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Welcome to Ancora!

At Ancora!, a culinary gem in Utica, NY, the passion for Italian-inspired cuisine shines through every dish. Founded with a commitment to quality and flavor, Ancora! offers a diverse menu that features tantalizing salads, elegant appetizers, and hearty entrees, including their signature 'Original' Paella. Guests rave about the warm atmosphere and attentive service, making it a perfect spot for celebrations or casual dining. The blend of rich flavors and generous portions ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether it’s the crispy calamari or the creamy cavatelli, Ancora! stands as a testament to exceptional dining in the heart of the city.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to Ancora!, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Utica, NY. Located at 261 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13501, this restaurant is not just another dining spot; it’s an experience that captivates the senses. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable flavors, Ancora! brings together a carefully curated menu featuring a rich blend of traditional and contemporary dishes that promise to delight every palate.

As you step into Ancora!, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance that is perfect for intimate dinners, family gatherings, or celebratory events. The combination of indoor and outdoor seating provides a versatile dining experience, whether you prefer a cozy meal inside or a vibrant dinner under the stars.

The highlight of Ancora!’s menu is undoubtedly its array of entrees. You can’t go wrong with the Honey Glazed Salmon, paired with creamy parmesan risotto and sautéed vegetables for just $27. For meat lovers, the Pan Seared New York Strip is a must-try, featuring perfectly whipped sour cream potatoes adorned with seasonal toppings, also priced at $27. And if you’re feeling indulgent, don’t miss the signature Original Paella, bursting with flavor from shrimp, lobster, and chorizo, all for $46.

  • Appetizers set the stage with crowd-pleasers like Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail and Fried Calamari, ideal for sharing or enjoying solo.
  • Salads such as the Apple and Walnut Salad provide a refreshing start, showcasing fresh ingredients and robust flavors.

Customer reviews reveal the consistent quality and charm of Ancora!. Guests rave about the gigantic portions and the meticulous attention to detail from the friendly staff, making each visit memorable. Joel S. exclaims, "The food was delicious and flavorful," while Jeff O. humorously notes that they ordered too much food, highlighting the generous portions that make this establishment a standout choice.

From the moment you arrive, you'll feel well cared for, thanks to attentive staff like Greg, who embodies the company’s commitment to exceptional service. The intimate space and stellar service are complemented by an impressive selection of wines and cocktails, ensuring that your meal is perfectly paired with the ideal drink.

Whether you’re a Utica local or just passing through, Ancora! is a culinary destination that deserves your attention. The combination of fantastically prepared dishes and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a place you'll want to return to time and time again. Don’t just take our word for it—experience the magic of Ancora! yourself!

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. For more information or to book your table, call +1 315-724-4815.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Ancora!
Joel S
Joel S

Great place to eat in Utica, NY. They have indoor and outdoor seating. I sat outside. The food was delicious and flavorful. Eat at Ancora! Enjoy!

Jeff O
Jeff O

Amazing place right in the heart of Utica! The food is hot and delicious with HUGE portions. Plenty of food for tomorrow... if it survives the night! Lol... We ordered too much food, and knew it as soon as the appetizers came out. We had the parmesan fries and the parmesan polenta fries. The fries were good, and the polenta was something I've never had before...unique and delicious. They are fried with a tasty, crispy batter, and the inside the polenta is creamy. An excellent start to the meal. I had the homemade cavitappi as my entrée. It is served in a cream sauce with peas, prosciutto, and onions. I added chicken to it and it was absolutely delicious. Glad I couldn't finish it... more for tomorrow! My wife had the chicken riggies, and she enjoyed them immensely...and that says something as she is a riggie snob...also a huge plate of food with plenty left over. Our waiter, Greg, was efficient, attentive and very nice...a good representation of the restaurant. The ONLY thing is that it's a crowded place...tables are close... that's nothing that would keep me from coming back at all. We've been here one before, and I'm glad we went back. It was a solid reminder that I need to visit more often.

Roberta Steele
Roberta Steele

Intimate space with excellent menu and stellar service! Calamari was breaded perfectly and served with a nice spicy horseradish cocktail sauce. Fig prosciutto flatbread was delicious, hints of Gorgonzola coming through the balsamic glaze. Caesar salad perfectly dressed! And for dessert the bananas foster was outstanding!!!

Jason Pogar
Jason Pogar

Visiting from out of state. A few locals recommended it to us. Made reservations same day. It's located right next door to the Stanley theater. Sat at a high top near the bar. Greg was our server and bartender. His choices were home runs and drinks were awesome. Had an old fashioned and wife had a spicy watermelon (something) both were great! Went with Greg's choice of the daily special spicy creamy shrimp. Had a creamy pasta sauce with some chorizo sausage and shrimp over penne. It was awesome! For desert we had crepes and creme brulee also recommended by Greg. They were perfect! By the time we left the front patio was packed and no open tables outside! Great service, great food! Dinner for two, with drinks, and desert just over 100. Definitely worth going!

Aleeya Witzke
Aleeya Witzke

This place is so cute inside. To start we ordered the Arancini which was very good. It came with a marinara sauce which was great. For entrees we got the Cavatelli with shrimp and the pasta entree with pomodoro sauce. For desert we got the tiramisu that came with chocolate ice cream. Everything was delish. We will definitely be coming back if we are ever in the area again.

Laureen Herbowy
Laureen Herbowy

I hosted a baby shower at Ancora! and found the staff wonderful to work with. They were accommodating to special requests, even at the last minute. The food was excellent, great presentation, timely and exactly as ordered. I was allowed to arrive early to decorate and again, the staff was helpful and responsive to any request. I can’t express how grateful I am to have chosen Ancora! for this event. Deserving of a 5 star rating!

JR
JR

Ancora has some of the best food in the area! I’m especially a fan of the chicken riggies. I don’t know how you could pass these up! Each time I order from here it’s absolutely delicious and pairs super well with the shrimp cocktail and house salad for a filling meal!

Adam Hovak
Adam Hovak

Great place for a quick bite right in the heart of downtown. Make sure you have reservations for Friday or Saturday because they fill up quick. The atmosphere is great and the staff is friendly. The bar is fully stocked! You can’t go wrong with the appetizers and the filet is always tasty. For reference, a table of 4 takes 60-90 min with dinner and drinks