Eat your way through Youngstown!

Forget the tourist traps in the Falls. Staying at our Youngstown cottage puts you right in the heart of authentic Western New York comfort food. Most of these legendary spots are a short walk or a quick drive away. Bring an appetite—here is your local hit list.

Sweet sauce pizza from All-In Pizzeria

1. Friday Night Fish Fry & Summer Jams at "The Stone Jug"

A literal stone’s throw from the cottage, Ontario House, aka Stone Jug is the heartbeat of Youngstown. This historic 1842 landmark is more than just a tavern; it’s a local rite of passage.

• The Food: Their Friday Night Fish Fry is a neighborhood staple.

• The Vibe: It’s famous for live music throughout the week, especially in the summer when the backyard patio comes alive. Grab a plate, enjoy the tunes, and wander back to the cottage when you're done.

2. Market Side Café: Breakfast & Pastries

Start your morning at Youngstown Marketside, a local gem that has become an integral part of the community since 2022. It's the perfect spot to pick up something sweet or a healthy snack.

• The Goods: They are known for delicious pastries and incredibly fluffy scones.

• Local Focus: As a chef-driven organic grocery and café, they focus on seasonal items and high-quality ingredients from local farmers.

3. Hibbard’s: A Generational Trad

No trip to the area is complete without a visit to Hibbard's Custard. Founded in 1939 by Harold Hibbard, this family-owned business is now in its fourth generation and is one of the oldest continuously operated custard stands in the U.S.

• The Secret: Their soft-serve custard is exceptionally creamy because their unique machinery pumps significantly less air into the mix compared to standard ice cream.

• History: The original recipe was a gift from a friend in the 1930s, and they’ve been serving it at the same location for over 85 years.

4. Bandana’s: Where Food is the Star

Bandana's Bar & Grill is a classic "no-frills" joint. It’s an unassuming, tiny spot that keeps the decor simple so they can focus entirely on the kitchen.

• The Order: You have to try the Beef on Weck—tender roast beef on a salty, caraway-seeded kimmelweck roll.

• Chef Rob’s Specials: Keep an eye on the chalkboard for "outside the box" specials. Chef Rob is known for creative dessert specials like dessert nachos that you won't find anywhere else.

5. Main Street Pizza: The Steak and Cheese Legend

Don't let the name fool you; while the pizza is great, the Steak and Cheese Subs at Main Street Pizzeria are the real stars of the show. Loaded with tender shaved steak and gooey melted cheese, it’s a local favorite for a reason.

6. The Wing Quest: All-In Pizzeria

You can't visit the Niagara region and skip wings. After checking the latest local reviews, All-in Pizzeria is currently the heavyweight champion for wings in the area.

• Pro Tip: When you order, always ask for them extra crispy. It’s the local secret to ensuring that perfect snap when you bite through the sauce.

• Buffalo Staples: Make sure to try the Pizza Logs here or at any local spot—they're a deep-fried pepperoni and cheese staple you can't miss.

7. Favorites: The "Old Fashioned" Pie

For a taste of tradition, order the Old Fashioned from Favorites Pizza & Wings Lewiston.

• The Style: This isn’t your standard thin slice. It features a thick, doughy crust topped with a heavy, rich red sauce and a light dusting of Parmesan cheese instead of heavy mozzarella. It's a unique, saucy masterpiece that locals swear by.

Keep in mind many of our local restaurants deliver for a small fee! If you’re staying in the Peach Door Annex in Youngstown, please remember to tell the delivery person to deliver to back unit, not the front porch. 😉

ENJOY!