205 Dry — Restaurant in City of Binghamton

Last night I did not have a good dining experience here. I went out with my wife and a handful of friends for my birthday dinner at around 8:30. She recommended this place as it is a really cool spot, we've heard wonderful things about the food, and she raved about the drinks she had here last year. The drink I had was pretty good, but that was about all I had that was pretty good. Our server very nice and attentive came to take our food order, this is where it started to come down, The ambiance and music while being very cool and "upscale" makes the place very loud and dim. Our server started at my friend who got the fillet special medium(49$) then I TRIED to order the prohibition burger going medium rare (18$) but, there was obviously a break down in communication and he started asking me questions about the sides. I was a bit confused, but I thought nothing of it and that maybe my burger came with and veggie and fries this is my fault here I should have tried to correct the break down, but I was engrossed in conversation as the order was being taken and thought nothing of it. About fifteen minutes later we get a couple of side salads and then in about 30 minutes we get our food, as the runner brings over 2 fillets calling out 1 medium and one medium rare I am hit with the realization of what transpired. I am a chef, I get mistakes happen and it was my birthday so I was just going to roll with it. Birthday fillet? Yes please! I cut into my fillet and the end was very grey and over cooked I cut into the middle and it is a bit over medium and I didn't want to eat an overcooked steak especially for 49$. As the runner is bringing out the rest of the food I had to bring it up. I normally would just let this go as I have been on the wrong end of an overcooked steak before, and I get it, but I had to. He brings the server over I explain the situation He apologized and said my burger would be out shortly he asks if I need anything and I asked him to refill the water carafes. 15 minutes later I got my burger. It was bland and well done and at this point I was so ravenous I just relegated to eating it not wanting to cause any more trouble. As I took my first few bites I thought i was smelling salmon from another table and then 1/3 the way in I realized it was coming from the aftertaste of the burger. I was so disgusted I could not eat anymore. It was the first time I did not take any of my leftovers home. My wife asked me what was wrong and I told her and conversed with the whole table and everyone else's food was great. Then this morning at 2am I woke up in excruciating stomach pain and was sick. I hadn't eaten much yesterday so it had to have been the burger with the weird flavor that made me sick. I was extremely disappointed with the service and quality of food I received. I am really rooting for 205 in the long run but I will not be returning after last night and I cannot in good conscience recommend anyone go...

My dining experience at 205Dry, a true hidden gem of a speakeasy-themed restaurant on State Street in Binghamton, N.Y., was fantastic. The entrance, cleverly concealed behind a selection of books within a discreet bookshelf, adds an element of intrigue that beautifully sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. You are transported to a world of vintage allure and captivating mystery.

The interior design is a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort. The ambiance, simultaneously campy and cozy, perfectly balances elegance and relaxation. What truly captured my attention were the tables nestled between bookshelves brimming with a diverse collection of books, creating a nostalgic and inviting atmosphere. It's a haven that sparks conversations and evokes a profound sense of belonging.

The staff at 205Dry goes beyond mere attentiveness; they embody a genuine dedication to ensuring each guest's experience is nothing short of exceptional. Their profound understanding of the menu, coupled with their impeccable service, enhances the entire dining journey. As for the menu, the culinary offerings at 205Dry surpassed my expectations in every conceivable way. The flavors, presentation, and quality of each dish were unequivocally top-notch, and the bonus is that the prices are surprisingly reasonable. Their menu caters to a spectrum of palates, from beloved classics to inventive creations. Furthermore, their commitment to culinary excellence shines through in their inclusion of fine cuisine, including an array of delightful vegan options.

A piece of advice: securing a reservation is an absolute necessity. Given the captivating ambiance and the delectable choices, it's no surprise that 205Dry has become a sought-after destination. Making a reservation guarantees you the opportunity to partake in this extraordinary experience.

In summary, 205Dry stands as a genuine hidden treasure along State Street. This speakeasy-themed restaurant masterfully combines ambiance, exceptional service, and delectable cuisine. 205Dry is the ultimate destination for those searching for a space where nostalgia melds with modern indulgence. Whether you're an avid reader, a culinary enthusiast, or simply someone pursuing an extraordinary night out, 205Dry will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark, beckoning you to return time...

205 Dry was phenomenal in just about every way and we already cannot wait to go back!

This review is for a weekend evening between 7 and 9 pm. The restaurant was incredibly busy. TIP: on the weekends it isn't a bad idea to call ahead for a reservation.

This was our first visit to 205 Dry. We had heard many great things about this establishment but hadn't gotten around to trying it out until recently. When you arrive you open the outside door to a small room with a "bookcase" on the back wall. That bookcase is actually a door that opens up to the bar/restaurant. This experience is very neat and adds to the ambiance of being an early 1900's speakeasy. We took seats at the bar as it was the only spot available in the restaurant at the time and took some time to enjoy the ambiance of the room. Absolutely stunning!

We ordered a few drinks (an old fashioned and a strawberry Moscow mule-esque cocktail) as well as the OG chicken Sandwich and the Prohibition Burger. Drinks took a bit to be made but considering how busy the place was this was perfectly acceptable. The staff were very helpful, attentive, and friendly! The food came out hot, fresh, and within a very reasonable time frame.

The OG Chicken Sandwich was phenomenal! The chicken was tender, juicy, and cooked absolutely perfectly. One of, if not the best chicken sandwich in the area. The Burger was cooked perfectly to order at medium temp and was juicy and very well flavored.

Overall I am extremely impressed with 205 Dry. This is quite the gem in downtown Binghamton and we will absolutely be back...