Binghamton and Southern Tier Restaurants Offer BYOB and More

I think we are in agreement that when you go out to a local restaurant, you want to have the best experience possible while saving money in the process.  When was the last time you went to an eatery and were slammed with a big bar bill; paying $6.00 for a dollar bottled beer or $28.00 for a $7.00 bottle of wine?  Beverages really add up the bill.

There are a number of Southern Tier restaurants that allow you to dine with wine and beer that you bring in to the eatery.  This way you have a fine dining experience and you save a great deal of money too.  Here are a few of my local favorites:

The Turkish Restaurant, 258 Main Street, Johnson City.  $$--$$$  A great family run 5 star restaurant that features a tasty menu of Turkish cuisine.  Not familiar with Turkish food?  Nothing spicy.  Think Greek or a gyro with high quality chicken and lamb.  "Ryan" has to be the best waiter in town.  And the best hummus and baklava I've ever had. *****

Thai Time, 94 Front Street, Binghamton.  $$  Downtown Binghamton needs a good quality Asian restaurant and Thai Time is it.  Great quality in a relaxing atmosphere where you can sit and chat all night with your friends.  You can add as much or as little spice to any menu item. ****

Currys of India, 45 Court Street, Downtown Binghamton.  $$ Sitting right next to my favorite nut shop, M&D R Nuts, Curry's of India features the best authentic food in town.  Fish, chicken, beef and vegetarian lovers will love their extensive made-to-order menu.  This small family run restaurant looks like something you would find in the village but for over 25 years, it's been a staple here in Downtown Binghamton. They offer an all-you-can eat lunch buffet and reopen for dinners at 5pm.  ****1/2

Franks Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant, 2633 New York 26, Maine, NY.  $$ If you love great Italian food, you will love Franks. Everything is fresh and homemade with the atmosphere of eating at your your mom's house.  In addition to a good regular menu, Franks offers a large number of specials. ****

Moon Star Chinese Restaurant, 3600 George F. Highway, Endicott, NY, $$                 Red House Chinese Restaurant, 200 Main Street, Binghamton. $$  If I want a fine selection of Chinese food that not greasy, these are my 2 favorite Chinese spots.  Both offer great quality and service at a great price.  I try to stay away from the greasy tasteless Chinese buffets in favor of authentic Chinese cuisine.  Moon Star ****1/2  Red House ***1/2

Crepe Heaven, 217 Main Street, Binghamton.  $$  Did your Grandmother make you homemade crepes?  Making crepes is an art form and Crepe Heaven has some great family chefs making some unique breakfast, lunch and dinner crepes.  My favorites include the chicken crepe and the P&J crepe for dessert.  You can even make your own crepe from their list of fresh ingredients, as all menu items are made-to-order.  *****

Taste of Europe, 56 Court Street, Downtown Binghamton. $$ A great little family restaurant with some very tasty Ukrainian food.  Try the borsch or homemade pierogies.  Everything comes out piping hot and with a smile.  ****

All these fine restaurants have 2 things in common; all locally owned (good for the local economy) and are all BYOB.  Enjoy these tasty, reasonably priced eateries.  I think you will love them as much as I do.