Watertown, Jefferson County
Restaurant

Whether you are looking for a quick tuna salad sandwich for lunch or a hot Tom & Jerry to celebrate the Christmas season, “The Crystal” is the place to go in Watertown and has been since the Dephthereos family took over in the early 1930s.

From the classic period signs on the outside to the pressed tin ceiling, mosaic tile floor, and dark wood booths that line the perimeter, this always-busy restaurant is a highlight of the once-bustling Public Square. It is really like a movie set, where you might easily expect to see Julia Roberts or Viggo Mortensen (a Hometown Boy) consuming their generous helpings of meat loaf and mashed potatoes or mac and cheese. More commonly, you will find lawyers in business suits at one table, a family with young children at the next, senior citizens lounging with their coffee mugs at yet another and conversation flowing freely among them.

The Crystal boasts of one of the last stand-up bars in the country and some of the cheapest prices for food.

  • Award Very Special Place
  • Award Year 2000
  • Location Watertown, NY (Jefferson County, Tug Hill, Black River Valley)
  • Categories Cultural Landmark