It’s important to get off campus every once in awhile and explore what the city of Syracuse has to offer. One of the most popular places for college students to grab dinner and take in the local scenery is Armory Square. We’ve put together a handful of local businesses for you to check out.
— Compiled by the Pulp staff, pulp@dailyorange.com

Sound Garden

Though it nearly closed down this summer after 16 years of business, Sound Garden bounced back and remains one of the most popular record stores in Syracuse. It’s the perfect place to snag rarities and other obscure items. It houses an eclectic mix of new and used CDs and DVDs, and new vinyl. If you have some old music, you can sell it here. You can also buy band T-shirts, posters and stickers. If you want something that isn’t in the store, Sound Garden will order it for you.

The RedHouse Arts Center

Modern theater, indie and documentary films, music and fine arts — The RedHouse has it all. After receiving a grant from the Central New York Community Foundation, The RedHouse is renovating its theater. The upcoming intimate venue will be a great way to experience concerts and films. The art displayed on location exhibits local, national and international pieces, connecting the local community to the rest of the world.

Empire Brewing Company

If you’re craving some classic bar and grill food, check out the Empire Brewing Company. Even Guy Fieri from the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” approves. On its menu are dishes like burgers, fajitas and of course, their craft beer. With a phone number like 315-475-BEER, you can only expect there to be some tasty options. Treat your parents to a nice dinner and drinks after they’ve spent several hours helping you move into the dorms.

Pastabilities

Established in 1982, Pastabilities is a staple in the Syracuse cuisine scene. The famous eatery specializes (unsurprisingly) in homemade pasta, but is just as well known for its spicy house sauce, homemade desserts and freshly baked bread from Pasta’s Daily Bread, located just across the street. The eatery was also featured on an episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” on the Food Network, which highlighted “fully focused” restaurants with “definite direction.”

Black Olive

The Black Olive Mediterranean Tavern is an authentic, cozy restaurant with plenty of cost-friendly options for the typical broke college student. Open for lunch Monday-Friday and serving dinner Tuesday-Saturday, The Black Olive has a mouthwatering menu packed with gyros, burgers, steaks and Mediterranean classics like spanakopita and falafel. The restaurant also serves an award-winning martini. Every Saturday night, this small tavern comes to life with live music from around the world — finishing off with a live belly-dancing show.

Published on August 21, 2013 at 1:58 am