25+ Best Restaurants in Ithaca, New York

Did you know that Ithaca, New York, is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts? As you wander through the city's vibrant streets, you'll discover an array of culinary delights, from farm-to-table eateries to gourmet dining experiences, that rival those of any bustling metropolis.
With over 25 top-notch restaurants, each offering unique menus and captivating atmospheres, Ithaca is sure to satisfy your taste buds, whether you're craving fresh seafood, authentic Asian fusion, or mouth-watering vegan dishes.
But don't just take my word for it, why not explore these gastronomic wonders for yourself? Who knows, you might just find your new favorite dining spot.
Farm-to-Table Delights at Moosewood

When you step into Moosewood, a celebrated Ithaca eatery, you're not just entering a restaurant – you're stepping into a culinary institution that's dedicated to pioneering farm-to-table cuisine.
Its core philosophy is freedom, not only in the choice of vegetarian and vegan options but in the liberty to enjoy food sourced directly from the farm. Each dish on the seasonal menu is a testament to the freshest picks from local growers.
The flavors are unpretentious, and yet, they sing. You'll taste the authenticity, the care in preparation, and, most importantly, the passion for sustainable dining.
Moosewood isn't just one of the best restaurants in Ithaca; it's a vivid embodiment of the city's commitment to ethical, delicious food.
Savoring Seafood at Maxie's Supper Club

Craving a maritime feast in the heart of Ithaca? Look no further than Maxie's Supper Club, a seafood haven that's as renowned for its fresh catches as it's for its vibrant atmosphere.
As a top restaurant in Ithaca, NY, you'll find yourself immersed in a dining experience unrivaled by any other. The seafood, sourced from the pristine waters of the Finger Lakes, is a testament to the bounty of the region.
Maxie's Supper Club doesn't just serve seafood, it's a celebration of the ocean's offerings. From the raw bar to the Southern-style shrimp and grits, each dish is an adventure in flavor, texture, and aroma.
Caribbean Flavors at Just a Taste

For a taste of the tropics in the heart of New York, you can't miss Just a Taste. Located in the bustling Downtown Ithaca, this gem is anything but common. The vibrant flavors of the Caribbean come alive in every dish at this restaurant.
As you step into Just a Taste, the aroma of spices wafts through the air, welcoming you into a world of Caribbean flavors. The jerk chicken, a definitive staple, is a celebration of heat, tenderly cooked to satisfy your craving for tropical zest. Pair it with a rum cocktail for an authentic island experience.
On Ithaca Commons, Just a Taste is more than just a restaurant—it's your passport to the Caribbean, without leaving the freedom of Ithaca's vibrant culture.
Gourmet Dining at Gola Osteria

Often, you'll find yourself yearning for an upscale dining experience, and that's where Gola Osteria comes into play, offering a refined taste of Italy right in the heart of Ithaca. This Italian restaurant is a front-runner in the world of gourmet dining at Gola Osteria.
Location: The restaurant located in a charming old building provides a unique experience.
Ambiance: With its intimate dining area, you'll experience an atmosphere that's both elegant and relaxed.
Menu: It features fine dining options sourced from local ingredients, paired perfectly with Finger Lakes wines.
The freedom to indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine, sip on local wines, and bask in a relaxed setting is what makes Gola Osteria a must-visit. It's a slice of Italy right in your backyard.
Asian Fusion at Sushi Osaka

While you're savoring the last bites of delectable Italian cuisine at Gola Osteria, your taste buds might start yearning for something a bit more exotic, like the Asian fusion flavors found at Sushi Osaka.
Nestled in the heart of the Ithaca area, Sushi Osaka is a gem among the best restaurants in Ithaca, New York. It's a culinary haven where East meets West, creating unique and innovative dishes that will truly take your palate on a tour across Asia.
As you navigate through the sushi rolls, you'll unearth the freshness of the Finger Lakes region, embodied in each well-crafted piece. Sushi Osaka isn't just about food; it's about freedom. The freedom to explore, to taste, and to immerse oneself in an unparalleled dining experience.
It's Asian fusion at its finest.
Southern Comfort at Carriage House Café

If you're in the mood for some heartwarming Southern cuisine, you can't miss the Carriage House Café, a standout among Ithaca's eclectic culinary scene. This spot marries Southern comfort food with Ithaca, New York's relaxed charm.
The Atmosphere: You're welcomed with a rustic, laid-back vibe that's perfectly in tune with the freedom-loving spirit of this college town.
The Food: Their breakfast sandwich is a revelation – fluffy scrambled eggs, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon on a buttery biscuit. It's Southern comfort wrapped up in each mouthwatering bite.
The Location: It's just steps from Cornell University, making it a popular choice for both students and faculty.
This Carriage House Café experience is a slice of the South, served up with a side of Ithaca cool.
Authentic Italian at Pasta Vitto

Shifting gears from Southern charm, you'll discover a taste of Italy right in the heart of Ithaca at Pasta Vitto, an authentic Italian restaurant that never fails to impress.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Ithaca, Pasta Vitto is an emblem of the best restaurants in Ithaca, New York. Its charm lies in its ability to merge a fine dining experience with the cozy familiarity of an Italian family kitchen.
The authenticity of its pasta dishes, prepared with age-old techniques and fresh ingredients, is breathtaking. You're not just dining; you're becoming part of an Ithaca experience that liberates your palate.
Pasta Vitto doesn't just offer food; it offers a slice of Italy, making it an imperative stop in your gastronomic exploration of Ithaca.
Pizza Perfection at Franco's Pizzeria

You can't talk about Ithaca's culinary scene without giving a nod to Franco's Pizzeria, a gem that churns out some of the most delectable pies in the state. Located in the heart of the city of Ithaca, a quick trip to this spot will satisfy your pizza cravings.
- Franco's is famed for their authentic, wood-fired pizzas that are both hearty and exquisite, making it a must-visit if you're in the Finger Lakes region of New York.
- As a favorite among Cornell and Ithaca College students, the pizzeria's bustling, convivial atmosphere mirrors the vibrant spirit of the city.
- Overlooking the serene beauty of a nearby finger lake, Franco's offers not just a meal, but a liberating experience from the humdrum routine.
In short, Franco's Pizzeria is a slice of heaven in Ithaca, where pizza is nothing short of perfection.
Mediterranean Magic at Aladdin's

Stepping into Aladdin's, you're instantly transported to a Mediterranean oasis where the tantalizing aroma of hummus, falafel, and kebabs fill the air. This place in Ithaca, part of the Ithaca New York dining scene, is renowned for its Mediterranean magic at Aladdin's.
As you navigate the menu, you'll find traditional dishes crafted with an authentic blend of spices, transporting your taste buds to the far-off shores of the Mediterranean. Each dish is a testament to the culinary prowess that Ithaca is known for. Indeed, Aladdin's is one of the best restaurants in Ithaca, uniting tradition and innovation in a delightful medley of flavors.
The freedom to explore diverse cuisines is a hallmark of Ithaca's food scene, and Aladdin's is a shining example.
Classic Comfort at Ithaca Bakery

From the exotic flavors of the Mediterranean at Aladdin's, we now turn our attention to the classic comfort offered by Ithaca Bakery, an equally impressive pillar of the local dining scene. Established by Cornell grad Leo Guentert, this haven of comfort food has been warming hearts and bellies for years.
Here are three reasons why it's a must-visit:
- Collegetown Bagels: These aren't your ordinary, run-of-the-mill bagels. Each is a delightful treat, handcrafted with love and locally sourced ingredients.
- Comfort Food: Their menu is a dream come true for anyone seeking solace in food. From hearty sandwiches to homestyle pastries, there's something for every taste.
- Hot Chocolate: Regulars swear their hot chocolate was the best in town. Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet, it's the ultimate indulgence.
Ithaca Bakery offers freedom in every bite. It's a taste of home, away from home.
Exquisite Indian at Mehak Cuisine

While Ithaca Bakery offers a taste of home, Mehak Cuisine transports diners to the aromatic streets of India with its exquisite dishes. Nestled in the heart of Upstate New York, this jewel is one of the best restaurants in Ithaca. It's not just a place to eat, but an experience merging culture and gastronomy.
The restaurant offers an array of delicious vegetarian options, appealing to diverse palates. As you navigate the culinary landscape of the Finger Lakes region of New York, you'll find that the exquisite Indian at Mehak Cuisine stands apart. The flavors are bold yet balanced, spices perfectly tempered – a testament to the skilled chefs.
It's a taste of India's rich culinary heritage right in Ithaca, a must-visit for food lovers seeking a unique dining experience.
Tasty Tapas at Mercato Bar & Kitchen

Leaving behind the spicy allure of Mehak Cuisine's Indian flavors, your next culinary adventure awaits at Mercato Bar & Kitchen, a haven for lovers of tasty tapas. Nestled in the heart of downtown commons, this Ithaca, New York gem is a staple in the Finger Lakes region of New York and a top contender on the best restaurants list.
Atmosphere: Mercato's cozy yet vibrant ambiance paints a picture of freedom, encouraging you to explore its diverse tapas menu.
Menu: Their tasty tapas, a delightful fusion of traditional and innovative, are a gastronomic delight for your palate.
Location: Its strategic location downtown makes it a must-visit after a leisurely day exploring Ithaca's scenic beauty.
In essence, Mercato Bar & Kitchen promises a dining experience that's both savory and satisfying.
Vegan Wonders at Ten Forward Café

Stepping into the realm of vegan cuisine, you'll find Ten Forward Café, an eco-friendly establishment that champions plant-based dining in the heart of Ithaca, New York. This eatery stands out among the best restaurants in Ithaca, with its unique fusion of vegetarian and vegan dishes that will tantalize your taste buds while offering a guilt-free dining experience.
As you explore the menu, you'll find a variety of dishes crafted with love, imagination, and a deep respect for the environment. Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or just someone seeking a culinary adventure, Ten Forward Café is a haven of delicious, ethical dining that embodies freedom and choice.
In a world where our food choices matter, this café offers a delightful escape, proving that vegan cuisine can be rich, varied, and incredibly satisfying.
Decadent Desserts at Dolce Delight

After exploring the plant-based wonders at Ten Forward Café, you might find yourself craving something sweet, and that's where Dolce Delight comes into play, a dessert sanctuary known for its decadent offerings in Ithaca, New York.
- Decadence personified: This is Ithaca's best fine dining with a sweet twist. Indulge in luxurious desserts that are a feast for both your eyes and palate.
- Next-level dining: One of the Finger Lakes region's next-level restaurants, Dolce Delight elevates dessert to an art form.
- Cream of the crop: Known as the cream of the Finger Lakes, their dreamy pastries and gourmet chocolates are truly unbeatable.
Ultimately, Dolce Delight isn't just a dessert shop. It's a destination, an experience, and a testament to the beauty of culinary exploration.
Mexican Marvels at Viva Taqueria

If you're craving authentic Mexican cuisine, then you'll find Viva Taqueria to be a delightfully vibrant culinary destination in Ithaca, New York. Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, it's one of the best places to satisfy your appetite for Mexican marvels.
The burritos here are a special mention, brimming with flavors that seem to capture the spirit of Mexico in every bite. You'll love the freedom to customize your burrito, a true testament to Viva Taqueria's commitment to personal expression through food.
With an ambiance that's as lively as the city itself, it's not just a meal, it's an experience. So when you're in Ithaca and you're craving a taste of Mexico, Viva Taqueria is your go-to destination.
Conclusion
From the farm-to-table delights at Moosewood to the decadent desserts at Dolce Delight, Ithaca, New York is a haven for food lovers. Whether you're savoring seafood at Maxie's Supper Club, tasting tapas at Mercato Bar & Kitchen, or enjoying the vegan wonders at Ten Forward Café, you can't go wrong.
Don't forget to try the Caribbean flavors at Just a Taste and the gourmet dining at Gola Osteria. And with Mexican marvels at Viva Taqueria, your taste buds will be singing.