Benjamin's on Franklin

This place has really gone downhill, bad. I won’t be coming back. Please explain why there’s only one bathroom for men and women — on a busy Friday night there were over 50 women waiting in line! You’re losing business when people can’t easily access a bathroom and end up not wanting to buy more drinks. On top of that, it takes 20+ minutes just to get the bartender’s attention, only to be served an overpriced, watered down drink with barely any alcohol by someone who acts like they’re doing you a favor. Like be so for real. And who thought it was a good idea to keep the patio doors open when it’s 40 degrees outside? The cold air and cigarette smoke drifting into the dance floor make it unbearable to be in that area. Like do better, I used to genuinely enjoy coming here, but not anymore.

Benjamin's on Franklin: A Night to Remember Benjamin's on Franklin in Syracuse is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun night out. The atmosphere is electric, thanks in large part to the talented DJ Gweedo. His music selection was on point, and he kept the dance floor packed all night. The bar offers a wide variety of drinks to suit any taste, and the prices are reasonable. Whether you prefer cocktails, beer, or wine, you're sure to find something you'll enjoy. If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, head outside to the fire pit. It's a great place to socialize and enjoy the cool night air. There's also an outdoor bar where you can grab a drink without having to leave the fire pit. Overall, Benjamin's is a fantastic spot for a night out in Syracuse. The music, the drinks, and the atmosphere are all top-notch. I highly recommend it!

Was going inside and the gentleman at the door told us don’t stand in the doorway. So unfortunately would’ve loved to see how the place was.

My partner wasn’t allowed in with a plain white t-shirt despite seeing 3+ other men with plain white shirts on. We were told months ago we could smoke in the courtyard but apparently the rules changed and the employees don’t have the manners or patience to tell customers. A security guard yanked my blunt from my hands from behind, making the cherry (actively burning end) fall onto my bare skin and go down my dress, burning me. No apology, he just yelled we could get banned and ran away before I could see his face or say something. It was rude, cowardly, and the vibes are trying to be upscale but in reality it is just arrogant. It’s Syracuse. get over yourselves. We also lost important cards the first time we went and never heard back from the club after reaching out to find them. This was our second and last time coming, it’s not a fun place for young people.

Cute bar with outside seating as well as a separate dance floor area. We had a good time here the bartenders were nice and made delicious drinks, prices were decent. The 2 djs we saw had a very good mix of music compared to other dance clubs in the area who just play dubstep. The dance floor had good vibes people of all ages coming to dance and have fun together it was definitely an uplifting and free of criticism vibe good for a night out

My friend came who was half black, with a silky on was not allowed entry due to a “ dress Code “ but the bouncer was letting white men in with baseball caps on. This brought up the fact that I found this racist and was not allowed entry myself, Due to bringing up this concern. I personally would never give this place my businesses ever again because of the blatant prejudice since their excuse was that “ headdresses” affect the camera view of people’s faces. How is a base ball cap okay but a hijab or “ durag” is not when a baseball cap blatantly blocks a persons face. This is openly racist and I am not okay with it. I will never give Benjamin’s on Fabian my money as a white woman ever again. I’m a Simply disgusted with their racist and precipice regulations.

This place is always a good time. Whether it is DJ Skeet or my favorite, DJ Mike, this place is always fantastic. The staff is incredible. We have been going enough that we know most of them pretty well now. The bouncers are super professional and take care of issues very quickly. I have seen them be verbally abused, and they just smile and take it. They don't have ridiculous egos like some of the bouncers from other bars and clubs close by. I would 100% recommend stopping by this place if you are out and want to have fun!

A great vibe in the heart of downtown Syracuse! Exterior lounging area, dance floor, great drinks, and friendly staff. Just make sure you know the dress code!

After a night out downtown my friend started to feel sick so as we were passing Benjis we stopped in to grab a water at 1. The first security guard checked our IDs and we went inside. I walked past the booth but my friend got stopped. After a minute at the bar, the guy at the booth found me and told me I had to come back. I said I just needed a water for my friend and I would leave. He said I had to pay $15 or leave. Very rude, would not recommend. I've been here before and wasn't great. Over priced and bad service

Fun dance club and great outdoor terrace in the summer time. Despite having security and a cover charge the crowd can be the worst part of the experience. People don't usually come through until 10:30 or 11. Go in earlier to avoid cover. Pretty strict on dress code. But if someone I knew wanted to go to a club I would recommend Benjamin's

Great place with nice indoor and outdoor space...and great music! I brought my girlfriends out for a girls night out and the staff was very nice and made the place sonnuch more fun!

We came here after an event downtown and were greeted by a lovely barkeep m. Though it was early in the evening Abe very quiet, they were welcoming and kind. We grabbed a couple of drinks and went out to the patio where they proceeded to light some fire pits and play music. We stayed for one more round, while it was nice and quiet before deciding to head home for the night. A great vibe for an early evening and an even better nightlife vibe I am sure

If you want to have a fun time and like to get out on the dance floor then this place is for you. Come early or there will be a line. I was at a private party so we were all good. Only thing they need to improve are the bartenders. Not really friendly at all. Here's your drink and take care. Still come check them out.

My goodness. Horrible Service. Horrible bartenders. Staff was not inviting. Rude bouncers from front to back. Incompetent FOH staff. Rude mannerisms. Could not wish for any thing worst for a business. Nightmare fuel

This is the trashiest club I've been to first of all it's expensive and the interior inside isn't that great....they play shitty musice and the drinks suck...oh also I almost got jumped by two ugly girls wanting to fight me over a cab that my boyfriend had waved down. Overall this place sucks...the bartender sucks.. the staff sucks and the people suck...if you love going to ghetto clubs that take your money and play boring ass music go here

Yo ya be playing some shitty music Fr Like why do you think it's a good idea to put sean Kingston. Giving me very much middle school dance vibes

Would give 0 stars if I could. Bouncers are constantly on a power trip. Super homophobic and don't let you in if you aren't dressed according to gender stereotypes. Lots of men get turned away for dressing too "girly." Also the DJ is so bad it physically made me cringe. There's a cover, so save yourself the money, and just DON'T GO

Bouncer at the door was really really rude. Her really man handled a 5'3 girl which isn't the right way of treating a customer at the door regardless of the situation. It made me really uncomfortable in line, if i was her I'd hire a lawyer.

This place is a joke and honestly doesn't even deserve one star. I told the bartender I wanted white claw after being ignored I didn't even get a chance to ask what flavors there are before she opens it and hands it to me. 0/10 do not recommend and will not be back

I don't normally give one-star to a place, but this was an exceptionally bad experience, so here we go: There's this little guy who's a bouncer there, and he's pretty ruthless to everyone he deems better than him. I'm not even kidding. I overheard him tell another bouncer, "He thinks he can get away with coming back in because he's taller than me and brought girls" (about my friend) after he wouldn't let him back into the club after he already paid the 10 dollar cover fee and got stamped on his wrist. When I had gone out to check on him because he wasn't answering his phone and I was worried about him, the bouncers wouldn't let me in either when I tried going back. Their vibe was immediately hostile and aggressive for no real reason. My phone was dead and at that point, all I wanted to do was contact my friends, so we could all leave. When I explained to the little guy that I just wanted to get my friends, he told me, "Sounds like it's all your fault. You're not getting back in." He also tapped me sharply on my chest with his fingers while two bigger guys next to him stood there looking uncomfortable as all hell. The little bouncer guy also has bored cops on standby who are just waiting around in their cars, and he brings them over after insulting people to get people off his back. This guy tapped me on the chest multiple times trying to be a tough guy, and then he called over three police officers before I could even say anything. The music is pretty bad too, so there's that. Wouldn't go unless you want your money taken from you and to be left out on the street. These guys get off on being rude and unpleasant. Don't say I didn't warn ya.

Been here a couple times. During the summer months, this place can be pretty fun and packed. There's a nice outdoor patio and a separate dance floor. This place has a lot potential to be a nice and trendy place, but all the drunk 18 year old who come in after 10pm on the weekends. I think they also charge a cover fee after a certain time at night. There's happy hour 5-9 with some discounts on drinks. There's also a secret word or phrase of the night that gets you something too. I forget what it is. But if you ask one of the bartenders they might tell you...hahaha. The drinks here are okay. And the service is alright too. We were there tonight -- a Friday night. We were the only ones in the bar from 8-10. Literally so dead. Maybe cause it was rainy outside. Who knows. Anyway. I'd come here again if I were taking people on a summer night. But probably not any other night.

The best club scene you're gonna get in Syracuse. It's actually pretty nice inside. There's always a cover fee. The bouncers here suck and take their job way too seriously for Syracuse. The music here seems to vary in quality depending on the night. I guess they rotate djs. I've had some great nights in here, and I've had some very sub-par ones. Saturday is definitely the best time to come.

Place starts cover at 11PM! But I'm just saying if you wanna get in for free... Nice outside patio area if you need to cool off. Definitely the spot to be with a group of friends for some fun

Not a bad place to go on a night out in Syracuse! My boyfriend took me here and we met up with his friends.I don't remember if there was a cover charge. There's a two bars, one located inside and there's also a patio with a separate bar there.There's a dance floor playing top 40 music. It's not bad. My man bought me a midori sour and if I remember correctly I believe I also got an AMF. The drinks weren't bad. The patio outside has a few tables if you just want to drink and talk. We stayed here for a couple of hours, the place is chill and I had fun :) It kind of reminded me of PB Bar & Grill in San Diego if any of you have ever been there LOL I know it's on the other side of the map ha ha As far as parking goes, we just parked in a garage a street away. It's easier that way so you don't have to find street parking.

I always have a good time here. It is only of the only places in Syracuse with a good DJ on a Saturday night that places good dance music. The atmosphere is friendly, they have a huge outdoor area with a fire pit. The drinks are affordable at about $5 each and cover on a Saturday night is only $5. It is 21 and older so no kids to deal with and it is mostly full of college students going out on the weekend. It is a good time. Make sure you visit their website. There is a dress code. Nothing fancy but they don't like caps, sweat pants and stuff like that.

The bouncer was homophobic and would not let me in based on me outfit. Was with two girls, who where my best friends, would not let be me in with them because I was gay. VERY disappointed with this bar. You should be an inclusive and very accepting bar yet was not. Upsetting and should be shut down. Even before this, was not a fan of how republican and offensive this club is. Should be shut down because of how okay it is with homophobia. Do better Syracuse. I expect more. Thank god I live in NYC. Disgusting. You should be shut down. Close this place down for a better dance club in cuse already.

5 stars for the following: -reasonably priced drinks ($5 for a beer) -attentive bar staff -existence of backyard -bonfire pits in the backyard -dj and strobe lights

Decided to go here for drinks. This is a great find. It was quiet for a Friday night but might have to do with being a holiday weekend. They have a great draft selection and a really nice courtyard. The only drawback is that they do not serve any food. We did ask the bartender if you could bring in takeout from elsewhere and he said that you could. This place is definitely worth checking out. The courtyard is a great place to chill out!

Would b better if they played the band maneskin. Doesn't take music requests. But cheap drinks. Posting this while I'm here.

Update: we went here after a sassy attitude ridden Facebook message relayed the dress code to us. We took special care not to bring large bags or wear things that were prohibited (like flat brim hats and wallet chains). Upon arriving at the bar we realized that there really is no dress code and multiple young men in front of us were admitted wearing hats and tank tops after we had mad a special trip home to change our clothes. The drinks were pretty good, I'm not super picky and just asked the bartender to create their own drink and I ended up really liking it. THE DJ ON THE OTHER HAND....should be publicly humiliated for their performance. He was cutting songs left and right, backspinning the track when he didn't know how else to make a transition, and screaming into his microphone so often that we couldn't even enjoy the song. I don't know how I'm supposed to dance and have a good time when I'm being screamed at. Whatever. Overpriced, overhyped, overcrowded. What else can you expect.

Went out with a group of friends and sometimes we do end up going to Benjamin's. I don't mind it because I love dancing and shaking a tail feather for sure. I'm not for the high prices of the drinks, the guy they have standing in the bathroom looking to make tips, and sometimes the crowd they bring in but it is downtown Syracuse. I understand having a cover to pay the dj thats fine, and i do enjoy there outside patio with the fire pit and bar when it's warmer out. Still a nice fun place though.

This is the grossest bar I have been in Went to ladies room stocking and underwear on floor. Some one threw up in a stall I waited for next one to open up man came in and said birch we are going home. Was impressed though by front door person who made people go to back of line and security made people move out of doorways

The worst bar I've ever been to. Sometimes a bartender is busy, sometimes they dont see you but at Benjamin's On Franklin they will literally ignore you. Also there is cover. So save your time, save your money and go anywhere else.

Twice have I and people I know been to Benji's and have been subject to racial abuse, unprovoked and uncalled for, the first time it was mild the second time around we were asked to leave by patrons visiting Benjamin's, and since we are not from around here we left to avoid any conflict. It's sad and unfortunate.

I've been coming to Benjamin's intermittently for the past 5 years. Overall, I found my experience there fairly enjoyable. Unfortunately, that has recently changed. On 05SEP21 I went to Benjamin's on Franklin with my girlfriend. Once inside the bar, she was seen placing my hat inside her purse. Immediately, a bouncer- with a combover high skin fade, Joey Fatone facial hair, and the build of a man with muscular dystrophy berated her and kicked her out of the bar. Her crime? Brandishing a baseball cap. Realistically, this was all a part of the Benjamin's racket to charge $10 for "checking hats"- an utterly bizarre concept. She was forced to re-enter the line, where she waited another 15 minutes to get back inside. Once inside, a second bouncer chased her down and re-inspected her purse. When I asked this individual why he was checking her handbag so thoroughly, his only reply was "we KNOW she has a hat on her!" In my opinion Benjamin's on Franklin reinforces patriarchal norms and denies women basic human rights with their tyrannical treatment. Also, your bouncers are dressed like extras in a John wick film that are killed within 6 seconds of screen time.

Never been to a more disgusting place... they treat customers horribly. I tried to give them the benefit of the doubt and thought maybe just one of their workers had a bad attitude, but unfortunately this is common behavior among the staff. We had a group of 20 people for a friends birthday, consisting of doctors and lawyers. I am beyond embarrassed to have attended this establishment. Pure trash. I am shocked this place is still open.

Disgusting bouncers. People getting tossed aggressively for no reason. Place needs to get with the times and treat people with respect.

Dressed to the 9. It was my birthday and we drove over an hour to dance here because they usually have good DJs. But policy states that they couldn't let me in because I wasn't wearing jeans. I was wearing a very stylish outfit perfectly appropriate for any club. But they turned us away because I didn't meet the dress code. But I guess it's alright, last time I was here I'm pretty sure they jacked up my bill. Got 6 drinks and my bill was over $100. Explain that. Very disappointed. Won't be back.

This was my first visit to Benjamin's, though I've heard a lot about this place for the past year that I've lived in the area. When we arrived (myself and three other women), there was a line waiting to get in, and of course, one of the bouncers made people wait longer when their "bros" showed up. I thought that only happened with young, hot girls in scantily clad skirts....but not in Syracuse! Lol. Inside, there was a $10 cover charge, which...again....it's Syracuse, so I was again shocked. It seemed to be busy and the place to be, as there is a large dance area, bar and other areas, but unless you're there to dance, to me, it seems like an overpriced venue. Not sure I'll give it a go again with the drink prices and cover charge, as I could go to Limericks or Al's down the way and pay far less, while not dealing with lines and excess bodies.

I am from KY definitely 29 years old and they wouldn't accept my ID. I Showed them my passport and they still would not accept my ID. I don't know if they were being racist or not but it was not acceptable.

I love this place. The weather can make it hit or miss, but most of the time it's awesome. There is a bar section, and a dance floor with a DJ. Always great music and a great atmosphere. There are couches in the back of you just want to lounge. In the summer they open up the patio and have space heaters which is awesome. The bar tenders are extremely friendly, and absolutely incredible to military. The owner is usually there and is an incredible guy. Anytime I'm staying in Syracuse, I'm going to B on Franks!

Hands down the best club in Syracuse to let loose!! Every Friday and Saturday night, the music is off the chain and the patio is an experience filled with ambience unlike any other, the most comfortable furniture in any bar I've been to in Syracuse. Every Sunday morning leaving Benjamin's I impatiently anticipate the next coming Friday for the few hours of the blissful sublime. Not to mention the alacrity with which bartenders maneuver through the abundance of customers on any given weekend. Overall, a must for any visitor or townie:)

On a night of bar hopping, a friend and I noticed 2 separate bachelorette parties in line to get into Benjamin's. We figured this means that the inside must be a good time. We waited in line on a Saturday night for only 3-5 minutes, and got in with a $7 cover charge. The place was packed. I'm only 5'0 so fighting my way to the front of the bar for a drink was a battle. My defeated facial expression probably caught one of the bartenders attention. Corona & lime were $5, not bad. It was loud, muggy, sweaty. A windowed wall separates the bar area from the dance floor. Lights, disco ball, Justin Bieber remix, the whole shebang. Demographic was mixed, 20-something's through 40-something's. A fun, lively crowd that didn't stop dancing until the lights came on at 2. A place to come and take shots. I can't speak on the food. Giving 4 stars because it wasn't my type of environment... but I'll probably be back.

Best dance club in town. Sometimes bad dj's who don't know how to change a song without interrupting the beat but most of the time very good.

The club is totally amazing. But the "dress code" doesn't seem to apply to everyone.Dont know why. But it's really unprofessional. Either the rules apply to everyone or no one.

I hosted my wedding pre-party here on a Friday night in August and it was fantastic. We had the whole patio of with the giant fire pit to ourselves. The staff was great about catering to our party and taking care of the open bar. I was thrilled with how everything turned out and all our guests had a great time. As the night went on, the venue got busier and our party was mingled with other patrons so that party got bumpin. We went out on the dance floor and had a blast. I would definitely be back.

Would not let me into the venue because I was wearing camo khakis, a shirt, and tie. Said "due to dress code." Only bar in Syracuse that charges a cover. Conceited bouncers and employees. Really a shame.

I went here for New Year's Eve, and it was a really good time. Good drinks, great music, cool atmosphere. But I discovered from my boyfriend that the men's restroom had bathroom attendant, and meanwhile the women's restroom was disgusting. The sinks were clogged and the floors were filthy. This seems incredibly sexist, to say the least.

My wife and I went to this bar the other night and experienced what it appears many other people have experienced here. A bar marketed towards "patriots" with fairly overt symbolism of white nationalists (Don't Tread on Me posters, early colonial slave-era flags, etc.). We were sitting at the bar, minding our own business, when a group of people started giving us dirty looks. We are an interracial couple, and that seemed to be the only explanation for their reaction to our presence. My wife tried to ask them what the problem was, and even offered to buy them a drink, and all they kept saying was "you just need to stay away." Employees of the bar noticed what was going on, and the manager, a 50-something man with a pony tail came over and would not address any of my wife's concerns, and repeated that we should just stay away. It was very surprising to me to see that kind of subtle racism is not only tolerated, but seemingly condoned by the staff. It definitely left a bad taste in my mouth, really hurt my wife, and we will never be returning again. It was unsettling and reflects how our society is letting certain hurtful ideas and behaviors flourish. We have never been treated this way, and judging by a few of the reviews on this site, it seems to be a recurring problem.

So myself and my friends were here the other night, having a great time till some people who had obviously drank to much got out of control. I can't say enough about the bouncer, he was respectful but stern and removed them promptly, they tried to fight and scream but he was very professional. Chris and I talked later and he said "these things happen" but nothing disparaging about those he removed. Nice to know there are still safe places in this town , and when things get out of control it is taken care of.

Ryan was the greatest mixologist I've ever met! He recommended the best drink I was looking for and really took care of me and my friends. Thank you Ryan

One star for being culturally unaware and insensitive. They have a "no head gear policy" and harassed a friend of mine over his head wrap. He is Sikh! Prefer to go places that don't have discriminatory practices. The bouncer is rude and demeaning to customers. The bar service inside is great but will not be going here again after that incident.

Great place to relax and party. The door man was cool and funny while we waited in line . Great place to drink

Awesome DJ, Awesome bartenders... but I honestly will call this one that I give it about two years before this place closes down. Just read other reviews on other websites of how rude and pushy the bouncers are it's going to be the down fall of this establishment because of some certain bouncers lol a lawsuit if there is not one yet heading their way because they like to place their hands on a woman :).

Best night club in Syracuse downtown. It's a considerably big place. It has a bar and dance floor where the DJ spins. On the whole, this place is fun.

Left people sitting out in the rain to make their bar more valuable. Worthless. I said why are we standing out in the rain, guess you don't want my money and the bouncer says, we don't want your money lol. Clearly you don't as we went to Empire, a much much better establishment. Place was packed and they still got us in instantly.

I love this place. Especially the bouncer PBT. He always make me feel like I'm in a safe place. Any time I've seen hints of a fight breaking out, or anything that would stop people from having a good night, this guy is on it. He is always welcoming, super nice, and super attentive to everything around him. He's a classy guy and I know when he's working, he's got my back. Ladies never need to feel uncomfortable when he's working.