Lyncourt, N.Y. — The On The Fly diner brings a refreshing twist to the conventional dining experience. Nestled on a busy stretch of Court Street, it stands out in an area better known for its industrial character. This diner, which has changed hands multiple times in recent years, now offers a unique Cajun-inspired menu featuring creative dishes that are hard to find elsewhere in Syracuse.
A vibrant mural crafted by chef and owner Gray Wessel’s father inside the diner catches the eye, blending elements from New Orleans, Seattle, and Syracuse. This art hints at the diner’s inspiration as Wessel, who relocated to Syracuse from Seattle, opened On The Fly in July. Gray runs the kitchen, while his mother Tracy manages the front-of-house, giving the diner a cozy, familial vibe.
The menu, which includes a selection of breakfast and lunch items, features both classic and inventive dishes with a New Orleans flair. The shrimp and grits ($20), for example, presents a new take with crispy grit cakes rather than the traditional creamy variety. Accompanied by collard greens and spicy andouille sausage, this dish showcases On The Fly’s deviation from culinary norms.
Another highlight is the fried chicken sandwich ($18), which features a perfectly cooked chicken breast topped with a slice of smoked gouda that is melted with a blowtorch. This sandwich, layered with slaw, pickles, and a zesty house sauce on a toasted roll, stands strong against other popular contenders in the ongoing chicken sandwich trend. The side of Cajun fries adds a crispy, seasoned touch.
Desserts are not a main focus but are available as specials. The crème brûlée with wine-poached pears ($8) perfectly bridges high-end cuisine and diner charm, showcasing Gray’s culinary background.
Despite its small size and humble facade, On The Fly diner is a family-run gem that aspires to enrich the Syracuse dining scene. The Wessels hope to one day expand to a downtown location, which would elevate their visibility and impact, though they’ve made a name for themselves in Lyncourt already. This diner not only offers an intriguing menu but also embodies a strong sense of community and family spirit.
The Details
- The Restaurant: On The Fly, 3600 Court St., Syracuse; (315) 214-8743
- Takeout/Delivery? Yes, takeout is available.
- Reservations? No
- Credit cards? Yes, no added surcharge.
- Noise level: Moderately quiet.
- Accessibility: Accessible parking in a private lot.
- Parking: Private free parking lot.
- Hours: Winter hours are Thursday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Cost: Brunch for two with entrees, shared dessert, non-alcoholic beverages, tax and 20% tip, was $61.44.
For more about On The Fly, visit The Daily Orange.