The star of this neighborhood pub is not the beer, but the “Blarney Burger.” A multiple ‘Best of Syracuse’ winner, the Blarney Stone is a favorite spot, with outside dining in the warmer months. 314 Avery Ave., Syracuse. 487-9675. blarneystonesyr.comNomineesZebb’s2803 Brewerton Road, Mattydale. 455-5131. zebbs.comEmpire Brewing Company120 Walton St., Syracuse. 475-2337. empirebrew.comAle n’ Angus
238 Harrison St., Syracuse. 426-9672. alenanguspub.comVillage Burger920 Old Liverpool Road, Liverpool. 565-5324. villageburgerliverpool.com
Pizza
Twin Trees Too1029 Milton Ave., Syracuse. 488-6066. twintrees2.com
Wings
OIP (Original Italian Pizza)489 James St., Syracuse. 448-3280. myoip.com
Established in 1994, Empire Brewing Company is not just a contemporary downtown bar but a brewery and restaurant focused on sustainability. Using local ingredients from more than 60 CNY farmers, Empire serves award-winning beers. 120 Walton St., Syracuse. 475-2337. empirebrew.comNomineesKitty Hoynes301 W. Fayette St., Syracuse. 424-1974. kittyhoynes.comBlue Tusk165 Walton St., Syracuse. 472-1934. bluetusk.comBlarney Stone314 Avery Ave., Syracuse. 487-9675. blarneystonesyr.comAl’s Wine and Whiskey Lounge
321 S. Clinton St., Syracuse. 703-4773. alswineandwhiskey.com
Bartender(s)
Alicia Maurer (J. Ryan’s and Cobblestone)
253 E. Water St., Syracuse. 399-5533. jryanspub.com. 400 First St., Liverpool. 461-8806.
Local Brew
Syracuse Pale Ale (Middle Ages)
120 Wilkinson St., Syracuse. 476-4250. middleagesbrewing.com