Posted in New York
May 04, 2016
15 ‘Hole In The Wall’ Restaurants In New York That Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away
We’ve all experienced it, that moment when you bring your friend to a new restaurant and suddenly they’re looking at you like you have four heads. Looking at you like they’re questioning if maybe you’ve been thrown into an alternate universe, where you’re having some sort of restaurant-style Shallow Hal moment. But no worries, we’re here to assure you that no one has gone crazy and that looks can be deceiving. Not all things in life come in pretty packages. Here are 15 ‘hole in the wall’ restaurants in New York that will completely blow your taste buds away:


This restaurant may truly be the definition of a hole in the wall, hiding amongst tiny and tight corned streets in the city of Albany. This restaurant is one you'd really have to be looking for and is not easily stumbled upon. Not far from the popular Times Union Center, this Italian restaurant will make you feel like you've possibly just stepped into your favorite 1980's film. With heart shaped mirrors and perfectly cooked Italian food, you'll enjoy everything about this place. Our suggestion? Come here on a night when there aren't any events happening at the TU.
Location: 89 Beaver Street, Albany NY 12207
Location: 89 Beaver Street, Albany NY 12207


You may feel the instinct to overlook this restaurant, but that would be a huge mistake considering that the largest indoor BBQ charcoal pit is cooking up delicious dishes inside! Recently winning a James Beard award, the restaurant has been a longtime local favorite and continues to effortlessly pump out savory plates.
Location: 5560 NY-7, Oneonta NY 13820
Location: 5560 NY-7, Oneonta NY 13820


A restaurant known for its mouth watering burgers, Grover's is an American style restaurant with generous portions. Looking to try something different? Try their cheeseburger soup...yes, soup!
Location: 9160 Transit Road, East Amherst NY 14051
Location: 9160 Transit Road, East Amherst NY 14051


Realistically, we could do an entire post featuring restaurants in Troy that don't particular look like anything special but are filled with scrumptious dishes. The city just outside of our state's capital is filled with a ton of hidden gems. Walk inside Famous Lunch and feel right at home as you take on an awesome menu that's been a longtime local favorite.
Location: 111 Congress Street, Troy NY 12180
Location: 111 Congress Street, Troy NY 12180


Looking for a unique place to grab a savory beef sandwich? Then look no further! Located on Grand Island, this restaurant will have you wishing you wore elastic sweatpants by the time you leave. Our suggestion? Follow up your tasty sandwich with an even yummier ice cream cupcake!
Location: 2335 Grand Island Boulevard, Grand Island NY 14072
Location: 2335 Grand Island Boulevard, Grand Island NY 14072


If you were driving by this restaurant you'd probably assume it was a small little ice cream shop or something of that nature, but guess again! The Muscoot is a charming tavern that you'll never want to leave. Our suggestion? Try the Clams Casino!
Location: 105 Somerstown Turnpike, Katonah NY 10536
Location: 105 Somerstown Turnpike, Katonah NY 10536


This one you may have to keep your eye out for, it can be easily missed! The well-known burger restaurant also has a variety of other great dishes on its menu, a favorite being their various empanadas.
Location: 802 Commerce Street, Thornwood NY 10594
Location: 802 Commerce Street, Thornwood NY 10594


This absolutely charming restaurant is located inside a small dining car, giving you a truly unique dining experience. Our suggestion? Stop in here for breakfast and make sure to get yourself some home fries!
Location: 131 East Elm Street, Penn Yan NY 14527
Location: 131 East Elm Street, Penn Yan NY 14527


Homemade food that feels like it just came out of your Grandma's kitchen, Gibby's Diner has unforgettable dishes and a wonderful staff. Our suggestion? Try a hot turkey sandwich!
Location: 10040 Duanesburg Road, Delanson NY 12053
Location: 10040 Duanesburg Road, Delanson NY 12053


Right near the shores of Lake Erie, this small town restaurant can be found in Chautauqua County. The small but flavorful restaurant doesn't look like much, but the food inside is the absolute best you'll find in the area!
Location: 8249 1st Street, Westfield NY 14787
Location: 8249 1st Street, Westfield NY 14787


Offering breakfast and lunch, this restaurant right in Syracuse will give you fantastic service. Our suggestion? Stop in for lunch and grab a delicious Reuben Melt!
Location: 3788 West Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse NY 13215
Location: 3788 West Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse NY 13215


Consistency is key when it comes to winning over the hearts of customers, and The Village Diner does just that! If you find yourself in the area, you won't regretting stopping in.
Location: 255 Floral Ave, Johnson City NY 13790
Location: 255 Floral Ave, Johnson City NY 13790


While many of the visitors who come to this diner prefer to show up during the late hours of the night with bellies full of adult beverages, this diner is delicious during any time of the day. Our suggestion? Try the Emmy Bull Burger!
Location: 494 Washington Avenue, Albany NY 12203
Location: 494 Washington Avenue, Albany NY 12203


Amazing comfort style food right on Long Island, this restaurant celebrated its 25th anniversary last year! A longtime favorite, this hole in the wall restaurant is a great place to stop in with your family. Our suggestion? Be sure to grab dessert before you leave!
Location: 23 East Main Street, Babylon NY 11702
Location: 23 East Main Street, Babylon NY 11702


Hand made food and real milkshakes? Say no more! If it wasn't for Voss' large milk bottle on top of their building, you may easily drive right by this tiny dining establishment! This restaurant is the perfect place to check out if you're in the area and looking to grab burgers, hotdogs and perfected shakes.
Location: Erie Street at Oriskany Boulevard, Yorkville NY 13495
Location: Erie Street at Oriskany Boulevard, Yorkville NY 13495
We love finding new places to eat. Share with us your favorite ‘hole in the wall’ restaurants in New York!