New Blog! Chus On Chow
Dining has become possibly the most important part of this blog. As this page has grown, many people have visited and enjoyed the listings. However, it is now large enough to collapse under its own weight. As a result, we have decided to open a brand new blog dedicated to restaurants and food: ChusOnChow.com! The new location will be better organized and hopefully easy on the eyes. We have been busy moving the content to the new site, and eventually the food listings below will be removed. I will continue to write this blog, too, but on other topics. The new site will continue to grow as rapidly as time allows, and I hope you will visit soon!
Syracuse, New York is a modest city, one with hidden charms and delights.
A City That Thinks It Can’t, but Could if It Tried.
Here we have plenty of the whitebread things that you can find in Anytown, U.S.A. We have malls, after all, and people are planning to make even bigger and better ones. Fortunately, there are alternatives to the endless array of chain stores. Here are some ideas for those of you who may be adventurous enough to explore a neighborhood or two.
Your reviews are great and they really point out the wonderful offerings available in the area. So many excellent independant restaurants that many take for granted. I’ve really come to appreciate these great (and inexpensive) places of flavor like Angotti’s, Luigi’s, Dinosaur, and Alto Cinco when you go to touristy areas that only offer boring, tasteless chain faire (like Myrtle Beach and Niagara Falls). Here are some other tips. If you like jamaican, try the jerk chicken at the Jerk Hut on South Ave. Lao Village has excellent laotion and thai food and there will be a new place opening soon on Hawley Ave called the Hawley Green Bistro. You can sample Lao Village and the Hawley Green Bistro at this year’s Art on the Porches festival in the Strathmore neighborhood on June 16.
Thanks, John!
I’m with you on Jerk Hut – I enjoy their spicy Jamaican patties VERY much. I just had them at the Taste of Syracuse festival. Dinosaur is phenomenal, but they’re already famous, so I’ll just say, yeah!
I’ve been to Lao Village a couple times, and yes, they’re great!
My only disappointment in your list was Angotti’s. A friend of mine likes them a lot. We went there, and frankly, we didn’t like the food, service, or atmosphere at all. But different strokes for different folks!
Hey Dave!
Once upon a time I agreed with you when it came to China Road and sang thier praises to anyone who would listen. Since it’s about 3 blocks from my house, I frequented the place but, since my daughter isnt crazy about Chinese, I’ve been getting it sporadically for a while. I will copy and paste exactly what I wrote in my forum after ordering take out from there a few weeks ago:
OMG. Blech!
Hey Syracusans… Remember one of our best kept secrets, China Road? The place with the killer food and the five star chef at regular prices?
Well, killer is right.
A few years ago, they changed to these thick, flat lo mein noodles that made thier awesome lo mein not so great. I’m still upset about that, but kept going there because everything else was good and, in fact, still ordered the lo mein.
I’m going to go out on a limb and say they no longer have a 5 star chef. It’s been at least a few months since I’ve eaten there last and the food we got was just plain disgusting. The first thing I noticed was that they changed to a bottom shelf sweet & sour sauce. It was steaming hot, but was still gelled and tasted gross.
China Road is cutting corners with quality. Maybe they should play some of those “lucky numbers” from thier fortune cookies to fatten thier bottom line instead?
I’m never going there again.
*******************
I was very upset over the fact that I spent more than $30 on food that I threw in the trash. This truly was a decline of a great place. It seems I should save my cravings for Chinese for my trips to Chinatown in NYC. Then again, maybe I’ll give one of your other mentions a try.
As for the rest of your list, I LOVE Antonio’s! They have these charred meatballs that I’ve been craving for about 2 yrs lol. The problem is, every time we attempt to go there, we are told that there is no way they’ll be able to seat us because so many people are waiting for a table already. Last time that happened, my sister and I ended up spending well over $150 on Pascal’s and I have to say, I’ve had better food at Mc Donald’s. Even the wine tasted like it cost $7 and came with a screw cap.
I would like to add to the list of great places.
Zebb’s!!! I like everything about Zebb’s from the excellent fresh food to the old-time diner decor. I don;t care much for meat and rarely eat it, but I have no qualms about ordering a hamburger there. (voted “Best Burger in Syracuse” multiple times) In fact, everything I’ve ever had at Zebb’s is good. They make thier own bread and rolls, cut thier own fries, grind thier own meat… I love the hamburger toppings bar – tho it could be expanded I think – and the bar area is a great place if you want to attend happy hour. Cadillac Nachos are a personal fav, but you won’t be able to finish them alone. Bring a friend. Located in the K-mart plaza in Mattydale.
Stella’s Diner – One of the best deals you’ll find in Syracuse, but be prepared to wait an hour for a table on Saturday or Sunday morning. I often get real scrambled eggs with plenty of real cheddar cheese and tomatoes, real, hand cut home fries with onions, and thick toasted slices of Italian bread for around $5 and I have never been able to finish it all. The food is excellent, fresh, and the prices are so low it’s unbelievable. Stella’s truly is Syracuse’s best kept secret. Located right at the end of Wolf Street on the North Side.
Paladino’s Pizza – I know Dave didn’t list pizza places, but Paladino’s belongs on a “best” list. I’ve had plenty of pizza in my time but nothing, and I mean absolutely NOTHING compares to Paladino’s, not even NYC. It’s thin crust, always baked to perfection, and just plain delicious. Thier slices are even better than whole pizzas, with a twice-baked crispy crust that just sort of melts when you eat it. It isn’t the hard sort of crispy that means endless chewing. It’s perfect. I asked one of the guys once why they don’t deliver and he said “We don’t have to.” A very true statement. People are willing to make the drive for a Paladino’s pizza. I know there is another location somewhere, but I frequent the one in Northern Lights Plaza in Mattydale.
Spooky,
Thanks for those thoughts. I did take the liberty of doing some editing on the comments about China Road, as I’m trying to keep the language fairly clean here, and some of the comments, in my opinion, bordered on an ad hominem attack. Nonetheless, I’ve left many of your comments intact, and I look forward to seeing what the place is like now, myself. I haven’t been there in awhile, and I never get take-out, BTW. Sorry you had a lousy time.
I have enjoyed eating at Antonio’s several times. I refrained from adding them to my list because the last 2 times we’ve been there, we felt that the quality had slipped (not a lot, but noticeably), while the prices had not.
When there are SO many good choices for Italian, even in those few blocks, I figured why push them?
Speaking of that, we ate at Francesca’s again last night, a nice place that I’ve mentioned here. The food was great, as usual. But the Friday night jazz band that started near the end of our meal was loud enough that we could no longer talk, so we left and finished our meal down the street at Biscotti’s. We had eaten in the courtyard, which had been a very nice atmosphere before the volume debacle. If we had eaten inside, the band volume may not have been so, um, noticeable.
We also used to like Stella’s, but no longer recommend them for the reason you mentioned – it’s just too crowded, and I won’t wait that long for breakfast.
Paladino’s sounds interesting, I may try it!
Ha ha, sorry about the four letter word. As I said, I copied the post from my website’s forum directly and do not censor my opinions there. I was truly disgusted at the time. But yeah, it’s ok that you edited it. The point still comes across.
I have never been to any of the other Italian restaurants you mentioned. Francesca’s sounds great and I think I should give it a try. I would love a jazz band but, like you, would prefer a conversation volume as dinner, not music, would be the primary reason for being there. Even with that as a drawback, it still sounds like a place I might like so thanks for your recs btw. I have also never been to Biscotti’s but definately want to go. I have heard many, many good things about it before reading this thread.
Because I live so close to Stella’s, I tend to get take out, which is usually ready in ten minutes or less, regardless of how busy they are, and the quality doesn’t suffer in transit. A good option when you dont want to wait.
I did want to mention one other place that stands out, and that is The Clam Bar on Rt 11 in North Syracuse, next to Fresno’s on Sweetheart Corner. Excellent food, and you will generally pay less than you would pay for the same dish at another restaurant. My parents are crazy about thier steak sandwiches, which are very cheap. I personally love thier fried haddock, thier soups, and scallops. I have been frequenting The Clam Bar since I was a little kid, it hasn’t changed a bit in all that time, and I have never once disliked anything I got there. It is always excellent. The place is small and usually busy but you don’t have to wait too long. It is also common to run into Billy Fucillo there.
Anyway, thanks, Dave. It’s nice to have a place where I can share my dining experiences around Syracuse and let people know when I think I’ve found a gem. I’ll be sure to let you know if I try one of your places! (The Jerk Hut sounds interesting too…)
Spooky,
Yes, it’s good to get some conversation going! Disclosure: though I’m not playing jazz as much now, having opted for flamenco and classical, I played it for many years, and I’ll admit to having barbecued an eardrum or two. I’ve even considered having a band called Bang An Eardrum Slowly. The Volume Problem with musicians is a complex problem, and maybe I’ll write a separate snarky article about it.
I’m with ya on the Clam Bar – I like it, it’s relaxed and friendly, and I even know a chef there. Now that I know Fucillo goes there, I’m still willing to recommend it! Who says I’m not fair-minded?
Let’s see – as of this moment, if I had my choice of Italian places, I’d probably go to Gentile’s, a standout amongst many good choices. I would love finding more North Italian stuff in Syracuse, polenta and such, but because Italian immigrants have been overwhelmingly Southern, the demographic is entirely understandable. And hey, my body is 64% red sauce by this time. Molto bene!
[...] I buy our spices in bulk in various local ethnic stores and put them in little glass jars I’ve saved from such things as capers and jelly jars. You [...]
[...] Two reviews have appeared previously at Walkable Eastwood (includes a picture of the menu) and Dave’s List (scroll down to Mexican). Hearing about cheap and good food always interests me! Joe and I went [...]
Great writing and very helpful recommendations. Secret Garden restaurant on Erie Blvd is amazing.
David,
Thanks for scouting out the hidden gems of Syracuse.
I was really disappointed this evening… I thought I was finally going to get a chance to check out La Casa del Te. Unfortunately, it looks like I am too late! There were Closed signs in the window on a Friday evening, so I have to conclude the restaurant has closed.
Frank,
Here’s the latest on La Casa Del Te… I drove by today, and though I didn’t have time to stop in, I did see “Open” signs in the windows. So I’m hopeful that they’re still doing just fine! Their hours are a little bit confusing… I used to have their card with the details, but I lost it. I know that they have tended to be open mostly for lunch (which is when I go) and only occasionally for dinner. I think dinner was something like Thursday and Friday, and not late. To be honest, that area is a little dodgy later in the evening, and that may be the reason.
If in doubt, certainly call first (471-9982). Sorry you didn’t get a meal, and I hope you have better luck soon. Thanks!
I’m relatively new to the area and still trying to discover my own favorite places to eat. One glaring gap I have noticed is a complete absence of great places to get brunch on the weekend. I’m wondering if you or your readers have any suggestions!
We’ve been to Stella’s and although it is a great diner, weekend brunch times are WAY too crowded. Plus, I would love to find a place with a slightly more upscale or interesting version of brunch.
Thanks!
Janet,
Great point, and you’re right… you’ve identified a weakness of mine: I don’t do brunch! What, a dedicated foodie who doesn’t do brunch?? I’ll explain – I find that brunch, though often sumptuous and filling, is fairly expensive, and as I become a better cook myself, I’m not crazy about the idea of food sitting on a Bunsen burner for 6 hours! It gets kinda dry and gross. I would rather pay $6.95 for a nice fresh egg breakfast than pay $15.95 for mostly food that I don’t want to eat. Does this make me a snob? Most certainly!
But I know that many people like brunch, so I’m hoping that someone will chime in. Back when the big motel in the middle of the city was the Marx, a group of us went there one morning, and it was delicious. But that’s sort of a fancy breakfast, not really brunch. And I don’t even know the name of the new place (Renaissance or something?). It’s changed hands so many times, I need a scorecard.
Maybe the Windham offers a good brunch. The Marriott used to. I truly have no idea. Anyone else?
Try L’Adour for brunch. Also from April to December, the Brewster Inn has a fabulous brunch – definitely worth the drive to Cazenovia!
If you haven’t tried INDIA HOUSE on old liverpool road yet you should definately try that. Some of the best Indian food around in my opinion. Also for a great Mexican dish ALTO CINCO on westcott street is always a good choice. Just make sure you go in and sit down rather than take out. You get more for your money
Thank you all for the suggestions. My friends and I tried L’Adour for brunch and we were very happy with the selection and flavors.
I have been checking out all these suggestions and have one to add: Welcome Inn on Tully. They have strange hours but the food is reasonable and very tasty! http://www.communitysite.com/welcomeinn/index.htm
Welcome Inn is definitely on my list! When I’m on the west side, my compass very strongly points to Eva’s, but I will be sure to check out the Welcome. Thanks for the reminder about their hours!
I didn’t include India House in my recommendations even though I’ve been there. The food is good, but right down the street is a considerably better place, imho: Sahota Palace, which is mentioned above, where we go repeatedly.
Alto Cinco is also a good place. It’s more Latin-American than Mexican to me, and it’s a little pricey for what you get, though good. Maybe it’s really the lameness of their name that’s bugging me!
Alert reader Chris asked if I knew of places to get good dessert, in particular pie and cheesecake. Other than my fave Eva’s on Milton Av. in Solvay, I’m not sure. [I had mentioned ice cream, Gannon's in particular].
At any our top-caliber restaurants, such as Gentile’s, Ambrosia, and a few others, great dessert can be had.
Who has some other ideas?
Dave
What a great site! I’m going to try Mai Lan tonite. I’m surprised that as much as I love vietnamese food I haven’t been there yet!
I received a menu in the mail for Zen (Thai and Sushi), a new restaurant in Mattydale. I went last night but they were closed. It appears that they had a fire…boarded up windows etc. If anyone has been there I would love to get some feedback on them.
The deserts at Ambrosia aren’t only delicious but they’re fun too. The last time I was there I had a chocolate slipper for desert…EXCELLENT in taste and presentation!
Try the squash soup at L’Adour….it’s like dying and going to Heaven!
Now I’m hungry!!
I have found that some of the best cheesecake is at Biscotti’s. They often have a good variety too.
Any opinion on two new restaurants downtown….Opus and bistro elephant? I want to find a nice new restaurant for an annual dinner with a group of old friends.
I havent been to China Road lately. It used to be authentic chinese food. I am sorry it has changed. Try Bamboo garden at North main street close to rte 31. recently were ther with friends for chinese new year. excellent food. Also try Bangkok Thai at the Glencrossing plaza near John Glen nlvd. friendly service excellent unpretentious thai food. Try their curry duck.
Also try garcias mexican restaurant on oswego rd. close to Gaskin rd. I’d like to know what you think.
My wife and I tried Eva’s tonight. Good stuff! We started with the buttered green beans with bread crumbs. It was quite tasty, and one dish is big enough for two people. Although the beans were cooked a bit more than we would cook them at home, they still had a good flavor and color to them. Then my wife moved on to the Goulasz with barley, which Eva’s son Dave recommended, and I had a dish that I think was called Bogusz, but not sure about that. Both dishes were delicious. While we were at it, we had to try the potato pancakes with sauerkraut and bacon, which also hit the spot. And when in Rome… I also tried a Polish beer, which complemented the food nicely. Lastly, for dessert my wife had a piece of coffee cake and I had the walnut buttercream cake. The coffee cake had a great cinnamon flavor , and the walnut buttercream cake had only a slight hint of sweetness to it and was full of nuts and raspberry between the many layers of cake.
All of that, with two cups of tea, came to $48. A bargain, in my book. We will gladly go back.
Although they’re only open until 8:00 on Thursdays and they say they stop serving at 7:45, we arrived at 7:20 and they happily served us until 8:30, when we waddled out the door, very happy indeed.
Thanks for the recommendation!
Just moved here a few weeks ago, and I’m literally sitting here weeping because we now have a nice long list of food to eat here in Syracuse! Thanks so much!
Dave,
One of these days check out Alabrassa Bistro on Oswego Road in Liverpool. Not exactly sure of their hours, but they’re open for lunch most days and I think they serve breakfast and dinner on Saturdays. I’ve only been there for lunch so far, but what I’ve had has been very good. They serve a nice tuna sandwich and the turkey and avocado salad is good too.
Frank,
Always good to hear your thoughts! I had not heard of Alabrassa. I used to live in Liverpool, and don’t get there as often anymore, but sounds like good, simple fare.
In other news, I just ate again at Joey’s, and it was as good as last time. The fact that our friends treated us made the flavor even more savory!
Finally, I noticed that Sugar Pearl has cut back on their original very late night hours. They’re still going strong, but just not open super-late like they were at first.
Did you try the steak calamiri at Joey’s?
Also, Lao Village and a newcomer, Funk’n'Waffles (delicious belgian waffles), will both be at this year’s Art on the Porches festival on Ruskin Ave in Syracuse’s Strathmore neighborhood on June 14 (11am-5pm). http://www.myspace.com/strathmoreartontheporches
I don’t know if I’ll write a long post about it now, but I’ll have to say that Carrabba’s in Fayetteville’s Towne Centre is a good place! I’m often not favorably disposed to chain restaurants, but we really had a nice meal at this one.
The ravioli was delicious, with a tangy, luscious sauce. I could have easily chowed down about 20 of those. A couple of us also had the trout special that night, and it was very nicely grilled, with just enough spices to enhance it well and still allow the trout to speak.
The atmosphere is also pretty nice, with darkish romantic lighting as well as the expected Italian touches. It’s also fun to be able to easily see the chefs at work, with dramatic billowing flames appearing every few minutes.