They say you can't go home but you truly can. I'd been away from Auburn for 62 years. Left in 1949 when my parents relocated to St. Louis. Balloons was always our favorite restaurant in the 40s. My daughter took me there two years ago--she lives in Ithaca--and the food was as good as ever. It's remarkable that this little... More

We called to make a reservation and got an answering machine in the morning. Around 430 we called back to see if we got our table since no one called us back. They gave some excuse and a time for a little later which was ok. When we arrived we were seated in the back which is noisy. We should... More

It's a small dive bar looking place across from a maximum security prison. I never expected such a great meal and service. The sweet chili calamari and the lobster mac and cheese was so delicious and they were meal sized portions for appetizers. Our meals and deserts we just as great and even bigger. We had enough for the next... More

The service was great. Drink prices reasonable. Wished the bruschetta had more cheese, resolved with Parmesan Cheese regardless it had a little bite but well worth the price - you better like garlic. The Italian dressing for the salad was bland. The salad was iceberg lettuce with a couple tomatoes and a olive on top. Fine if you don't like... More

Great food w/ a lot of character! We always eat hear when we visit Auburn. Worth going out of your way to eat here. Make sure you try the gnocchi.

Located directly outside the looming walls of Auburn Prison, this unassuming little place dishes up surprisingly good meals at reasonable prices.

My wife and I were in the area for the weekend on a trip. We checked reviews and came across this place. We walked in the door and were never greeted so we asked a girl if she was the hostess she said I'll be with you in a minute with the worst attitude I have had in a resturant.... More

An old-fashioned restaurant with all the comforts of home. It has a lovely bar, and a large but cosy dining area. The Utica Greens makes a great appetizer, and any thing else on the menu is sure to be delicious, especially the lasagna.

My wife and I are in Auburn several times a year to visit relatives. Balloons is one of our favorites places to eat. I doubt that the word "Michelin" has ever been heard in this place, but it justifiably is "popular locally." Simply good food. It's the kind of local restaurant that goes on year after year because it satisfies.... More