Can't go wrong with this neighborhood gem. Great bar crowd. Fabulous food and staff. The old building still holds uo with its tin ceilings and beautiful woodwork. Always fun and lively. read more

Riley's - Fried oysters - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

Riley's embodiments the cozy dining experience. Every time we've gone it's felt like going over to your aunt and uncles house for a meal (maybe that's because it's nestled in a cool older house in a bustling Syracuse neighborhood). The menu is seasonal and changes regularly depending on what the chef has on hand. You can always expect a good selection of sandwiches, burgers, pasta, salads, and fresh seafood. It's delicious elevated American fare. The servers are very kind and attentive, they're patient every time I inform them of my gluten sensitivity and ask questions. I like this spot because you really can't go wrong with one of their interesting salads! I loved the grilled romaine, zucchini, and fennel salad with chicken. I also really enjoyed the roast chicken from a different dinner. My partner likes their classic burger enough to get it both times we visited. Their chocolate torte is a great gluten free dessert. Rileys is a Syracuse staple worth enjoying with family and friends. read more

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Cozy, warm, always changing seasonal menu, excellent flavors and choice ingredients, wonderful service that extends beyond the person taking the order makes us feel like we are at a family dinner with everyone helping serve the meal. The Canadian poutine was beyond anything expected, the chicken dish with blistered tomatoes turned a tomato hater who loved the flavor and the balsamic drizzle accentuated all. The specialty salad had the most delicious pickled beets which added to the red buttered lettuce added chicken, roasted peppers, honey poppyseed dressing oh my!! What's not to enjoy? Sorry it has been so long since I have been here. The only drawback is the struggle to park. Back lot would fit more with considerate parking by others. read more

Riley's - Monday night menuYum - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

I could talk about Riley's for days! We started coming here shortly after moving nearby and we have never had a bad meal. Great quality and variety of food. A pianist playing music if you're there the right time of night, and as a person who says they "don't usually get dessert or like sweet stuff", I often break that rule, as their desserts are amazing. I love that I can have a "hometown spot" that is reliable, while also feeling like they mix up the food and options to make things interesting and slightly elevated considered the "chill" environment. read more

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I used to love this place but food and menu not as good as it used to be. What happened?

Mid-week dinner, and Riley's was hopping at 6:15pm. We had thought to sit at the bar, but all the seats were taken. Instead we were seated in the dining room in a booth built back in 1933. Not so comfortable, but it had a great atmosphere. Most of the tables were full, and there were all ages there (no kids though). We had a few Guinness/Harp pints with our fresh made bread and butter pats. When our server returned, we ordered the roast pork dinner and the fish fry with an upgrade to fried zucchini instead of fries. Our orders came out in about 15 minutes, and all told, our entire time there was only 75 minutes. We had enough to take home for leftovers. A great neighborhood bar with upscale food. Don't be too shocked by the prices, the food is exceptional. read more

Riley's - Pork dinner - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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Worst service ever, lady behind the bar who was a server too was the worst ever. Not a good selection of food either. Kindness isn't a hard concept. Don't work in the service industry if you want to be mean! Love you read more

It's been awhile since I've eaten here and I always liked it so I was anxious to go again. They don't take reservations for parties under 5 but the 2 of us got there at 4:30 and were promptly seated. The kitchen opens at 5:00 so we ordered a drink (old fashioned for me, wine for my friend) and just before 5:00 waitress came over and took our order. The menu is fun to read and all hand written. I choose the turkey dinner and my friend the chicken breast. Mine was delicious and she loved hers. The turkey breast was so moist with dressing, mashed potatoes, cranberries, and grilled vegetables. For desert I got the apple blueberry pie and my friend the carrot cake. The pie was the star of the show!!! Great crust and cooked to perfection. It was a great dinner and I will be back. The inside is small but cozy and the service is excellent!! read more

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Great service and a nice cozy ambiance. Everything is homemade and the menu changes daily with some staples sticking around. I was able to visit and try the bison balls which was a new experience for me and they didn't taste bad. They were able to accommodate a special request as well. Definitely a great spot in the Syracuse area. It fills up fast and there is mostly just street parking. read more

Riley's - bison balls - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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The food was so salty! I ordered a lobster roll, and I'm not even sure it was lobster, it was all so soggy and the food just wasn't good. The server was very kind and funny, and was quick for everything. This is just a little dive place and the interior reflects that. read more

We went for return visit. Food is outstanding, I had the rib-eye and husband had lamb. Our food was meticulously prepared. Delicious. Arrived at 4 so we wouldn't have to deal with crowds. They start serving meals at 4:30 so had an excellent drink prior to dinner at the really nostalgic bar. I use to live on Oak Street so really takes me back to days gone by. The atmosphere is warm and cozy, perfect for dinner on a cold winter night read more

Riley's - Pre-dinner drinks - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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This place is literally a neighborhood bar, you're driving in a neighborhood and bam! Here's a restaurant/bar. We went on Friday night and the place was slammin', the vibe is like going to Cheers you can tell this place is a family. The food was so fresh and delicious. I couldn't get over how good the prices are, let alone the portion sizes. The fish was the size of my arm. The sweet potato fries were thick and the perfect fried texture, I can never achieve this at home and rarely do I eat them cooked this perfectly. I'm guessing the Caesar dressing is made fresh too it was intense but great! The rice pilaf and asparagus also perfect in the texture department. We ordered way too much but was so happy to try so many things. The Parmesan they use on the Caesar was so good I wanted to just pour it In my mouth too ha. The poblano with queso and veggies was a yummy cheesy start to our meal. Regret not coming more often over the years this place is very special!! read more

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Food and service truly earn a five (5) star review. Special about Riley's, they have a new menu everyday. read more

Food was spot on. Service spot on. Ambiance was awesome. Great food. Waitresses are very friendly and knowledgeable. Bar staff was very friendly. Would definitely recommend this to anybody. read more

We arrived at Riley's after a boat tour of St. Lawrence River and Singer Castle. The food was excellent. I had the salmon with mashed potatoes, which was perfectly cooked. My husband had a rib eye steak and french fries & said the steak was excellent. We also shared an appetizer of fish nuggets- small portion for $12. It was good though. The service was great too. The restaurant was noisy, but not so we couldn't hold a conversation. read more

12/11/21 Dinner last night with family. The Lamb Chops weren't on the menu. 3 of of us decided to have the Lamb chops. My sides - mashed and green beans. The lamb was good but a little beyond medium rare but still good. 1 Grilled Romaine salad with chicken very good. 1 Wild sockeye salmon very good. 1 Grilled Atlantic Sword Fish very good. Starters - Bay scallops and Walleye fingers both were very good. other choices Italian seafood chowder Good selection of beer. Wine - the Norton 2017 Reserva Melbec was excellent! Dessert - The Cinnamon walnut pie was good. The Chocolate almond tort? or whatever it was called was excellent! Service was excellent as usual! read more

Perfect. Everyone should go here. Fish and chips were great. Staff was amazing. There were several gentlemen who sat and played the piano and it was awesome. I want this to become a weekly staple in my life. read more

More than three decades old, Terry Riley's restaurant is well-known by both the older and younger crowds. Riley's plays the part of the neighborhood bar exceedingly well, with a crowded front room, free munchies and servers who can make anyone feel welcome. The ever-changing menu, hand-written each day, is a testament to a kitchen that prizes fresh ideas and fresh ingredients. One side of Riley's menu features standing items such as burgers, sandwiches and omelettes. The other, which is posted on the restaurant's Facebook page each day, details the dishes unique to that day. You'll find soup, salad and appetizer choices along with about 10 main dishes. I'd heard of Riley's for a long time. Lots of good reviews. Just kept waiting to go. This past weekend, I was going to a movie with some friends and we all wanted lunch beforehand. Seeing as Rileys was close to the mall, I figured this was the time. Walking in, it's a sight to see. Dark, rich wood everywhere, low light. A bar on one side, with tables and an open kitchen on the other. You can tell Rileys has its quirky side, with cowboy doors in the entrance of the men's room. We were sat immediately. Our server was nice, answering any questions we had. We looked over the daily menu options. Lots of seafood options. We all got something different. I chose a daily special of sliced flank steak with mashed potatoes and veggies. My wife went for a haddock sandwich, and our three friends got a turkey reuben, a burger, and an open face steak sandwich, respectively. Everyone agreed that everything was delicious. Perfectly cooked and seasoned. We all went for a slice of their raspberry pie afterwards and all loved it. You can tell every little part of it is freshly made there. Light, flaky crust, homemade whipped cream, and real raspberries inside, not canned fruit full of gel. Everything was decently priced and comparable to other places. It's a place we'll definitely go again and I'd recommend it to anyone. read more

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Fantastic food! Great service! The menu changes daily with dishes no other restaurants offer. I've been going there for years and never been disappointed. read more

Check out this turkey sandwich on rye! Great place, excellent staff. Parking can bee a challenge but so worth it. Try the white chocolate mousse if available. read more

Riley's - Turkey on rye! - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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Riley's is great. A little bit of a dodgy neighborhood, but immediately around the restaurant is fine. The food and ambiance is fantastic, and they probably do the best fish starch veg style meal in Syracuse (which is saying something). They rotate the menu which is great, always something new to try. Service is very good too, very friendly and attentive. It might be our favorite spot in town. Definitely recommend read more

There are only a few local places that stand the test of time here, and this is one of the best. Always friendly people, in staff and customers, great foods across the menu, and fair prices. Riley's is a must stop if you visiting Syracuse and looking for a local hang. You won't be disappointed. read more

I've been eating at Riley's for decades. My husband and I went for dinner tonight and thoroughly enjoyed the food (pork loin for me and steak for him), but what we remarked on most was the friendly staff and a dining room quiet enough for conversation. This is a neighborhood gem. And oh, the broiled tomato was my favorite part of the meal - fresh ingredients prepared well, that's the way to do it. read more

The food and atmosphere was great! I had a very hard time deciding what to get, as everything sounded amazing! My only issue was that it was my lunch break, and my burger took an exceptionally long time to come out. Though the bartender made it right without my having to even mention it. I would say that the great customer service negated any hard feelings I had about the speed of my food coming out. read more

Riley's - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

Wonderful birthday dinner! Riley's never disappoints. Wonderful setting, great food, impeccable service. A Syracuse gem! read more

Riley's - Live music! - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

Bartender was too busy talking to friends to care to offer us menus. Not good service.

A Syracuse classic and a local culinary leader! Stepping inside Riley's is like stepping into the 1920s. The low-lit bar and intimate dining room have the air of a speakeasy. The restaurant's interior trim is a lush, dark wood, adorned with vintage decor. The hush atmosphere only adds to the feeling that this is your's and your fellow-diner's little secret. Sometimes, you might just be lucky enough to see Mr. Riley himself playing old jazz standards on the upright piano. Riley's kitchen wields a culinary prowess with few local peers. Fresh, often locally-sourced, ingredients fuel a daily rotating menu of specialty items worthy of Michelin Star-acclaim (in my humble opinion). Their seafood purchaser deserves a star himself. Despite Syracuse's landlocked location, Riley's always seems to have pier-fresh fish and shellfish on hand. That's why it's an effort for me to try something new, besides their famously delicious fish and chips. If you're not into sea fare, their fixed menu offers up generous burgers, served on locally-baked buns, with a side of the meatiest, tastiest Irish fries you've ever had. The wait staff is attentive, and friendly. The prices offer a broad range. In conclusion: this is one of Syracuse's best date night spots, especially if you're looking to show your date that you're hip to the Salt City's hot secrets. The food commands a visit from any Syracusan, and the rotating menu makes a repeat visit a new experience. Pro-tip: mind your Fridays. They don't do fries or burgers, and focus on the fish... very delicious fish. read more

Cool neighborhood Irish pub in a neighborhood of Syracuse where it doesn't seem like much else is going on. This is a hoppin' Irish bar with a claim to fame of an ever-changing menu. Indeed, on Friday there was a print out with a very special focus on seafood. Everything from lobster rolls to fried fish to broiled fish and everything in between. I chose the "platter" of broiled haddock with a side of asparagus and roasted potatoes cutlets. The fish was served with a delicious housemade tartar sauce on the side and was quite delicious, if even a tad undercooked (but this is A-OK by me, as long as the fish is high quality). Flavor didn't come through much up until I started using the tartar sauce, which was lemony and delicious. Very reasonable with a bill under $40 for two people, although there are definitely pricier items on the menu. Service was great throughout and the darker ambiance is quite cool and has a "old Syracuse" feel. read more

We stopped here after dropping off our dog to get groomed next door (great place by the way). It was Saturday early in the afternoon and it was quiet. We were seated right away. Written menu is changed twice a day. I thought it was different but cool. The menu was huge and had great selections. I ordered the tomato soup with homemade croutons. My husband ordered the Humpty Landings which consisted of fried eggs, salami, red roasted peppers, etc. Bread was brought to table with butter. The bread was crusty and soft in the middle. Food came out quick and everything was excellent. We, of course love the Irish fries. We liked the decor and the atmosphere of the place, very nice and homey. We took home a slice of Raspberry pie with enough whipped cream. Yum! Service was outstanding. We will be back to try other things from the interesting menu. read more

Riley's - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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Do yourself a favor and go here. It's a hidden treasure on the Syracuse's Northside. Don't let the neighborhood be the deciding factor. Once you step inside prepare for homemade bread, terrific specials and sweet delectable desserts (seriously if you don't get a dessert you made a huge mistake). The prices are a little above average but it worth it 110%. Another reason I love to support is because Riley's has been around for a very long time. Very special to Syracuse and I love to support local businesses who deliver great service and meals to my hometown. I have had the baby back ribs with cauliflower and sweet potato fries, and the chicken sandwich with homemade Irish chips. Plate licked clean both visits. read more

Riley's - Dessert: Chocolate chip cheese cake and cherry pie. - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

I really despise having to write negative reviews because I want to see businesses thrive. I can only hope that my criticism is seen as constructive so the restaurant can improve. I'd heard so many great things about this place from family and friends. I was excited to be invited on a date to check it out for myself. Unfortunately, this was not a great experience as Id anticipated. I initially sat at the bar waiting for my date. It wasn't too busy and the bartender was available to take my order. Having been a bartender in my former life, I try to see for myself what's on tap and in the cooler/listed on the wall before I just ask, "what do you have for beer?" As I was looking around, I caught the bartender just looking at me. She had an annoyed look on her face and said with an irritated tone, "you ready?" I was taken aback by her attitude, especially because Id yet to initiate contact other than a friendly hello when I sat down. I wasn't keeping her from helping anyone else, nor had I taken more than a 2-minute pause to look around. I ordered one of the drafts, promptly received it and she walked away. I noticed she was much more friendly with her regulars, but that's not a big deal. The establishment itself has a kitsch decor and I really liked the dark wood. My friend arrived and we were seated in a nice booth near the kitchen. They have an open view so you can see the chefs at work. Our server was very friendly and helpful. We ordered the fried calamari as a starter, he ordered the lobster roll special and I ordered the fish and chips. I don't know if they just wanted to make sure our order came out quickly or not, but the calamari literally was out down in front of us in less than 5 minutes. Unfortunately, the crumb of the batter was barely golden/fried and it was bland. Even my date who raves about this place was disappointed. My haddock was also breaded in a bland seasoning, but was properly fried. His lobster roll was delicious and I regretted not also ordering it. He also remarked my fish was bland. We didn't order dessert, but I'd like to go back and try them as I've heard they're amazing. I'm always willing to give a place a second chance. I hope next time is better and I'll update my review either way. read more

Great little hole in the wall to stop and grab a bite to eat. It is in an unsuspecting neighborhood. Certainly an attest to the mantra "if you build it, they will come". Definitely wish I could have had a beer with lunch, but had to skip it due to work. Heard this place had a good beer selection as well. read more

Riley's - Haddock Sandwich on Fridays. Great tasting fish on a soft roll. Definitely have good breading. - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

Great service & good food. I had the beer battered fried haddock with salt potatoes and sautéed broccoli. This was a well executed, really great, piece of fresh fish. For dessert, I tried the walnut amaretto pie served with whipped cream, both home made. These treats were not overly sweet and delicate in flavor. I will definitely go back to this restaurant. The meal was great but my sweet tooth is specially looking forward to trying the other home made desserts they offer. read more

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There is something about Riley's that makes me super nostalgic. We have been coming here for years and every time we have never been disappointed. I absolutely love their changing menu. It really keeps things fresh. This is coming from a guy that is pretty darn picky and loves to have things the same at all of his favorite restaurants. It almost forces me out of my shell a bit and to be bold. I love that! If its not delicious food you are after, then you absolutely must give in to your desires and have some of their delicious desserts! The pies are some of the best I've had. From amazing service to their perfect atmosphere, I will be coming here for years to come. It can definitely get kind of busy, so make sure you prep yourself for a little bit of a wait if you coming during peak hours! read more

Get the Knickerbocker. This is one incredible sandwich. It was big enough that two of us nibbled on it and were full. It comes with a generous portion of Irish fries too. The decor on this place is amazing. It has a tin ceiling, tin walls, and awesome wood bar. Its places with character like this that make me miss Syracuse so much. Unfortunately, I'm stuck in cookie cutter chain land in Sacramento. Next time I'm in town, I'll be back for the Knickerbocker and the yummy Irish fries! read more

Riley's - The Knickerbocker sandwich an Irish Fries. 4 of us split this and still barely finished it. - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

Mushroom ravioli w meatball, fried zooks, great hamburger with Irish fries! And to top it off it's October - so the annual Testicle Festival was on - Everyone was having a ball, or two. read more

Riley's - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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The food is delicious, the atmosphere is charming and the staff is outstanding always making you feel welcome.

Came here hearing rave reviews of the place. Location- neighborhood pub/restaurant Decor- was confused as to how to get to hostess stand. It is past the bar in the middle of the two rooms. Cute dining area with old photos. Happened to snag a booth by the door. Food- shared a steak dish and a scallop dish with my friend. Both pretty tasty and colorful. Service-our waiter very friendly and attentive. Cons parking..... Arrived maybe about 30 minutes before 6 when the sides for street parking.... Menu - photocopies of someone's handwritten menu. It's cool that the menu changes but the writing could be a little bit more legible. But small price to pay for good food. All in all... Good food and great atmosphere to be had in the place. Cute little spot for a date for that someone special or if you're trying to impress.... read more

Riley's - Scallops with green beans and mashed sweet potatoes - Bars Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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Riley's. You know it's a great place when your parents would bring you here. You know it's a special place when you're grown up and it's still the same amazing experience. Tip #1: like them on Facebook. Instead of scrolling through crap posts from your barely friends, you get a rare post you're truly happy to see, the special lunch and dinner menu of the day. Don't get me wrong, there's a standard menu for all your favorites, but seriously the attention to fresh daily specials is very difficult to rival in Syracuse. This bar/ restaurant is one of the coziest, down to earth, old school places that we are lucky to still have in this area. I could go through the specifics but to save time everything is great. Come, put your phone away, be nice, tip well and you'll be back. read more

Best restaurant I've eaten at in Syracuse. Good service, good food, good atmosphere. The house red was great. We also ordered the baked trout, fried calamari, fried zucchini, and a salad which were all mouth-watering. Can't wait to come back!! read more