As you read this article, you’ll learn why you should visit the Waterfront in Buffalo, NY, for a fine dining experience:
- It’s a historic district with innovative public artwork
- You can make a day out of the fun activities it offers
- There are a wide variety of highly-rated restaurants to try
The Waterfront, also known as Canalside, is a growing district in Buffalo, NY. Once the center of industry, this area has been completely reimagined as a site of entertainment and revelry. If you want to have a good time, there’s no better place than the Waterfront.
What Makes the Waterfront Special
Since this district is along the Buffalo River, it offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that tourists and Buffalonians love. No matter the season, the Waterfront is busy with families, friends, and mingling singles looking to have a great time. What can you expect on your visit? Here are just a few things that make Canalside so special.
There Are So Many Activities To Try
The Waterfront offers many different activities, some of which you can’t find anywhere else:
- Buffalo River history tours
- Kayaking through the former harbor
- Rock climbing in old silos
There are also venues for concerts and festivals, as well as a roller rink.
It’s a Historic Area
The area now known as the Waterfront used to be a bustling shipping center. The silos that still stand once held tons of grain, and the warehouses stored steel. Rather than tearing down these unique structures, Buffalo, NY, has transformed them into restaurants, stores, dance floors, and even works of modern art.
The Food Is Fantastic
Finally, waterfront restaurants offer the best of both worlds: a gorgeous view and fantastic food. If you visit Canalside, you can’t leave without trying one of the popular eateries.
Which Restaurants You Should Try
After a day of fun on the Waterfront, you’ll no doubt work up an appetite. Fortunately, there are dozens of restaurants within walking distance, some of which are right along the river. Among them, you can find a wide variety of cuisines, which means you’re sure to find a great meal no matter your tastes.
So which should you try first? It was a tough call, but we’ve narrowed down the list. Out of the many Buffalo NY waterfront restaurants, here are our favorites.
The Public House on the Lake
When you need a mix of seafood and comfort food, The Public House on the Lake has you covered. You can enjoy beautiful views while savoring rich dishes:
- Oyster Po Boy
- Lobster poutine
- Lobster roll
- Crab cakes
- Lobster mac ‘n’ cheese
Dockside Bar & Grill
The Dockside Bar & Grill lives up to its name, with outdoor dining right on the water. The interior offers spectacular views and an open atmosphere perfect for relaxing or celebrating with friends. The menu offers a range of mouth-watering dishes:
- Poutine
- Pulled pork
- Jambalaya
- Prime rib
Buffalo Riverworks
Buffalo Riverworks has become a landmark on the Waterfront for its size and lively atmosphere. Built-in a former grain silo, this brewery shares space with other venues, including art exhibit space, a martial arts dojo, a roller derby track, and two ice rinks.
Templeton Landing
Templeton Landing offers beautiful dining areas that provide privacy and comfort. The patio has a clear view of the water and marina, while the menu boasts various dishes from sandwiches to filet mignon.
Liberty Hound
If you want to dine as close to the water as you can get, Liberty Hound can oblige. The patio is essentially riverside, with a clear view of the water, silos, and docked boats. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from classics to adventurous combinations:
- Hungarian pepper dip
- Buddha Bowl
- Baby back ribs
- Fish fry
People who love a lively atmosphere and delicious food are liable to fall in love with this restaurant.
Hoak’s Restaurant
Hoak’s Restaurant has all the American classics — and a few Buffalo inventions:
- Beef on weck
- Prime rib
- Fish fry
- Buffalo chicken sandwich
- French onion soup
Of course, you can get it all with crispy French fries and a lovely view of the Buffalo River.
Dos Amigos on the Lake
As you might have guessed, Dos Amigos on the Lake offers Southwestern cuisine with a twist. You can satisfy your craving for seafood and dishes from south of the border with this diverse menu:
- Shrimp tacos
- Seafood paella
- Fish tacos
- Crab cakes
- Bang Bang Shrimp
- Lobster tacos
Prescott’s Provisions
Prescott’s Provisions is a chic little eatery with a cheery patio section and bright interior. The menu is a new take on American food, with dishes that stun in presentation as well as taste:
- Wood-fired pizza
- Gnocchetti with wild boar ragu
- Sea scallops with fava beans and wild mushrooms
- Spring pea arancini with pistachio pesto
When you order here, you’ll want to photograph your meal to preserve the tasty memories and artistic arrangements.
Lucia’s on the Lake
If you can’t decide what you want for dinner, Lucia’s on the Lake is the perfect place to go. There’s a little bit of everything on the menu:
- Steak
- Pasta
- Seafood
All the dishes are highly rated, so you’re sure to enjoy whatever you get.
This restaurant accepts walk-ins as well as reservations, making it an excellent place for an impromptu lunch or a special occasion. There’s outdoor and indoor seating, with lovely views of the river.
River Grill
Individuals who want quality seafood without breaking the bank will love River Grill. Here, you can get your fill of fish and shellfish alike:
- Tilapia
- Coconut shrimp
- Crab cakes
- Fish tacos
There’s also live music on the weekends, making this an excellent option for date night.
Are you interested in moving to Buffalo, NY? If so, you’ll need a residence with a convenient commute, luxurious amenities, and affordable rent. As owner and property manager of dozens of properties, Ellicott Development can help you find the perfect living space. To see our available apartments, you can visit our website. If you have questions, you can reach us at 716-854-0060.
Featured Image: Melander/Shutterstock
