Ithaca, NY, a vibrant college town nestled in the Finger Lakes region, boasts a surprisingly diverse culinary scene that extends far beyond the typical 9-to-5 hours. Whether you're a student cramming for exams, a night owl catching a late show, or simply someone with a late-night hunger pang, Ithaca offers a plethora of late-night dining options. This guide explores the top 15 late-night restaurants in Ithaca, catering to various tastes and budgets. Finding the perfect late-night bite in Ithaca just got easier!
Late Night Eats: Exploring Ithaca's After-Hours Dining Gems
This list covers a range of cuisines and atmospheres, ensuring there's something for everyone. We've considered factors like hours of operation, menu variety, atmosphere, and overall customer reviews to bring you this comprehensive guide. Remember that hours can change, so it's always a good idea to call ahead before heading out.
Pizza Perfection: Slices After Midnight
Ithaca's love affair with pizza knows no bounds. Several pizzerias extend their hours to accommodate the late-night crowd, providing a classic and satisfying meal option.
1. Collegetown Bagels: While known for their bagels, they also offer delicious pizza slices well into the evening, making them a popular late-night choice for students.
2. Zingerman's Deli (Ithaca location): Although not exclusively a pizza place, their late-night hours and delicious pizza by the slice make them a great option.
3. Ithaca Pizza: A local favorite with generous portions and a wide selection of toppings, open late most nights.
Beyond Pizza: Diverse Late-Night Options
Ithaca's late-night scene goes far beyond pizza. Here are some diverse options to satisfy various cravings:
4. The Nines: Known for its upscale atmosphere and creative cocktails, The Nines also offers a satisfying late-night menu with shareable plates and appetizers.
5. Hector's: This Mexican restaurant serves up delicious tacos and other Mexican favorites well into the night, often until 2 am or later on weekends.
6. Level 2: Located above another establishment, this late-night spot offers a unique atmosphere and a creative menu, offering a mix of bar food and more sophisticated dishes.
Satisfying those Sweet Tooth Cravings:
Sometimes, all you need is a sweet treat to end the night.
7. Swensons: An Ithaca institution, Swensons is a classic late-night spot for ice cream and other sweet treats.
8. A Little Taste of Heaven: For a more sophisticated dessert experience, this bakery often stays open later than other establishments, providing delicious pastries and cakes.
Quick Bites & Convenience:
When you need something quick and easy, these options fit the bill:
9. Subway: Multiple locations around Ithaca keep late hours and provide a convenient, affordable meal option.
10. 7-Eleven: While not exactly a restaurant, 7-Eleven offers a range of snacks, drinks, and quick meals late into the night.
Unique & Unexpected Late-Night Spots:
Ithaca also has some unique late-night spots that are worth exploring:
11. Wegmans (Late-Night Grocery Options): While not a restaurant, Wegmans grocery stores offer prepared foods and snacks that can be a lifesaver for late-night cravings.
12. Local Breweries and Pubs: Many of Ithaca's breweries and pubs often keep their kitchens open late, offering a range of bar food to accompany their craft beers. Check local listings for specific hours.
Exploring Beyond the Core:
Some restaurants outside the immediate downtown area offer surprising late-night options.
13. The Boathouse: Located on the Cayuga Inlet, The Boathouse provides a scenic setting for a late-night meal with waterfront views (check their hours, as they may vary seasonally).
14. Collegetown Bagels (again!): We've mentioned them earlier, but their extended hours and accessibility make them a must-include for late-night eats near Cornell University.
15. Ithaca Bakery (occasionally): Check their website for late-night hours as they do offer some late-night options on occasion.
Planning Your Late-Night Culinary Adventure in Ithaca
This list provides a starting point for your late-night food explorations in Ithaca. Remember to check individual restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm their hours, particularly on weekdays versus weekends. Enjoy your culinary adventures in Ithaca's dynamic after-dark dining scene!
