Ithaca Ale House now operating in bigger space in City Centre

ITHACA, N.Y. — The Ithaca Ale House has moved to a new location at 301 East State St. inside City Centre in Ithaca.

The restaurant and bar previously operated “just down the road” on Aurora Street, before opening the new location in November, per a recent news release from the Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA).

DIA on Dec. 16 held an event at the Ithaca Ale House to recognize its “new location, growth, and 15th anniversary,” per its news release.

DIA describes City Centre as “one of Ithaca’s newest mixed-use developments, a short walk from the [Ithaca] Commons.”

“We’re definitely glad to be in this new location, and we’re excited about our future,” John O’Leary, owner of Ithaca Ale House, said. “I thank my incredible staff and everyone else who helped to make this possible. The restaurant is opened now, so we encourage everyone to come to check it out.”

Ithaca Ale House’s new 5,300-square-foot location is “double the size” of its previous site. The additional space allows the business to offer separate dining and bar areas; outdoor seating in front of the restaurant; uncovered patio space in the back with an “exclusive” firepit-lounge area; and a 25-person party room with audio/visual equipment for business meetings, private parties, and other small group gatherings. The restaurant’s signature menu items include burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, craft beers, wines, and liquors.

“The Ithaca Ale House has become a community institution,” Gary Ferguson, DIA executive director, said. “This expansion, put together during the pandemic, is a testament to this businesses’ hard work and persistence. The results are incredible — indoor and outdoor space that will be a gathering place for Ithacans and visitors for years to come.”

Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick wasn’t able to attend the formal-opening event but provided the DIA with this statement.

“For years The Ithaca Ale House has been one of the best places to find great burgers, warm service, and an excellent atmosphere. Their decision to not just remain downtown — but expand downtown — is great news for Ithacans and their guests. I’m grateful for their investment and can’t wait to have another burger in their big, beautiful new space,” Myrick said.