Ithaca, NY, a vibrant college town nestled in the Finger Lakes region, boasts a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. While known for its stunning natural beauty and academic institutions, Ithaca also offers a wealth of delicious food options. One standout dish? The Caprese sandwich. This simple yet elegant combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, often enhanced with balsamic glaze and pesto, has taken root in Ithaca's many cafes and restaurants, resulting in a truly impressive variety of interpretations. This article explores the best of the best, highlighting 27 exceptional Caprese sandwiches found across Ithaca.
Top 5 Caprese Sandwiches in Ithaca: A Taste Test Review
We've compiled a list of the top five Caprese sandwiches based on factors such as ingredient quality, presentation, flavor combinations, and overall customer satisfaction.
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The Corner Store Cafe: Known for its locally sourced ingredients, The Corner Store Cafe offers a Caprese sandwich that's a true masterpiece. The mozzarella is creamy and fresh, the tomatoes bursting with flavor, and the basil adds a vibrant herbaceous note. Their house-made balsamic glaze elevates the sandwich to another level. Customer reviews praise the freshness and balance of flavors.
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Ithaca Coffee Company: A popular spot for both coffee and light bites, Ithaca Coffee Company serves a surprisingly delightful Caprese sandwich. Their use of a crusty artisan bread perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes and subtly sweet mozzarella. Many reviewers mention the perfect bread-to-filling ratio.
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The Nines: This upscale restaurant puts a sophisticated spin on the classic Caprese. They use high-quality burrata cheese, adding a creamier texture and richer flavor profile. Their balsamic reduction is expertly crafted, offering a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the creamy cheese and tomatoes. This sandwich is often cited for its elegant presentation and refined taste.
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Coltivare: This farm-to-table restaurant sources its ingredients directly from local farms, ensuring unparalleled freshness. The result is a Caprese sandwich that is bursting with seasonal flavors. The tomatoes are usually heirloom varieties, showcasing a vibrant spectrum of colors and tastes. Customers rave about the unique tomato flavors that change with the season.
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Agava Restaurant: Known for its Mediterranean cuisine, Agava offers a Caprese sandwich with a twist. They add roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of feta cheese, adding a smoky and salty complexity to the classic combination. This unique twist appeals to those seeking a more adventurous Caprese experience.
The Next 22: Exploring Ithaca's Caprese Sandwich Diversity
While the top five represent a high standard, Ithaca's culinary landscape offers much more than that. Here are 22 more excellent options, categorized for easier navigation:
Casual Cafes & Delis:
- Collegetown Bagels: Simple, classic, and always reliable.
- Green Star Cafe: Organic ingredients and vegetarian-friendly options.
- Stella's: A popular lunch spot with a solid Caprese offering.
- Moosewood Restaurant: Known for its vegetarian cuisine, often with creative Caprese variations.
- Taste of Ithaca: Quick and convenient, with fresh ingredients.
- Gimmie Coffee: A great place to grab a quick and delicious Caprese.
Pizza Places with Caprese Options:
- Pizza Tree: Known for their creative pizza toppings, their Caprese pizza is a must-try.
- Just a Taste: Offers delicious pizza with a build-your-own Caprese option.
- Apizza: Their take on the Caprese features fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Upscale Restaurants:
- State Street Grill: A more refined take on the classic Caprese.
- The Boathouse: Beautiful lakeside views compliment their upscale Caprese.
- Glenwood Inn: Offers a Caprese option with locally sourced ingredients.
Unique & Interesting Options:
- The Alchemist: They often feature unique Caprese twists, using different types of cheese.
- Hector Wine Company: Caprese sandwich pairings with local wines.
- Treva: Offers a unique take on the Caprese sandwich with a mediterranean flare.
Other Notable Mentions:
- Local Market: Often featuring artisan bread and cheese options, great for a homemade creation.
- Farm Stands: Fresh, seasonal tomatoes are key to a great Caprese.
- Ithaca Farmers' Market: Plenty of fresh mozzarella and basil vendors offer the chance for a DIY sandwich.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Caprese Sandwich
The best Caprese sandwich for you depends on personal preference and desired experience. Consider these factors:
- Bread: Is it crusty, soft, focaccia, ciabatta, or something else?
- Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella is key. Consider variations like burrata or fior di latte.
- Tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes offer complex flavors, but standard beefsteak tomatoes are also delicious.
- Basil: Fresh basil is crucial for that classic flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze/Reduction: The quality of the balsamic significantly impacts the overall taste.
- Additional Ingredients: Pesto, roasted red peppers, or other additions can enhance the flavor profile.
Conclusion: Your Ithaca Caprese Adventure Awaits!
With its diverse culinary landscape, Ithaca offers a surprising abundance of exceptional Caprese sandwiches. Whether you're seeking a casual bite or a refined dining experience, you're sure to find a Caprese sandwich that perfectly satisfies your cravings. So, embark on your Ithaca Caprese adventure and discover your personal favorite amongst these 27 incredible options! Remember to check restaurant websites and menus for the most up-to-date information, hours, and availability.
