23 Best Restaurants in Elmira, NY

This article was written by local contributor Ava Long & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Ava Long

Jul 2, 2023 • 17 min read

This charming city in upstate New York has stolen my heart with its rich history, beautiful parks, and of course, its mouthwatering food.

So, whether you're new in town, just passing through, or simply looking for a delicious meal, let me be your guide to some of the best restaurants in Elmira, New York.

Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Siam Elephants Restaurant

Just the other day, I decided to treat myself to some delicious Thai food at Siam Elephants Restaurant.

As someone who loves spicy dishes, I ordered their Thai-level spice options and was not disappointed.

The balance between the spice level and the flavors was just perfect, making for a memorable dining experience.

I started my meal with some appetizing Tom Kha soup, Tom Yum soup, Chicken Satay, and Crab Rangoon.

For the main course, I had Spicy Basil Fried Rice, Drunken Noodles, and Cashew Sauce Stir Fried Vegetables served with Jasmine Rice.

To top it all off, I indulged in some Fried Ice Cream for dessert - the best way to end a fantastic meal!

I've visited Siam Elephants a few times now, and it never fails to impress me.

The food is consistently delicious, with generous portion sizes, and the atmosphere is always pleasant.

Among the other dishes I've tried here are the Shrimp Pad Thai, Coconut Rice, Fried Cheesecake, and Fresh Sliced Mango over Coconut Rice.

Barb's Soup's On Cafe

Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at Barb's Soup's On Cafe.

I must say, I was thoroughly impressed!

The moment I entered the cafe, I was greeted by a cozy and inviting atmosphere with ample booth and table seating.

There is even a deck with tables and umbrellas for those who prefer outdoor seating.

My son and I decided to try their soups; I had the French onion soup, while he opted for the hot pepper cheese soup.

We were delighted to find out that both soups were homemade and absolutely scrumptious.

The sandwiches we ordered as our main course were equally delicious.

I was also pleased to see that the cafe provides a ramp for wheelchair access, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their delightful offerings.

Patrick's

I have always been on the lookout for a great place to hang out with friends.

That's when I stumbled upon Patrick's, and it quickly became one of my go-to spots!

I am particularly impressed with their vegan options, like the vegan Reuben they offered on St. Patrick's Day, which was absolutely delicious and a much-needed addition to the local food scene.

Although I haven't tried all of their dishes, I've heard great things about their food from friends and visitors alike.

What really set Patrick's apart for me is the amazing atmosphere.

I love the live bands they bring in, and the drink selection is top-notch.

The service has always been friendly and accommodating, making it a great place to unwind after a long day.

One of my favorite parts about Patrick's is the outdoor area out back, where I can catch up with friends and enjoy the fresh air.

They also have bar games, and every now and then, they host a party or have a DJ come in, which is a lot of fun.

Manzari's Bar & Grill

On a whim, my friend Michelle and I decided to stop by Manzari's Bar & Grill one evening after our adventurous electric bike ride through the neighborhood.

We arrived quite late, close to closing time, but they were still very accommodating.

Michelle ordered a vodka cranberry while I opted for a rum and coke.

The drinks were great!

I had heard great things about their spaghetti and meatballs, so we decided to give it a shot.

And let me tell you, it lived up to the hype!

The spaghetti was cooked to perfection, and the meatballs were juicy and full of flavor.

The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable.

1157 North

One of my favorite places to dine in Elmira is 1157 North.

I remember going there before prom, and it was such a lovely experience.

The food and service were both outstanding, and the atmosphere was friendly and lively.

I particularly enjoyed the Caesar salad and the tasty bread they served at the beginning of the meal, complete with an array of toppings.

What sets 1157 North apart is the unique feature of drawing on the tablecloths, making it an interesting and interactive dining experience.

I'm truly grateful for having this gem in our neighborhood, reminiscent of the cozy local places of my youth.

Harry's Inn the Heights

One of my favorite spots to hang out is Harry's Inn the Heights.

I can't get enough of their delicious wings, especially the Thai Chili and Honey Thai Garlic flavors.

They also have a great variety of other wing sauces to choose from.

One of my go-to appetizers at Harry's Inn is their Dill Pickle Potato Chips – absolutely amazing!

And if you're a fan of craft beer, you should definitely try their Harry's Heavy Metal Ale, which pairs so well with the Thai Chili wings.

The place is quite spacious, and clean, and has a modern vibe to it.

Starlite Room

I've always been a fan of local music scenes, and Starlite Room in Elmira is one of my favorite spots to catch a show.

Just the other day, I headed over there to listen to some fantastic blues tracks by the Blues Fugitives, featuring a few of Elmira's best-known musicians.

The atmosphere at the Starlite Room is relaxed and chill, which makes it a great place to unwind with friends and enjoy some tunes.

Not only is the music great, but the food at Starlite Room is fantastic too!

Their mac and cheese are to die for, and I can't get enough of their amazing wings.

I've tried a variety of dishes on their menu, and I've never been disappointed.

What's even better is that they offer a spacious room that can be reserved for parties and catered events, which I've been considering for my next birthday celebration.

Taste of Asia

I've been a regular at Taste of Asia for quite some time now, and I must say, it never disappoints.

The food is absolutely the best and most filling Asian cuisine I've ever had in the area.

Their white rice is cooked to perfection – sticky and well-prepared, just the way I love it.

Every dish I've tried at Taste of Asia has been perfect, with flavors that bring back fond memories of my travels to various Asian countries.

Their prices have remained affordable, making it a go-to choice for anyone looking for a great meal without breaking the bank.

Sushi lovers, I highly recommend their Hawaii roll and the Paradise roll – you won't regret it.

And the Sesame chicken is simply out of this world!

Anne's Pancakes

As a regular visitor to Anne's Pancakes, I can vouch for their incredible food and service.

The other day, my partner and I ordered the steak and eggs, which were cooked to perfection.

Even though the place was packed, which is usually a good sign, we still received our food quickly.

The Belgian waffle my nephew ordered was probably the largest waffle I'd ever seen, and I have to mention the deep-fried home fries - they're now my favorite!

The prices are excellent for the amount of food you get, and you can tell that they truly value their customers.

They even made sure to correct a small mistake with our order, apologizing and making it right.

Their pancakes and French toast are also to die for!

Ill Eagle Taphouse

One of my favorite spots to hang out with friends in town is the Ill Eagle Taphouse.

This unique establishment is located inside a former bank, giving it a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

With different areas to choose from, you can find the perfect vibe for your night, whether you're looking to play pool, throw some darts, or enjoy a casual meal.

The drink menu is extensive, and I appreciate their selection of local ciders on tap, like the Ellicotville Blueberry Wheat Draft and Blueberry Cider.

My friends and I usually start with the large pretzel or the half-size cheese and fruit board, which are both very generous portions.

We've tried several menu items, like the Mahi Mahi tacos and the salmon burgers, and have always been impressed with the quality and taste.

If you're planning a private event, I've heard they offer rooms with their own taps that you can rent out.

And if the weather's nice, there's an outdoor seating area on the second story that I can't wait to try next time.

Lib's Supper Club

I absolutely love Lib's Supper Club!

It has been my go-to spot for special occasions and date nights for as long as I can remember.

Their food is consistently amazing, and I'm always impressed by the large portions they serve.

I've tried several dishes, and every single one has been above average.

The medium strip steak with chicken scampi is one of my all-time favorites, and my partner loves the blackened prime rib with shrimp scampi.

The atmosphere at Lib's Supper Club is elegant and classy, making it perfect for a night out.

One thing I appreciate about Lib's is the old-world feel and taste of their marinara sauce, as well as the perfectly cooked pasta side dishes.

The clams and sweet peppers make for excellent appetizers, and I can't recommend their NY strip steak enough – it’s hands down the best I've ever had.

Elbow Room

I decided to head to the Elbow Room last night, as I hadn't visited in a few years.

I remember the food being great and the atmosphere lively.

Upon entering, I noticed that the place was not as busy as I remembered, but the cleanliness of the tables and bar was still impeccable.

While waiting for my food, I couldn't help but overhear a large family celebrating nearby, and they shared similar experiences with their food.

They mentioned that the french fries were fantastic, and their burgers were tender.

Maple Lawn Dairy

One of my favorite spots for a delicious meal and dessert in the area is definitely Maple Lawn Dairy.

The homey atmosphere always makes me feel so welcomed and cozy.

Whether I'm in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they've got it all covered, not to mention their huge menu for desserts and ice cream specialties.

On one of my recent visits for breakfast, I was relieved to find it not too crowded.

The location is a bit further from the city, which actually makes for a nice scenic drive.

It's convenient that they accept all cards or cash, and there's even an ATM available on site.

During one of my visits on a snowy evening, my friends and I were the only customers there.

We received very attentive service and enjoyed some delectable dishes like the combo plate and their mouthwatering Pizookie.

The warm, freshly baked cookie in the Pizookie made it taste absolutely fantastic.

Turtle Leaf Cafe

Just the other day, I decided to visit Turtle Leaf Cafe in Elmira, as I had heard a lot of good things about it.

The chic and relaxed atmosphere of the coffeehouse instantly made me feel cozy and welcome.

As a health-conscious person, I appreciate that they offer organic and seasonal light fare, as well as delightful espresso drinks.

The menu had a wide variety of choices, making it easy to find something for everyone.

I ordered a delicious salad, and my friend had a grilled cheese sandwich.

We also couldn't resist their mouth-watering salsa, which had an amazing flavor.

One thing that stood out for me was the friendly and quick service.

Hill Top Inn

I've been to Hill Top Inn several times now, and my experience has been a mix of hits and misses.

Their casual American restaurant offers a lovely view of the scenic valley, and I've enjoyed their live music and weekly prime-rib nights.

During one visit, my partner and I both ordered steaks, and they were cooked just right.

I recall a St. Patrick's Day luncheon, and the corned beef I ordered was amazing, and the soup was divine!

The dessert was mint ice cream pie and mud pie, which were equally delectable.

The Green Derby Cafe

I must admit, I was a bit hesitant to try out The Green Derby Cafe at first, mainly because of how the exterior looked.

But I'm glad I decided to give it a chance!

The moment I stepped inside, I was welcomed by a warm, rustic atmosphere and a clean dining area.

You can check out their Facebook page here for more information and updates.

My friends and I decided to order the fish fry and let me tell you, the portion of haddock was incredibly generous.

The thin layer of breading gave it a perfect, crispy texture.

I also chose the side of Mac and cheese, which was homemade and tasted absolutely divine!

Each meal came with a roll and a side of coleslaw as well.

O'Ryans Sports Bar And Grill

Last Friday, my friends and I decided to check out O'Ryans Sports Bar And Grill for the first time.

We arrived around 6:30 pm, and the place was packed!

It was evident that this spot was a favorite among locals. Despite the crowd, we managed to find a table.

We started with the boneless wings, which had a unique "garbage" flavor that surprisingly became my new favorite.

For our main course, my friends tried the fish fry, and they said it was delicious.

I opted for the fish and chips dinner, which came with a side of macaroni and coleslaw.

Both my partner and I agreed that it was absolutely perfect.

Brady's Pub

Every time I feel the need to unwind, Brady's Pub is my go-to spot.

The atmosphere is always fun and chill, making it perfect for hanging out with friends or just enjoying a drink by myself.

It's especially lively during Saint Patrick's Day, so I make sure to get there early to grab a good spot!

You can check out their Facebook page here to stay updated on their events and promotions.

They never fail to impress me, even when dealing with some obnoxious patrons during big soccer games.

Central Hots

I can't believe I've only just recently discovered the gem that is Central Hots.

This place has quickly become my go-to spot for amazing fresh food and friendly service.

The first time I visited Central Hots, I ordered the double bacon cheeseburger and chili cheese fries.

As soon as I opened the takeout container, the mouthwatering aroma hit me, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

The food was absolutely delicious, and I knew I'd be returning for more.

Not only is the food fantastic, but the prices are also very reasonable.

Vincenzo's Pizza

One of my favorite places to grab a delicious meal in Elmira is Vincenzo's Pizza.

I've been visiting this local gem for some time now, and it never disappoints.

I love their wide range of options - from their mouthwatering pizzas to savory pasta dishes and scrumptious starters like wings.

I must say, their Leonardo Pizza is one of the best I've ever tried - and I'm not the only one who thinks so, as many of my friends rave about it as well!

I've also had the pleasure of trying their delicious meatball sub and calzones, and both were absolutely amazing.

It's always a treat to dine at a local eatery that knows how to deliver quality food with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Charlie's Cafe

One of my go-to spots in the neighborhood is Charlie's Cafe, a cozy and informal eatery with a rotating menu of classic American dishes and a full bar.

I've been there a few times, and almost everything I tried was delicious.

For instance, I once ordered their flatbread sandwich with caramelized onions, steak, crumbly blue cheese, bacon, and mozzarella, and it was really good.

The steak was of high quality, and the combination of ingredients just hit the spot.

My son, on the other hand, is a big fan of their homemade mac n cheese.

It's still a delicious treat for kids.

My partner enjoys the chicken teriyaki.

Pietro & Son

One of my go-to spots in town is definitely Pietro & Son.

Whether I'm dining solo or taking the family out for a meal, I can always count on Pietro's to satisfy our cravings for delicious Italian food.

The humble setting of this corner eatery sets the perfect mood for a casual yet flavorful dining experience.

The menu offers a good variety of classic Italian dishes, but what sets Pietro's apart is the freshness of their ingredients.

I've seen their delivery truck unloading fresh foods, and it shows in the taste.

My personal favorite is their perfectly cooked chicken with freshly cooked mushrooms.

Sometimes, I also want to order their steamed clams, but after indulging in their other dishes, I'm usually too full to add anything else.

Rye Bar and Restaurant

Just the other day, I decided to meet up with some friends at Rye Bar and Restaurant, which I've been hearing good things about.

I was intrigued by the peanut butter and jelly burger on the menu and decided to give it a try.

It turned out to be a tasty, messy, and unique dish that I thoroughly enjoyed.

My friends also raved about their meals, and we all agreed that the onion rings were some of the best we've ever had.

The restaurant also hosts events, and one of my friends mentioned she had attended a baby shower there recently.

She couldn't stop talking about how well-organized and enjoyable it was.

Though we didn't experience it ourselves, we learned that they also offer brunch service.

I'm definitely planning to return for brunch soon, despite hearing mixed reviews about the service during that time.

Final Thoughts

Elmira has an impressive variety of dining options that cater to every taste and preference.

From the mouthwatering Asian culinary delights at Taste of Asia and Siam Elephants Restaurant to the comforting and delicious soups at Barb's Soup's On Cafe, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting, I highly recommend taking the time to explore and savor the diverse and scrumptious cuisine that Elmira has to offer.

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