8 Local Products You Should be Buying

Hofmann Sausage Company

A Syracuse tradition since 1879, the Hofmann Sausage Company is synonymous with Central New York summer cookouts. Their German-style franks and signature "Snappy Grillers" (white hot dogs) have a distinct flavor and snap from a recipe passed down for generations. You'll find Hofmann’s sizzling at backyard barbecues, ball games, and camping trips – they’re even served in some stadiums across the country. No trip to Syracuse is complete without tasting this local legend, so be sure to pick up a pack of Hofmann’s for an authentic CNY BBQ experience.

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a legendary Syracuse restaurant, and luckily you can bring its bold flavors home with its own line of barbecue sauces and rubs. From the famous "Original Sensuous Slathering Sauce" to zesty spice mixes like "Cajun Foreplay" rub, each product is packed with the smoky, spicy-sweet goodness that made the restaurant famous. These sauces are all-natural and even award-winning – perfect for marinating meats, slathering on ribs, or dipping your favorite foods. Grabbing a bottle (or a case) of Dinosaur BBQ sauce is a must for any barbecue lover. It’s like taking a piece of Syracuse’s most famous eatery to your kitchen, guaranteed to elevate your grilling game with authentic Upstate NY BBQ flavor.

SalsaCuse

SalsaCuse is a locally made salsa brand that has been delighting taste buds since 2008. Founded on a passion for all-natural, fresh ingredients, SalsaCuse offers multiple flavors and heat levels to satisfy any salsa lover. It's the perfect way to spice up taco night, jazz up a charcuterie board, or enjoy with classic tortilla chips. This hometown salsa flies off the shelves at Syracuse-area markets (like Epicuse and local shops), so grab a jar when you see it and taste why it's a must-buy local favorite.

Syracha'Cuse

If you like to turn up the heat, Syracha'Cuse has you covered with Syracuse’s very own line of craft hot sauces. This hometown hot sauce company makes small-batch sauces using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and no GMOs, ensuring bold flavor in every bottle. You can stick with their classic habanero hot sauce for a spicy kick, or venture into unique blends like the "Maple Bourbon Hot Sauce" made with local 1911 whiskey for a sweet-and-spicy twist. For any hot sauce aficionado, Syracha'Cuse is a must-buy, packing the punch of Syracuse’s spicy side into a bottle you can take home.

Terrell's Potato Chips

Crunchy, salty, and born in Syracuse – Terrell’s Potato Chips have been a local snack staple since 1946. It all started when William Terrell began hand-cooking thinly sliced New York potatoes, and nearly 80 years later the company is still using his time-tested recipe. Terrell’s offers all the classic chip flavors (Original, BBQ, Salt & Vinegar) along with a special "Syracuse Style" variety that pays tribute to their hometown roots. You can find bags of Terrell’s chips in grocery stores throughout the region, and they even ship to those outside Central New York. No Syracuse snack stash is complete without a bag of these iconic chips – they’re a tasty piece of local history.

Syracuse Salt Company

Continuing the legacy of the Salt City, Syracuse Salt Company transforms a humble seasoning into something truly special. This father-daughter team curates and crafts small-batch, hand-finished salts right here in Syracuse. Their gourmet salts come in creative flavors like Espresso, Lemon Rose, or even Sriracha-infused, adding a fun twist to your cooking. And they don’t stop at the kitchen – Syracuse Salt Co. also makes salt-based soaps and candles, blending local history with modern innovation. For foodies and cooks, these flavorful salts are an easy way to elevate your dishes and bring a taste of Syracuse’s heritage to your table.

Kingsley Artisan Soaps

For a Syracuse-made gift that indulges the senses, check out Kingsley Street Artisan Soaps. Based in downtown Syracuse, Kingsley Street crafts all-natural soaps, candles, wax melts, shampoo bars, lip balms, and more, using high-quality botanical ingredients. What sets them apart is their creative range of scents – from sweet magnolia peach to earthy Nag Champa, or even a retro-themed 1960s line of scents like the groovy "Bourbon Street." Each product is handmade with care, so you get a luxurious self-care item infused with local love. These artisan soaps are a wonderful way to treat a friend (or yourself) while also supporting a local business.

Chocolate Pizza Company

Last but not least, satisfy your sweet tooth with a one-of-a-kind treat from Chocolate Pizza Company. This local chocolatier, based in Marcellus just outside Syracuse, has earned national attention for its inventive gourmet creations. Their signature Chocolate Pizza blends rich milk or dark chocolate with nuts or candy toppings, poured into a pie shape and served in a real pizza box – a fun (and delicious) Syracuse twist on dessert. And don’t forget their famous Peanut Butter Wings – yes, potato chips covered in creamy peanut butter and chocolate, for an addictive sweet-and-salty crunch. Made with premium Swiss-style chocolate and featured on shows like Food Network, Chocolate Pizza Company’s treats make impressive gifts. Be sure to pick up a Chocolate Pizza (and a side of Peanut Butter Wings) to share a truly unique Central New York confection with friends and family.

These are just a few of the local products that showcase Syracuse’s creativity and flavor. Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong Syracusan, make sure to explore and indulge in these hometown favorites. By shopping local, you’re not only getting a great product but also supporting the community and small businesses that make our region special. So next time you’re shopping or craving something authentically Syracuse, check out these products (follow the links above to learn more) and stock up on your favorites!