Top 14 French restaurants in Downtown
In the heart of the city, French restaurants in Downtown offer a taste of France's culinary prowess. These establishments bring a touch of Parisian elegance and cuisine to urban dwellers and visitors alike. Whether you're craving coq au vin or a delicate crème brûlée, French restaurants in Downtown provide an authentic Gallic dining experience. Come, indulge in the rich flavors and ambiance of France without leaving the city.
1. Eleven Waters
Features local ingredients, extensive wine list, happy hour specials

The food served at the establishment received mixed reviews from customers. Some customers expressed their appreciation for the delicious French cuisine elements offered. However, other customers had issues with the service and the quality of their meals.
In terms of the atmosphere, the establishment received mostly positive reviews. The hipster modern design and relaxing vibe were appreciated by many customers. Additionally, the French-inspired dishes were highlighted as a positive aspect of the dining experience by some customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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2. Oh My Darling
Live music on weekends, extensive wine list, patio seating in the summer

The drinks at the establishment are reported to be delicious, with a good selection of brunch-style alcoholic beverages. They are also described as tasting strong and being of high quality. The staff is noted for being friendly and efficient, specifically when it comes to making mocktails.
However, there are some issues with the food quality, as some reviewers have reported dishes being undercooked or overcooked. Additionally, the atmosphere can be quite loud. While some people have enjoyed their brunch experience, others have had to wait a long time for their food. Overall, there are some positive aspects to this brunch spot, but there is also room for improvement in terms of food quality and wait times.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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3. Across The Hall Café
Chef-owned French bistro with a focus on local ingredients

The burgers served at this establishment are a favorite among customers, known for their delicious taste and unique house sauce that is reminiscent of chipotle mayo. The sauce is a key component of the burgers that keeps customers coming back for more.
In addition to the tasty burgers, the restaurant is also commended for its excellent service. The staff is praised for their friendliness and quick, attentive service. The combination of delicious food and top-notch customer service creates a positive dining experience for all who visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. 317 @ Montgomery Street in Downtown
Family-owned restaurant for over 20 years, Chef's table available

The restaurant offers a charming atmosphere, accompanied by exceptional service. The staff is competent, cheerful, and not overly intrusive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. They are consistently present whenever needed, providing attentive and professional service.
The menu boasts delicious food and an acceptable wine selection. During dinner, I enjoyed the house salad, filet mignon with a rosemary glaze, and tiramisu for dessert. Each dish was skillfully prepared, making for a truly satisfying meal. The food is top-notch, leaving a memorable impression on diners.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
5. Lemon Grass Restaurant
Chef-owned, Extensive wine list, Seasonal menus

The Lemon Grass restaurant in Syracuse is known for its unique blend of Thai and French cuisine. This fusion of culinary traditions creates a distinctive dining experience that is not commonly found. Among the many standout dishes, their decadent desserts are particularly noteworthy, including the popular chocolate shoe.
In addition to its unique cuisine, Lemon Grass offers an impressive wine list and exceptional service. The combination of these elements contributes to a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a fan of Thai or French food or looking to try something new, Lemon Grass is highly recommended for anyone seeking a unique and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. The York
Housed in a historic building with a charming patio, The York provides a unique dining experience in the heart of Syracuse.

The York restaurant provides a unique dining experience, combining modern and classic dishes inspired by various cultures, most notably French cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance can be described as industrial-chic, and while service is generally good, there have been some reports of rude staff.
The York's menu features a diverse range of dishes, with several options incorporating French influences. During happy hour, guests can enjoy a selection of appetizers, including sushi options, which are highly recommended. Standout dishes include the crab rangoons and the bone marrow, which have both received particular praise from diners.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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7. Le Mélange
Features a weekly-changing prix fixe menu and caters to dietary restrictions

Le Mélange offers a superior dining experience, known for its exceptional service and excellent food. The restaurant's decor creates a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a romantic date night. However, the waiting staff's attentiveness was lacking. For instance, despite ordering dessert, they did not refill our water glasses, which was disappointing.
Le Mélange is a popular dining destination that boasts high-quality food and attentive service. Its inviting and comfortable ambiance makes it a great place for special occasions. Unfortunately, the level of service did not meet expectations during our visit. We noticed that our water glasses were not refilled, even after ordering dessert, which was unexpected and left us feeling neglected.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Mid-Range
8. Modern Malt
Unique brunch options, vegan-friendly menu, craft cocktails, and outdoor seating

Modern Malt is a contemporary restaurant that specializes in breakfast and lunch options, offering a welcoming atmosphere with its clean and modern design and accommodating wait staff. The spacious and well-maintained bathrooms are an added bonus to the positive dining experience. During a visit to Syracuse, this restaurant stood out as an excellent option for breakfast, with fresh and generously portioned meals.
The restaurant's name, Modern Malt, might suggest a beer-focused establishment, but it actually offers a Malt milkshake that is quite popular. Surprisingly, the full bar was already in use during our 10 am visit. The menu is flexible, allowing customers to customize their orders, and I personally enjoyed a meal of poached eggs and avocado slices on toast. The restaurant was so impressive that we dined there twice during our stay in Syracuse.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
9. Apizza Regionale
Wood-fired oven pizzas, Extensive wine list

Apizza Regionale is a popular wood-fired pizza restaurant that uses ingredients sourced from regional growers and producers in NY State and surrounding areas. The restaurant is often busy, with a wait expected during peak hours, but the efficient service and welcoming ambiance cater to families, friends, and couples. The menu offers a range of hand-crafted cocktails, local beers, and wines available in multiple sizes, with a Negroni being a standout drink.
The pizza at Apizza Regionale is universally acclaimed as some of the best in Syracuse, and possibly even rivaling the famous pizza of Chicago. The restaurant takes care to use only fresh and simple ingredients, sourced locally from farmers and growers, to create a consistently fabulous menu. From the Negroni to the carefully chosen wine and beer selection, and of course, the delicious pizza, every dish is highly recommended, making Apizza Regionale a must-visit dining destination in Syracuse.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Eden in Downtown
Housed in a historic building with a charming patio, popular for special occasions

Eden, located in Syracuse, offers a dining experience that reflects the elegance of French cuisine. The menu features local ingredients and artful presentation. A standout dish is the appetizer of mushrooms, bacon, and egg, which combines rich and savory flavors.
For those seeking a French-inspired meal in Syracuse, Eden is a top choice. The restaurant's dishes are skillfully prepared and offer an exquisite taste experience. The focus on local ingredients and exceptional presentation makes for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
11. L.M. Social
Live music on weekends, Chef's table experience, Happy hour specials

L.M. Social provides a remarkable dining experience with a diverse range of delicious dishes. The menu features a steak that is highly rated by a customer from Texas, and a signature martini that is a must-try. The restaurant also offers a beautiful outdoor patio and a creative cocktail menu. The atmosphere at L.M. Social is lively and varied, similar to a restaurant in NYC, with a wide selection of menu items.
The Kampuchean Duck Confit and Spanish Octopus are standout dishes, both well-prepared and full of flavor. The duck confit was cooked to perfection, while the octopus, although a bit tough, delivered a spicy kick. Overall, L.M. Social offers a unique and delightful dining experience with a variety of dishes to choose from.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
12. Storys

TOPICS
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
13. She Fancy in Downtown

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
- Vegan Options
14. Noble Cellar
Live music on weekends, knowledgeable staff, locally sourced ingredients

Noble Cellar is a remarkable dining establishment, located in downtown Syracuse, known for its exquisite attention to detail and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant, situated in a former church, exudes a mystical ambiance with its stunning stained glass windows. The staff provides excellent service, being both attentive and friendly, contributing to the overall positive dining experience. While the portions are not overly large, the quality of the food is exceptional, with the pork belly dish being a particularly noteworthy option.
A couple recently visited Noble Cellar for a memorable date night. The restaurant was once a Mexican establishment called The Mission, but has since been transformed into a modern fine dining experience. The couple enjoyed delicious dishes, with one having the pork shoulder and the other the duck, accompanied by a rose wine from the Canary Islands. The highlight of the evening was the warm evening sunshine filtering through the stained glass windows, adding to the intimate and romantic atmosphere. Overall, the experience at Noble Cellar was excellent, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or fancy date nights.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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