A nice local space. The cappuccino was well-crafted—smooth, rich, with microfoam that held a lovely leaf pattern. The breakfast sandwich (court fox?)—steak, egg, cheddar, and caramelized onions on a sesame bun—was hearty and satisfying, though a touch too sweet and tangy from the onions or sauce. Service is quick, the pastry counter temptingly stocked, and the vibe is low-key but lively. It feels like a modern café built atop the bones of an old community gathering spot—and that’s a good thing.
Overview
If you're in the Ithaca, NY area and you're craving a dining experience that offers both fantastic food and a cozy atmosphere, Hound and Mare on 118 N Aurora St is definitely worth checking out. Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, this restaurant stands out not only for its vibrant menu but also for its laid-back, welcoming vibe. Whether you're looking for a place to grab a quick bite or want to enjoy a leisurely dinner with friends, Hound and Mare has something for everyone.
The restaurant's interior strikes a balance between modern design and rustic charm, with an inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for any occasion. As soon as you walk in, you're greeted by a warm, friendly staff ready to make your dining experience memorable. It’s easy to see why it has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
One of the highlights of dining at Hound and Mare is the variety and quality of the food. The menu is a delightful mix of contemporary American cuisine with a twist, offering both comfort food staples and innovative dishes that are sure to please a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for something light like a fresh salad or craving something hearty like a perfectly grilled steak, the restaurant delivers every time.
For example, their burger is a local favorite, with perfectly cooked patties that are juicy and flavorful, topped with fresh, crisp ingredients that complement each bite. If you're in the mood for something a little different, try the braised short ribs, which are tender and fall-apart delicious, served with rich sides that make for a well-rounded meal.
Vegetarians will also find plenty of options to choose from. The roasted vegetable dish, featuring a mix of seasonal produce, is packed with flavor and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal. The chefs at Hound and Mare take great care in preparing each dish, ensuring that even the most simple ingredients are treated with respect and care.
The drink menu is equally impressive, with a variety of locally sourced beers, wines, and craft cocktails to complement your meal. The mixologists here are skilled at crafting drinks that suit a range of tastes, from refreshing gin-based concoctions to richer, whiskey-forward options. There’s also a nice selection of non-alcoholic beverages for those who prefer a different kind of refreshment.
What sets Hound and Mare apart is the consistency of the food and service. Each visit feels like a special occasion, thanks to the attentiveness of the staff and the quality of the meals. Whether you're popping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner, you can always count on a great experience. It’s clear that they take pride in their work, from the kitchen to the front-of-house team.
The restaurant's location also makes it a convenient stop for anyone visiting Ithaca or residents looking for a great place to enjoy a meal out. It’s close to several local attractions, so if you’re out exploring the town, stopping by Hound and Mare for a meal is the perfect way to round off your day.
If you're still unsure about whether Hound and Mare is the right spot for you, take a look at some of the reviews from satisfied customers. The feedback speaks volumes about the restaurant's ability to consistently exceed expectations. Diners rave about everything from the fresh ingredients to the knowledgeable and friendly staff. Many also mention the cozy atmosphere that makes it feel like a home away from home.
While Hound and Mare is certainly a great place for a casual meal, it’s also perfect for special occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just enjoying a night out, the ambiance is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed yet still sophisticated setting. The quality of the food and service ensures that every meal feels like a celebration.
For anyone visiting Ithaca, NY, Hound and Mare should be at the top of your list. With its exceptional food, welcoming environment, and stellar customer service, it’s clear that this restaurant has earned its place as a local favorite. It’s not just a place to eat-it’s an experience worth repeating.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ On-site services ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great tea selectionPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Solo dining ✓ Good for working on laptopAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick biteDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Tourists ✓ University studentsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ High chairsParking
✓ Paid multi-storey car park ✓ Paid street parkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 216 reviews
Don’t miss this little gem of a spot when visiting Ithaca. The service is gentle and kind and the food is delicious; prepared with care and creativity. Pick a window seat and watch the world go by while sipping coffee. As you leave with a full, happy belly, look up and smile…
Delightful breakfast/dessert/coffee spot in Ithaca, New York. We had read that they have some of the best breakfast sandwiches in the town.... and they did not disappoint! Ordered a couple of breakfast sandwiches, breakfast burrito (possibly large enough to feed 2 adults) and a couple of coffee options. The bagels for the sandwiches were smaller than we are used to in New York, but they were fresh and delicious. The food menu was not extensive, but all looked like good choices. The drink menu was pretty extensive. Service was friendly and quick. It looks like they are open Wednesday through Sunday. We were there on a Sunday morning and they were busy. There were a few tables on the sidewalk and then a decent number of tables inside. I did not order the avocado toast, but it looked amazing...
Hound and Mare is a coffee shop with a nice ambiance and a rustic/urban warehouse feel off the downtown commons in Ithaca. I’ve been looking for a coffee shop with great breakfast food in Ithaca, and this place definitely fits the bill. If you’re looking for something a bit more gourmet, but still in a relaxed environment this is the place to go. There are plenty of food and drink options to choose from which are creative. It was also nice to hear Adele playing in the shop, one of my favorite artists! I got a lavender latte (which was flavored just right - not pictured but delicious) and the breakfast burrito. It comes with homemade salsa that has the right balance of acidity and kick. It was also a very generous portion size. My husband got the Maple Latte, iced, and the Melrose sandwich which is a bagel sandwich with bacon, fried egg, cheese crisp (which is really good), and he added roasted tomatoes. Definitely a tasty bagel sandwich! We also tried a couple of the pastries which were also well done - the scallion cheddar scone and the pumpkin cream cheese muffin which wasn’t too sweet. Would definitely come again!
Visited Ithica this week and found this perfectly located coffee spot. The coffee was coffee, hot and tasted like coffee, just how I like it. But, the breakfast sandwiches were next level. The default egg on their sandwiches is over easy, which works out awesome and is not as messy as you'd think. They do ask if you're ok with that or would like it cooked any other way. My favorite was the Melrose. It had so much flavor for a breakfast sandwich. The employees are very freindly and the ambiance is the perfect mix of darkness and light.
Food was amazing! Coffee was amazing! Service was fast and pleasant. My big complaint is that everything is in to go containers. There is nothing like going to a cafe for breakfast and chat with a friend - the vibe is hurt by the fact that you sit and eat with plastic utensils out of a to go box.