Hidden in plain sight, 205 Dry brings an air of elegance to the lively Artist’s Row in Downtown Binghamton. The speakeasy, founded in 2018, captures the classic Prohibition Era feel with its book-filled shelves and dimly light chandeliers.

For Restaurant Week, I had the chance to visit Alexander’s Cafe with my photographer, Jared, for a $15 three-course lunch. Walking into the sun-filled environment, we were greeted by big chalkboards full of exciting menu items and a platter of baked goods. We sat down, relishing the cafe’s calm atmosphere filled with low chatter from other customers. The simple decor, posters of Binghamton and the homey blue and beige colors of the dining room created a nostalgic environment.

I visited the bar and grill on 135 Washington St. with my photographer and roommate, Lily, on Thursday. Immediately, we were greeted by an energetic space with a wide-open wall to let in the fresh, newly spring air. The colorful lights shone green, likely due to residual St. Patrick’s Day decor, and Thin Mint Milkshakes were practically on every table.

Downtown by Chef Jay Pisculli offers a three-course dinner for the price of $35 for this spring’s Restaurant Week, and their menu features spring-inspired dishes, like a green goddess salad and lemon meringue cheesecake.

Located on 60 Court St. in the heart of downtown, Iron Agave offers an extensive, rotating menu of food and drink options inspired by Mexican and southwestern flavors. Opened in December 2023, the eatery features high ceilings and wooden accents that create a relaxed atmosphere.

After being greeted and seated by our host, we were warmly greeted by our waiter, Veronica, and handed a basket of succulent bread with butter and a carafe of water. What stuck out to me immediately was the ambiance, with walls completely filled with 19th-century paintings of western Europe and the music playing in the background — a promising start to our dining experience — as I felt immersed in Italy. After placing our orders, we waited eagerly for our first course to come out.

Since its opening in 1994, Lost Dog Café & Lounge has been a staple in Binghamton’s community and restaurant scene. Founded by a former all-female band with a lifelong love of cafes, the establishment blends delicious food with music events and a great atmosphere. Because my photographer, Emzie, and I have only been to the Lost Dog once in our time so far at Binghamton, we jumped at the opportunity to try out their spring Restaurant Week menu.

Located on 81 Clinton St., Parlor City Vegan offers a new twist to comfort food classics. Established in 2016, its many dishes were inspired by co-founder Sara Liu’s family recipes and a larger goal to bring the community together.

I went to the Court Street lounge on Wednesday night with my photographer, Emzie, and we both were thrilled at the variety of choices. Their dinner menu offers three courses: an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert or drink. For an extra special dining experience, the entree section provided a choice between sushi dishes and kitchen dishes, so any palette can be left satisfied. To get the most bang for our buck, Emzie and I decided to share all the bites.

The concept of a “hidden gem” may be an overblown one by this point, but Spice of India is more than deserving of this moniker. Located adjacent to the Mirabito just off of Vestal Parkway East before you enter Binghamton proper, few would think much of this eatery just walking or driving past it. But those who do give it a try this Restaurant Week season will be rewarded with a flavor explosion incomparable to its contemporaries.

The Grove

With a clublike atmosphere, large floor-to-ceiling windows and an already-large crowd, we knew what to expect: hearty portions and quick service. We settled in, I ordered a Diet Pepsi and our server dropped off a stack of menus.

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