The Westy, a beloved Ithaca institution, is known for its extensive and satisfying menu. This review will delve into the various offerings, highlighting popular dishes, price points, and overall dining experience to help you decide if a visit to The Westy is right for you. We'll examine the menu section by section, exploring both the classics and the more adventurous options. Understanding The Westy’s menu is key to appreciating its unique place in the Ithaca food scene.
Appetizers: Starting Your Westy Experience
The Westy's appetizer menu offers a diverse range of options, perfectly suited for sharing or enjoying as a starter. Popular choices include the Westfy Nachos, a mountain of tortilla chips layered with seasoned ground beef, cheese, jalapenos, and sour cream. The Buffalo Chicken Dip, served with tortilla chips, is another crowd-pleaser, boasting a creamy, spicy kick. For something lighter, the Spinach and Artichoke Dip provides a flavorful and comforting alternative. Prices range from $8 to $15, making them accessible for various budgets.
Notable Appetizer Mentions:
- Westfy Nachos: A generous portion, perfect for sharing among multiple diners.
- Spicy Shrimp: Though not always on the menu, this occasional special is highly recommended for seafood lovers.
- Pretzel Bites: A classic comfort food option, served warm and soft.
Main Courses: The Heart of The Westy Menu
The Westy's main courses are its claim to fame, boasting a wide selection of American cuisine with a focus on hearty and satisfying meals. Their burgers are legendary, with the Westy Burger standing out as a classic: a juicy patty, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and their special sauce on a toasted bun. Other popular burger options include the Bacon Cheeseburger and the Black Bean Burger for vegetarian diners.
Beyond burgers, The Westy excels at comfort food classics. The Chicken Parmesan, with its crispy breading and rich marinara sauce, is a consistent favorite. Their Fish and Chips are also praised for their perfectly cooked fish and crispy fries. Pasta lovers can choose from various options including Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Fettuccine Alfredo. Prices for main courses generally range from $12 to $20.
Main Course Highlights:
- Westy Burger: A must-try for any first-time visitor.
- Chicken Parmesan: A classic done right, with generous portions.
- Fish and Chips: Freshly prepared and perfectly crispy.
Sides and Add-ons: Completing Your Meal
The Westy offers a standard selection of side dishes to complement your main course. French fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, and coleslaw are all available, allowing you to customize your meal to your liking. These sides are priced affordably, typically ranging from $3 to $5. Add-ons like extra cheese or bacon on burgers are also readily available.
Desserts: Ending on a Sweet Note
The Westy's dessert menu, though smaller than the main course selection, still offers some tempting options. Expect classic choices like ice cream, brownies, and possibly seasonal specials depending on the time of year. Check the menu board for current offerings and pricing, as this can change periodically.
Drinks: Quenching Your Thirst
The Westy offers a variety of beverages to accompany your meal. Soft drinks, juices, and bottled water are readily available. They also usually have a selection of beers on tap and in bottles, catering to diverse tastes. Alcoholic beverages may have separate pricing from the food menu.
Atmosphere and Service: The Overall Experience
The Westy generally has a lively and bustling atmosphere, particularly during peak hours. The service is generally friendly and efficient, but be prepared for potential wait times, especially during weekends or evenings. Overall, the atmosphere is casual and welcoming, contributing to the restaurant's popularity.
Price Point and Value: Affordability and Quality
The Westy offers good value for its prices. While not the cheapest option in Ithaca, the generous portions and quality ingredients make it a worthwhile investment for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion: Is The Westy Worth a Visit?
For those looking for a reliable and satisfying meal in a casual atmosphere, The Westy is an excellent choice. Its extensive menu, combined with its consistently good food and service, makes it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. While the atmosphere can get busy, the quality of food and overall experience usually outweigh any potential drawbacks. So, if you're in Ithaca, be sure to add The Westy to your culinary itinerary.
