Number 5 on Binghamton's South side is always a popular restaurant choice for lunch or dinner; great for special occasions, business meetings, live music or just meeting a friend out for a drink.  But during Binghamton Restaurant Week, it's a perfect opportunity to try it "just because."

Walking into the former fire station, I was greeted with friendly smiles and a sincere welcome by the great Number 5 staff.  Not many places in Binghamton offer a coat check but Number 5 still does.  My guest and I were seated in a timely manner upstairs at a table with white cloth tablecloth and matching napkins.  I wish more places would do cloth napkins.  It's always a nice touch.

We ordered a nice red wine and like their fantastic sister restaurant Lampy's, I was glad to see complimentary asiago cheese and fresh chocolates served with the wine. Admit it, free is always nice.

My first course was a tough decision as I really wanted the watermelon salad but remember how amazing the french onion soup was.  I've had many over the years and Number 5 is the best because it's not salty.  This one had a touch of applejack brandy a Parmesan cookie, topped with melted provolone cheese.

Second course was easy because I'm a fish lover.  Pan Seared Rainbow Trout, Panko fried tuna with cucumber wasabi,, Coquilles St. Jacques or Sea scallops and mushrooms baked in a sherry cream sauce with molten cheese.  I went totally healthy and a nice portion of the trout, which took me back to a beach front meal I had years ago.  Very tasty.

For my third course I chose the root beer float which brought back memories of my childhood.  My guest enjoyed the homemade bread pudding. So many choices at Number 5.

It's easy to see why people love Number 5 so much.  A 5-star restaurant with fair prices, gourmet food with a touch of class, all without be stuffy.  I recommend you try Number 5 for lunch or dinner.

Binghamton Restaurant Week ends Thursday April 21st.  For more information on the great eats and the participating restaurants and menus, click HERE.

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