” is both the address and the name of this beautiful eatery.

It is a tiny restaurant that can accommodate no more than 40 diners, but it is exquisitely decorated and has many original paintings by one of the owners.

The ambiance is really lovely, with tiled ceilings, exposed brick, oak trim, and original artwork.

The location’s closeness and tranquil atmosphere are both parts of its appeal.

Although the wine selection at 317 at Montgomery isn’t huge, but they have some of the best wines around.

Their menu may also be limited, but that’s only because they make sure to perfect whatever they serve.

In fact, there is something fantastic on the menu for everyone despite the menu’s tiny size and seasonal adjustments.

From fresh market fish that changes every week to duck tacos, you can count on a delightful and unique experience every time you dine there.

Due to the small number of tables, the atmosphere is cozy and ideal for a special occasion or date night.

One nice thing here is that you can have an audible dinner conversation since the background music is not deafening.

Address: 317 Montgomery St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

5. Pastabilities

If you are looking to get your food quickly and fast, this is the place.

Everything about Pastabilities is incredible. So many pasta possibilities and each one tastes so good.

The pasta is made on-site, which makes a difference from common store-bought pasta.

For more than 35 years, Pastabilities restaurant in Syracuse has been gratifyingly serving its patrons.

You are given a table number when you walk into the restaurant.

You might have to wait for some time if the restaurant is filled up because they don’t accept reservations. However, you can put your name down, have a drink at the bar or visit other bars nearby, and then return to find your table ready.

Use your smartphone or other mobile devices to scan the QR code on the menu, which directs you to a website where you can place your order for food.

Then you can make your selections, including drinks, upgrades, and add-ons, then use your mobile to pay for them.

A diverse cuisine featuring a range of loaves of bread baked fresh is available throughout the day in the restaurant’s bakery.

The stretch bread and spicy tomato oil are favorites here; it’s so delicious and addicting, so make sure to try them.

Address: 311 S Franklin St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

6. The Fish Friar

While there are several Italian restaurants in Syracuse, you will also find several seafood eateries, and Fish Friar is undoubtedly one of the top seafood restaurants in Syracuse.

The location is tucked away in the charming historic district of Hanover Square.

The restaurant’s serene ambiance makes it a wonderful place to unwind over lunch and even better for a romantic evening out.

In fact, the restaurant is the ideal combination of a cozy setting, fantastic food, excellent beer, and fantastic staff!

Fresh seafood is delivered weekly from Maine. One of the best calamari soups in the country is also available here and cooked there.

They provide you with generous quantities and unique salads. All of the salads are exceptionally fresh and unique.

The outside patio is a terrific place to eat; relax while people-watching at City Hall.

What distinguishes it from other seafood establishments in the city are the entrees, which are distinctive from most seafood eateries.

A lovely wine and spirits menu is also available to go with the cuisine.

Address: 239 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

7. Daniella’s Steakhouse

Want to celebrate a special occasion? Then you should go to Danielle’s Steakhouse.

Daniella’s, founded in 1960 as a modest working-class pub, is one of the best Steakhouses in Syracuse.

The restaurant is named after the proprietor’s mother. The restaurant is decorated with crystal glass chandeliers and soft pink and white hues.

In fact, the establishment itself is a jewel. There isn’t much space in the dining area, and the seating is close together at the tables. Nevertheless, the service and meals are one of a kind.

Fresh and juicy steaks are the restaurant’s specialty. Every steak comes with a variety of sauces, grilled veggies, and French fries.

Similarly, seafood and a variety of house salads are available. Craft beer and vintage wine are also offered at the bar.

In addition to the wonderful dining room, they have an upscale outdoor patio where you can order dinner or just a snack from their upscale Bistro menu.

The restaurant comes highly recommended if you want to eat at a unique neighborhood restaurant that is away from the hustle of downtown and has fantastic meals.

Address: 670 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13209, United States

8. Attilio’s

Attlilio’s is one of those restaurants in Syracuse you want to eat at, even if you have to make extra travel arrangements.

The restaurant serves Old World dishes that are all locally sourced and cooked from scratch daily.

Do not be deceived by the “low-key entry,” as the restaurant’s inside has a charming atmosphere.

The interior is open and contemporary with parquet floors, exposed brick, an in-wall fireplace, and a library theme.

The neighboring dining rooms contain white linen-covered tables, while the lounge has high-top seats and a TV.

Attilio’s serves a wide variety of foods, including wraps, pasta, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees.

A huge banquet space is also accessible, and the banquet menu offers dishes like chicken fingers, garlic pizza, fried meatballs, scallops with bacon, and stuffed mushrooms.

In short, their menu features everything from oven-fired pizzas to the renowned spaghetti pie and more.

The bar at Attilio’s Restaurant and Bar is also open until closing time and is open for lunch and dinner.

Make sure you don’t skip on the warm bread with the dipping oil; it’s really tasty.

Address: 770 James St, Syracuse, NY 13203, United States

9. Lemon Grass Restaurant, Syracuse

If you are a fan of Thai cuisine, then you are definitely going to want to stop at Lemon Grass in Syracuse.

Formerly called the authentic Thai Restaurant of Syracuse in Mattydale, the restaurant has received different honors from Wine Spectator, Maple Leaf Farms, Daily Orange Newspaper, and more.

The interior is also beautiful, with high ceilings, a gorgeous bat, and beautiful art.

The lunch menu is fully stocked, and the supper menu is much more extensive.

A high-quality wine list and an expert wine steward are also available.

The stunning presentation makes one want to take pictures of everything, gaze intently, and ponder the creativity.

With originality, attention to detail, and a well-trained crew, Lemon Grass provides a quality eating experience and comes highly recommended.

Address: 113 Walton St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

10. Eden, Syracuse

Eden is one of the only restaurants in Syracuse or even the country where the food is cooked entirely with a wood fire.

Unlike any other local restaurant, the ambiance is distinctive. Eden is a hidden gem in the community because of its delicious food, amazing cocktails, and craft beer menu.

With tables and stools made from whole ash trees with the bark still on, the 40-seat restaurant is both rustic and exquisite.

The bar and planters that hang from trellises were made from salvaged wood that was once part of the Flagship Securities Building.

Cooking over a wood fire is primitive and transformative, as some well-known chefs have shown. However, it is a unique experience to watch your cuisine being made in the open kitchen over a glowing grill with flames and embers.

Additionally, the restaurant has a hip, friendly, and enjoyable atmosphere. Perfect for a dating night during the week.

Although there is a small but carefully curated menu of appetizers and entrées at the farm-to-table restaurant, you will still love it.

Address: 118 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

11. Phoebe’s Restaurant & Coffee Lounge

This is a fantastic location for brunch or dinner, especially if you want a quiet, classy meal.

The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes you feel at home as soon as you enter the restaurant.

Similarly, a stunning and enormous skylight creates a welcoming environment in the spacious dining room.

The restaurant has a lengthy and exciting history in Syracuse.

It was formerly known as Phoebe’s Garden Café. According to local legend, Phoebe served as the brothel’s madam when the structure was first constructed.

Phoebe’s underwent a revitalizing renovation in the summer of 2004 with a bright new design in the atrium dining room with fresh paint, upholstery, and artwork.

In the same year, the coffee lounge debuted and quickly gained popularity among the nearby business and university crowd.

There is a decent selection of items on the menu.

This reputable American cafe serves inventive comfort food combined with seasonal menu selections. Gluten-free meals are also available.

Address: 118 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

12. A Mano Kitchen & Bar

A mano kitchen and bar first opened its doors in September 2018.

The Italian word “A Mano” means “By Hand.” Since everything at A Mano Kitchen & Bar is prepared by hand, the name perfectly captures everything you may expect to discover there.

Even their homemade flavored butter is made from scratch, just like their freshly made pasta and hand-tossed pizzas.

Pasta, bread, salumi, and wood-fired pizza are all created by hand.

Amano is open for dinner and provides both small and large platters for your enjoyment.

Despite being short, the menu is diversified enough to offer excellent choices.

Some daily appetizers and meal specials are also offered.

The dinner menu at A Mano Kitchen & Bar is always changing and is sure to please. Be sure to check out their unique craft cocktail menu!

Address: 344 S Warren St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

13. Modern Malt

Modern Malt was established in 2014 with the goal of bringing a flavorful approach to the traditional local American diner scene.

This restaurant in Syracuse upholds its reputation with kind service and a retro vibe.

It is located in the Historic Armory Square neighborhood of downtown Syracuse.

Their current flair and designs from the 1950s make for a unique experience!

In fact, the restaurant and its atmosphere provide distinctive and humorous takes on elevated comfort food and hand-made artisanal drinks.

Thanks to its cozy tables and menu that features not just “something” but “something delicious,” modern Malt has managed to attract people from every bracket.

Everything on the menu is purely for enjoyment.

There are several selections that are vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian.

The shakes are fantastic, and they have the best price around.

Alcohol is one of the extras you may add to the shakes if you want to spice things up.

You may not expect a restaurant focusing on shakes and breakfast fare to have a robust salad menu, but they do.

Similarly, they prepare dishes like French toast stuffed with Oreos and waffles with strawberries laced with champagne. You should try this.

Address: 325 S Clinton St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

14. Apizza Regionale

Apizza is one of the best restaurants in Syracuse to get wood-fired pizza or chicken Parmigiana.

Located close to Syracuse University’s campus, this bistro is known for its convivial, lively atmosphere and mouthwateringly familiar flavors.

The restaurant is well decorated, Fairy lights hang from the high ceilings, and the distance between tables allows for seclusion.

A comprehensive bar with hand-crafted cocktails, local beers, and an exciting wine list is available at the restaurant.

Both inventive pizza selections and appetizers are also available.

You can choose to sit outside as well.

Address: 260 Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

15. Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub & Restaurant

No trip to Syracuse is complete without drinks at Kitty Hoynes.

No matter the age, you will find Kitty Hoyne’s welcoming atmosphere and distinctive setting appealing.

In the historic Crown Building on the southwest intersection of West Fayette and Franklin in Armory Square, Kitty Hoynes debuted in 1999.

The Pub is named after Catherine (Kitty), David’s mother.

Half of the building is an Irish bar/pub, and the other half is a restaurant.

Take pleasure in the Kinsale Calamari as a beginning and the Irish Porter Burger as a filling, portable lunch.

Bailey’s Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is a great way to finish your dinner.

So whether you are there to eat, drink, or listen to fantastic live Irish/Celtic music, you will still find this restaurant enjoyable.

Address: 301 W Fayette St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

16. The Preserve At 105

Preserve at 105 is ideal for a romantic date location and some casual fare. In short, if you are looking for restaurants in Syracuse for a date, you should consider this restaurant.

The Preserve at 405 is located in Syracuse’s Inner Harbor.

The group behind The Gem Diner created The Preserve at 405.

Since its opening in 2018, the restaurant has seen a consistent flow of locals and tourists.

Eating at The Preserve is a unique experience because of the blending of flavors and condiments.

Think of the menu as having posh pub fare. However, it has an urban, contemporary, and industrial feel about it altogether.

You can also sip on popular wines and specialty beers and enjoy distinctive stone-fired pizzas.

Because of how unassuming the exterior facade is, you might drive by and miss it if you’re not looking for it, so keep an eye out.

Address: 405 Spencer St, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

17. Otro Cinco

Otro Cinco is a full-service restaurant and bar with takeout and delivery that is housed inside the iconic University Building on South Warren Street.

Johanna Yorke, the owner of Alto Cinco, a Mexican restaurant on Westcott Street in the university district, was the inspiration behind Otro Cinco.

Since its inception, Alto has focused mainly on vegetarian and vegan options, while Otro offers some fantastic beef dishes.

Otro also serves tacos, burritos, chips, and more.

The interior of Otro is stunning. The walls are hand-painted on marble by Syracuse’s own Tom Ward III, and wall accents follow a consistent motif to resemble the interiors of Spain’s tapas bars.

In addition to the wonderful meal, they prepare specialty cocktails with their house-infused spirits and serve Spanish and Mexican food.

The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seats and bars seating where you can place meal orders.

Otro Cinco is open for lunch, dinner, late-night dining, and weekend brunch daily.

Address: 206 S Warren St, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States

18. Strada Mia 313

Looking for a decent and modest Italian restaurant in the city? Then you should visit Strada Mia 313.

The environment is both upscale and relaxed. In fact, the posh restaurant is the ideal setting for a memorable night out.

The cozy atmosphere also contributes to the overall feeling of ease in this restaurant.

Simple Italian meals are prepared in the kitchen like you might have expected from the grandmother of a childhood friend.

Both the bruschetta and the meatballs have incredible flavors.

The bruschetta is worth every penny, given its size and quantity, and the meatball is literally the size of a softball.

The charcuterie dish is also reasonably priced. The scampi, lasagna, and pasta come to life in your imagination.

The moderately priced wines range from Italian varietals at the bottom of the rack to a startling Stags Leap.

The only caveat here is the loud sound from the live band. It might be difficult to discuss without shouting.

Overall, strada is a neighborhood place in every sense of the word. So much so that it’s a tiny oasis on the city’s outskirts, which you would always want to return to.

Address: 313 N Geddes St, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

19. Rise N Shine Diner

This is the spot to go if you are looking for restaurants in Syracuse for breakfast or lunch.

Neighborhood diner Rise N Shine Diner is well-known for its comfort food and American breakfast options.

With this neighborhood diner’s inventive brunch menu, you can recharge in the mornings.

Sal is a Paterson, New Jersey native who has worked in the food business for over 35 years.

When he opened Rise N Shine Diner in Eatontown in 1987, he successfully combined his aim to provide an exceptional customer experience with his love of the Shore region.

Rise N Shine Diner is a lively, canine-welcoming spot for breakfast and lunch.

Your dog is welcome to sit at an outdoor table as you sample some unusual and imaginative menu items.

You’ll find delicious, reasonably priced food served in reasonable servings, including everything from burgers to milkshakes, along with good coffee.

Try a flight of small coffees and cocktails or the chocolate chip pancake rolls, which are served like sushi rolls and topped with fresh fruit!

Each drink is a work of beauty; everything, from alcoholic beverages to milkshakes, is included. They leave you in awe.

The menu is fantastic and has loads of choices and variety. There is also live music occasionally.

Address: 500 Westcott St, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States

20. APEX Entertainment, Syracuse

While you are exploring different restaurants in Syracuse, you can switch things up a bit by visiting APEX Entertainment.

55,000 square feet of sheer enjoyment await you at Apex Entertainment Syracuse.

Apex is a fun-filled entertainment destination with 24 lanes of bowling and exhilarating hyper-realistic VR experiences.

You will find this fantastic venue on the third floor of the Canyon in the Destiny USA Mall.

A full bar and restaurant are available at Apex Entertainment Center.

When you’re having fun, whether it’s bowling, after a virtual reality game, or after a few trips to the arcade, dining out is one of the hippest things you can do.

This neighborhood establishment offers a variety of activities and tasty food, making it a great place to spend the day.

They serve American cuisines like burgers, appetizers, and more.

Address: 9583 Destiny USA Dr, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

21. Cider Mill

Cider Mill is one of the must-visit restaurants in Syracuse.

This quaint restaurant in a historic cider mill showcases the expertise, enthusiasm, and talent of owner Dan Seeley and his staff.

The delicious all-scratch menu, creative daily specials, and friendly staff will win you over.

The Cider Mill offers a lovely patio lit, heated, and music playing. In fact, the cuisine is unmatched in its originality, and the seasonal menu is sure to please.

Similarly, the dining area is decorated in a country-chic style, fusing comfortable furnishings made of wood and a fireplace with modern flooring and a black ceiling.

Favorites from the Cider Mills menu include grilled NY strip steak, lamb sirloin, salmon on a cedar plank, sirloin with chimichurri, and pan-seared mahi.

Address: 4221 Fay Rd, Syracuse, NY 13219, United States

22. Texas de Brazil – Syracuse

Located in the vast Destiny USA Mall in Syracuse, Texas de Brazil is a churrascaria, or Brazilian steakhouse, that offers many portions of flame-grilled beef, lamb, hog, chicken, and Brazilian sausage.

Enjoy a variety of salads created by chefs, roasted vegetables, exotic cheeses, and charcuterie.

You begin with a premium salad station with salmon, smoked provolone cheese, and the ever-fantastic chimichurri dipping sauce.

Asapaguras, fresh mozzarella cheese balls, and numerous other dishes are also served.

Simply turn your green card up when you desire to start with the meats, and the servers will begin to approach your table.

The meats are amazing and are grilled over an open flame.

More meat is served as the main course. They never stop delivering you the most mouthwatering assortments of meat to sample. You can consume as much or as little as you choose.

You will receive a complimentary dessert on your birthday.

Address: 306 Hiawatha Blvd W Spc L-117, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States

23. Mother’s Cupboard

Known for the size of everything and the reasonable prices, Mother’s Cupboard is a local favorite.

Mother’s Cupboard has 36 seats, eight of which are at the counter with a view of the grill, but unlike its food, it is compact.

It’s a tiny shack that you might miss if you blink while driving by.

The ambiance alone at Mother’s Cupboards will make you feel at home, and your dinner will send you into a food coma.

Although the front of this establishment could be more impressive outside, what awaits you inside is a traditional American breakfast served in a hip neighborhood for a fair price.

Make sure to come hungry, as this restaurant offers superb comfort food in large servings.

If you go too far while you are waiting, the hostess will shout out names, and you will only have a little time to answer before your name is crossed off the list. So make sure not to go too far.

Mother’s Cupboard is open daily from 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and advertises that lunch is only served on weekdays.

Address: 3709 E James St, Syracuse, NY 13206, United States

24. Delmonico’s Italian Steak

There are several excellent Italian restaurants in Syracuse, but Delmonico’s is one of the greatest.

So, if you also like steak or traditional Italian cuisine, then Delmonico’s Italian Steak is the way to go.

Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack will almost certainly be playing on the sound system while you dine at this Syracuse restaurant, which also has lovely décor to give it a big-city feel.

From the reservation process through the greeting and service, this business is conducted in a remarkably professional manner.

The nine-ounce filet mignon and filet portabella, which are both served with penne marinara and angel hair pasta at Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse, are favorites here.

Other popular main courses include veal parmigiana, one-pound lasagna, fettuccine Delmonico, and shrimp scampi.

In addition to the meals, Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse offers cappuccino pie, homemade cannoli, and other delectable alternatives.

Address: 2950 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY 13224, United States

Final Remarks

Whether you go for the Italian restaurants, the steakhouse, or even the seafood restaurants in Syracuse, you are sure to have the best meals.