Neighborhood Guide: Armory Square

EAT + DRINK

Whether you are looking for a low-key dinner, an outdoor luncheon, or a piping cup of coffee, Syracuse’s Armory Square has it all. Known as “the gourmet capital of Central New York,” there is truly a taste for everyone who is willing to try.

FOR A LOCAL BITE: Almost everyone in the CNY region has heard of the Empire Brewery Company, but what most people don’t know about this restaurant and microbrewery is that it utilizes local ingredients for their dishes. From hearty salads, to juicy Angus burgers, to hot fajitas, Empire has a wide variety of options for both small and large appetites. There’s also live music every Sunday from noon to 2:30 p.m.

OH THE (PASTA)BILITIES: There are endless possibilities for your taste buds at Pastabilities with their dinner menu changing every six to eight weeks. It is no wonder why this cozy, three-room dining facility is known as one of Syracuse’s best restaurants. Pasta’s Daily Bread (Pastabilities’ own bakery) is located directly across the street so you can take home their breads and sauces. Make sure to check out their spicy tomato oil!

BEST IN AND OUT DINING: For a quick, tasty bite in Armory Square, check out La Taqueria, a restaurant who’s very name gives away what it specializes in: Mexican cuisine. Here you can order meaty tacos, brimming burritos, healthy salads, loaded nachos, or even rice bowls for those not so hungry folks. As soon as you walk into La Taqueria, the relaxed dining atmosphere is noticeable, and it is a smart dining option for large groups.

CALLING ALL STEAK LOVERS: For the meat lovers out there Armory Square’s Bistro Elephant Steakhouse is a smart choice. Of course, this fine dining restaurant offers non-meat dishes as well. There are plenty of options for appetizers, seafood dishes, and original salads. While it is definitely one of the pricier dining options the overall experience is worth the extra buck. Plus they have a great seasonal drink menu.

HAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT? If so, there are several options for your sweet tooth! If you’re a chocolate lover pay a visit to Sweet on Chocolate, where hand-dipped chocolates are in abundance. At the relatively new Kandied Kernel, visitors can expect fresh varieties of popcorn, from caramel to toasted vanilla. And if you’re looking for something even sweeter stop into Crepe & Gelato Boulevard where the name says it all.

FOR A CUP OF JOE: Freedom of Espresso is a popular destination for all caffeine addicts. A nice alternative to the Square’s Starbucks, the café has a wide variety of beverage options like lattes, cappuccinos, teas, as well as tasty sweets to go along with your drink. Enjoy their outside seating while you still can.

SEE 

Armory Square is home to some of the most intricate and special architecture of CNY. Try walking up and down its streets with friends on a sunny fall day. You will not regret it.

XL Projects, a photo gallery within Armory Square that was opened by SU’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, showcases some of Syracuse University students and faculty members’ artwork. It is open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday, noon to six p.m.

If you’re looking to take in a film, stop by Armory Square’s Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) Bristol IMAX Omnitheater. The domed screen, that is 66 feet in diameter and six stories tall, delivers images like no other theater, and the sound quality is truly out of this world. For an alternative to the regular cinemas, the IMAX is a great option with the following films currently playing: Africa: The Serengeti, The Living Sea, Hurricane on the Bayou, and To The Arctic.

DO 

Go out and get a haircut at Fringe Hair Salon, Hall of Fame Barbershop, or Marisa’s Fortress of Beauty! These three salons are located within the heart of Armory Square, and what is better than getting a haircut, seeing an IMAX film, and eating a delicious dinner all in one day, within one place? For those who want to get really dolled up, Armory Square has a body piercing and tattoo studio, Scarab Body Art Studio, and a makeup expert, Aubrey James, at Lashes, Locks, & Lips.

Paying a visit to Armory Square’s The Sound Garden is a must do. With a wide variety of music from different genres and years, the record store also carries an extensive collection of posters displaying popular musicians, films, television shows, and actors. Widely known for its extremely low prices, this music store also gives its patrons the opportunity to sell back their old CDs and DVDs for cash.

Get in shape by going for a run around Armory Square or taking a yoga class at the O Yoga Studio. Offering a wide selection of yoga styles, these classes can be either private or open. Take in a class to relax and treat your body; open everyday of the week with classes throughout the day. 

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Armory Square’s Urban Outfitters is the perfect destination when in need of that one item to complete an outfit. If you are on a strict budget, take a look at the upstairs sale room.

One of the other stores that should be a part of your Armory Square shopping experience is Modern Pop Culture, a vintage clothing and accessory store. MPC carries clothing for both men and women at lower prices and with a lot more discounts!

Established in 1983, Eureka Crafts store is a unique find that specializes in jewelry, pottery, glass, ceramics, wood, and fiber crafts all made by American artists. These artists are from all over the country and there is truly something here for everyone.