Where to Eat in Upstate New York | Tracy Kaler's New York Life + Travel Blog

Taking a trip upstate? Here’s where to eat in Upstate New York.

It’s not uncommon for those living in NYC to feel like “New York” is limited to five boroughs (some Manhattanites may even consider a subway ride to Brooklyn a far trek). But the great state of New York has so much more to offer, especially for foodies – and it’s the perfect place for road tripping with friends whenever you have a long weekend to spare. From Syracuse to the gorgeous Finger Lakes region, here’s where to eat in Upstate New York.

Pastabilities, 311 S Franklin St, Syracuse

There’s nothing like a comforting bowl of pasta after a long drive up I-81. Located just off the interstate, award-winning Pastabilities is a Syracuse favorite. Order up some classic alfredo, carbonara, ravioli, or gnocchi primavera and see how it compares to the city’s Little Italy. (Hint: You won’t be disappointed!) In the morning, stop by the Pastabilities bakery for some rustic loaves, hearty focaccias, and deli sandwiches for the drive home.

Funk ‘N Waffles, 204 N Water St, Rochester

If you’re a fan of chicken and waffles, waffle sundaes, or a massive Belgian waffle topped with berries, you’ll love Funk ‘N Waffles. The Rochester outpost is known for “funky flavors” and unique waffle combinations of both savory and sweet. The Funk ‘N Waffles menu includes favorites like the Bacon, Brie & Basil waffle with apricot marmalade; the Monte Cristo with fried egg, ham, and Swiss cheese; the Whole Lotta Love whole-grain waffle with yogurt, granola, and strawberries; and the James Brownie waffle, made of brownie batter and topped with ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. There’s also a Funk ‘N Waffles location in Syracuse.

Brewery Ommegang, 656 Co Hwy 33, Cooperstown

Cooperstown is home to the Baseball Hall of Fame, and the Ommegang Brewery has that quintessential, relaxed atmosphere of the ballpark – plus a lineup of world-class brews. Take a tour of the brewery, then enjoy some Belgian-style ales with European-inspired pairings like fries with roasted garlic aioli, poutine, charcuterie boards, flatbread pizza, and bratwurst.

Albany Pump Station, 19 Quackenbush Square, Albany

If you’re taking an upstate New York road trip to the capital, you might as well get a dose of history while you’re at it. Driving two hours north on I-87 will lead to the historic Albany Pump Station, where a 200-year-old beer recipe is available on-tap. Complement your beer with some lobster mac and cheese, the Pumphouse Burger, or go all-out with an order of prime rib.

Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars, 5435 State Route 14, Dundee

Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars is the perfect Finger Lakes destination for foodies and wine aficionados alike, allowing you to eat and drink in a casually elegant setting. The restaurant – named one of the country’s “Best Winery Restaurants” by Food & Wine magazine – proudly serves produce, cheese, and meat from local farms, and you can opt for an indulgent multi-course wine-paring dinner on Saturdays and Sundays. Glenora Wine Cellars also has a fabulous chocolate and wine tasting experience for only $15 per person. And the views? They are fantastic.

The Blackthorn Restaurant & Pub, 2134 Seneca St, Buffalo

A six-hour upstate New York road trip to Buffalo is no joke. Unwind, local-style, at the Blackthorn Restaurant & Pub. The Blackthorn’s menu is filled with hearty pub grub like corned beef and cabbage rolls, triple-decker sandwiches, fish and chips, and “The Big Guy’s Favorite” – a towering masterpiece of a sandwich served with house-made jalapeno cheddar tater tots.

Smoke Signals, 2489 Main St, Lake Placid

It doesn’t get any more “road trip” than a great BBQ joint. Smoke Signals in Lake Placid has smokehouse classics like fried pickles, award-winning chicken wings, brisket, pulled pork, and mac and cheese, as well as unexpected dishes like ahi tuna wontons and homemade hummus. Sit outside in warm weather and savor your barbecue alongside Lake Mirror.