When thinking about Ithaca, NY, several images are bound to come to mind. From the picturesque waterfalls and scenic hiking routes to the themed festivals and eclectic shops, the small city in the Finger Lakes region prides itself on its various activities and experiences, with the food scene being a key component to the community's unique charm.
Named one of "America's Foodiest Towns" by Bon Appétit, Ithaca has sparked a lot of conversation when it comes to its food and dining scene. Here's why:
There Are So Many Options.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat, a casual lunch or an upscale dining experience, Ithaca is frequently noted for its expansive restaurant selection. Between Cornell's Collegetown and the Ithaca Commons, Ithaca boasts a multitude of eateries and has been reported to have more restaurants per capita than New York City.
Praised for its diverse array of cuisines, ranging from Italian, Indian and Mediterranean to Thai, French and Ethiopian, the Ithaca culinary world is representative of multiple cultures, allowing diners to expand their knowledge and their palates. Ithaca even has its own culinary tours hosted by Ithaca is Foodies. These "immersive culinary adventures" are designed to showcase and educate on the local eats through guided walking experiences with food tastings and conversation over history, culture and community.
Popular Diet Restrictions Are Accommodated.
According to Pricenomics.com, Ithaca was ranked as one of the most vegetarian friendly cities in the country, a key finding being that smaller cities and college towns "are the most welcoming to those who don't eat meat." Specifically, data from a 2016 study shows that Ithaca has 17 vegetarian restaurants, giving the small college town the third spot on the list.
Much of the attention Ithaca has received for its accommodating culinary presence can be attributed to Moosewood. Located in downtown Ithaca, the acclaimed vegetarian and vegan hotspot known for its locally-sourced, seasonal dishes was named one of the "13 most influential restaurants of the 20th Century" by Bon Appétit. Additionally, Moosewood has garnered both national and international fame, much of which is linked to its 13 bestselling cookbooks.
The Farm-To-Table Movement Is Heavily Supported.
Surrounded by farmland, Ithaca has taken advantage of its large agricultural presence by granting restaurants the opportunity to work with nearby farms and orchards in effort to provide the community with local products. For instance, New American restaurant Coltivare aims to support Tompkins County Community College's very own farm by sourcing the produce grown by the college's students and then returning composted food scraps. This relationship is designed to emphasize the importance of every stage of food production.
Additionally, one of Ithaca's biggest attractions for both tourists and residents alike is its farmers market. Existing as a member-run cooperative with more than 160 active members who grow or produce their own goods within 30 miles of Ithaca, the farmers market "emphasizes a direct connection between producer and consumer, and promotes and strengthens local agriculture," according to its official website.
Buying local products has several benefits including helping the local economy, producing a smaller carbon footprint and boosting health, given that less pesticides and preservatives are typically used.
It's evident that Ithaca has a lot to offer when it comes to food, which poses a difficult yet important question: where should I eat next?
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