Five places to try at Taste of Syracuse
The Taste of Syracuse is one of the biggest weekends of the year for food lovers in Syracuse — and it’s back next week, taking over Downtown on June 6th and 7th. With over 70 local food vendors, $2 samples, and live music across three stages, it’s basically Syracuse’s unofficial summer kickoff. And the music headliner this year? It’s none other than Steven Page!
But let’s be honest — while the music and community vibes are great, I am really here for the food. With so many options, you’ve got to go in with a plan. So here are five vendors I can’t wait to check out this year:
1. Vietnamese Noodle House
This one’s exciting — Vietnamese Noodle House is bringing their brand-new food trailer to Taste of Syracuse for the first time. This family-run spot has been building a quiet buzz with their pho and banh mi, and now they’re hitting the streets. I love seeing new local businesses step into the spotlight, and this is one I’ll be lining up for early.
2. Edgemere Coffee
Another rookie making their debut this year is Edgemere Coffee. They’ve been popping up at events all over the area and making a name for themselves with smooth lattes, bold cold brew, and genuinely great people. A well-made coffee is an underrated festival essential, and I’ll absolutely be swinging by to fuel up between $2 samples.
3. Chocolate Taps
Let’s be real — after walking around Clinton Square in the sun all day, a cup of fresh strawberries drenched in warm, rich chocolate is exactly what the doctor ordered. Chocolate Taps has mastered that simple, decadent combo, and I’m already counting the minutes until I can get my hands on one. I haven’t had them since the NYS Fair last year and I can’t wait to dive into them at this years Taste of Syracuse. This will be how I end my time at the festival.
4. Birria Quesa Tacos
If you’ve had birria tacos around CNY, there’s a good chance you’ve already fallen in love with these. And if not, now’s the time. These are — without question — some of the best birria tacos in Central New York, and the idea of getting them for just a couple bucks at Taste? That’s a no-brainer. Messy, cheesy, flavorful perfection. These are going to be a must try.
5. Henry’s Hen House
A true Taste of Syracuse veteran. Henry’s Hen House shows up to all the big food festivals, and every year, I find myself back at their booth. Whether it’s their crispy fried chicken or just the familiar aroma that pulls you in — it’s a staple for a reason. Skipping it would feel wrong.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of Taste of Syracuse is in the variety — you can explore new flavors, revisit old favorites, and snack your way through a summer afternoon in the heart of the city. These five vendors are just my personal must-visits, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with almost anything.
So mark your calendar for June 6–7, bring a little cash for those $2 samples, and get ready to eat your way through one of Syracuse’s best weekends.
I will see you down there!
