Western Ranch Motor Inn
Western Ranch Motor Inn is entering an exciting new chapter while still maintaining the title of CNY’s best blast from the past! Nestled in the heart of Syracuse at 1255 State Fair Boulevard, Western Ranch Motor Inn is more than a restaurant, it’s a living piece of history. 
This beloved Syracuse institution has been going strong since 1955, but the Ranch is now undergoing complete kitchen renovation and preparing for a much-anticipated grand reopening this August! While some delays have pushed the official date slightly, the team is moving full steam ahead and, in the meantime, they’re still serving up favorites from their regular menu from an outdoor kitchen setup, keeping the great food coming and hungry and thirsty central New Yorkers happy! The full bar remains open during regular hours, and live entertainment continues every Friday and Saturday night, all while maintaining that warm, welcoming atmosphere locals love. The Ranch is open at 4pm Monday-Thursday, noon on Friday, 2pm on Saturday, and 3pm on Sunday (or noon when football is on). The bar opens an hour earlier each day, perfect for happy hour or early birds.
For those not in “the know” there are some things that you just must know about Western Ranch Motor Inn. Western Ranch Motor Inn has been a cherished fixture in Syracuse since 1955, originally founded by Ward Sturge with the vision of creating a modern, welcoming stop for travelers and locals alike. Its distinctive knotty pine interior, vintage neon sign, and cozy, retro charm quickly made it a hometown favorite. In 1980, the Gaworecki family took the reins, preserving its nostalgic appeal while continuing to evolve with the times. Over the years, the Ranch has become more than just a restaurant as it is a true community landmark, known for its hearty meals, friendly atmosphere, and even a few quirky claims to fame, including appearances in films and its original use as an atomic bomb shelter. Today, it stands as a living piece of local history, where the past and present come together over great food and good company.
We arrived on a sunny Wednesday and could smell the food in the air before we even walked in, with wafts of grilled meats, smoky ribs, and fried goodness drifting from the outdoor kitchen. The kids were instantly smiling and excited when they saw us pulling in to the place with the giant MOTEL sign, they truly love this place, and every time we visit it feels like coming home. We were lucky enough to get a sneak peek of some of the new offerings, and let me just say: the excitement is well-earned. I couldn’t resist the 14 oz. aged, hand-cut ribeye, served with perfectly buttery salt potatoes and a generous helping of creamy homemade coleslaw. This steak was everything I wanted: tender, juicy, and full of bold, beefy flavor. Kyle went all in on the new Ranch BBQ Ribs, which were fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with smoky-sweet flavor. He paired them with the homemade tuna macaroni salad and those same salt potatoes (who could resist!?), slathered in real butter, and declared it one of his favorite meals ever. We honestly expected nothing less than perfection and well, its fair to say our expectations were exceeded! The kids devoured their cheeseburgers, fresh, juicy, and just the right size, and each proudly polished off their own helping of salt potatoes. We ended our meal sharing a heavenly slice of lemon chiffon cake: light, fluffy, and full of sweet citrus flavor. It was the perfect finish.
Once the new kitchen opens, guests can expect even more incredible additions to the menu. Along with the Ribeye and Ranch BBQ ribs, look forward to a variety of new handhelds and sandwiches, including burgers and sausage patties made fresh in-house, pulled pork, and a unique flat-style meatball sandwich. Fresh perch and haddock will continue to arrive regularly and be prepared to perfection. On the side, Ranch homemade favorites like macaroni tuna salad and coleslaw will round out hearty plates.
Steak night will continue to shine with that unforgettable ribeye, and Biscotti’s desserts remain a must – chocolate, raspberry, lemon, cheesecake…they’re all a dream come true. The appetizer menu is also expanding, bringing exciting new bites to the table. Starting Sunday, August 3rd, “Football Sundays” will kick off with game day specials like wings and beer, perfect for catching every play with great food in hand. Be on the look out for great beer and food specials to make this fall even that much better!
So whether you’re a longtime regular or planning your first visit, now is the perfect time to discover or rediscover Western Ranch. With its signature retro charm, full bar, live music, and an exciting new twist on its menu, the Ranch is blending history and innovation like never before. Visit westernranchinn.com or follow them on Facebook for the latest updates and stop by soon to taste a little piece of Syracuse history with a delicious new edge!
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