Ithaca’s Top 5 Food & Drink Spots: A Local’s Review

If you find yourself headed to Ithaca, New York, perhaps for a visit to Cornell University or just a weekend escape to the Finger Lakes, you’re almost sure to be looking for places to eat and drink. It’s pretty much got you covered there. The culinary scene might be surprisingly hopping, with options going from farm-to-table eateries to comfortable pubs with local brews on tap. But with such a variety to pick and choose from, where does one even begin? Let me provide you with some direction with my insider view of the 5 very best food and beverage destinations in Ithaca, places that, that’s right, locals actually enjoy! So, take this curated selection of my absolute favorites as you prepare for your Ithaca dining escapade.

1. Moosewood Restaurant: Vegetarian Goodness

Moosewood is basically more than just a restaurant; it’s sort of an institution. Since the ’70s, this vegetarian co-op has become quite famous for its imaginative and delicious meat-free dishes. Its popularity went through the roof due to its cookbooks, so chances are, that you may have seen them around. Now, going to the restaurant itself offers an unique environment and a satisfyingly healthy and tasty meal. So, what should you order? Well, their menu, you see, often changes based on what’s available locally and seasonally, yet their black bean chili has a consistent quality. Also, their creamy pesto pasta is a crowd-pleaser for a good reason. With such food like that, every bite almost brings pure comfort. It’s certainly a go-to for tourists, students, and townspeople alike.

2. Ithaca Beer Company: Local Brews and Bites

If you have love of local breweries, the Ithaca Beer Company might just be what you need to satisfy that passion. So, established in 1998, it’s pretty much been serving up award-winning brews and excellent pub fare since it first opened. Their taproom offers, I’d say, a rustic environment perfect for enjoying a pint with friends, and you will agree. It’s nearly the Flower Power IPA we’re all here for. Yet their range extends to seasonal and limited-release brews. Plus, if you start getting a little hungry? Their menu’s, more or less, stacked with delicious bites, ranging from burgers and sandwiches to appetizers to go with any beverage you have. You could even enjoy a beer flight to sample all the flavors they’ve got brewing! Just a lovely way to spend an evening or lazy weekend day.

3. Simeon’s on the Commons: French-Inspired Dining

Okay, you’ll spot Simeon’s right on the Ithaca Commons in the middle of it all. It’s nearly a bistro serving French-inspired fare in a classy atmosphere. That said, the outdoor seating is certainly superb for people-watching on a sunny day, if that’s what you are looking for. It is very much their Moules Frites that really stands out from anything. Just some yummy mussels cooked in white wine and herbs. But really it’s only half the fun if you don’t soak up that delicious broth with the crispy fries. You will see there are quite a number of classic dishes like steak frites, burgers, and some very tasty salads, too it’s almost like anyone can discover something they really enjoy. It’s just the kind of locale you could go to to observe the beauty of the Ithaca while eating.

4. Northstar Public House: Gastropub Grub

For any of you out there seeking a comfortable gastropub experience with an emphasis on local ingredients, I will present to you Northstar Public House. A good option, this place serves contemporary American dishes in a laid-back and warm setting. You can find it on the Ithaca Commons, making it a great location for an after-work drink or a casual meal. I believe one of the standout characteristics, is that, is how their menu, often reflecting seasonal bounty, has lots of dishes that, that’s right, change all the time. But when they are offered, the poutine and mac and cheese are must tries. With that said, this very good list of craft beers, local wines, and handcrafted cocktails complements the food. Stop in and you won’t be dissatisfied. That I can promise you. Such a cozy setting really is the key to getting comfortable and eating what is possibly your best food from Ithaca!

5. Collegetown Bagels (CTB): A Quick Bite

Okay, no guide to Ithaca food is literally complete without noting Collegetown Bagels. Or, well, as the locals would tell you: CTB. As a prominent Ithaca staple with multiple locations, this bagel shop is known among the people there for its extensive menu, reasonable prices, and high quality ingredients. It might actually serve all your bagel needs, beginning with simple breakfast bagels to stacked sandwich bagels, too it’s almost guaranteed that any bagel that your heart can image, they’ll have it. It also just caters to a number of diets such as gluten-free alternatives for anyone who may desire it! This really might be, more or less, a pretty great place to grab a quick bite before or after a stroll around Ithaca and all it’s scenery! That alone really might have you coming back. You see, their dedication to great bagels, means quality is there every time!