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As a college student, I know how many of us are trying to stay afloat on a small budget. After days of eating from Chipotle, Panera, Five Guys, and other fast-food restaurants, you can start to get tired of the same food. If you’re not from the Utica area then you may not know that Utica is known for some of the best food in upstate NY! For example, we have foods that no other areas have such as half-moons, chicken riggies, and Utica greens. We also have some great small family-owned restaurants that serve up a great bite! Here are a few of my favorites that you should try.
- Carmella’s Cafe
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Across the street from Sangertown mall, Carmella’s is a family-owned restaurant that has been open for over 25 years. They hand-make their pasta and serve the best chicken riggies (yum!). They have all different kinds of food including chicken sandwiches, buffalo chicken salad, quesadillas, and lots more! They also offer late-night specials that are inexpensive and a great treat for a night out with friends. So if you and your friends are ever looking for some great Italian food Carmella’s is a great place to go!
 Here is a link to their menu: https://www.carmellascafe.com/menu
- Rio Grande Tex-Mex Grill
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In the heart of Washington Mills and about a 15-minute drive from campus is my absolute favorite Mexican restaurant. Tex-Mex serves a variety of amazing food everything from individual tacos to enchiladas they have it all! I enjoy their chicken quesadillas with their homemade chips and salsa, but they have something for everyone. The next time you and your friends are looking for some homemade Mexican food, try Tex-Mex! Not only are you supporting a local business, but you’ll have some amazing food too.
Here is a link to their menu:Â https://riograndetexmexgrill.com/menus/restaurant-menu-2020.pdfÂ
- Venice Pizzeria
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Just down the road from campus lies one of the best pizzerias that I have ever eaten at. Venice has been in business for the last 30 years and is known for its king-size subs. They serve up the best pizza (in my opinion) and it is reasonably priced. They also have chicken wings, tomato pie, and pasta dishes. If you need to grab a quick slice before class or after practice on a long day, I would recommend Venice. I promise you they won’t disappoint!
Here is a link to their menu:Â https://venicepizzeriacny.com/menu/Â
- Symeon’s
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Symeon’s is a unique and amazing family-owned Greek restaurant right on Commercial Drive in New Hartford. Greek food is hard to come by so I recommend trying out the food here! I always start with their delicious tzatziki dip with fresh pita bread. They have many different dishes such as Melitzana Salata, Spanakotiropita, and Calamarakia Tiganita. Don’t let the names fool you, these dishes are amazing. If you enjoy Greek food this is the place to be!
Here is a link to their menu:Â https://www.symeons.com/menu-powered-by-singleplatform-bkp/Â
- Holland Farms
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Of course, I had to include a classic Utican favorite. Also on Commercial Drive right down the road from Venice lies Holland Farms. This family-owned bakery is home to THE best tomato pie. They also have their classic half-moons as well as their chocolate fingers and other delightful pastries such as jelly buns. Holland farms have been open since 1955 and since then has handmade every pastry, doughnut, and tomato pie in their store. So if you’re ever in the need of a sweet treat or you want to try THE best tomato pie ever! Go to Holland Farms, along with many many others stand by this amazing bakery.Â
Here’s a link to their website: https://hollandfarms.com/Â
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I know that for some people it can be hard to come to college in a new city. They begin to miss their home-cooked meals and their cities signature foods. After eating way too much Chipotle and Panera while away from Utica myself, I know how hard it can be to find something good on a low budget. I hope that some people will try these amazing family-owned restaurants. You will not only be supporting these businesses during a hard time, but you will also possibly find a new food that you enjoy!