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Utica, New York
The Top 10 Places to Eat in Utica, New York

The Top 10 Places to Eat in Utica, New York

Welcome to Utica, NY, the heart of the Mohawk Valley! Our city is home to a wide range of restaurants and eateries to satisfy any palette. From traditional Italian to Mexican cuisine and everything in between, you will find a variety of dining options sure to please everyone. Check out this list of the best places to eat in Utica and get ready to enjoy some delicious meals!

about matthew
Updated January 31, 2023
Hey there! I'm Matthew, I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.
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1. Chesterfield’s Tavolo

Chesterfields Tavolo

Chesterfield’s Tavolo is a unique dining experience located in North Utica, just minutes from the NYS Thruway. This Urban Drinks and Italian Eats establishment is known for its Original Greens and is featured on the Travel Channel’s Delicious Destinations. Off-premise catering is also available. After 30 years in the old neighborhood, the Chesterfield family has packed up and moved some of their classic dishes into a modern atmosphere.

The menu at Chesterfield’s Tavolo offers a contemporary twist on traditional dishes, as well as a few new dishes altogether. Tired of the same old pizza? Try their Artisan Pizza, hand-crafted and cooked in their exclusive oven. They also offer coal-fired delicacies. Come experience a unique way of dining and make memories with friends, family, business or a romantic date. Fresh food and great service is what Chesterfield’s Tavolo strives to bring to your table. Don’t forget to try their signature dish, the Original Greens Morelle and Chicken Riggies.

Contact Information

Phone Number:  (315) 732-9356

Address: 131 North Genesee Utica, NY 13502   

2. Tiny’s Grill

Tinys Grill

Tiny’s Grill is a casual dining spot that offers a variety of delicious food and drinks at affordable prices. The restaurant is known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Located by the Players Club, Tiny’s Grill is easy to find with plenty of parking available. The menu features a wide range of options, from classic American favorites to international dishes, making it easy to find something to suit everyone’s tastes. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and generous portions, Tiny’s Grill is sure to leave you satisfied.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal, Tiny’s Grill is the perfect choice. With its casual atmosphere, great prices, and delicious food and drinks, it’s no wonder that this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So, if you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and give Tiny’s Grill a try.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 732-9497

Address: 1014 State St, Utica, NY 13502    

3. Zeina’s Cafe and Catering

Zeinas Cafe and Catering

Zeina’s Cafe and Catering is a family-owned Mediterranean restaurant that serves authentic Lebanese cuisine using only the finest ingredients. The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean favorites such as hummus and pita dip, savory lamb gyros, and fresh Mediterranean chicken salad, appealing to a wide range of palates.

Owners Albert and Layla Zeina opened the restaurant in 2010 with a promise to serve the community only the best Lebanese food using cherished family recipes passed down for generations. The couple visits Lebanon annually, bringing back an array of spices and new ideas to provide customers with the most authentic dining experience possible.

Located just down the street from the Saranac Brewery, at 607 Varick Street in Utica, Zeina’s Cafe is open Wednesday from 11am-2pm and Thursday-Saturday from 11am-8pm. Stop by and taste the delicious flavors of authentic Lebanese cuisine at Zeina’s Cafe and Catering.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 738-0297

Address: 607 Varick St, Utica, NY 13502

4. Craylee’s

Craylees

Craylee’s is a small, family-owned diner located in the heart of Downtown Utica. This bustling eatery offers traditional breakfast and lunch dishes in a cozy, small dining room. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends and family. 

The menu features a wide variety of classic breakfast items, such as pancakes and omelets, as well as sandwiches and salads for lunch. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making Craylee’s a great value for customers. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall enjoyable experience at this local establishment. Overall, Craylee’s is a great place to stop for a satisfying meal while exploring the downtown area.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 507-4713

Address: 237 Bleecker St, Utica, NY 13501   

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5. The Tailor and The Cook

The Tailor and The Cook

Craylee’s is an intimate restaurant located in Utica, with only 40 seats available. With a reputation for being one of the brightest spots in the city’s culinary scene, the restaurant offers attentive service, a comfortable atmosphere and a menu that features provocative cuisine made with the finest local products. .

The management at Craylee’s is dedicated to providing their customers with great food and a connection to the farmers and producers who make it all possible. The restaurant is known for filling up fast, so it is recommended that reservations are made early to ensure a spot. Overall, Craylee’s is a must-visit for foodies and anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Utica.

Contact Information

Phone Number:  (315) 624-3663

Address: 94 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13502   

6. Stathis Greek Restaurant & Gyro

Stathis Greek Restaurant and Gyro

Stathis Greek Restaurant & Gyro is a family-owned and operated business, owned by Stathis Koulouris. It has recently opened its doors in South Utica, and has already received a positive reception from the local community. The restaurant offers authentic Greek cuisine, with a focus on traditional dishes such as gyros, souvlaki, and moussaka.

As a child growing up in a Greek home, owner Stathis Koulouris has always had a passion for traditional Greek food. He is excited to share his love for the cuisine with his customers, and is dedicated to providing high-quality, homemade meals. The restaurant is committed to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional methods of preparation to bring the flavors of Greece to Utica.

In the coming months, Stathis Greek Restaurant & Gyro plans to expand into a second room and make improvements on every level, to deliver an even better experience to its customers. The ultimate goal of the restaurant is not only to be the best Greek restaurant in the area but the best restaurant. If you are looking for an authentic taste of Greece, Stathis Greek Restaurant & Gyro is the perfect destination.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 624-0323

Address: 1900 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13502   

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7. Willows of Utica

Willows of Utica

Willows of Utica is a new American restaurant located in the heart of Utica, New York. The restaurant offers a modern twist on classic American dishes, making it a unique dining experience for locals and travelers alike. The menu features a variety of options, from hearty sandwiches and burgers to fresh salads and seafood.

The restaurant boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a rustic and contemporary design. The space is perfect for both casual and formal gatherings, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant’s location makes it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner before or after exploring the city.

Willows of Utica is a must-visit spot for foodies and those looking for a new dining experience in Utica. The restaurant’s innovative menu and inviting atmosphere make it a great addition to the city’s dining scene. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Willows of Utica is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal and spend some time with friends and family.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 765-0271

Address: 900 Culver Ave, Utica, NY 13501   

8. Ancora!

Ancora

Ancora! Italian restaurant is a premier fine dining establishment located in Utica, NY. Adjacent to the historic Stanley Theatre, the restaurant features a unique blend of rustic old-world and urban design, with concrete-exposed high ceilings and stage lighting. 

The restaurant offers a custom-designed wine bar, an open kitchen and seasonal outdoor seating. The menu features Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, and the restaurant is a great spot for special occasions and events. With colorful, local artwork on display, Ancora! is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Utica.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 724-4815

Address: 261 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13501   

9. El Barajo Restaurant

El Barajo Restaurant

El Barajo Restaurant is a hidden gem located at 672 Bleecker St in Utica, NY. This cozy spot offers a wide array of fresh food, including traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as arroz con camarones, camaronfongo, mofongo, tostones, maduros, empanadas and a de pernil sandwich. The restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients in preparing its dishes, ensuring that customers enjoy the highest quality and taste with every bite.

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty plate of mofongo or a savory empanada, El Barajo Restaurant has something to satisfy your cravings. The menu features a range of seafood and meat options, as well as a selection of vegetables, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some of the best Puerto Rican food in Utica, NY. Visit El Barajo Restaurant today!

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 732-2181

Address: 672 Bleecker St, Utica, NY 13501    

10. Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Ocean Blue Restaurant and Oyster Bar

Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a dining experience unlike any other. The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere that is both architecturally thoughtful and comfortable. Guests can indulge in a variety of first-tier offerings, including USDA Prime steaks, seafood, sandwiches, entrée salads, and shucked oysters. The sights, sounds, and tastes at Ocean Blue are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Not only is Ocean Blue a great place to dine, but it’s also the perfect venue for special events. Whether you’re planning a cocktail party, dinner, weekend brunch, wedding, or anything in between, the restaurant’s team of driven professionals will help you perfectly organize and execute your event. With the ability to host everything from small intimate dinners to grand gatherings of 100+ guests, Ocean Blue is the perfect setting for any occasion. If you’re not sure exactly what you want, the staff will be happy to help you plan the perfect event. And if you want something extra special, the in-house pastry chef will be happy to create customized cakes or desserts.

Ocean Blue takes food safety and quality control very seriously and as such, it does not allow or serve any outside food or beverage of any kind. If you’re interested in hosting an event or have any other inquiries, please contact the restaurant for more information and pricing.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (315) 735-2583
Address: Landmark Building, 118 Columbia St, Utica, NY 13502

About the Author
about matthew
Matthew Mellinger
Hey there! I'm Matthew, and I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family of four. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.

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