Ithaca, NY, especially its vibrant downtown area, boasts a surprisingly diverse salad scene. Beyond the typical lettuce and tomato, you'll find innovative combinations, locally sourced ingredients, and creative dressings that elevate the humble salad to an art form. This guide explores 23 of the best salad options, categorized for easier navigation. Whether you're a dedicated salad lover or simply looking for a healthy and delicious lunch, this list is your definitive guide to the best salads downtown Ithaca has to offer.
The Classic & Crisp Salads
These salads focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple, yet satisfying dressings.
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Ithaca Farmers Market Salads (various vendors): The Ithaca Farmers Market is a treasure trove of fresh produce. Numerous vendors offer pre-made salads or the ingredients to craft your own masterpiece. Expect seasonal variations and locally sourced greens. The quality and freshness are unparalleled.
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Coltivare: Known for its farm-to-table ethos, Coltivare offers daily specials that often include inventive salads featuring seasonal vegetables and herbs from their own farm. Expect beautiful plating and thoughtfully chosen ingredients.
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The Nines: This upscale restaurant features sophisticated salads with high-quality ingredients and creative dressings. Their salads are a perfect complement to their other menu items or a satisfying meal on their own.
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Just A Taste: This cafe often features seasonal salads with fresh, local ingredients and interesting flavor combinations. Their salads are a good option for a lighter meal or a side to one of their delicious sandwiches.
The Hearty & Filling Salads
These salads are perfect for those looking for a more substantial meal.
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Hector's: Known for its generous portions, Hector's offers hearty salads packed with protein and vegetables. Their Greek salad is a popular choice, overflowing with feta cheese, olives, and fresh vegetables.
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Maxie's: Maxie's is a popular spot for both locals and students, offering a variety of salads that are both delicious and filling. Many of their salads include grilled chicken or other proteins.
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Epiphany: This popular restaurant often features seasonal salads that are both filling and flavorful. Expect creative combinations and unexpected flavors.
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Agava: While known for its Mexican cuisine, Agava also offers a selection of salads featuring fresh ingredients and zesty dressings. They often incorporate elements from their larger menu.
The Globally Inspired Salads
Downtown Ithaca also offers a variety of salads inspired by cuisines from around the world.
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Thai Basil: Thai Basil's salads are known for their vibrant flavors and fresh herbs. Expect a spicy kick and a variety of ingredients that perfectly complement Thai flavors.
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Za'atar: This Mediterranean restaurant offers a wide selection of flavorful salads, many featuring traditional ingredients like olives, feta, and hummus. Their salads are a great way to sample the flavors of the Mediterranean.
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Little Venice: As the name suggests, Little Venice offers a taste of Italy through its food, and their salads are no exception. Expect fresh mozzarella, roasted vegetables, and simple yet flavorful dressings.
The Unique & Creative Salads
These salads push the boundaries of what a salad can be.
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State Street Market: Located in the heart of downtown, this market features a variety of vendors, some offering unique and creative salad options you won't find anywhere else.
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The Boathouse: With its stunning location on Cayuga Lake, The Boathouse also offers a selection of creative salads featuring local ingredients. Their salads often incorporate fresh seafood.
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Press Bay Alley: This popular spot offers a constantly evolving menu, but their salads are consistently creative and use fresh ingredients.
Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten-Free Options
Ithaca's downtown has plenty of choices for those with dietary restrictions. Many of the restaurants listed above offer vegetarian and vegan options, but here are some notable choices:
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Purple Sage: This vegetarian and vegan restaurant has a wide variety of delicious salads featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. They often have gluten-free options as well.
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Moosewood Restaurant: This iconic restaurant, known for its vegetarian cuisine, offers inventive salads packed with flavor and texture.
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Several cafes and restaurants throughout downtown offer gluten-free and vegan salad options. Always check menus or inquire with staff.
Salads for Specific Dietary Needs:
This section addresses specific needs like high-protein, low-carb, etc. Note that many restaurants can modify existing salads to meet individual requirements.
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High-Protein Salads: Many restaurants add grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or beans to increase the protein content. Hector's, Maxie's, and The Nines are good starting points.
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Low-Carb Salads: Focus on salads with lots of leafy greens and avoid starchy vegetables like corn or potatoes. Look for salads with added nuts and seeds for healthy fats.
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Low-Calorie Salads: Opt for salads with lots of leafy greens and light dressings. Avoid creamy dressings and fried toppings.
Finding Your Perfect Salad: Tips & Tricks
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Check online menus: Many restaurants post their menus online, allowing you to browse options before you visit.
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Read reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality and taste of a restaurant's salads.
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Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask restaurant staff about ingredients, dressings, and dietary modifications.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your downtown Ithaca salad adventure. Remember that menus change seasonally, so exploring different establishments is part of the fun! Happy eating!
