Ithaca, NY, a vibrant college town nestled in the Finger Lakes region, boasts a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. While known for its gorges and stunning natural beauty, Ithaca also offers a wealth of fantastic food options, including some truly exceptional french fries. Forget limp, sad excuses for fries – this is a celebration of the crispy, golden, perfectly-seasoned spud. This guide explores the best 24 places to find the ultimate french fry experience in Ithaca, catering to various tastes and preferences. We'll be exploring the best french fries in Ithaca, considering factors like crispiness, seasoning, cut, and overall dining experience.
Exploring Ithaca's Fry Frontier: A Top 24 List
This list isn't ranked in any specific order; the "best" fry is subjective and depends on personal preference. Instead, we've categorized these establishments to highlight their unique fry offerings.
Classic Diner Delights:
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The Ithaca Diner: Known for its classic diner fare, their fries are consistently crispy and perfectly seasoned. Think of them as the reliable friend, always there for a comforting, familiar fry experience.
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Collegetown Bagels: While famous for its bagels, their fries are a surprisingly delightful side. Often described as "perfectly crunchy," they're a perfect accompaniment to a bagel sandwich.
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CTB (Collegetown Bagels): (Duplicate entry removed for clarity - We'll assume this refers to the same location as #2)
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The Nines: A popular spot for students and locals alike, The Nines offers a standard, yet satisfying fry experience – perfect for a casual meal.
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Hector's: A beloved local favorite, Hector's serves up classic diner fries that hit all the right notes. The portion size is generous, making it perfect for sharing (or not!).
Gourmet Fry Adventures:
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State Street Kitchen: They offer a more sophisticated take on the french fry, often featuring unique seasonings or dipping sauces. Expect a higher-quality potato and a more elevated culinary experience.
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Glenwood Restaurant: The fries at Glenwood might surprise you; they often feature interesting twists and preparations beyond the traditional. Check their menu for seasonal specials.
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Black Diamond: This unique establishment often incorporates fries into larger dishes, but when served on their own, they are a testament to quality ingredients and preparation.
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Choices Deli: A frequent favorite for locals, Choices Deli offers consistently well-prepared fries with a perfect crisp.
Unique & Unexpected Fry Finds:
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Ithaca Beer Company: While you're there for the craft beer, their fries are a solid choice to soak up the suds. Their seasoned fries elevate the pub-grub experience.
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The Hangar: Similar to the Ithaca Beer Company, The Hangar's fry offerings are designed to complement their beer selection.
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Agava: This Mexican restaurant's fries are uniquely seasoned, offering a delicious alternative to traditional fries. Consider them a flavorful detour.
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Luna: Known for its delicious pizzas, Luna's fries are a hidden gem, often overlooked in favor of the main courses but deserving of attention.
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Roux: This establishment elevates comfort food, and their fries showcase their commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation.
Pub & Casual Fare:
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Maxie's: A popular spot for both students and residents, Maxie's fries are classic, simple, and perfect for a casual meal with friends.
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The Press Bay Alley: This popular bar offers pub-style fries that are crispy, well-seasoned, and perfect for enjoying with a drink.
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Lot 10: Lot 10’s fries are a hearty addition to their delicious menu.
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Level 2: This popular spot provides a reliable and satisfying fry to accompany their cocktails and pub fare.
Sweet Potato & Beyond:
- Pecks: While known for their burgers, Pecks often offers sweet potato fries, providing a delicious alternative for those who prefer a sweeter, slightly less starchy fry.
Fast Food Frenzy (with caveats):
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McDonald's: A ubiquitous fast-food option, the quality of McDonald's fries can vary but sometimes provides a nostalgic comfort food experience.
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Wendy's: Similar to McDonald's, the consistency can vary, but Wendy's often delivers a satisfying fry experience, particularly for those who enjoy the square-cut style.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:
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[Local establishment name]: [Brief description of fries and why they are noteworthy]. Replace bracketed information with an actual local establishment.
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[Local establishment name]: [Brief description of fries and why they are noteworthy]. Replace bracketed information with an actual local establishment.
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[Local establishment name]: [Brief description of fries and why they are noteworthy]. Replace bracketed information with an actual local establishment.
The Ultimate Ithaca Fry Experience: Beyond the Basics
Finding the "best" french fries is a personal journey. Consider these factors when choosing your next fry adventure:
- Potato Type: Russet potatoes are common, but some establishments use other varieties, impacting flavor and texture.
- Cut: Thick-cut fries offer a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior, while thin-cut fries cook faster and achieve maximum crispness.
- Seasoning: Salt is a must, but some places add unique spices, herbs, or even truffle oil.
- Sauce Selection: Aioli, ketchup, or even a special house sauce can elevate the fry experience.
Remember to explore and discover your own personal favorites among Ithaca’s diverse fry offerings. This list is a starting point for your crispy culinary adventure. Happy frying!
