Syracuse, NY, might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of seafood, but the downtown area boasts a surprising number of restaurants offering delicious shrimp dishes. From casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, there's something for every palate and budget. This guide explores twelve of the best places to enjoy shrimp in Downtown Syracuse, highlighting their unique offerings and what makes them stand out.
Where to Find the Best Shrimp in Downtown Syracuse
This list isn't ranked, as each restaurant offers a unique shrimp experience. Consider your preferences – casual versus fine dining, specific cuisines, and price point – when choosing your next shrimp adventure.
1. The Blue Plate Special: Classic Shrimp Scampi
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Shrimp Style: Classic scampi with garlic, butter, white wine, and linguine.
- Ambiance: Casual and family-friendly.
- Why it's great: The Blue Plate Special is a Syracuse institution, known for its generous portions and authentic Italian flavors. Their scampi is a crowd-pleaser, featuring plump shrimp cooked to perfection.
2. The Saltine Warrior: Spicy Shrimp Boil
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
- Shrimp Style: Spicy shrimp boil with Andouille sausage, potatoes, corn on the cob, and a fiery Cajun seasoning.
- Ambiance: Lively and energetic, perfect for a group outing.
- Why it's great: If you enjoy a kick, this is the place for you. The Saltine Warrior's shrimp boil is a flavorful explosion of spice and seafood goodness. Be prepared for a messy but rewarding experience!
3. The Gilded Lily: Pan-Seared Shrimp with Lemon Butter Sauce
- Cuisine: Upscale American
- Shrimp Style: Pan-seared shrimp with a delicate lemon butter sauce, served over risotto.
- Ambiance: Elegant and sophisticated, ideal for a special occasion.
- Why it's great: For a refined dining experience, The Gilded Lily delivers. Their pan-seared shrimp is beautifully presented and cooked to perfection, showcasing the quality of the ingredients.
4. Antonio's: Shrimp Fra Diavolo
- Cuisine: Italian
- Shrimp Style: Shrimp Fra Diavolo, a spicy tomato-based sauce with garlic, chili flakes, and white wine.
- Ambiance: Romantic and intimate.
- Why it's great: Antonio's is renowned for its authentic Italian dishes. Their Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a flavorful and satisfying choice, offering a good balance of spice and richness.
5. The Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Cuisine: BBQ
- Shrimp Style: Grilled shrimp skewers marinated in a smoky BBQ sauce.
- Ambiance: Casual and fun, with a lively atmosphere.
- Why it's great: Unexpected, but delicious! The Dinosaur Bar-B-Que offers a unique twist on shrimp, grilling them to perfection and adding a smoky BBQ flavor.
6. Pastabilities: Shrimp and Grits
- Cuisine: Southern
- Shrimp Style: Creamy stone-ground grits topped with sautéed shrimp, Andouille sausage, and a rich cheese sauce.
- Ambiance: Cozy and inviting.
- Why it's great: A comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly blends Southern cuisine with fresh seafood.
7. The Other Place: Coconut Shrimp
- Cuisine: American
- Shrimp Style: Breaded coconut shrimp served with a sweet chili dipping sauce.
- Ambiance: Relaxed and casual.
- Why it's great: A classic appetizer or light meal, perfect for sharing. The Other Place's coconut shrimp is crispy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
8. Syracuse Chop House: Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Shrimp Style: Grilled shrimp served with a refreshing mango salsa.
- Ambiance: Upscale and sophisticated.
- Why it's great: The Syracuse Chop House offers a high-quality take on grilled shrimp. The mango salsa adds a bright and zesty counterpoint to the richness of the grilled seafood.
9. The Westcott Theater: Shrimp Tacos
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Shrimp Style: Grilled or fried shrimp tacos with various toppings and salsas.
- Ambiance: Lively and casual, often with live music.
- Why it's great: Enjoy some fantastic shrimp tacos while experiencing live entertainment.
10. Marshall Street Oyster Bar: Shrimp Cocktail
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Shrimp Style: Classic shrimp cocktail, served chilled with cocktail sauce.
- Ambiance: Casual, lively oyster bar atmosphere.
- Why it's great: A simple but delicious classic, perfect for starting your meal.
11. A’Posh Bistro: Shrimp Scampi with a Twist
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Shrimp Style: Unique variation on shrimp scampi, possibly with different herbs or spices.
- Ambiance: Modern and chic bistro atmosphere.
- Why it's great: Expect a creative and innovative take on classic shrimp dishes.
12. More Than a Martini: Shrimp Linguine Primavera
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Shrimp Style: Shrimp linguine with fresh seasonal vegetables in a light sauce.
- Ambiance: Chic and sophisticated cocktail bar setting.
- Why it's great: Offers a lighter, healthier option while still satisfying your shrimp craving.
This list is just a starting point. Downtown Syracuse is a vibrant culinary scene, constantly evolving. Explore, discover, and enjoy the amazing shrimp dishes this city offers! Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm menus and availability before your visit. Enjoy!
