AAP Chatters Where to Eat?

Well, it’s time for a Sean Murphy Restaurant Mini-Review.  For all of you who met me in previous years, you know I like food…

Downtown by Chef Jay

Introducing a fresh dining experience where industrial charm melds seamlessly with a tranquil beauty that celebrates our natural surroundings. Led by Chef Jay Pisculli, known for reshaping downtown Binghamton's dining landscape, our menu reflects a commitment to quality with an innovative approach to classic flavor. Drawing inspiration from the region that ignited Beer Tree’s journey, offering house-brewed beers and New York State's finest wines and liquors. Downtown by Chef Jay Pisculli invites you to immerse yourself in a comfortable gathering place that brings an approachability to fine dining.

Reservations are recommended but not necessary! We always have space for walk-ins in our lounge & at the bar. Join us Friday & Saturday for late night lounge hours until 1am.”

20 Hawley St, Binghamton (right across from hotel) (607) 235-3286 beertreebrew.com

My Take - Hands down, our favorite restaurant in the area. Great food, fun drinks, lively atmosphere.  There is a huge variety of dishes to choose from and everything I have ever tried has been excellent but you will pay dearly for it.

205 Dry

Hidden behind an old bookcase lies the area’s most unique and imaginative bar and restaurant. Once inside, our informal ground-floor pub, our authentic 1920’s speakeasy will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. There are only two rules: 1. If you are drinking to forget, please pay ahead of time. 2. Keep it a secret, or else.

205 State Street, Binghamton (0.4 mi from hotel) 607.760.2013 www.205dry.com

My Take - This little gem is a modern-day speakeasy.  When you arrive, you need to find the door handle hidden in a swing-out bookcase to even get in, once inside, it is a dark and exciting place that keeps you looking around in awe the whole time you are there.  The menu is short but the food is very good, they have an expansive drink menu with some really fun choices. The poutine fries are a heart attack on a plate but wow. Just wow.

A Tavolo

Enjoy Italian specialties and creative cocktails in a comfortable rustic setting. Pasta and sauces are all homemade using recipes passed down for generations. Enjoy outdoor patio and al fresco dining during the season.

42 Chenango Bridge Rd. Chenango Bridge (6.9 mi from hotel) (607) 677-0067 http://www.stir-together.com/tavolo.html

Alexander’s Cafe

Located in downtown Binghamton specializing in paninis/wraps, homemade soups, salads and specialty drinks. Visit our social media pages for daily chef specials and catering options.

34 Chenango Street, Binghamton (0.4 mi from hotel) 607-296-4388 https://alexanderscafe34.com/

Amici

We completely renovated and remodeled the existing space to feature a 30-foot-long granite bar, a beautiful back bar, 3 HD TVs, and seating throughout the bar. We carry one of the widest selections of beer in the area. We have 16 beers on tap and 29 bottled beers including the most popular brands to some of the best microbrews in the area. We also feature premium liquors and wine by the glass or bottle. We’re sure that one of our 16 specialty pizzas will appeal to you or you can build your own with our always fresh toppings. The dough and sauce are made daily to ensure the highest quality. Whether you’re stopping in before or after a Rumble Ponies game, coming in for lunch or dinner, or ending your day with us for a late-night drink, Amici is sure to become one of your favorite destinations.

126 1/2 Henry St, Binghamton (0.7 mi from hotel) 607-240-5222 http://www.facebook.com/amicipub

My Take - I have been here several times throughout the years. The food is always good, the atmosphere is decent and the staff does seem to want to make your visit special.

Batch Coffee

Batch Coffee was born out of a love of coffee, craft, and the joy of bringing people together, we think really great coffee should be approachable for anyone. Our goal is to bridge the gap of understanding between the casual coffee drinker and the coffee enthusiast. Our ethically sourced specialty coffee beans are roasted in-house and delivered fresh to your cup.

70 Chenango Bridge Rd, Binghamton (6.7 mi from hotel) 607-204-0373 http://www.drinkbatchcoffee.com/

My Take - I have only been once. The coffee beans are roasted on-site and the java was very good. We also had breakfast sandwiches that were made to order and they were good also. My only concern was the price, it seemed a bit high compared to several other breakfast options on the list. One a bright note, they have a drive-through that you could hit on the way to AAP.

Big Zues Barbecue

Barbecue Might Not End World Hate, But It Will At Least Bring Us To The Table! Barbecue Smoked Pit- Family sized meals, pick-up carry out, delivery and drop-off for events or workplace lunches.

213 Chenango St, Binghamton (0.8 mi from hotel) (607) 338-2341 http://www.bigzuesbarbecue.com/

My Take - I have only tried their catering. Everything I tried was good and the mac and cheese was great.

The Garage Taco Bar

Located in the heart of Binghamton, Garage is a taco bar dedicated to serving fresh, local food from a street-inspired menu that’s close to the soul. We’re all about tacos, tequila, and good vibes, and honestly, what more could you ask for? Our menu is creative and inclusive so that anyone can enjoy noms at our place — that means you too, vegans and vegetarians! So come on in, grab a menu and a marg, and get ready to enjoy a fun, innovative meal made with lots of love.

211 Washington St. Binghamton (0.3 mi from hotel) 607-217-7464 http://binghamtongarage.com/

My Take - This taco joint was built in a former auto mechanics garage and they have done a nice job keeping that theme.  The tacos are usually pretty good with a focus on pork and steak tacos with a lot of fresh ingredients. Love the atmosphere, food and drink are average for the area.

Binghamton Hots

Binghamton HOTS satisfies just about every craving and includes burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, soups and salads. A favorite is Binghamton’s version of the famous upstate “Garbage Plate”. Nestled on gorgeous Washington Street, Binghamton Hots offers something for everyone.

128 Washington St, Binghamton (600ft from hotel) 607-296-4687 https://binghamtonhots.com/

My Take - Bar food, open late.  The food is perfect for drunk college kids, inexpensive, large portions, but nothing has ever made me say wow.  I have only had it delivered, never eaten in.

Burger Monday’s

At Burger Mondays, we pride ourselves on our dedication to quality, scratch-made, culinary creations. From our mouth-watering burgers to Chef Matt's innovative specials, we are always taking the extra step to ensure our customers have an unforgettable dining experience each and every time they visit. Our trendy atmosphere and attentive service are unmatched and our bar/lounge is a great place to unwind for a drink with family and friends. We look forward to seeing you at Burger Mondays!

23 Henry Street, Binghamton (0.4 mi from hotel) (607) 722-7777 https://www.burgermondays.com/

My Take - While they specialize in burgers like the Breakfast Burger with eggs and bacon on a burger on a French toast bun, to my favorite; the Inferno Burger which will make you sweat, they have a good selection.  They have a full bar with craft beers and cocktails as well.

Chris’ Diner

192 State Street in Binghamton (0.4 mi from hotel) (607) 723-6854 https://chrisdiner.com/

My Take - Typical greasy spoon diner. Cash only so make sure you are prepared. The one thing I will say about this place is the portions are HUGE. I rarely leave food on the plate at a diner and I only got through about 2/3 of my meal here.

Chroma Café and Bakery

There’s a lot more to enjoy than the daily fresh baked selections, special order cakes, cookies and desserts. You can select from vegetarian or vegan options, empanadas, paninis, homemade soups, and of course, sinfully delicious desserts.

97 Court St., Binghamton (0.3 mi from hotel) (607) 595-7612 http://chromacafeandbakery.com/

Cortese Restaurant

This classic Italian restaurant has a reputation for serving consistently excellent food, served in a warm friendly atmosphere. The pizza is made using the original family recipe and the menu is one of the most extensive in the area.

117 Robinson St., Binghamton (2.0 mi from hotel) (607) 723-6440 http://www.corteserestaurant.com/

My Take - This is one of the old-school restaurants in Binghamton and it shows. Known for their Italian fare, people rave about their pizza, I find it decent but on the best. The one thing that I love here is their steak “Milanese Style” which comes with a thick layer of garlic and spices on top of a sizzling plate. They actually turn on massive fans to pull the sizzle out of the air when this comes out of the kitchen.

Craft Bar and Kitchen

135 Washington St, Binghamton (600ft from hotel) (607) 217-5276 https://craftbinghamton.com/

My Take - Craft is owned by the same folks that own Social on State and are similarly high priced.  Their specialty is sliders, small burgers, fish sandwiches, pulled pork, and more.  You select a variety of sliders for you meal and pair it with a selection of craft brews and sides.  The problem is that you may need to have 3 or more sliders plus sides to fill up and all of a sudden, at $4-6 per slider you are running up quite a tab.  All of that said, if you are in the market for a milk shake, go no further, this is the place.  Their shakes are great and well worth the $8.

El Pulpo Mexican Resteraunt

Our family-friendly restaurant provides Mexican cuisine made with all natural and healthy ingredients. Come, dine with us today!

1108 Front Street, Binghamton (3.9 mi from hotel) 607-772-8226 http://www.elpulpomexrestaurant.com/

My Take - This is our go-to for Mexican delivery. Portions are good sized, prices are very reasonable. The location is funny if you want to eat in because it is in an old McDonald’s and it really feels like a Micky-Ds when you go in until you get your Coronna and tacos.

Endzones Specialty Calzones

79 Court St, Binghamton (0.2 mi from hotel) (607) 235-3710

My Take - I have never been but I will just say there are some pretty harsh reviews on Google…

The Grove Restaurant & Bar

Offering traditional American fare such as burgers, wings, sandwiches and salads with specialty dinner items such as lamb chops, stuffed chicken breast and grilled salmon.

65 Court St, Binghamton (0.2 mi from hotel) 607-238-1729 http://www.facebook.com/thegrovebing

My Take - No. One and done for us. We tried it soon after it opened and basically cashed out after an appetizer and drink and canceled our entrees. Not at all impressed in any way.

Happy Pappi Arepas

Arepas are made from ground corn making it an excellent gluten free food choice. At Happy Pappi only the freshest ingredients are chosen to make the fillings for the arepas ripe tomatoes, avocados, onions, green peppers, sweet peppers and habaneros are personally chosen and purchased. Each flavor compliments the next and combine with the perfect mix of spices to result in the most authentic arepas outside of Venezuela.

252 Chenango St, Binghamton (1.0 mi from hotel) 607-765-1761 http://www.happypappi.wixsite.com/happypappi

Little Venice

Established in 1946, Little Venice has proudly served the Greater Binghamton area authentic Italian dishes to no dissatisfaction. Known for their famous tomato sauce and homemade pasta, Little Venice offers lunch, dinner, and takeout options along with their extensive cocktail menu. Chicken and shrimp parmigiana, house-style manicotti, and house-made lasagna only make up a few of the delicious dishes they have to offer. At Little Venice, you’ll leave with an empty plate and full stomach.

111 Chenango St. Binghamton (0.5 mi from hotel) 607-724-2513 https://littlevenicerestaurant.com/

My Take - This one has been around a very long time, a very traditional Italian place with the typical decor and menu items and while many people love it, I feel that it is well past its prime.  I have only been a couple of times and every time, I end up wishing I had gone somewhere else, the food and service is competent but lackluster and it just feels old and outdated.

Lost Dog Café

In its 25th year of business the Lost Dog Cafe has established itself as anything but a one-trick pony. Offering lunch and dinner options along with wine, liquor, coffee, and coffee cocktails (you read that right) the cafe offers a wide variety of eats and drinks to pair with the entertainment. Live music, karaoke, and team trivia are just some of the many weekly festivities you can enjoy during the day and late at night. Check out their events page to see what’s coming up soon!

222 Water St. Binghamton (0.2 mi from hotel) 607-771-6063 https://www.lostdogcafe.net/

My Take - Local favorite for sure, Lost Dog has a fairly broad menu of items with a lean toward exotic ingredients and higher-end foods.  They have never disappointed with the food or drinks and their Rigatoni a la Vodka is amazing and a deceptively huge portion.  This is a favorite local spot for gluten-free folks, they are very conscious of this.

McGirk’s Irish Pub

Gourmet pub food!! Traditional pub fare and award-winning burgers. Chef-features daily, exceptional “from-scratch soups”, fabulous desserts, best-tasting draft beer, and huge brown liquor selection. Live entertainment 7 days a week!

1 Kattelville Rd., Chenango Bridge (5.7 mi from hotel) (607) 648-9988 http://www.mcgirks.com/

My Take - This is a very popular place for those on the north end of Binghamton. The food is always pretty good bar food with an Irish slant. If it was closer, I would go more often.

Michelangelo’s Pizzeria & Ristorante

Since 2005 Michelangelo’s has been THE place to go for authentic Italian food and pizza. Come taste some of signature dishes: Chicken Parm, Braciole, Lasagna and Gnocchi. Our NY Style pizza and wings can’t be beat. We also have a full bar. And we offer catering and delivery.

465 Court Street, Binghamton (2.1 mi from hotel) (607) 724-4045 http://www.michelangelosristorante.com/

My Take - This is one of the top 3-4 Italian places in the area. Large portions, reasonable prices. The biggest drawback to me here is the atmosphere is nothing to write home about and when it’s busy it’s hard to move around, it gets so crowded.

Nirchi’s Pizza

Nirchi’s Pizza has delivered quality, original pizza to the Greater Binghamton area for 50 years. Their signature thick crust sheet pizza is a favorite at parties while also offering thin crust pizza to those who prefer it. With chicken wings coming in Buffalo, BBQ, garlic, or honey mustard sauce along with hot subs and sandwiches their diverse menu conquers hunger at all times of the day.

166 Water St. Binghamton (500ft from hotel) 607-772-9745 https://www.nirchis.com/binghamton-water-street.html

My Take - Nirchi’s is the default pizza chain of the southern tier, thick crust, inexpensive, they do make some specialty pizzas that are pretty good like the chicken-bacon-ranch and buffalo-chicken but in general, if you want quantity, you come to Nirchis, if you want quality, Stone Fox.

P.S. Restaurant

The basic philosophy at P.S. Restaurant is that from the moment you walk in their door, you are a guest in their restaurant. From the first greeting to your last goodbye, the casual, yet attentive servers will do everything possible to make you feel at home. The talented chef/owner insists on using only the finest quality and freshest ingredients available for an unforgettable dining experience.

99 Court Street Binghamton (0.3 mi from hotel) (607) 770-0056 http://www.psrestaurant.com/

My Take - P.S. has been a long-standing establishment in the area.  They offer high-end quizzing with a French-Thai fusion menu.  The food is always good and is on the pricey side.

Parlor City Vegan

Parlor City Vegan, established in 2016, is a restaurant and plant-based foods company based in Binghamton, NY. We strive to bring people together from all backgrounds to celebrate the regional bounty of Upstate New York with our changing seasonal menus, event catering, and line of plant-based food products.

By partnering with Upstate farmers who supply us with the best locally grown produce, we revisit our family classics- The types of regional dishes Sara’s Grandmother meticulously etched onto recipe cards then tucked away to preserve for generations. The type of “stick to your ribs” regional cuisine that Upstate New York is known for.

81 Clinton St. Binghamton (0.9 mi from hotel) (607) 238-7688 https://parlorcityvegan.com/

Peterson’s Tavern

Peterson’s Tavern is located at a crossroad between the heart of the Westside and Downtown Binghamton! Known for award winning food like the custom tomahawk steak platters and flavorful chicken wings, Peterson’s also takes pride in having an open door for local live music, art & culture. Stop in for a specialty cocktail or an ice cold beer and stay for the fun.

11 Main Street, Binghamton (0.2 mi from hotel) (607) 217-7850 http://www.facebook.com/petersonstavern/

My Take - One of the better bar food joints in town, they have some good burgers and sandwiches, look for their cheese steak sandwich and wing night on Wednesday.

Pinkies BBQ

Pinkies BBQ, Real Southern Style BBQ right here in Binghamton. If you haven’t tried our food what are you waiting for? Eat in or take out, slow food fast.

1166 Upper Front St, Binghamton (4.2 mi from hotel) (607) 217-5175 https://eatatpinkies.com/pinkies-bbq

My Take - With this one, I have only had their catering. I would say it’s probably the best BBQ in Binghamton, everything I tried was excellent.

Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar

You will experience comfort and elegance under the beautiful high ceilings of the classic Kilmer Building in downtown Binghamton while enjoying their diverse and well-executed lunch and dinner offerings. You’ll love the Remlik’s raw bar featuring oysters from both coasts, then move on to extensive menu of seafood, steaks, chops and pasta. Something for everyone, including an impressive sandwich selection.

31 Lewis St., Binghamton (0.6 mi from hotel) (607) 217-4513 http://www.remliks.com/

My Take - Remlik’s has a strong following because of the prestige of going there. I have always felt that the food and drinks were great but the price does not justify the visit. When I want to go to the high end, I would choose Social on State or Station 45 every time.

Sake-Tumi

A great choice for Asian Fusion in downtown Binghamton is Sake-Tumi. They offer more than 50 different types of sushi and Asian fusion rolls as well as other specialties such as wings, creamy rock shrimp, mini burgers, steak and salads. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with delectable cuisine at Sake-Tumi.

71 Court St., Binghamton (0.6 mi from hotel) (607) 238-1771 http://saketumibing.com/

South City Publick House

​SCPH is a gastropub and features a pub menu with a gourmet flare. Known for their signature Original Bearcat Burger… A mile-high proud salute to the local University. Serving big fresh salads, house-made soups, 2 hand sandwiches, and nightly dinner specials, such as traditional Chicken & Biscuits, Chef’s Ranchero dish, and Fish Fry & Mac & Cheese.

1200 Vestal Ave., Binghamton (0.6 mi from hotel) (607) 723-1403 http://www.southcitypublickhouse.com/

My Take - Good bar food, decent pricing. I don’t like to go there and prefer to take out because way too often, the space is so loud (bands and crowds) that it’s hard to talk with people you are sitting with. We usually just hit them up for takeout. I love the Bearcat Burger.

The Stone Fox

A great bar and restaurant, serving artisanal fast fired pizzas, a refreshing wine and cocktail menu, and the largest outdoor patio in downtown Binghamton.

15 Hawley Street Binghamton (300 ft from hotel) (607) 235-3312 https://www.stonefoxbing.com/

My Take - Opened recently, this place specializes in wood-fired pizza, some great apps, and an excellent drink menu.  Their Calamari is outstanding to start and none of the pizzas disappoint.

Strange Brew

137 Washington Street, Binghamton (600 ft from hotel) 607-238-7878 https://strangebrewcafe.com/

My Take - Great little spot for coffee and breakfast before the park but…. Make sure you have time, they are not fast, and don’t plan on snagging a table unless you have time to wait, it’s a busy place and tables are hard to come by.

Subway

35 Court Street, Binghamton (600 ft from hotel)

My Take - This is about like every other one in the country. I said in the past it was like every one on the planet and then I visited a Subway in Panama City, those are very different (and way better).

Thai Time

Our chefs specialize in authentic and delicious food. The staff at Thai Time is devoted to serving customers mouthwatering dishes that feature the highest quality ingredients available. Bangkok Garlic, Prik Khing, and Spicy Basil are all prepared quickly and delivered to you right away.

Thai Time uses only the freshest ingredients around, ensuring that every dish is of the highest possible quality. Not sure what you're in the mood for? Try one of our specialties including Cashew, Ginger Delight, Rama, Eggplant, and more.

96 Front St, Binghamton (0.3 mi from hotel) (607) 724-8424 https://orderthaitime.com/

My Take - This one was probably our best Thai place in town, but some have complained that quality has seemed to go down over time.  They also have a sushi bar which my bride really seems to enjoy (not my thing, I just get the drunken noodles while others Sushi it up) (7/5/5/8) DD

Water Street Brewing

We are a brewpub featuring a fast-casual style restaurant offering a full menu along with over a dozen beers on tap as well as a selection of 4-packs to go!

168 Water Stree, Binghamton (400 ft from hotel) (607) 296-4206 http://www.waterstreetbrewingco.com/