Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Central New York with fantastic food, divine drinks, traditional music and fun. Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15th through October 15th and is a celebration of culture and the contributions and influence that Hispanic Americans have achieved and continue to do for the United States.  

Here in Onondaga County and Syracuse, NY Hispanic culture is present throughout shops, festivals, and delicious restaurants. Here are 6 restaurants and businesses you can support not only during Hispanic Heritage Month, but every day right here in Syracuse.  

Jandy

Located on the westside of Syracuse, Jandy Restaurant serves up delicious food straight from the Caribbean. You can find Alcapurrias (yucca), Surullitos (fried corn sticks), Bacalaitos (fried cod), Empanadas, and so much more! Make sure you add on a Strawberry Guava Smoothie for dessert. 

 

Mamacitas 

The popular food truck has put its roots down and claimed a home in North Syracuse! According to the owner, Mamacitas cuisine is known for their “authentic Puerto Rican food with a gringa twist”. On their menu you can order sandwiches, made with pano sabao (sweet bread), or combo plates that include rice and a side salad. Don’t forget to add on their famous cilantro lime homemade crema! 

Don Juan Café  

Don Juan Café Restaurant has been serving Puerto Rican food in Syracuse since 1997! Now with 3 locations, you can get their famous empanadillas all over town. Check them out on the west side – 102 Grand Avenue, the Northside at 820 Wolf Street, or the Southside at 410 W Seneca Turnpike. Must try - Potato Balls and Pizza Empanadillas. 

 

  

Otro Cinco 

After being closed during the Covid-19 pandemic, Otro Cinco revamped its style from Mexican to Spanish/Mediterranean food. Now serving classic Spanish and Mediterranean dishes in Downtown Syracuse! Otro Cinco’s new menu focuses on delicious tapas, paella, specialty cocktails and wine. Pro tip: if you’re ordering paella, order it as soon as you sit down. To perfect this dish, the cooking process takes a little longer. 

Tres Primos 

Minutes from Downtown, hidden in the outskirts of Syracuse, Tres Primos is known for serving up authentic Mexican food on large plates. And yes, when we say large plates we mean big portions. From their burritos to steak fajitas, or chimichangas, you get the best of both worlds: delicious food at an affordable price. Must try – their famous Horchata!  

Azteca Mexican Grill

A mere ten-minute-drive from Downtown, one of the most locally-loved Mexican food joints you'll be happy to sample awaits. Azteca in Camillus (with a sister location up in Oswego, NY), is known for their strawberry margaritas, fresh salsa, steak street tacos, and basically anything on the menu.

Papa Gallo 

Pronounced “guyō”, not gallow, translates to Father Rooster. The name came from the owner’s grandfather who always wanted a restaurant with that quirky name. This traditional Mexican/ TexMex restaurant is in Fayetteville, New York, about 15 minutes from Downtown Syracuse. This vibrant Mexican restaurant is known for their lively atmosphere, mouthwatering margaritas, and inexpensive happy hour specials! 

Las Delicias

Known for their incredible, authentic Caribbean/Hispanic menu including a phenomenal variety of empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, mofongo, tostones, chicharrones and more.

 

So grab some friends, take the family out, and check out these delicious restaurants. Interested in making a weekend trip out of it? Syracuse hotels have convenient stay options for solo trips, big groups, canine companions and more. While you’re in town be sure to check out other restaurants in Onondaga County.