James E.
Yelp
We visited The York twice in one week due to our excellent first visit on a Sunday evening randomly deciding to go out to dinner with friends. Our return visit was on Thursday. Despite the large difference in patrons from Sunday to Thursday, service was equally timely on both days.
The ambiance of this restaurant gives a NYC modern speak easy vibe. Painted tin ceilings, with modern chandeliers and fixtures, brick walls with dimly lit sconces really set the mood, and allow you to relax. The bar though not as long as some, is well stocked and manned by very talented tenders. I typically have a tough time getting a good old fashioned, but they made it perfectly! The raw bar at the front end adds a point of interest as well. Unique and not often seen if at all in Syracuse.
The food was excellent both nights! For starters we have had the Gorgonzola fondu, the flatbread pizza, and the oysters. All were very good, the fondu was quite rich, but the kettle chips helped to downplay it enough that it had a good balance of creamy and crunchy. The flatbread had a canvas of flavor that kept you going back for more. And the oysters..... hands down the best I've had away from the coast. Not only were they quality in and of themselves but they were prepared with such care that there was no grit to them at all, not even one sliver of shell. Decadent, rich, and creamy.
The entrées were Linguini Catalan, NY Strip (with the garlic sauce), and the chicken riggies. I had the linguini, and I felt it was very nicely done though a little strong on the garlic. The seafood in it however was cooked perfectly. My wife had the riggies and though she is a riggie snob, she was very satisfied with her meal. My friend had the steak..... not only was it cooked to perfection but that sauce added another dynamic to the already delicious flavor of the steak itself.
The next night we had the scallops, Prosciutto wrapped halibut, and the short rib ravioli. The scallops were cooked well, with a nice sear on the outside that enhanced the seasoning that encrusted to them. The halibut, though tasty sounding, was unfortunately cooked a little dry. Not sure if they were depending on the prosciutto to add some fat, or if it was just a misstep that one time, but that was the only item lacking thus far. The Short rib ravioli was incredible! My wife ordered that and I was lucky enough that she was willing to share! Unlike anything I've ever eaten. Do yourself a favor and try it!
The price was a little high in my opinion, however it was still worth it as we have had nothing but good experiences and food. And to be honest it's pretty much on par with most downtown restaurants save for one that is actually a bit more expensive. So all in all it was a good value.
This is an epic restaurant! Most restaurants that try to set themselves apart in my opinion tend to miss the mark, The York set the mark for everyone else to strive for!
Thank you for a great dining experience! We will most definitely be back!