5 Best New Restaurants in Syracuse, New York that People Keep Coming Back For

Syracuse’s food scene has been steadily reinventing itself, with a growing group of chef‑driven spots, modern cafes, and creative bars joining the city’s beloved Italian, diner, and pub standbys.

These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are a great introduction to modern Syracuse dining.

1. Pastabilities (Expanded / Revitalized, Still Buzz‑Worthy)

While not brand‑new, Pastabilities remains one of the most talked‑about restaurants in Armory Square and continues to feel fresh thanks to evolving menus and seasonal specials.

The space is lively and comfortable, with an open kitchen and a buzzy bar.

The menu focuses on house‑made pastas, rich sauces, and their famous spicy “Hot Tomato Oil” served with stretch bread.

You’ll find creative pasta dishes, hearty mains, and a mix of Italian‑inspired and New American plates, often using local ingredients.

2. Saint Urban

Saint Urban is a cozy, wine‑driven bistro that feels like a little slice of Europe in Syracuse.

The space is intimate—soft lighting, a compact bar, and closely set tables that give it a warm, neighborhood‑wine‑bar feel.

The menu is small, seasonal, and chef‑driven, often featuring creative takes on French and European classics: thoughtful small plates, interesting vegetable preparations, seafood, and carefully composed mains.

The wine list is serious, with plenty of by‑the‑glass options and lesser‑known producers.

3. Eden

Eden leans farm‑to‑table with a focus on wood‑fired cooking and local sourcing. The atmosphere is modern but comfortable, with an open view of the hearth and a menu that changes frequently based on what’s in season.

Expect vegetable‑forward small plates, beautifully cooked meats, and seafood that showcase Central New York’s farms and producers.

It’s the kind of place where you’ll see ingredients listed by farm name and preparations that feel simple but very intentional.

4. Oh My Darling

Oh My Darling brings a playful, retro‑meets‑modern vibe to downtown Syracuse.

The decor is stylish and Instagram‑friendly—think statement walls, vintage‑inspired touches, and a lively bar scene.

The menu leans New American comfort: fried chicken, burgers, sandwiches, mac and cheese, creative appetizers, and brunch‑friendly dishes like chicken and waffles or loaded French toast.

Craft cocktails and boozy brunch drinks are a major part of the appeal.

5. The Evergreen

Tucked into the Hanover Square area, The Evergreen is a modern gastropub with a strong focus on craft beer and from‑scratch cooking. The space is cozy and brick‑lined, with rotating taps and a menu that’s more ambitious than typical bar fare.

You’ll see elevated pub classics: inventive burgers, seasonal salads, shareable appetizers, and mains that blend comfort food with local, seasonal ingredients. The constantly changing beer list makes it a great spot for beer nerds and casual drinkers alike.