New York is a pretty busy place, and there are a lot of tried-and-true restaurants people enjoy. Well, we like discovering little gems — unassuming spots that may be overlooked. That’s why we put together this roundup of 11 hidden restaurants in New York. Each one shows off a part of New York State cuisine that we’re proud of, and you’ll find these places packed with locals at any given time. Their popularity, despite being hole-in-the-wall spots, is a testament to the top-notch cuisine served up in all corners of the Empire State. These hidden restaurants in New York are unassuming, but totally worth visiting.

1. Amo La Bella Restaurant, Albany
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Our list of hidden restaurants in New York begins with Amy La Bella Restaurant, a place some may not define as a true "hole-in-the-wall" restaurant, but bear with us. 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. If you prefer a quieter dining experience, come here on a night when there aren't any events happening at the TU. Learn more by visiting their website, here.
2. Brooks House of Bar-B-Q's, Oneonta
Kevin B/TripAdvisor
Kevin B/TripAdvisor
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. No wonder so many people consider Brooks to be the best BBQ in New York! Learn more by visiting their website, here.
3. Famous Lunch, Troy
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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. And Famous Lunch is one of the best. Walk inside Famous Lunch and feel right at home as you take on an awesome menu that's been a longtime local favorite. The hot dogs here are absolutely crave-worthy and some of the best you'll ever have. Learn more by visiting their website, here.
4. Adrian's Custard & Beef, Grand Island
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Looking for a unique place to grab a savory roast 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! This is crave-worthy food you'll be dreaming about after your visit. Learn more by visiting their website, here.
5. The Muscoot Tavern, Somers
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Eric Zago/TripAdvisor
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. Seafood lovers will want to try the Clams Casino - it's mouthwateringly delicious. Learn more by visiting their website, here.
6. Penn Yan Diner, Penn Yan
Penn Yan Diner/Google Local
This absolutely charming little restaurant is located inside a small dining car, giving you a truly unique dining experience. Wake up early, so you can stop in here for breakfast and make sure to get yourself some home fries! And their Friday fish fries are legendary -- crispy, salty, mouth-wateringly perfect diner fare. This is a must-visit for any New York foodie or really anyone who appreciates a good meal. Learn more by visiting their website, here.
Penn Yan Diner/Google Local
7. Gibby's Diner, Delanson
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John C/TripAdvisor
With homemade food that feels like it just came out of your Grandma's kitchen, Gibby's Diner has unforgettable dishes and a wonderful staff. And also, why is it so charming when diners serve food on newspapers? This place is charming, and has some of the very best breakfasts in New York. It's worth getting up early to check them out! Learn more by visiting their Facebook page, here.
8. Jack's Barcelona Drive-In, Westfield
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Why is it that some of the very best restaurants are so incredibly unassuming? Jack's Barcelona Drive In is the classic example of this. Right near the shores of Lake Erie, this small town restaurant can be found in Chautauqua County. The tiny little restaurant doesn't look like much on the outside, but the food inside is the absolute best you'll find in the area! The fries (pictured) are killer, and their grilled cheese sandwich is heavenly. Learn more by visiting their Facebook page, here.
9. Finally Ours Restaurant, Marcellus
Google Maps
Warren F/TripAdvisor
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! It's next-level diner fare. Learn more by visiting their website, here.
10. The Village Diner, Johnson City
Google Maps
Raymond Vagell/Google Local
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 for a homestyle breakfast. Learn more by visiting The Village Diner's website.
11. Dan's Place Two, Albany
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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. All of the burgers here are absolutely amazing, but Dan's Place Two is most known for its Emmy Bull Burger. If you've never tried this force of nature, it's a half pound of ground beef with bacon, cheese, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and a fried egg. It's an epic burger, and a crowd favorite for a reason. Learn more by visiting their Facebook page.

We love finding new-to-us places to eat. What are your favorite hidden restaurants in New York? You can nominate your favorites by filling out our form, here, and we’ll be sure to check them out and report back.

And for another total hidden gem restaurant in New York, this epic castle restaurant will absolutely blow you away!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

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Hidden Restaurants In New York

Kim Magaraci | February 18, 2021

What are the best candy shops in New York?

Parkside Candy in Buffalo is one of the oldest chocolate shops in the state, and it's been a local landmark since 1927. Another longtime favorite, Stever's Candies in Rochester, has left many kids with lifelong memories of browsing their sweet inventory. A newer spot, the ChocolatePizza Company, makes creative treats that are often given as one-of-a-kind gifts. Some of our other favorite candy shops in New York are Samuel's Sweet Shop (the most charming little shop ever!), Lil River Fudge Co. (best fudge in NY), and the Original Candy Kitchen in Williamson, who takes chocolate creations to a totally new level.

What is the oldest restaurant in New York?

If you loved our roundup of hidden restaurants in New York, you'll be delighted by the 76 House. Located in the tiny hamlet of Tappan, 76 House is the oldest restaurant in New York, and is absolutely worth a visit. This historic tavern dates back to the 1600s, and it was a popular meeting spot for early American revolutionary leaders. The food is incredible, and the restaurant is an experience. Read more about it right here!

What are the best coffee shops in New York?

New Yorkers love their coffee, and the state is full of excellent places to grab a cup of joe. When you need a cup of coffee to wake you up or warm you up, head to some of the best cafes around. Psychedelicatessen in Troy is a one-of-a-kind spot that's hippie-themed. In Syracuse, you'll find Cafe Kubal, which is an important creative space for the community. It's a great spot to stop in and work for a bit. Coffee Labs Roasters, in Tarrytown, features house-roasted beans in a pet-friendly space. Maeve’s Place is a newer coffee shop in New York, and it's wonderful. This charming coffee shop in Phoenicia, New York, has a loaded breakfast menu and a charming environment where patrons can relax. A sleek interior and unique warmth make Maeve’s Place the perfect place to enjoy a few pastries, coffee and conversation with friends. (Because us New Yorkers aren't go, go, go *all* of the time!)

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Featured Addresses
89 Beaver St, Albany, NY 12207, USA
Brooks' House of Bar-B-Q, 5560 NY-7, Oneonta, NY 13820, USA
9160 Transit Rd, East Amherst, NY 14051, USA
Famous Lunch, 111 Congress St, Troy, NY 12180, USA
2352 Grand Island Blvd, Grand Island, NY 14072, USA
Muscoot Tavern, 105 Somerstown Turnpike, Katonah, NY 10536, USA
Penn Yan Diner, 131 E Elm St, Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA
10040 Duanesburg Rd, Delanson, NY 12053, USA
8249 1st St, Westfield, NY 14787, USA
3788 W Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse, NY 13215, USA
Village Diner, 255 Floral Ave, Johnson City, NY 13790, USA
Dan's Place Two, 494 Washington Ave #1230, Albany, NY 12203, USA
23 E Main St, Babylon, NY 11702, USA
815 Oriskany Blvd, Yorkville, NY 13495, USA