Strong Hearts Cafe

Strong Hearts Cafe offers earth-friendly comfort food that’s kind to animals and humans alike. The 100 percent vegan menu satisfies the strictest diet, without disappointing a hearty appetite or ravenous sweet tooth. Carnivores are likely to lick their plates clean before realizing what’s “missing” from their meal (animal products of any kind). The hip, relaxed atmosphere inspires fruitful study sessions and good conversation. 

Located less than a mile from campus, along the Connective Corridor bus route (ride free with your SU ID), Strong Hearts is easily accessible without a car. The restaurant shares a building with several other businesses, including CNY Yoga and Spa Zend, giving you the option of treating yourself to a day of healthy indulgence. Start with a yoga class, settle into a relaxing massage or facial, and finish with one of Strong Hearts Cafe’s famous milkshakes (hey, you earned it with all that yoga).

When to Go: Strong Hearts is open until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and midnight every weeknight except Monday (closes at 6 p.m.), making it the perfect late-night escape from campus. The restaurant opens at 8 a.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. on the weekends, providing a great opportunity to sample Strong Hearts' savory breakfast menu ($5-$7). Big south-facing windows make Strong Hearts a sunny daytime hideout from Syracuse’s harsh winter weather. Friday is pizza night — choose from 20 specialty pies, or concoct your own ($12 and up). You can't go wrong with Strong Hearts' delectable desserts, all made from scratch. The bottom line: Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Strong Hearts does a body good — no milk necessary.

On Tap: Look forward to a tempting selection of organic coffee, cappuccino, tea, juice and Strong Hearts' famous milkshakes. You won't find Coke, Pepsi, or anything else full of artificial sweeteners or high-fructose corn syrup. Instead, Honest Tea, Bluesky Soda, Steaz Energy Drinks, GT's Kombucha, and others line the cooler shelves. The bottom line: Strong Hearts offers familiar favorites and adventurous originals to quench any thirst. 

Blue Plate Special: In the summer, Strong Hearts' vegan milkshakes take the cake. Choose from 38 varieties named after revolutionary artists, activists, and public figures ($5 and under), such as the Roberto Clemente (peanut butter and Oreo), the Haudenosaunee (pumpkin), or the Rosa Parks (peach cobbler). During the winter months, Strong Hearts soup is a must. Check their Twitter feed or Facebook Page for the soup of the day. Hot & Sour, Pumpkin Curry, Carrot Bisque, Tuscan White Bean and Garlic, Masala Roasted Chick Pea With Kale...you can't go wrong. Pair a cup ($3) with one of Strong Hearts' signature sandwiches ($3.50 and up), or enjoy a bowl ($5) as a meal on its own. Other favorite menu items include the Deluxe PB & J French Toast, the Reuben, and an adventurous selection of salads. The bottom line:  Don't shy away fromthe non-dairy shakes — let the soy bring a little joy into your life.

The Crew: A colorful team of tattooed line cooks and cashiers, the Strong Hearts crew may appear a bit gruff around the edges. But they're passionate and knowledgeable about the food they prepare, and always willing to answer questions about menu items. Not sure what to order? They'll be glad to help you figure it out, and carry your food to your table. They might even smile. The bottom line: Rest assured, your appetite is in good hands.

The Crowd: Students, professionals, local hipsters, yogis, families — a diverse, refreshing cross section of interesting people doing interesting things. Strong Hearts is a comfortable place to kick back and hang by yourself, or break bread with a friend or two. The bottom line: come as you are, and stay a while.

The Deets: Dark wood floors and trim, high ceilings, natural light, local artwork, chalkboard menus, brightly colored countertops, and rows of gorgeous baked goods create a welcoming atmosphere. The space is big, but not to big. There's almost always a table available right away (during busy times you may have to wait five or ten minutes). Plenty of outlets and free wifi allow you to plug in and get your work done. Sounds and aromas from the open kitchen, random chatter, and music from teh managers' well-rounded playlists fill the air (really, anything from classical and country to punk and metal are fair game). The bottom line: give the burgers a rest, get off campus, and try something new. You'll be glad you did.

Profile by Annabel Hine