Restaurants in Utica

“One word... LEGIT. Burgers are excellent, fries are excellent, and the chicken nuggets are (you guessed it) excellent. The place has a good vibe. If you're in Utica and need some good food at a good place, Rooster's it is my friends.”

“Wonderful food and even nicer people. Spent a weekend in the Utica area and decided to stop here for lunch. We felt like we were having lunch with family. Everyone was so kind and friendly. Ended up ordering the lamb gyro and the salad with chicken shawarma. Both dishes were delicious and very fresh. The owner, Layla, offered us coffee that was rich and tasty. It is very difficult to replicate the kind of service you find here. We would not hesitate to come back again if we were in the area.”

“The food is great, I've yet to try anything I didn't enjoy! The fried chicken is the bomb, the bao buns are amazing, the gyoza is delicious, I could honestly list the entire menu it's all so good and they have the BEST fruit slushies and boba teas. The guys working are always super friendly and get the food out fast, hot and fresh. I seriously love Nanabi!”

“We decided to try this place out for my father in laws birthday since I saw a great review in the Gluten Free Facebook group. They really do have the best gluten free pizza and awesome service! There is just one or two tables to eat as it is mostly take out right now. Hope they will turn it into a restaurant in the future.”

“Had another fabulous dining experience at Joeys. We brought another couple to try out the restaurant. We sampled many appetizers including the oysters (MUST GET, trust me), calamari, antipasto, Italian greens, fried provolone bruschetta. The only time our table stopped chatting lol is because the appetizers were that good.Our dinners came properly after our apps. My party ordered off the main menu and the special menu entrees. Again everything delicious. Such big portions we all had to go containers.Just a great dining experience. We can’t wait to go back. Thank you.”

“One Arabian Night (Marib Restaurant) in Utica, NY offers diverse and authentic Arabian cuisine at affordable prices. Located at 706 Varick St, this restaurant provides a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional decor and modern elegance. Enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes that showcase the rich heritage of Arabian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.”

“Have frequented Motus on previous occasions as pre show place to have dinner. Reminds me of the NYC Midtown restaurants. I had the trout dinner which was one of the best fish dinners I've ever had. The broth fully complimented the trout. Highly recommend Motus.”

“Party of 4. My 2nd time there efore Comets game. Very friendly, attentive service. Tripe was outstanding both times as were the fried peppers! Friends up from New Jersey and raved about the tripe! Will definitely be on my top 5 to go to for dinner in Utica!”

“This place is amazing ! I got the “Frulatto Di Caffe”, and when I tell you it was phenomenal, believe me. The costumer service was amazing and the atmosphere was wonderful. If you’re looking to relax while enjoying the most delicious coffee and pastries this is the place to be.”

“This place serves the best food in town, and the owner is the most lovely person here. I visited a couple months ago on a long-distance bike trip with my partner, and we stumbled across Sazon Frank in Utica and it was, by far, the BEST meal we've had - the spicy stew chicken is delicious. It's a hot bar with plenty of options and you won't leave hungry, that's for sure. The owner is so sweet and you will leave with a happy belly and a happy soul! Thank you so much!”

“My wife and I came here a coupe of times while in town visiting family. I'm still thinking about how delicious the latte, drip coffee, and americano all were. How did she make an americano taste so delicious?”

“I had been to Nail Creek many times, but never had anything to eat. This time, I went for lunch and got the lunch special which was a hot dog with white beef chili on top alongside fries. It was absolutely delicious and I hope it's a special again next time I'm in. My friend got shrimp tacos and was equally satisfied with her choice. They have a great draft selection, with something for everyone, and service was great. The bartenders are super friendly. The place itself has an old charm to it while still seeming modern, is clean and well-maintained. I definitely want to go back for their brunch menu!”

“Stopped in here after a run on the canal trail. We had 2 pepperoni slices and hot wings. Both were excellent. Pizza is NY style with a perfect crust. Wings were crispy, hot, and well seasoned.”

“We had a wonderful time, I cannot stop talking about how good the food was. I even cleaned my plate, which I never do. Classy atmosphere for sure, I liked that there wasn’t super loud music blaring all throughout my meal. Service was excellent and very friendly. I will definitely be back !”

“Sweet place! Be careful you might want to buy one of each... I mean they really have the best pusty's (Italian pastry) around, and some nice choices too!You'll get service with a smile when you are ordering and that makes everything look better!And the chocolate eclairs are so creamy, chocolatey, and delicious !”

“El Barajo has long been on my list of restaurants to try in the Utica area. We finally ordered lunch from there via UberEats and were very pleased with our meal. We ordered the pollo guisado, camaronfongo, and a vegetable empanada. All three were delicious, but I especially enjoyed the pollo guisado. The chicken--all dark meat, which I prefer--was melt-off-the-bone tender and very well-seasoned. We opted for yellow rice and black beans as sides, which were excellent accompaniments. My kids also loved this dish. I really loved the flavors of the camaronfongo (basically mofongo with shrimp), but only wish that there was more broth to pair with the mofongo. The mofongo was a bit dry, and I needed some more sauce or broth to moisten it and cut through the density. The fried vegetable empanada was crispy and delicious. The portions were generous; our order was enough for two adults and two toddlers, with leftovers enough for an adult's full meal.”

“I was a first time customer today. I stopped in while doing some street photography to grab some coffee. it was a pleasant experience. Very clean place and friendly staff!”

“Love the food here! I typically get the chicken riggies, along with the shrimp cocktail. When they offered the crepes for delivery, I would get that too!However, I've noticed this trend where it's nearly impossible to order takeout. This has happened on multiple occasions and more often within the last few months. I find that when it is open, and I do order, the order is immediately cancelled and only then is the takeout/delivery option unavailable for the rest of the night.Again, I love the food. I'm not going out to dinner alone, however, and it's consistently disappointing when you're craving the ever-so delicious Ancora riggies only to have your dinner plans pulled from you with no explanation.”

“I made a reservation for my best friend’s birthday and there were 10 of us in attendance and we had the best time! The drinks, food, and atmosphere were incredible! I loved the new location and the menu had something for everyone in our party. We weren’t rushed and had time to enjoy each other’s company and were served our entrees timely. The desserts and espresso martinis were excellent! Jared made sure we were attended too and our waitress was superb! We thought the price point was good based on appetizers, drinks, and entrees for each person. I will absolutely be back and wish nothing but success in their new location!”

“It’s a Utica thing kitchen and bar is definitely worth it.. now the location is deceiving don’t look like much but walk in the door you will be surprised.. I was dying for chicken riggies and it’s hard to find good ones a lot of places will say they make good or the best but I know good riggies and they fall short BUT THIS PLACE YUP NAILED IT!! My husband had eggplant parm use to it coming w/a side pasta so that was lacking they gave bread with your meal which was delicious and warm. The salad was good but everything is Al la carte. For the two of us with main dish side salad and my husband had a soda it was 54$..”

“Unique ! = It's obvious they take pride in their work and it shows when you're trying to decide which meal to get, because it's All so good you can't pick a favorite !!!”

“We went there years ago and there were a lot of mix-ups, good food but again a lot of mix-ups. Went there for lunch with my wife and got purses in a cream sauce. And Utica greens and a Sicilian appetizer platter. Very good. I would definitely go back.”

“Beautiful restaurant with excellent service and impeccable food. The Delmonicos Steak is a great deal, and the steak was cooked perfectly. Like the note mentions there is a lot of fat. Unfortunately I was disappointed in the Canoli, was very plain to me.”

“Went there for their Happy Hour and was pleasantly surprised by how amazing everything was. The drinks, the food, and just the overall experience. Everyone was so warm and friendly ♥︎”

“I ordered the French Cut Bone In Porkchop for takeout. It was hands down the best pork chop I've ever had along with the savory broccolini side accompanied by perfect mashed potatoes.I expected it to be good since it was from here, but was still blown away at how amazingly delicious it was.”

“Had the opportunity to enjoy the Easter Buffet yesterday with my family. Everything from the atmosphere, food, and service was above our expectations!! The variety of the food options available were exceptional. Thank you Nostro for a job well done!!”

“We've been here quite a few times. Very pretty interior, lovely balcony, the waitstaff is so put together and friendly, and the food is always good. Expensive for what is offered. But still good.”

“I absolutely love the ambiance, the food came out fairly quickly and they had really nice servers. When I tell you they literally have the best fries I've ever tasted in my life....omg! Those alone made me want to take the 2-hour trip back. I highly recommend.”

“What a great place to go!!! Food and service were amazing!!! Our server Kayla was a sweetheart and took great care of us, even the grandchildren. She made them a special ice cream sundae!! Will definitely be back!!”

“I order here at least monthly: the food is good & consistent. My usual order includes Singapore mei fun, house special fried rice, mixed vegetable tray, and either the kung pao chicken or the shrimp with Chinese vegetables. The prices are reasonable & it works out to less than $10 a meal per person. They even include free cans of soda when you order more than $35 for takeout. The family that runs it is very sweet from my brief interactions with them.”

“Hey my name Johnny Flores yeah I ain't a professor cycling about and say everything my head breaks tires everything can do and my bicycle you can see my video from Utica to Rome New York 21 Mayer new to I went to Planet Fitness one time you like it I will go back again down there thank you very much have a great day bye bye”

“Took son there on his work lunch break, it took like 15 minutes for his food, soda fountain drinks were out of order, they actually offered free lunch for next day for inconvenience which was very nice and professional!”

“Without question one of the best and most unique restaurants in Utica. We have a lot of out of town visitors and this the spot they remember most. The weekend brunch is beyond amazing and the selections of coffee otherworldly.”

“As we were visiting town, we found this gem! Heather made us feel welcome. She and her colleague made such delicious food and beautiful, tasty drinks. We had fun in this bar. Definitely will be coming back and recommend it to others!”

“Heres the scoop, This is the best burger in Utica! Its a one man show and Jeff is fun the whole while he runs it.Its charm comes from.it being a 1 man operations and because he does it so well he earns a 5 star for being unique!I want to explain my 5 stars for atmosphere becasue it would be harder for you to find a smaller place however that again adds to the charm.I love this place!”

“I just stopped in with a friend and had their Holy Chese and Ham, Batman! with a side of Potatoe Salad and a Chai Latte. An awesome and unique taste experience! Friendly staff, mellow atmosphere.”

“Fun little place with great service. Half deli/grocery and half cafe. Their house sauce and meatballs are excellent. Had a chicken parm sub. Chicken seemed to be panko breaded. Music played in the place was a 1980s mix.”

“Best tomato pie around ! Loved their Christmas Eve system this year - instead of waiting on a crazy line forever, they asked us for a pick up time. Be sure to order ahead of time. I walked in right up to the counter and they even had extra pies we could buy for some extra guests coming.”

“Honestly wish I had more time to spend here. Stopped by a while back, the food was better than I expected and I would definitely recommend this place to somebody looking to pick up something sweet.”

“Carmella Caruso went above and beyond assisting with my order that experienced a delay at the post office. Not only did she find my order during what I would imagine is an extremely busy time of the year, she paid for it to ship overnight and arrive in time for Christmas. In a world where many businesses do not care, she took it upon herself to make sure the box arrived. Caruso’s excellent cookies stand out but this personal care by a small business makes them shine bright! You are a true gem Carmella.”

“My favorite spot to go to lunch, the staff is always welcoming and the service is top notch. Probably one of the only places I’ve been to that has FAST and friendly service. I just wish they were open long enough for me to get dinner as well?”

“A extremely nice little Mexican restaurant. I worked in Mexico City before moving to Central NY over 50 years ago. Really good Mexican food has been scarce in Central NY until the past 10 years. I've added El Buen Gusto to my list of 1/2 dozen great Mexican spots between Rochester & Schenectady. El Buen Gusto has a lot of breakfast choices & in three visits there everything was excellent. Quick, friendly service & reasonable prices! A+”

“Wow!!! Loved this place. Stopped in thought it was a bit sketchy, and was way wrong. They have the best burgers around with amazing milkshakes. The sweet potato fries hit the spot as a side. The prices are reasonable and good service too.”

“Recently moved to the area and stopped by this place on a whim. Upon entering was hit with this amazing smell. After enquiring of it's source we were directed to their sausage rolls. Grabbed a Sicilian sausage roll for my family and trust me when I say it was more than enough food to feed three of us for pretty cheap too!”

“Dined at Ventura’s many years ago, absolutely the best. Been in Florida 21 years and haven’t visited Upstate New York, but do plan on coming up and won’t miss this establishment. The BEST!”

“Alyssa makes the yummiest cakes! It’s so easy to order with her and not only do the cakes look good, but they taste amazing. I cannot recommend her enough! Her variety of cake and filling flavors is unmatched, and every single one I’ve tried along with her ready to go sweets are the best!”

“Enjoyed a fantastic breakfast atmosphere in downtown Utica. Opted for Hannah’s Special; though tasty, the portion was smaller than expected compared to other places. Reasonable prices overall. Highly recommend this spot! ??”

“Although im not a fan of Jimmy Johns 2 choices of an 8 inch or 16 inch sub.... the sub itself is excellent. Good bread, love there provolone, just a great sub. Why not an option for a 12 inch though? This puts there competitor Jersey Mikes just one step ahead. This location has great staff, fast service and ”

“We recieved the best service I have ever experienced at a subway. We did an online order and they were finishing making our food when we arrived. They were still actively completing in person orders at the same time. The two staff behind the counter were very efficient and deserved a positive review. To top it off, our food tasted very fresh, and were not messy!Great job!”

“This location can be pretty decent. I typically just get iced coffee from this location. It tends to be pretty busy in the morning hours as well. I always opt to use the drive thru here, as it is not in the best location. They do have homeless in the bathrooms and I had one person trying to charge me to use the restroom here once, so be aware of that.”

“This place is my favorite fast food restaurant, the drinks are creative, tasty and cold. I also love getting the Arby's chicken sandwich, which is the best chicken sandwich in my ”

“Staff was pleasant, food was ok. Not a fan of the wraps. Girl running register was amazing with an older gentleman who was having trouble ordering from his app.”

“Food is pretty good, service not so much. Entrance is a little inconvenient depending on which way youre coming from. Online orders arent always ready when they're supposed to ”

“I like taco bell, but the last two times I went, they did not put all my order in my bags. I had to go back to get the rest of my order. They were good about getting it. But I feel they should do something to make up for me having to go back to the restaurant due to their error.”

“It's my favorite coffee house since I first discovered it. From the start of the order to the finish, they were friendly, swift, and appreciative of the patronage.”

“The service and atmosphere of this Dunkin is the best of the Utica area. Staff was very friendly and professional something I found to enhance my visit to this Dunkin. This just enhanced this dining experience at Dunkin.Parking: Easy in easy out plenty of parking.Kid-friendliness: Yes, staff very friendly to children.Wheelchair accessibility: Entrance same level no stairs.”

“I went to this McDonald’s on new years eve after getting rerouted through Utica when I was supposed to go through Rome and I simply cannot put into words my feelings about my great experience here. The drinks were right, the staff were nice and I would come back ”

“Great locals place! Lots of draft beers, as well as cans & bottles. Inventive sandwiches & food, with an absolutely awesome roast beef sandwich! Best part of it all, the owner & staff are knowledgeable & friendly! Looking forward to coming back again…”

“Great little breakfast joint right down off the arterial. Super friendly, and definitely a local favorite. Sit at the counter and talk to Joe while he cooks and you won’t be disappointed. The servings size is great, the bacon is crispy, the home fries are real and the coffee is hot. I’ll be going back!”

“Our Altar Rosary Society had a tea @ Terrace Cafe today. Dylan was so very helpful when planning the tea. The food was wonderful and service was great. The staff was so kind and friendly, everyone enjoyed the tea so much. Thank you so much to Dylan and staff. I highly recommend the Terrace Cafe you will love it. Thank you again. Bea Allison”

“I'm not sure why they don't have 5 stars, it's such an excellent establishment! I've tried almost every item on the menu, all their food is amazing. The service is always friendly and fast! Also, their prices are unbeatable!!”

“Love this place. Amazing donuts and the best breakfast pizzas around. I've been to this bakery over a dozen times and they are always consistent. They also have more than just baked good. Homemade soup and side dishes are available daily.”

“We had a wonderful experience here! Sidney was an amazing bartender- so kind. The whole vibe of this brewery is so cool- the building itself is amazing. The food was also excellent!”

“We ate there this evening. Had the pork shank & a bottle of Malbec. The meal was excellent. The service was fairly fast, dinner was very pleasant. Just darn good. The wine was excellent. The service was very good. If I lived here I’d be back frequently. Kudos to Jamie & his staff! For a small town, you couldn’t do better!”

“Took a chance on a stop through Utica while traveling. Mary the bartender was so friendly and welcoming, we had the Burger and Ruben with the Mac Salad, all delicious. Mark, the Proprietor came by to chat and told us the history of The Gerber, wish we lived closer than Chicago would definately make it our "local" pub.”

“Huge Giambatt,at the half portion. Got the grilled turkey wrap. Delicious coffee. Reasonable prices. Does need some new ceiling tiles but it's cute. Great waitress”

“Went in for a quick bite asked for anice fresh chicken empanada. The man at the counter said no problem and then threw two in the oven for me and i was on my way in a couple minutes. Great place!”

“Phenomenal service by the bartender John. He recommended the “famous chicken sandwich” and said “it’s literally the best sandwich I’ve ever had”. It indeed was the best sandwich I ever had. We can’t wait to visit John again :)”

“Incredible selection of barrel aged big boys and excellent crushable lagers! Food and service are always on point. When I head out to Utica for work this is my first stop! Try the tot waffles you will not be dissapointed!”

“A lot of ice cream shops come and go … he’s consistent,,, he is a family owned buisness … and that’s why people keep going back he knows what family means. We aren’t just numbers to him .”

“They have the best Jamaican Food in upstate NY it's a family owned business they treat you like family the prices are right great amount of food I highly recommendKid-friendliness: Treat everyone like family”

“I had a great omelet, my wife a fantastic turkey sandwich (good turkey and wheat bread!). We ended with a great cupcake and wonderful pumpkin cookie. Business was steady and the staff were very friendly and helpful.”

“Stopped in here after a run on the canal trail. We had 2 pepperoni slices and hot wings. Both were excellent. Pizza is NY style with a perfect crust. Wings were crispy, hot, and well seasoned.”

“Stayed at the Reed Roof this weekend and this place is so busy but everything looks so good. Best sesame bagel and garden veggie cream cheese I've ever had. Definitly need to come here again next time I'm Utica. Really wanted to try a could different bagels but they practically flew right off the shelf.”

“Wonderful place with even more wonderful menu of delectable authentic indochinese cuisine! They have vegetarian options, so u can ask ur noodle soup with vegetarian broth:) I only have superlative compliments here .”

“We had a wonderful time, I cannot stop talking about how good the food was. I even cleaned my plate, which I never do. Classy atmosphere for sure, I liked that there wasn’t super loud music blaring all throughout my meal. Service was excellent and very friendly. I will definitely be back !”

“I would 10/10 recommend Classy Cakes to anyone! We had a miscommunication about my cake and she more than made up for it. The cake was absolutely delicious and hands down one of the best cakes I’ve ever had!”

“I recently returned to the area to find some of my most loved pizza spots were not as good as they used to be. We tried Trulli do Turi for the first time tonight and it was The BEST pizza I’ve had in a long time! The sauce is amazing, the toppings delicious, and cooked to perfection!”

“This place is amazing ! I got the “Frulatto Di Caffe”, and when I tell you it was phenomenal, believe me. The costumer service was amazing and the atmosphere was wonderful. If you’re looking to relax while enjoying the most delicious coffee and pastries this is the place to be.”

“One Arabian Night (Marib Restaurant) in Utica, NY offers diverse and authentic Arabian cuisine at affordable prices. Located at 706 Varick St, this restaurant provides a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional decor and modern elegance. Enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes that showcase the rich heritage of Arabian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.”

“They BLT taste great and so do there Reuben sandwich..I didn't care for the capicola brand of ham a little to fatty for me. Not complaining overall it was nice..great chicken noodle soup also.”

“What a great place to go!!! Food and service were amazing!!! Our server Kayla was a sweetheart and took great care of us, even the grandchildren. She made them a special ice cream sundae!! Will definitely be back!!”

“Outside of the drink not getting the sugared/salted rim as described and pictured the food was plentiful - arrived hot and as ordered medium rare..very delishious !!”

“Usually good food and mostly good service. Much Beyer than McD's! They don't even have People serving you any more.Wendy's - please do not stop using cashiers to serve your customers. It's a people business.”

“Took son there on his work lunch break, it took like 15 minutes for his food, soda fountain drinks were out of order, they actually offered free lunch for next day for inconvenience which was very nice and professional!”

“One word... LEGIT. Burgers are excellent, fries are excellent, and the chicken nuggets are (you guessed it) excellent. The place has a good vibe. If you're in Utica and need some good food at a good place, Rooster's it is my friends.”

“Ordered a fish and chips to go for pick up. The service was really friendly when I picked up. Restaurant looks clean and big. Fish and chips is not the best to go item because it inevitably gets a little soggy on the way home. It was really great tasting though and I would order it again!”

“Where else can ya get the best tomato pie in the area? HERE. The riggies are pretty good also. The girl making the pizza was great conversation for the time also. I do go back every so often and the food and people never ”

“I was a first time customer today. I stopped in while doing some street photography to grab some coffee. it was a pleasant experience. Very clean place and friendly staff!”

“Stopped in here after a run on the canal trail. We had 2 pepperoni slices and hot wings. Both were excellent. Pizza is NY style with a perfect crust. Wings were crispy, hot, and well seasoned.”

“One Arabian Night (Marib Restaurant) in Utica, NY offers diverse and authentic Arabian cuisine at affordable prices. Located at 706 Varick St, this restaurant provides a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional decor and modern elegance. Enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes that showcase the rich heritage of Arabian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.”

“Wonderful food and even nicer people. Spent a weekend in the Utica area and decided to stop here for lunch. We felt like we were having lunch with family. Everyone was so kind and friendly. Ended up ordering the lamb gyro and the salad with chicken shawarma. Both dishes were delicious and very fresh. The owner, Layla, offered us coffee that was rich and tasty. It is very difficult to replicate the kind of service you find here. We would not hesitate to come back again if we were in the area.”

“I went to this McDonald’s on new years eve after getting rerouted through Utica when I was supposed to go through Rome and I simply cannot put into words my feelings about my great experience here. The drinks were right, the staff were nice and I would come back ”

“Passing thru Utica we stopped at Slice after seeing them on EatlocalNewYork Instagram. My wife and I got the Vodka Chicken Parm sandwich, absolutely incredible, massive in size, garlic bread roll was toasted perfectly, vodka sauce had great flavor, honestly, probably the best Chicken Parm sandwich I have ever had. We got an order of the Purple Cow Wings Everything style, but they forgot the Everything, those were just ok. My daughter got a cheese slice that was bigger than her head, and a friend got the Purple Cow Slice, slices are truly footlong, no doubt about that. Gave a 3 for atmosphere, no place to sit which is fine, they have a counter to eat on but with two six year old girls and a 50 minute ride back to Syracuse, they needed to use the bathroom and we were told it was unavailable, again not a big deal, went across the street to Rite Aid. We will go back for the sando and slices for sure, probably skip the wings.”

“Wingstop is always on point when I order from there. From the customer service to the quality of food they do a hell of a job there. Definitely recommend you try them if you haven't!!”

“I went to this location for breakfast today feb 24th 2024 I am happy to say I have faith in the Dennys brand again I was seated within 2 mins and got my food by 930am and my server was awesome, the food was exceptional and the price was worth itKid-friendliness: Very kid-friendly and they go out of their way to be kid-friendly”