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BUSINESS

Local business Highlight: Phoebe's Restaurant 
By: Sheza Qasim Edited By: Bella Gallus

Located in the heart of Syracuse, Phoebe’s Restaurant and Coffee Lounge offers a warm atmosphere for consumers. Phoebe’s is walking distance from Syracuse University’s campus and across the street from Syracuse Stage, home to SU’s drama department. Pops of greens, warm wood, and plants decorate the space, contributing to the warm and welcoming environment. Whether people stop in before a football game, after a show at Syracuse Stage, or in between classes, they are always greeted with amazing quality and warm smiles. 

 

Phoebe’s has been a staple in the Syracuse area since the 1970s. Before it became the beloved Phoebe’s, the building originally served as a brothel before being acquired by William Eberhardt and transformed into Phoebe's Garden Cafe in 1976. During 2004, Phoebe’s went through renovations, then reopened as Phoebe's Restaurant and Coffee Lounge to reflect the changes and mark a new chapter in Phoebe's history. 

 

Angie Knox, the general manager of Phoebe's Restaurant and Jessica TenEyck, the assistant manager, explained that the charm from the original restaurant can be seen even through all restorations and changes in the restaurant. “I think we really kept the roots, and a lot of the authenticity and charm. We are just a unique spot that really hasn't done any major overhauls.”

 

Being close to Syracuse Stage and campus apartments, Phoebe’s has offered an environment for students to quickly come in for a coffee or grab lunch with friends. Knox and TenEyck explained the importance of having a connection with Syracuse students. 

 

“We have a beautiful relationship with the theater and with the students that are in the drama department. We’ve been a longstanding business within the community and a lot of stuff has grown up around us, like the apartment buildings, so I think we're a nice spot for them to have an elevated experience,” Knox said. 

 

Recently, Phoebe’s partnered with Fetch Collective to help raise money for the print magazine. Phoebe’s provided pastries to help entice students to donate to help Fetch be able to print the spring edition of their magazine. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Knox said she aims to support Syracuse students if the opportunity arises. “Actually one of our employees asked us if we were willing to [donate pastries] and obviously were more than happy to contribute those types of items…. It's really just a matter of timing and what's going on, ” she said.

 

Phoebe’s has succeeded in their efforts to thrive and establish a strong presence in the ever-evolving Syracuse community, largely due to its dynamic and ever-changing menu. The ability to adapt and introduce new items has allowed the restaurant to keep things fresh, drawing in both new faces and loyal patrons alike. Their menu is extensive but mainly features American specials, like salads, steaks, and a variety of pasta dishes. Phoebe’s also features a seasonal menu, so there’s always something new to try. 

 

Phoebe’s Restaurant and Coffee Lounge is open from Monday to Saturday and accepts reservations. Find them at l900 East Genesee Street.  

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Pictured are the pastries donated by Phoebe’s to support Fetch Collective in raising funds for their spring print magazine.

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© 2024 by FETCH COLLECTIVE

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