22 Best American Restaurants in Ithaca

1
MIX

MIX Breakfast • $$
205 Elmira Rd, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Salmon Eggs Benedict
Hash Brown Casserole
Crispy Pork Bao Buns
Char Grilled Octopus
Blue Corn Calamari
Chicken & Waffle
Duck Quesadilla
Truffle Fries
Toast
Steak

“Did a search of great places to eat after a campus tour of Cornell for my son and found this place. My four kids and I loved the food but we were left satiated w the super friendly service. Our server Max was so prompt w our food and his suggestions were spot on. He also had lots of useful knowledge about the area and even suggested some interesting things to check out on campus. Honestly best service I’ve had since being in NY. Would highly recommend this place…hope you get Max as your server!!!“

4.5 Superb117 Reviews
Lincoln Street Diner Diner • $
309 E Lincoln St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Western Omelette and Sausage Patty
Corned Beef Hash and Eggs
Pancakes or French Toast
Breakfast Sandwich
Eggs with Bacon
Sausage Omelette
Sausage Gravy
The Ziffy
American

“I've heard about the Lincoln Street Diner from past family members and people from Ithaca. This was my first and not last time dining. The atmosphere is very light, warm and welcoming. It was nice to walk in the door and feel like I stepped back in time. Everyone worked together like a well oiled machine. They wanted you to be there and were ready to serve you. I was asked if I wanted to sit at the counter. Part of the ambiance was listening to the conversations of others. I orderd coffee, and a Philly cheese omelet with homefries and toast. I was delighted to find they offered sourdough bread. The coffee was very good and my food was delicious, made with love and care. The people serving were very kind and attentive. They knew incoming people's orders before they walked in. I left feeling very satisfied and comfortablely full.“

4.6 Superb61 Reviews
Gorgers Sandwich Shop • $
116 W State St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Philly Cheesesteak
Bacon Cheese Fries
Buffalo Chicken
Fried Pickles
Shrimp PO Boy
Banh MI Sub
French Fries
Panda Wings
Cuban

“Gorgers has become a must-do for lunch whenever I visit Ithaca. Great range of creative subs, and I really appreciate that almost everything can be made vegetarian or vegan, using eggplant or their homemade seitan (I've enjoyed the seitan on multiple occasions). Great looking sides, etc., but a small sized sub is more than enough food for me. Can't wait to get back!“

4.5 Superb88 Reviews
Brewer's Kitchen & Taproom Bar & Grill • $
8735 1384 Dryden Rd, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Barbeque Cauliflower Wings
Chicken Sandwich
Smoked Wings
Beer Flights
Onion Rings
Sandwiches

“We always enjoy ourselves here. The food and beer selection is wide, so there's a bit of something for everyone. I'm doing dry February, and they had a terrific NA beer from Athletic! My vegetarian friend enjoyed the cauliflower wings. We accommodated a group of 10 on the fly (had unexpected extras), and the staff was ok with us putting tables together. Another nice table of guests even agreed to switch tables with our large group. It just shows that the people here, both patrons and employees, are into the friendly vibe.“

4.5 Superb75 Reviews
Simeon's American Bistro Bistros • $$
224 E State St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Dozen Fresh Oysters on a Half Shell
Broiled Half Maine Lobster Entree
Cheeseburger and Fries
Lobster Mac & Cheese
Chicken Parmesan
Cheese Burger
Eggs Benedict
Tuna Burger
Cheesy Mac
Simeon

“Exceptional in every way... atmosphere, service, and especially the food, including presentation. Rivals high end restaurants, even those in Europe. Food obviously chef prepared with the freshest of top quality ingredients. The only drawback...the "Commons" in downtown Ithaca where this is located (thankfully, on the best corner, if it can be said one exists) has deteriorated severely in every way. I applaud the remaining businesses that tenaciously hang on and certainly deserve support. Shame on the city for not stepping up...the area gets worse every time I go there. This should not be in a town where one of the most prestigious universities on the planet is located. We parked in the large ramp, about two/three blocks away, which is very reasonably priced, roomy, and has electric vehicle charging stations; however, the walk through the "Commons" was depressing except for a scant handful of delightful shops and this truly fantastic restaurant. I know downtowns have a hard time, but there are two excellent universities/colleges with not only students, but additionally, professors and other staff as potential patrons - there should be constant shuttle service/park and ride to a thriving "Commons"!Vegetarian options: I had the mushroom "burger" sandwich, which was exceptional. It's what I always order; however I noticed several non-meat pastas, salads, etc.“

4.4 Superb83 Reviews
Ithaca Ale House Bar & Grill • $$
301 E State St Suite 1, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Buffalo Chicken Spring Rolls
The Big Sexy Burger
The Perfect Burger
French Dip Sandwich
NYS Orchard Burger
Ale House Burger
Fish and Chips
Chicken Wings
Pub Fries

“Parking for the restaurant is not something for handicap people to experience. Food was ok, nothing g special, prices are extremely high, cornell and ithaca college can afford. Not average low income peopleParking: Go there in off hours no parking“

4.1 Good144 Reviews
Italian Carry Out Italian • $
1070 Danby Rd, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

ICO Meatball Parm
Breaded Mushrooms
Garlic Knots
Greek Salad

“I picked up so atmosphere is not a concern! I ordered a Joey( Bless your legacy brother) plus mushrooms and 1/2 pound of onion rings(because they are homemade!!)OMG!!!! AMAZING!!! I asked for it uncut so i could finish it at home. It was prepared perfectly! What an awesome crew from phone call to service!“

4.6 Superb36 Reviews
The Terrace Restaurant American • $
130 Statler Dr, Ithaca

“The Statler Hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. The staff at the check-in desk were very nice and helped us with the check-in and check-out process. They also helped us pick up our wedding decor the day after our event. The Ballroom is beautifully decorated and the rooms are clean and spacious! Chef Eric and his team create food that is delicious, and we received so many compliments from our wedding guests about the food! We highly recommend the Statler Hotel if you are planning an event or staying in the Ithaca area.“

4.5 Superb47 Reviews
Royal Court American • $$
529 S Meadow St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Salad Bar & Baked French Onion Soup
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Golden Fried Chicken
Chicken Parmesan
Hamburger Steak
French Fries
Fish Fry

“I honestly wasn't expecting much because of the outdated interior... and exterior for that matter. But the food turned out to be really excellent. I had the Demonico steak and would choose it over Texas road house any time.My wife had the Chefs special which was shrimp, scallops, and hadock. She loved it. Thank you for a delightful suprise.Kid-friendliness: Kind and attentive.“

4.5 Superb40 Reviews
Circus Truck American • $
720 W Green St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Steak Sandwich

“We drove an hour to check this truck out, and it was so worth it. The owner is super kind and talented. You can never go wrong with the ‘cook’s choice’. He even made me a vegetarian version! I’ll take a second job to pay for gas if I need to, because I need Circus Truck in my life regularly.“

4.9 Superb18 Reviews
Antlers Restaurant Steak House • $$
1159 Dryden Rd, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Antlers Original Burger
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Santa Barbara Salad
Scallops Au Gratin
Delmonico Steak
Antlers Burger
Baby Back Ribs
Roast Duckling
Lobster Bisque
Creme Brulee

“Dinner four four on a Wednesday evening, we got in just around 5:00 and were able to get a table without a reservation. The restaurant quickly filled up afterwards. Starters were the lobster bisque and Santa Barbara salad along with bread and olives. It was prime rib night ($31) and it was enjoyed though the veg of the day was bland green beans. The house burger comes recommended and we also had the vegan chili (with rice). Good dessert menu as well. Best seating is further inside beyond the fireplace, seats up front during the winter are often very cold.Vegetarian options: The only obvious option was the vegan chili with rice. It is good and spicy but the inclusion of jack fruit was odd and questions were asked.Dietary restrictions: In emails with owners/staff they attested to most meat options like the steak, duck, and salmon being dairy free.“

4.1 Good95 Reviews
Coal Yard Cafe Coffee Shops • $
143 Maple Ave, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Crepes with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream
Sweet Potato Hash
Breakfast Burrito
Two Egg Scramble
Breakfast Bagel
Falafel and Egg
Home Fries
Rice Bowl
Grits

“Visited Ithaca for a few days this past weekend and loved the space here. Had the Sweet Potato Hash, with an extra scrambled egg on top and it came out amazing. I also had the two egg scramble, and that was awesome too. There wasn't much wait time, though you do have to order up at the register and bus yourself.When my brother and I came early afternoon on Saturday, we missed a rush of students coming in for their food. Great place to talk to come cool locals/students while chomping on some great food.The Barista who was there (a college aged young lady) was on top of her game with the caffeinated drinks. Order your drinks separately, and enjoy!!Great place and highly recommend. Seating is limited, but we were always able to find a spot.Kid-friendliness: Quaint atmosphere which Kids, (and adults) will enjoy!!Parking: The lot is shared with what I assumed was student housing. Not lots of street parking in Ithaca, but we drove into a spot on the side. Also some room in the far back.Wheelchair accessibility: No steps to enter the establishment.“

4.4 Superb54 Reviews
The Rook American • $$
404 W State St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Duck Fat Fried Chicken
Bacon Wrapped Dates
Pork Schnitzel
Royale Burger
Hush Puppies
Cheeseburger

“Food is good (GET THE GRILLED SALMON!)! Ordered the grilled dates, grill salmon and cheeseburger (which comes with a generous amount of fries). Limited menu options means it's easy to choose what to eat and more likely that the food is good, which is exactly the case.Grilled dates comes in 3 pieces which is a bit awkward to share but it's good. Grilled salmon is perfection, crispy on the outside yet so tender on the inside, sauce goes really well with it. Cheese burger is simple but good, the bun is so soft, fries is just fries nothing special.Server is nice, keeps checking in and surprised that they would replace the cutlery after appetizer, but they did forget the knives so oh wells. Overall a very good experience and will definitely go back.“

4.3 Superb82 Reviews
Moosewood Vegetarian • $$
215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Pasta with Butter or Olive Oil Tomato Basil Sauce Parmesan
Moroccan Chickpea Stew
Lemon Tahini Broccoli
Spicy Coconut Curry
Mediterranean Salad
Vegan Chocolate Cake
Black Bean Burger
Mushroom Pasta
Cheese Platter
Veggie Burger

“The lunch menu was small, but the food was amazing. The server was friendly and agreeable when I asked if a dish contained onions, which I dislike. He advised that the curry did contain a small amount of onions, but said that they are pureed into the sauce, and not easily noticed. He said with confidence, "this dish is so good, I would hate for you to miss it." I loved his confidence, and he was right, it was delectable! Our group all loved their meals, including the lentil soup, tofu salad, chickpea stew, and black bean burger. I love the history of Moosewood and love that they continue to serve veggie forward dishes, and clearly identify what is vegan.“

4.2 Good149 Reviews
The Heights American • $$$
903 Hanshaw Rd, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

The Heights' Signature Chocolate Cake
Salmon Collar with Fried Clams
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Pan Roasted Skirt Steak
Vegetable Harvest Salad
Braised Beef Short Rib
Sauteed Seasonal Fish
Sicilian Cauliflower
Lava Cake Soufflé
Octopus Risotto

“We went for a small family celebration and had a wonderful time. Our server Patrick was extremely knowledgeable and genuinely excited about the wonderful food that was coming from the kitchen. I particularly enjoyed the mussels, fennel and mango appetizer, and the desserts were out of this world.“

4.3 Superb61 Reviews
Milkstand Restaurant American • $
215 N Meadow St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Garlic Chicken and Waffles
Honey Butter French Toast
Sriracha Chicken & Waffles
Chorizo Skillet Scramble
Berry Cheesecake Crepe
Biscuits and Gravy
Belgian Waffles
Scrambled Eggs
Eggs Benedict
Avocado Toast

“Parking pickings are slim for this place, but when you get in, it's easy to see why. The place was absolutely packed, with a line of people waiting for a table. So you know it's gotta be good, right? The vintage vibe is really nice, but the food and drinks are so much better. Looking at the menu alone, you can tell this place has good taste, variety, and style. They really do. I had the cappuccino to drink, and it was so smooth that I didn't even need sugar. For brunch, I ordered the sweet garlic chicken and waffles, which are OUT OF THIS WORLD GOOD! They were just about everything I'd hoped they'd be. Maybe I wish the sauce had been a little thicker so it could be used to coat the chicken, rather than a liquid, but at least the flavor was GREAT. I'd recommend this place to anyone in the area. I know where I'm having brunch when I come to Ithaca. Right here!!“

4.2 Good131 Reviews
Red's Place Gastropubs • $
107 N Aurora St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Cheeseburger and Fries
Sweet Potato Waffle Fries
The French Onion Burger
Aurora Street Burger
Burger of the Month
Charred Ciabatta
Jelly Burger
Crabby Patty
Thai Wings
Salad

“Be prepared to get into a waiting list.The vibe was good but not super cool. It’s not too loud so you can enjoy talking beside the food.I tried the turkey breast sandwich and it was casual and fresh but not something really surprising. The portion size was medium if you are hungry don’t go for it. However, the red’s cocktail is also exciting to try out. 51$ for a sandwich, French fries, and 2 glass of cocktails.The staff care and pay attention to you if you want to call them.A good normal place that you can spend your casual time easily. But a bit expensive for a casual and a twice a week to go place.“

4.2 Good99 Reviews
The Rhine House Bar • $$
632 W Seneca St, Ithaca

“I'm sad I didn't know about this place sooner. The people are friendly, the service is great, the drinks are tasty, and well-behaved dogs are welcome inside! I wouldn't bring your pup on a night that's likely to be busy, though. Pool tables and a fireplace in the back. What's not to love?“

4.7 Superb15 Reviews
The Bistro at La Tourelle American • $$
1152 Danby Rd, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Build Your Own Omelette or Breakfast Burrito
Oatmeal French Toast
Avocado Toast
Eggs Benedict

“Great food. Great space. Terrible waitress. Acted like we were bothering her. She did not check on us except to try to give us the check after 20 minutes. We would give this 5 stars overall except for waitress. This was very unusual. Always before staff has been amazing“

4.2 Good79 Reviews
Trillium Cafeteria • $
215 Garden Ave, Ithaca

“Excellent place to eat food. They have a huge variety of foods. I actually like them better than the dining halls because the salad bar has more options and is more organized. They also pay by the lb for a lot of stuff, so you don't have to feel compelled to stuff yourself to get your money's worth. On the go snacks are available too.“

4.9 Superb7 Reviews
The Establishment American • $$
255 Statler Dr, Ithaca

“The Statler Hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. The staff at the check-in desk were very nice and helped us with the check-in and check-out process. They also helped us pick up our wedding decor the day after our event. The Ballroom is beautifully decorated and the rooms are clean and spacious! Chef Eric and his team create food that is delicious, and we received so many compliments from our wedding guests about the food! We highly recommend the Statler Hotel if you are planning an event or staying in the Ithaca area.“

4.5 Superb13 Reviews
Northstar Public House American • $$
202 E Falls St, Ithaca

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Cheeseburger and Fries
Roasted Garlic Burger

“My wife and I are frequent visitors to Northstar. It's the perfect neighborhood restaurant with delightful cocktails, delicious comfort food, and staff who are fun and funny. After a long week, Northstar is a soothing balm.Dietary restrictions: Most dishes are gluten free.“

4.1 Good35 Reviews
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