Ithaca Flex for Lease - Downtown Ithaca
Premier Culinary and Hospitality Space for Lease – Downtown Ithaca
An exceptional leasing opportunity awaits at one of the most iconic culinary spaces in Ithaca, NY. Ideally located at the corner of South Cayuga Street and Clinton Street—just steps from the Ithaca Commons—this dynamic and expansive facility is now available for a full lease takeover or as a subdividable offering tailored to your operational needs.
Turnkey Restaurant & Bar Experience
At the heart of the space is a fully equipped, turnkey restaurant featuring one of the longest bars in the city, a showstopping wood-fired pizza oven, and an inviting open floor plan anchored by a dramatic private wine tasting room. This tasting room showcases brick barrel-vaulted ceilings, adding warmth and architectural character that elevates the guest experience.
Culinary Education & Innovation Hub
Formerly home to a collegiate culinary arts program, the facility also includes a large, professional-grade teaching kitchen—ideal for culinary instruction, workforce development programs, or experiential dining concepts. Multiple walk-in coolers and freezers are shared between the restaurant kitchen and teaching kitchen, providing abundant cold storage to support high-capacity operations.
Event Venue with Flexibility
A generous, fully equipped event space accommodates gatherings of 100+ guests and can be easily subdivided for smaller functions. Whether for private parties, corporate events, or institutional use, the layout is designed for seamless flow, functionality, and flexibility.
Back-of-House Infrastructure
The facility includes robust support areas such as staff locker rooms, four private offices, a break room, and secure storage areas—supporting efficient operations in a professional setting.
Specialty Features
An additional gallery kitchen with tiered seating creates a unique venue for celebrity chef demonstrations, wine education classes, or community engagement events. This rare setup offers a theater-like atmosphere that blends education and entertainment in a culinary setting.
Location & Accessibility
Positioned in downtown Ithaca, the space benefits from high visibility, pedestrian traffic, and proximity to key destinations including Cornell University, Ithaca College, and the vibrant Commons retail and dining scene.
Lease Options
Available as a whole lease takeover or in subdivided configurations, this offering is ideal for institutional partnerships, culinary ventures, hospitality groups, and educational organizations seeking a signature downtown presence with unparalleled infrastructure.
Seize the Opportunity
With its combination of premium location, extraordinary buildout, and versatile configurations, this space presents a rare opportunity to anchor a culinary or hospitality concept in the heart of Ithaca. Serious inquiries only.
