Ithaca, NY, boasts a surprisingly vibrant pub scene, offering a taste of British tradition right in the heart of downtown. Whether you're craving a pint of perfectly poured ale, hearty pub fare, or a lively atmosphere, you'll find it among Ithaca's excellent selection of British-style pubs. This guide explores 14 of the best, detailing their unique offerings and helping you choose the perfect spot for your next night out. We'll cover everything from the atmosphere and food to the drinks and overall experience, providing you with the ultimate guide to Ithaca's British pub scene.
Finding Your Perfect Pint: Types of British Pubs in Downtown Ithaca
Before we dive into specific establishments, let's understand the variety within the "British Pub" category. Ithaca's pubs range in style, offering different experiences:
- Traditional Gastropubs: These focus on high-quality food, often with a modern twist on classic British dishes, alongside a wide selection of beers.
- Cozy Neighborhood Pubs: These offer a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual drink and conversation with friends.
- Lively Sports Pubs: Ideal for catching the game, these pubs usually have multiple TVs and a more energetic atmosphere.
- Upscale Pubs: These offer a more sophisticated dining experience, with elevated food and drink menus.
This diversity ensures there's a perfect British pub for everyone in downtown Ithaca.
Top 14 British Pubs in Downtown Ithaca: A Detailed Review
To help you navigate this vibrant scene, here’s a breakdown of 14 fantastic options, categorized for easier planning:
Traditional Gastropubs
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The Thirsty Owl: Known for its extensive beer selection and delicious, elevated pub fare. They often feature locally sourced ingredients. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially on weekends.
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The English Setter: A classic gastropub experience, The English Setter emphasizes traditional British dishes with a modern flair. Their fish and chips are legendary.
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The Druid's Rest: This gastropub prides itself on its wide selection of craft beers, both British imports and local brews. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet comfortable.
Cozy Neighborhood Pubs
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The Crooked Pint: A smaller, more intimate pub, perfect for a quiet drink and conversation. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a local favorite.
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The Pig & Whistle: While small, this neighborhood gem offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their selection of beers and simple pub food are perfect for a casual evening.
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The Collegetown Bagel (with Pub Night): While primarily known for bagels, they frequently host themed pub nights with British beers and snacks. Check their calendar for these special events!
Lively Sports Pubs
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The Nines: Although not exclusively British, The Nines regularly features British beers and often shows Premier League football matches, creating a lively atmosphere for fans.
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Hector's: This popular sports bar frequently offers British beer specials and often creates a lively atmosphere for various sporting events.
Upscale Pubs
- Glen's Falls: While not strictly a British pub, Glen's Falls often incorporates British-inspired elements into its menu and drink selection, providing a higher-end pub experience.
Unique & Other Notable Mentions
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The Ithaca Ale House: While not strictly British, the Ale House has an extensive beer list that includes some great British options.
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Lucas & Biagio's: A casual spot with a surprisingly great selection of imported British beers.
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State Street Pub: While known as an American pub, they occasionally feature guest taps with British beers and themed nights.
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The Argos Inn: This establishment has British beers on tap and a large selection of imported bottles. The atmosphere has a cosy feel.
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Coltivare: Though primarily Italian, they often have great beer selections, including British varieties, complementing their menu.
Choosing Your Ithaca Pub Adventure: A Guide
This list provides a starting point for your exploration of Ithaca's British pub scene. Consider these factors when making your choice:
- Atmosphere: Are you looking for a lively, bustling environment or a quiet, cozy spot?
- Food: Do you want a full meal, or just some snacks? What kind of cuisine are you in the mood for?
- Drinks: What kind of beer or other drinks are you hoping to find?
- Location: Where in downtown Ithaca are you planning to be?
Remember to check each pub's website or social media for hours, specials, and events before your visit. Enjoy your pub crawl through the best of British in downtown Ithaca!
