I think we can agree that everyone loves food, but not everyone loves the same food. Some people prefer to dine out every night, others like to cook at home, and some like to run to the nearest pizza place in their sweatpants. So when friends visit you at college, it can be hard to find a place to eat that makes everyone happy.
People might not agree, but Syracuse actually has a lot of different restaurants that could please even the pickiest of eaters. Impress your friends by knowing them better than they know themselves and picking the perfect spot for their visit.
If your childhood best friend is coming…
Modern Malt can be found in Syracuse’s Armory Square, a quick ride away from campus. The restaurant was founded in 2014 and serves up diner food with a twist. The inside of the restaurant is decorated like an old- fashioned diner, which is the perfect place to reminisce with your best friend. Try the Barney Rubble French Toast, which is crusted with Fruity Pebbles, the sweet potato tater tots, or the caprese grilled cheese and tomato soup.
If your camp friend is coming…
Take them to Varsity Pizza on Marshall Street. Varsity has been around since 1926 and sits right off of campus on Marshall Street. Varsity has everything from pizza and burgers to wraps and salads. Besides the delicious food, Varsity has an authentic and comfortable feel that will remind your friend of the fun times you’ve spent at camp together. From the banners all around the walls to the friendly people who work inside, Varsity is a Syracuse staple.
If your health nut, trend-obsessed friend is coming…
Run to Original Grain, Syracuse’s newest hot spot. OG, as they are known on campus, has everything you would expect to find if you walked into a café in New York City. From avocado toast to smoothie bowls to outstanding poke bowls and nori wraps, Original Grain has impressed students looking to eat healthy food while also making their taste buds happy.
Although they do deliver to campus (a huge plus), the atmosphere of the restaurant truly takes you outside of Syracuse, in a good way. Try the Great Swell Poke bowl, the Focus smoothie, or the Orange & Goji bowl, which has pulled pork on top.
If your friend who enjoys a fancy night out is coming…
The York, a popular spot for Syracuse locals and students alike, is an upscale restaurant that will surely impress the fanciest of friends. Their menu rotates seasonally and features things such as a flat bread with Brussels sprouts, sautéed shallots, truffle oil, ricotta, and Parmesan. I’m drooling.
Also try the burger, the York chopped calad, or the cheese board for an unforgettable meal. A quick trip to Armory Square will be worth it for the dessert that everyone loves to Instagram, the s’mores skillet.
If your friend who wants the “ultimate Syracuse experience” is coming…
Pastbilities is a Syracuse staple that your friend will worship you for showing them. From the famous spicy-sweet hot tomato oil, to the homemade pasta in delectable sauces like bolognese or basil-walnut pesto, you can’t go wrong. Although the wait is often long, that’s just a testament to how good the food is. Show up with a plan to walk around Armory Square for a bit, and before you know it you’ll be enjoying homemade fettuccine with a smile on your face.