Upstate New York offers regional dishes that locals swear by. In Buffalo, spicy wings are a must. In Ithaca, Cornell chicken off the grill draws crowds. Rochester, meanwhile, serves a highly controversial dish that has earned local devotion.
That specialty is the garbage plate. Despite its unappetizing name, it has become a beloved comfort food for both locals and visitors alike.
I went to undergrad in Syracuse, so I thought I had a pretty solid handle on Upstate New York—but somehow, I’d never heard of a garbage plate. Naturally, I was intrigued. I decided to try making one in my own kitchen to see what all the fuss was about. Below, you’ll find what makes this iconic dish so distinctive, how to recreate it at home, and a few ways to customize it (or order it like a local).
What is a Garbage Plate?
The name “garbage plate” comes from Nick Tahou Hots, a popular restaurant in Rochester. However, when visiting the city, you’ll find it served everywhere, from small burger joints to fine-dining restaurants. It also goes by a few other names, including the “Rochester Plate” and “Trash Plate.”…