My 5 Favorite Lunch Eateries in the Greater Syracuse Area

In most countries in Europe, lunch is the main meal – the most important meal of the day. I wish the USA valued lunch as much as other countries; however, that doesn’t mean I take a good lunch lightly. When I am not traveling, I love to explore all the great places to eat in my current hometown of Syracuse, NY, where I have lived for almost 15 years. My choices below are a good blend of take out, counter service, and table service. Whether you want a leisurely lunch or to grab a sandwich on the run, these options won’t disappoint. So here, they are, in no particular order, my 5 favorite places to have lunch in the greater Syracuse area.

1) Mello Velo: This is a small, unassuming full-service restaurant, just outside downtown Syracuse, that serves breakfast (all-day), lunch, and dinner and is attached to a bike shop; a unique pairing for sure. Their menu is as eclectic as the ambiance. They have a breakfast egg sandwich with Brie cheese on it and a Kale and Sweet potato salad with Halloumi Cheese. Brie and Halloumi?! Need I say more? Their Banh Mi is also popular as are their coffee drinks. They also have a full bar available.

Address: 790 Canal Street, Syracuse, NY 13210 (Get There!)
Phone: 315-307-3104
Website: https://www.mellovelobicycles.com/articles/mello-velo-bicycle-shop-cafe-syracuse-ny-pg180.htm

 

2) Darwin on Clinton: This eclectic sandwich shop, in downtown Syracuse, is only open for lunch Monday through Friday, but could not have a more loyal following. When you try it, you’ll know why. Their menu changes regularly and there honestly isn’t a sandwich I’ve had that I haven’t loved. In fact, those of you who know me know that I rarely order something without making healthy substitutions (I’m annoying I know). This is one of the few places where I always order the sandwiches as is, and I’ve never regretted it. This is without a doubt my favorite lunch spot in Syracuse. They have seating inside as well as a few tables outside.

Address: 110 West Fayette Street, Syracuse, New York 13202 (Get There!)
Phone: (315) 373-0484
Website: https://darwinonclinton.com/

3) Liehs & Steigerwald: This old-fashion butchery and deli is a staple in the Syracuse food scene. Their downtown location offers burgers, wraps, and most notably their bratwurst, Ruebens,and Pastrami sandwiches. Whatever you order, make sure to upgrade from chips to their fresh cut French fries for $2 more. You won’t regret it. They are delicious. The downtown location is open for lunch and dinner.

Address: 117 E. Fayette Street, Syracuse, NY 13202 (Get There!)
Phone: 315-299-4799
Website: http://liehsandsteigerwald.com/

4) Original Grain: This counter service eatery uses the freshest ingredients and has one of the most diverse menus. They serve grain, green, noodle, and smoothie bowls, sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies. I love that they have short rib as a meat option and that you can get banana bread with peanut butter and other goodness on it. It has so many great options that the only problem you’ll have is deciding on just one thing to order. They are open for lunch and dinner and have tables for those interested in eating there.

Address: 302 S Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13202 (Get There!)
Phone: 315-299-5011
Website: https://www.originalgrainsters.com/

5) Salt City Soup: I just recently discovered this amazing lunch spot; so amazing in fact that I ate there two days in a row. This eatery is locally owned and they specialize in locally sourced, handmade soups and sandwiches. Like Darwin, they use the stretch bread from Pastabilities bakery and their sandwiches are innovative and delicious. My personal favorites thus far have been the Breakfast Sandwich, Peanut Butter Power Wrap, and the #5 sandwich. Also, don’t forget to order a side of sweet potato fries. The sauce they give you to dip them in is on another level. They are open for breakfast and lunch during the week (until 3 or 5 pm, depending on the day) and are located in an expansive office development. They have a few tables inside or you can opt to eat outside on one of the picnic tables in the courtyard.

Address: 301 Plainfield Road, Suite 170, Syracuse, NY 13212 (Get There!)
Phone: 315-399-4000
Website: https://saltcitysoupco.com/

 

What is your favorite local eatery? Tag Tina Knows Travel in your Facebook or Instagram posts or leave me a comment below.

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Tina Salloum
Tina Knows Travel, LLC
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