Oswego is known for its quaint and small college town environment and although it has culture and a comfortable atmosphere, it's no secret that there are a scarce number of restaurants in town. Being new to the area as a student, it's really helpful to know where to head that is affordable to grab a bite to eat with friends when move-in day arrives. The real problem with restaurants in Oswego is that there just isn't enough variety of food. Here is a list of some ideas of what you can get, from experience, that has some variety and taste.
1. Green's Ale House
Green's Ale House has a comfortable sports bar environment with cheap food in a relaxed setting. Perfect for outings with friends. Burgers and cheese fries start at $7.50 each! They are known for their great selection of beer and chicken wings on Yelp.
2. Calio's
Calio's hits the spot when you're in the mood for a good calzone. The reason why they get a tip of the hat on the list is due to the fact that they have 44 different kinds of calzones. From unique flavors like Buffalo, enchilada, and Philly, there are endless options. Take it from me, it's never a bad choice to go for Calio's after a late night out for the low price of $7.25 a calzone. They are known for fulfilling college students cravings and variety stuffed calzones, get some more information and reviews on Yelp.
3. Azteca Mexican Grill
Azteca has a cheap lunch menu that goes on from 11 AM to 3 PM. You can get a plate of chicken fajitas for $7.00. Unfortunately, it's the only Mexican restaurant in Oswego. On the contrary, it's the only Mexican place in Oswego so it can be a great place to see people and mingle over some tacos! Best known for combination meals and the place to go for a Margarita! Read more about Azteca on Zomato.
4. Global Buffet
Global Buffet is the epitome of sub-par Chinese buffets. It hits the spot when you're having a Chinese food craving. The experiences there are always hit or miss.The building is in need of a little TLC but it has the potential for quality buffet food. You'll probably go back because they are one of the only Chinese buffets in Oswego. The prices are around $12 for dinner and $8 for lunch. What are they known for? All you can eat Chinese, obviously! Read more information on Trip Advisor.
5. Kiyomi Hibachi Steakhouse
Kiyomi Hibachi Steakhouse can be on the expensive side but with these great hacks and tips, you can eat cheaply if you know what to order. Make it out alive at this place by ordering single sushi rolls that come with six pieces, and side orders of rice or noodles.The reason why this fresh and tasty sushi place is on the list is their lunch specials. All of their bento lunch specials are $8.95 and it comes with all sorts of extras such as egg rolls, rice, soup and/or salad. Order water and BAM, you've officially hacked the system and treated yourself to some fresh sushi. They are evidently known for their fresh Japanese cuisine and plethora of hungry college students and have a four-star rating on Yelp.
6. Food Chow City
Food Chow City is your typical run of the mill Chinese take-out, with decent food and fast service. Prices are average compared to other take-out places, but it's a pretty safe option to avoid food poisoning. They are known for easy and fast delivery to the community and decent sized portions with a three-star rating on Yelp.
7. Maria's Diner
Maria's is across from the movie theater and very affordable. The locals that run it are friendly and it's the typical diner experience. The portions are insanely huge and the prices are incredibly cheap. For business details and reviews, check Yellow Pages.
8. Bridgestreet Pizza
This is a favored pizza place in Oswego for students. They have large pizzas for $10.50 and it's a great option for splitting pizza with friends. Many people are also huge fans of Cam's pizza. Get their hours and business details on Yellow Pages.
9. Rudy's
Rudy's is a famous local place that people will ask you about when they learn you attend SUNY Oswego. It's a casual lake-side restaurant that serves fish fries, burgers, hot dogs, fries, and crab cakes. You can sit inside or outside and enjoy cheap food that ranges from $8.30 for a big fried haddock with two sides and experience the calming lake waves. This restaurant feels like home, the small-town place that will be truly missed when moving away. It can get very slammed at times so try to avoid weekends and don't be afraid to push through the crowd and make yourself known when ordering. The best part is that it's right on the edge of the West side of campus and it's next to Bev's, one of Oswego's popular ice cream stands. Get more detailed information on Yelp.
10. Fajita Grill
Fajita Grill is a staple of Oswego's college-friendly food places. It's a popular build-your-own assembly line establishment similar to the routine for ordering at Subway and a hot spot for students who grab lunch and dinner there. They have great quesadillas and queso cheese for dipping. It's within walking distance from East side of campus and their prices for items are $7.53 for a quesadilla and $8.01 for a burrito. They have a four-star rating on Trip Advisor.
Other Great Places that Didn't Make the List:
Alex's on the Water
Bev's Dairy Treat
Bistro 197
Canale's
Cam's
Cheap Seats Sports Bar & Grill
Dino's
Franco's
Red Sun Fire Roasting Company
Thai Rose (closed permanently, summer 2017)
Vona's
Wade's Diner
Wonzones
Hope you enjoy these top ten highlights of restaurants and food places in Oswego NY. Leave comments below with your own experiences of your favorite restaurants in Oswego.
