There are many great restaurant options in the downtown area featuring cuisines from around the world. Once you’ve settled into your new apartment in Buffalo, NY, it’s time to scout out the scene downtown and claim a spot as your new favorite. Here are 10 of the best restaurants in the downtown Buffalo area:
1. Duff’s Famous Wings
If you’re ready to make Buffalo your home, you might as well fall in love with hot wings. While Duff’s Famous Wings didn’t invent buffalo wings, it makes one of the best and hottest sauces in the city. It’s delectably buttery with lots of heat. When they say hot, they mean hot, and you should select your wing sauce accordingly.
2. Schwabl’s
Another unique treat in Buffalo is the roast beef sandwich with horseradish on kummelweck. Founded in 1837, Schwabl’s is the best place in town to enjoy this local delicacy. The bread comes from a local bakery, and the meat for each sandwich is cut at the time you place your order. This local legend is also known for its winter cocktail, the Tom and Jerry – an eggnog-like drink made with brandy and rum, served hot and in a mug.
3. The Dapper Goose
When you’re ready for some freshly prepared American fare, The Dapper Goose is a wonderful choice. This local eatery features a creative cocktail list and a food menu that changes weekly to provide variety and freshest ingredients. From juicy hamburgers and seared duck to favorite pasta dishes, this restaurant has something for everyone. Arrive early and enjoy a cleverly crafted cocktail at the bar.
4. The Black Sheep
Are you looking for a farm-to-table experience and small plates? The Black Sheep is a welcome addition to the fine dining experiences available in Buffalo. It’s a James Beard-nominated restaurant that includes a full bar for drinks before or after the meal. You’ll swoon over the various menu offerings that change regularly according to the season and availability of the local farms.
5. Toutant
Whether you’re originally from the South or love Southern comfort food, Toutant is the place for you. This restaurant takes traditional Southern dishes to the next level. Enjoy the slow burn of Nashville hot chicken or a nice bowl of Jambalaya. If you’re looking for something a little less spicy, indulge in shrimp and grits or an order of fried chicken, but don’t forget the biscuits.
6. Chef’s
Are you craving Italian? It’s time to visit Chef’s. This local Italian hotspot opened its doors in 1923, and Lou Billittier has owned it since the 1950s. This restaurant offers all the Italian staple dishes, but the star is spaghetti Parmesan. Imagine a plate of spaghetti in sauce, covered with a mound of perfectly melted shredded mozzarella. Yup, our mouths are watering, too.
7. Lloyd Taco Factory
Burritos on the brain? Lloyd Taco Factory has all the goods for all of your south-of-the-border cravings. With two restaurants in the area and a food truck, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this tasty eatery. If you’re new to Buffalo, you have to try the fried buttermilk chicken and hot sauce taco dubbed the ‘Big Willie Style’ taco.
8. Ru’s Pierogi
Pierogies, if you are not aware, are delicious ravioli-like pockets often stuffed with mashed potatoes and drenched in butter. Ru’s Pierogi is the place to enjoy them with almost any stuffing you can imagine – from buffalo chicken and potatoes with cheddar to pork dumplings, this restaurant offers some creative options for the Polish classic. Feel free to ask for a side of ranch or sour cream for dipping. In addition to pierogis, this tasty spot offers salad and sandwiches for the less adventurous in your party.
9. Swan Street Diner
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and if you’re looking for a weekend breakfast spot near your new apartment, look no further than Swan Street Diner. Founded in the 1930s, the Swan Street Diner offers your favorite breakfast foods and a delicious lunch menu. Arrive early on the weekends – this place fills up fast!
10. 500 Pearl Street – Aloft Buffalo
500 Pearl Street gives visitors plenty of options for cocktails and dining. Fresh Catch and the Galley Lounge serves the freshest hawaiian inspired menu for all to enjoy. Wrap up your day with a drink at the 500 Pearl’s w xyz bar or at Patrick’s Rooftop Bar with the best view of Buffalo.
Welcome to Buffalo, NY!
After signing the lease for your new apartment, it’s time to celebrate. Check out any of the restaurants on this list to get the party started to commemorate your big day. Welcome to Buffalo!
Image Source: Drazen Zigic / Shutterstock
