Recommended Restaurants

Ithaca is known as having more restaurant PER CAPITA than New York City, and there is a restaurant for every taste in this town. Every visitor wants the local insider perspective of the best eateries; we’ve gone the extra mile to make sure your entire experience of the region is exceptional. The restaurants below were hand-picked by us for their top food, great ambiance, and quality service. Experience! the Finger Lakes guests will receive special offers at a number of these restaurants through our Experience!D The Finger Lakes Explorers Program.

Downtown Ithaca

Cent Dix: Classic French bistro with delicious food and a killer french wine list. 110 Aurora Street. (607) 319-0750. Does not take reservations. $$ Open Tuesday – Saturday.

Mercato Bar and Kitchen: One of Ithaca’s hottest restaurants with a great vibe and a creative and excellent northern Italian menu. They feature a wonderful wine list of Italian and Finger Lakes wines and some wild cocktails. 108 North Aurora Street (607) 319-5171. $$ Mercato does not take reservations and seatings are prioritized on an arrival basis. Open Tuesday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Mia Restaurant: Features high-end pan Asian tapas presented in an eclectic and modern atmosphere. Great sushi and awesome BBQ pork buns. 16 N Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850. (607)-277-2000 $$ Walk-in only; no reservations. Open Friday through Tuesday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Moosewood: Vegetarian and vegan meals featuring the freshest vegetables, herbs and fruits, whole grains, nuts, beans, high-quality oils, spices and seasonings, and fine imported and domestic cheeses. 215 N Cayuga St. (607) 273-961, $, Call to make reservations. Open Wednesday through Sunday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Northstar House: This fun, neighborhood bar/restaurant crossover is mostly walk-in with a menu that changes with the seasons. Featuring local and organic food, you will receive a true farm-to-table experience. Northstar boasts 12 rotating drafts on tap plus local wine and spirits. 202 East Fall St, (607-216-8580) $$ Reservations at [www.yelp.com/reservations/northstar-house-ithaca](http://www.yelp.com/reservations/northstar-house-ithaca). Open Thursday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Simeon’s American Bistro: Classy setting for American fare served alongside cocktails & spirits, plus lively sidewalk seating. On the Ithaca Commons, 224 E State St. (607) 272-2212 $$ Reservations accepted on opentable.com. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Taste of Thai: Family owned and operated, this restaurant boasts authentic Thai food at its best. On the Ithaca Commons, 216 E State St (607)-256-5487 $ Reservations accepted. Takeout only.

Thompson & Bleecker: This pizza and wine bar, which also serves beer, promises that all of their menu items will be made fresh with the finest, freshest, and healthiest ingredients. No Freezer. No Fryer. No Microwave. 211 E Seneca St, Ithaca, NY 14850. (607) 319-0851 $ Walk-in only; no reservations. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Viva Taqueria and Cantina: Fresh, healthy, and delicious Mexican food. Great margaritas and premium tequila bar. 101 N Aurora St (607)-277-1752, $, Walk-in only; no reservations. All of the guests in your party must be present to be seated. Open Wednesday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

The Rook: A small neighborhood restaurant serving upscale comfort food and drinks with casual vibes. 105 W Court St Suite 100, (607) 319-0180 $$ Walk-in only; no reservations. Open Tuesday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Ithaca's West End & Outside of Ithaca

Boatyard Grill: Casual waterfront dining, specializing in fresh-cut steaks, seafood, and salads, there is something for everyone. 545 Taughannock Blvd. (607) 256-2628 $$ Same day call ahead seating only. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Maxie’s Supper Club: New Orleans-style fish house and raw bar serving Southern comfort cooking, fresh seafood dishes, and slow-smoked barbeque. Features a fun and always lively atmosphere. 635 W. State Street (607) 272-4136 $$ Call for reservations. Open Wednesday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Maru Ramen: Ramen made in its slow-cooked tradition. Features an inviting and traditional oak bar from where dishes and drinks are served. 512 W State St. (607) 339-0329 $ Walk-in only; no reservations. Open Wednesday through Monday. Takeout and in-person dining available

Saigon Kitchen: Fresh and delicious Vietnamese food in a clean and modern setting. 526 W. State Street (607) 257-8881 $ Walk-in only; no reservations. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Takeout only.

Near the Colleges

Gola Osteria: Enjoy their unique and expansive menu that includes homemade pasta, sauces, and seasonal ingredients. Their full bar includes Italian and Finger Lakes wines list. East Hill near Collegetown, 115 South Quarry St., (607) 273-0333 $$$ Reservations can be made at opentable.com or by calling the restaurant. Open Tuesday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

The Heights Restaurant: A wonderful contemporary fine dining experience in Ithaca with an extensive wine list. Features American cuisine with global influences. East Hill near Cornell, 903 Hanshaw Road (607) 257-4144. $$$ Reservations by phone or online at www.theheightsithaca.com/reservations.cfm. Open Monday through Saturday. Takeout and in-person dining available.

Allechant: Beautiful atmosphere and absolutely delicious homemade food with fresh ingredients. 903 Hanshaw Rd. #13 (607) 288-3472. $$ Walk-in only; no reservations. Open Friday through Sunday. Takeout and in-person dining available.