Over the Cuse Deli & Grill

The Place

Tucked away on East Fayette Street in downtown Syracuse, Over the Cuse Deli & Grill has been turning heads since it opened in December 2023. The interior is fun and casual, with colorful Syracuse-themed murals on the walls and upbeat music playing. Staff is consistently called out for being fast, friendly, and welcoming — first-time visitors often get free samples of the signature halal chicken over rice, which tells you a lot about how this place operates.

The Food

This modern-style deli with a full grill puts out some of the most generous portions in the city, and the menu reads like a greatest hits of comfort food. The lineup covers all the bases: classic deli subs, smash burgers, gyros, tacos, burritos, specialty rice bowls, and gourmet salads.

The Halal Combo Meal — chicken and steak over Mediterranean rice with tahini, garlic, and yellow sauce — is the crowd favorite. The smash burgers have built a serious following. The Philly steak subs get rave reviews, and the turkey burger is thick, juicy, and nothing like the sad, thin patties you’ll find at most spots. The deli leans into its Mediterranean roots with halal options throughout the menu; plant-based burger swaps are available for most dishes.

Don’t skip dessert. The Kanafeh, a traditional Middle Eastern pastry, is a standout that keeps people coming back.

Worth Knowing

Over the Cuse holds a 4.6-star rating across thousands of DoorDash reviews and a 95/100 health score. The late-night hours are a genuine differentiator — open until 2am on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, making it one of downtown Syracuse’s most useful spots after a late night out. Delivery is available via DoorDash or direct from the website.