25 Essential Buffalo Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Buffalo.
Brick Oven Bistro
New York
Relaxed outpost offering pizza, creative entrees & deli sandwiches with beer & wine pairings.
Smash That
New York
an everyday essential table known for disciplined hamburger restaurant cooking, strong local gravity, and Beam Score momentum at 86.5.
Vice Restaurant
New York
Burgers, wood-fired pizzas & other comfort food in an airy, casual venue with an industrial feel.
Firehouse Subs Premier Plaza
Buffalo, New York
Counter-serve sandwich chain offering made-to-order hot & cold subs, plus a variety of hot sauces.
Giancarlo’s Sicilian Steakhouse
Buffalo, New York
Warm destination for Sicilian-style Italian fare, including brick-oven pizzas, pasta & steaks.
HCK Hot Chicken
Buffalo, New York
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Crenshaw's Chicken And Waffles
Buffalo, New York
Identifies as Black-owned. Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch.
Frankie Primo's +39
Buffalo, New York
Pizzas, meat & pasta dishes are on the menu at this cozy Italian locale with a relaxed atmosphere.
Smokin' Little Diner
Buffalo, New York
Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Jack Rabbit
Buffalo, New York
Pub grub & cocktails offered in a convivial lounge with nostalgic decor & live music.
Brick House Tavern + Tap
Buffalo, New York
Modern sports-pub chain boasting recliners plus high-concept bar food & a huge selection of beer.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Buffalo, New York
Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.
Middle Eastern Flavors
Buffalo, New York
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Brooklyn’s Finest Pizza
Buffalo, New York
Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch.
Hayes Seafood House
Buffalo, New York
Market & counter-order restaurant founded in 1877 featuring a range of traditional seafood plates.
The New Jewel Of India
Buffalo, New York
Tranquil eatery offering familiar Indian dishes, with vegetarian & vegan options & a lunch buffet.
Swan Street Diner
Buffalo, New York
Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Hutch's
Buffalo, New York
Fine American cuisine with global touches in an unpretentious, exposed-brick setting with a patio.
Sportsmen's Tavern
Buffalo, New York
Neighborhood tavern turned music venue stages 40+ live acts a month & serves basic grill fare.
Coco Bar & Bistro
Buffalo, New York
Cozy brick-walled bar & bistro featuring a menu of brunch & global entrees, plus a garden patio.
Joe's Panini Grill
Buffalo, New York
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Lombardo
Buffalo, New York
Unique, old-world Italian cooking & a long wine list in warm, inviting digs with a copper ceiling.
The Village Inn
Buffalo, New York
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Sue's New York Deli
Buffalo, New York
Service options: Delivery, Takeout. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance. Planning: Quick visit. Payments: Credit cards, Debit cards.
Tiny Thai
Buffalo, New York
Identifies as Asian-owned, Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.