The best restaurants in Lansing

“Simple counter-serve joint for specialty pies, plus wings, subs, salads & calzones.”

“Local chain open late for calzones with diverse fillings, including chili dog & cheesecake versions.”

“Casual destination for hefty portions of Italian & Greek classics such as pizza, pasta & gyros.”

“Small, easygoing pizzeria offering a variety of creatively topped pies, plus calzones & vegan bites.”

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“Long-standing eatery offering classic American, Italian & Greek dishes, plus all-day breakfast.”

“Art-lined counter serve known for its variety of large, internationally inspired sub sandwiches.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Mellow hangout with an eclectic, collegiate atmosphere offering bagels, shmears & coffee.”

“Craving something a little sunny right now, Ithaca? Modern Ohana serves Pacific Rim and Asian fusion plates with bright, craveable flavors plus tiki cocktails mixed with fresh juices and premium rums, all in a roomy, laid-back space that makes breakfast, brunch, or date night feel like an escape.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Fittnell Barbeque keeps the Finger Lakes fed with legit slow-smoked goodness, from pulled pork and chicken tacos to that dangerously good smoked mac and cheese, all built around seasonal flavor. Watch for their pop-ups or get them to roll up to your next backyard hang, and thank yourself later.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Need a break from the gray? The Greenhouse Cafe & Cocktail Lounge is a lush little escape with eclectic eats, legit coffee, and balanced cocktails that make happy hour feel extra happy. Great for low-key meetups or date night, and they even host private parties and cater when your group chat gets ambitious.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Whether you’re in the mood for bold pan-Asian small plates to share or a solo bowl that steals the show, Mia Restaurant delivers a stylish night with craft beer and plenty of gluten-free and veggie choices that actually feel like the main event.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 13, 2026

“More Than Pizza Ithaca lives up to the name with New York style pies plus halal favorites like gyros, falafel, and grilled chicken, alongside solid sandwiches. Easygoing vibe, quick takeout, and perfect for grabbing a box then wandering the Commons like you meant to buy kale.”

“For lake breezes, local bands on the deck, and an American menu that sneaks in sharp Asian touches, The Boatyard Grill nails the weeknight-to-weekend vibe with well-made cocktails, a lively summer music scene, and 25-years-strong neighborhood energy.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Owned and operated by two Italian brothers, Franco's Pizzeria keeps Ithaca honest with authentic New York style thin crust that’s foldable and flavorful. Queue it up for an easy midweek pie or a low key weekend hang, then thank yourself later.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Northeast Pizza and Bones has been family-owned for over 30 years, serving Tompkins County and turning out pies, calzones, hearty subs, and fresh salads with ingredients that actually taste like ingredients. When you want a low-key night, grab a slice then slide next door to 23 North for local beers or a cocktail.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Ithaca Ghost Kitchen churns out pasta, sliders, and other comfort food classics for delivery or quick pickup, perfect for those nights when Collegetown traffic feels like a quest. Solid flavors, zero fuss, and you can stay in your sweats without judgment.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Sushi Osaka is a cornerstone of the Ithaca area, serving quality Japanese cuisine from familiar favorites to new rolls you haven't tried yet. When cooking feels optional, hit their site for easy online ordering and enjoy pickup or delivery that keeps dinner delicious without drama.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 11, 2026

“When you want an easy local night out that still brings the wow, Plum Tree Restaurant turns out fresh sushi, belly-warming ramen, and Japanese staples where traditional flavors actually shine. Add it to your weeknight rotation this week, then thank yourself later.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Family-owned Babe's Burger is feeding the Finger Lakes, from Lucky Hare Brewing in Hector to Ithaca pop-ups, with the Top Notch Babe stacked right, Cluck Cluck spiedie chicken, and those over-the-top Babe's Butt Fries. Make it your move this week, ideally with that Seneca Lake view.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Whether you're after a polished date night or an unhurried catch-up, Simeon's American Bistro does American fare in a relaxed, classy setting with a serious dinner menu, standout cocktails, and deep whiskey and wine lists. Grab a sidewalk seat on the Commons and enjoy peak people-watching with your meal.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 12, 2026

“La Mexicana Ithaca is slinging fresh flour tortillas and breakfast tacos that taste like your morning actually stood up and tried. Catch them at the SMORG on weekends, then go live your best Ithaca day powered by warm, just-made carbs and a satisfied grin.”

“S. Add homefries, sausage and cream cheese for The Special, then thank yourself later.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 9, 2026

“When you want a low-key spot that nails blistered, personal-sized Neapolitan pies alongside organic wines and a few good craft beers, Thompson and Bleecker hits the sweet spot. Add a couple of pasta dishes or a crisp salad, then settle into that snug brick-walled vibe.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Ithaca Bakery keeps weekdays painless with rotating soups, stacked sandwiches, legit bagels, and grab 'n go salads and entrees. Order online for takeout, delivery, or curbside this week, then pretend you meal prepped like a champ.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Sumo Japanese Sushi And Hibachi Grill nails the two-for-one vibe: meticulously crafted sushi for quiet nights and lively hibachi with trained chefs who flip, sizzle, and generally steal the spotlight.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Viva Taqueria & Cantina has been keeping Ithaca fed since 1995 with fresh, healthy Mexican, the kind you can inhale after a long day or linger over with Ithaca’s favorite margs. Slide into the cantina for tequila-fueled catchups, hit the taqueria for tacos, or keep it easy with takeout and party packs.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Moosewood keeps the Finger Lakes eating well with vibrant, vegetable-forward cooking, backed by decades of world-famous cookbooks and 5 million sold. Grab lunch, dinner or a brunch with rotating specials, then raid the Moosewood Store for cookbooks and clever housewares to keep the inspiration going.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Milkstand Restaurant serves cozy, contemporary-diner takes on American breakfast and brunch, the kind of comforting plates you crave midweek. Locals swear by the milkshakes and the easygoing vibe, perfect for when you want familiar flavors made with care and just enough flair.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Hot Pot Meets BBQ is Ithaca’s DIY feast, an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and hot pot spot where you grill, dunk, and repeat with meats, seafood, and veggies until your group chat goes quiet. Perfect for indecisive eaters or anyone who measures dinner by how fun it is to cook it.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Family owned since 2010, Mercato Bar & Kitchen is the cozy, chef-owned spot for seasonal Italian plates, craft cocktails, and an exceptional wine list... basically your go-to when you want Commons-adjacent comfort that still feels a little fancy.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Pho, vermicelli & other Vietnamese favorites, plus bubble tea smoothies, are served in a warm space.”

“Popular deli turning out sandwiches including pizza subs, hot food, and combo deals.”

“Whether you need a grab-and-go dinner or a savory-sweet snack this week, Mama Said Hand Pies Cafe hits the spot with flaky, golden crusts and fillings that travel the globe, made with locally sourced ingredients and humanely raised meat.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

“Casual pizzeria dishing up pies, wings, and other comfort eats for lunch and dinner.”

“Dolce Delight has been baking Ithaca happy since 2008 with cozy, family-recipe treats and a café menu that actually hits. Start with the Dolce Special on a mildly spicy chipotle biscuit, then snag a chocolate croissant or baklava... and yes, they do gorgeous event spreads too.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Surf ’n’ turf, pasta & other staples are served at this quaint venue with a warm ambiance.”

“Mexican dishes like fajitas and enchiladas offered in a spacious eatery featuring a bar, outdoor benches and patio tables.”

“When you want no fuss, full flavor comfort, Old Mexico keeps it classic with sizzling fajitas, tequila drinks, and cold beers. A vibrant, casual go-to for Ithaca locals, perfect for easy meetups, midweek cravings, and that chips and salsa mood we all pretend to resist.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Fast and affordable pizza joint featuring traditional and build-your-own pies baked with hand-tossed crusts, gluten-free and vegan options, plus salads.”

“Relaxed destination dishing up a menu of Thai & Japanese rice, noodle & side dishes.”

“Try Gola Osteria Restaurant & Catering for Italian cuisine with homemade pasta, homemade sauces, and seasonal ingredients sourced from New York and Pennsylvania farms, plus a well-curated list of Italian and Finger Lakes wines and a rotating selection of inventive and classic cocktails.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Alléchant is serving creative plates with genuine hospitality in a beautiful, intimate space. Slide in for dinner or a lingering brunch, pair it with something from their drinks list, and remember what it feels like to have a meal that’s equal parts thoughtful and delicious.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Taverna Banfi is your excuse to linger over Tuscan-inspired plates made with locally sourced ingredients, the kind of perfectly paced meal that makes weeknights feel like a mini getaway. Named for the Castello Banfi Wine Estate, their brunch buffet and dinners hit that sweet spot between comfort and celebration.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Elevated comfort food, late-night bites & craft cocktails in a modern setting with exposed brick.”

“Whether you’re plotting a low-key date or corralling the crew, Ciao nails rustic-yet-refined Tuscan comfort. Think wood-fired pizzas, legit gluten-free pizza and pasta, plus vegan-friendly options, and family-style takeout when dishes feel optional. Bonus, they’re now serving lunch, so midweek cravings have a new home.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Poke, bento bowls and ramen spot with sushi and curry dishes, plus a children's menu.”

“Southern dishes, shucked shellfish & live music draw boisterous crowds to this hip spot open late.”

“Casablanca Pizzeria and Mediterranean is the reliable Commons go-to when you want classic pies alongside shawarma, Greek salads, and the kind of wings you order twice. Expect generous portions, quick delivery, and unexpected perks like tiramisu, plus specialty pies like Chicken 'n Bacon Ranch or a feta-forward Greek.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Old Mexico Express churns out hearty burritos, crispy tacos, bowls, and quesadillas, plus sopes and tamales, with fillings like carnitas, chicken tinga, steak, chorizo, beef barbacoa, or grilled veggies. Add guac, call it dinner, and keep your weeknight sanity intact this week.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Whether you're plotting a low-key dinner or game-night fuel, Wings Over Ithaca nails crispy wings and juicy, hand-breaded tenders, tossed in 15+ signature flavors from Honey BBQ to face-melting Afterburner. Add boneless wings, wraps, sandwiches, and sides, then thank yourself tomorrow.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Straightforward pizzeria serving pies, wings, subs & pastas in a relaxed environment.”

“Relaxed restaurant serving Mediterranean plates such as lamb and falafel gyros, plus pizza and calzones.”