Located on 211 Washington St., Garage Taco Bar is a lively spot for locals and Binghamton University students alike. The restaurant consists of vintage diner style tables as well as bar seating. The energetic atmosphere of Garage Taco Bar with its rustic brick walls, ambient lighting and eclectic artwork, compliments well with their Mexican-inspired street food dishes.

Full from a delicious three-course meal with a side of nostalgia, I can’t help but tip my hat to Hughes and McKenna — not just for their trusty, satiating menu, but for creating a place in Binghamton that holds just as many memories as patrons. The Lost Dog Restaurant Week menu has once again demonstrated the cafe’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, and I know with confidence that even after graduation, I have a place and a reason to return for Restaurant Weeks to come.

Downtown by Chef Jay Pisculli is bringing an upscale take on American cuisine to the heart of Downtown Binghamton. Operated under Beer Tree Brew management, Downtown by Chef Jay Pisculli reimagines American food with a commitment to the highest quality ingredients. The restaurant replaced Beer Tree Brew’s Downtown location at 20 Hawley St. in the winter of 2024, bringing on executive chef Jay Pisculli to the new establishment.

Restaurant Week has returned to Binghamton, and The Shop consistently provides an excellent meal. On Friday afternoon, my photographer, Jacob, and I went to the bar and kitchen on 219 Washington St. to get a taste of the many offerings featured this season.

Located at 81 Clinton St., the restaurant and plant-based food company established itself as Binghamton’s first fully vegan eatery back in 2016. Since then, it has quickly become a staple in the Binghamton community for vegans and non-vegans alike, providing customers with mouth-watering comfort foods and seasonal dishes made with locally sourced produce.

My photographer, Karlie, and I were able to choose from Alexander’s Cafe’s Restaurant Week menu, which allows you to get a three-course lunch for $18. After ordering with some assistance from owner and chef Alex, we were able to seat ourselves in the dining room. The cozy and casual atmosphere allowed us to quickly get comfortable. We were surprised and pleased with the quick service of the restaurant, clearly geared toward on-the-go students and workers in Binghamton.

Located on the outskirts of Downtown Binghamton, Happy Pappi’s Arepas Bar is an excellent choice if you’re looking to try something new. Located at 252 Chenango St., the restaurant offers patrons the opportunity to sample authentic Venezuelan street food at a good price.

Located in the heart of Binghamton’s bustling Downtown, The Grove is a favorite among students and residents — for good reason. Its inviting atmosphere, kind staff and dynamic menu make for the perfect date night, birthday celebration or casual occasion.

From the moment my dining partner, Caspar, and I were presented with a basket of warm and fluffy bread without asking for it before our courses began, I knew we were in for a special treat at Little Venice. A decades-long cornerstone of the Southern Tier, Little Venice has served generations of Binghamton with its fresh Italian dinners. Earlier this week, it was my turn to sample their best offerings and see the legend for myself.