The Best Restaurants In Syracuse New York

It’s said that Syracuse’s dining scene is undergoing a revival, and with award-winning Thai restaurant Lemon Grass and much-loved Pastabilities sitting comfortably alongside new additions like Modern Malt and Small Plates, that certainly seems to be the case. We present our guide to Syracuse’s best restaurants, both old and new, to help you discover your next local favorite.

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Lemon Grass

Serving local diners delicious, authentic Pacific Rim and Thai cuisine for 25 years, Lemon Grass originally opened in 1990 and has resided in its historic downtown Syracuse location at Armory Square ever since. Lemon Grass is known throughout the city for its chic interior, upscale ambience and exquisite menu.

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Modern Malt

Also located in downtown Syracuse’s historic Armory Square is Modern Malt, a modern take on the classic local American diner that serves contemporary, upscale comfort food, milkshakes, smoothies and handcrafted cocktails. Modern Malt has a retro-chic space with unique touches such as a vintage cigarette machine modeled into a hostess stand and a large, curved quartz counter top. The diner also offers unique food like the Canadian favorite, poutine, alongside hearty burgers and sandwiches.

Pastabilities

Something of a local dining institution, Pastabilities first opened its doors in downtown Syracuse over 30 years ago and has been delighting generations of diners ever since with much-loved Italian fusion food. Notable dishes include its Italian stretch bread, homemade cheeses and, of course, pasta. Boasting a chic Manhattan-style ambiance, it is available to purchase bread and baked goods at Pastabilities’ very own bakery across the street.

Sakana-Ya

As the only local kaiten sushi bar where guests can pick their sushi from a rotating conveyor belt, Sakana-Ya is a novel addition to Syracuse’s dining scene. This family-owned restaurant is located in historic Armory Square, and its thoroughly modern interior is evocative of a contemporary Japanese sushi bars. Master chefs craft exquisite sushi dishes served alongside imported Japanese sakes and beers.

Prime Steakhouse

Prime Steakhouse is the local go-to for succulent steaks and delicious seafood dishes. Located in the historic, 19th century Gridley Building in Hanover Square, this restaurant exudes a refined steakhouse atmosphere with exposed redbrick walls, heavy wood furnishings and low-lit ambience. Prime Steakhouse also has a separate, more relaxed bar, ideal for drinks and snack food.

Laci’s Tapas Bar

With its lively atmosphere and menu full of globally-inspired small plates, Laci’s Tapas Bar is bound to have something for every palate. It isn’t surprising that the bar is regarded by local diners as one of best in the city. Go with a group of friends or family and order several plates for a little taste of everything.

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