Travel Update: Attending A Buffalo Sabres Hockey Game In 2021

 

Let’s go Buffalo Sabres! For the 2021 season, Buffalo Sabers are hosting fans once again! Attending Buffalo Sabers games, you will have to follow the testing requirements and New York State guidelines.

That being said, traveling to a Buffalo Sabers game is a great option for NY state residents and nearby areas. The city has plenty of great restaurants, things to do and architecture to see! (Check out our Buffalo Restaurant Guide).

In this post, we’ll give you the full value travel experience to attending a Sabers Game this year.

VALUE TRAVEL TRANSIT TO BUFFALO SABRES

GAMES

The NFTA (Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority) website states you can park for free at any Metro Park and Ride.

Take the NFTA Metro Rail or Metro Bus to the Buffalo Sabres game. As a result, no car rental, gas or parking is necessary.

The local bus routes to and from the game are the #6, 8, 14, 16 and 36. Bus fare is two dollars per person. If you need transfers, it pays to get the day pass for five dollars.

Staying in Niagara Falls?

— Get to and from a Buffalo Sabres game in just over an hour for $4 per person round-trip! That’s peanuts!

— Take the number 40 bus and then walk 10 minutes to and from the arena.

Driving from Ontario, Canada?

— Drive into Niagara Falls, NY, park, and take the 40 bus route.

No sitting in traffic, no cost of parking, and Buffalo Sabres hockey. SOUNDS PERFECT!

 

APPRECIATING ARCHITECTURE

Locals suggested the view from up top at City Hall. Free tours take place weekdays at noon.

It is a way to look at the exquisite architecture while keeping your budget in check.

Viewing the Liberty Building is another recommendation for those who enjoy exploring downtown.

I advocate taking a nice, 20-minute, scenic walk from those buildings on your way to the Buffalo Sabres arena. You don’t have to take the Metro Rail or Bus.

You will revel in the cotyledons’ foliage in the fall and spring.

POPULAR EATS AND DRINKS NEARBY

Head to Pearl Street.

I had a tasty and satiating Kielbasa at the Pearl Street Grill and Brewery.

The extensive beer choice draws locals.

Since I was only in town for one Buffalo Sabres game, I could not explore every pre-game hangout.

I canvassed locals about their top picks to chill in their Sabres attire before puck drop. Residents’ favorites include  Iron Works, (716) Food and Sport, Lockhouse Distillery, and Ballyhoo.

Check them out!

CANALSIDE

The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation is revitalizing Canalside.

Some locals love the area.

It neighbors the arena right along the Buffalo River and is a family friendly destination.

It has boat rides, naval vessel tours, and an ice skating rink among diverse choices.

Take a stroll along the water, but development may take place. Building means progress, right?

Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation will enhance Canalside in 2019 once everything gets fixed up before the warmer months.

I hope to return then to stay and play!

ALUMNI PLAZA

Alumni Plaza is a can’t-miss when exploring the arena.

Outside the arena is a set of bronze statues featuring one of the strongest forward line pairs in NHL history. It offers an excellent picture opportunity!

The “French Connection” = French-Canadians Gilbert Perreault, Rick Martin and Rene Robert. The NHL inducted them into the Buffalo Sabres Hall of Fame.

And check out the Sabres players of each decade with their own plaques at Alumni Plaza.

THE SABRES WOW THE FANS

Thrilling!

Good passing, nine goals, a triumph, and many goal horns and songs = a happy Grasshopper Greg!

Locals told me this November game I attended was the 2018-2019 season-changing game.

I am so glad I witnessed and took part in the crowd’s first-legitimate spurt of playoff-level enthusiasm since 2011!

After nine consecutive years of missing the playoffs, fans want the Sabres to continue scoring.

While up nine goals to two over the Ottawa Senators, the crowd shouted: “one… two… three… four… five… six… seven… eight… nine… we want 10!”

I asked my friend Josiah, “Why aren’t the fans grateful with nine goals?” He laughed.

I pondered to myself, “damn, Buffalo fans have dealt with seven consecutive seasons of missing the playoffs!…”

“… They have reasonable and grandiose expectations!”

And you know what, I admired their chant. They’re paying for the Sabres to entertain them, so why not?

Fun, fun, fun!

BUBBLE HOCKEY MADNESS

Bubble hockey… on ice… in front of over 17.9 K fans, yes please!

A Sabres employee approached our group if we would take part in this game.

She said to be bracing to hit the ice at the end of the second intermission.

What!?! One weekend in Buffalo and I go bash Buffalo bubblers… Bingo!

Josiah’s girlfriend Jen observed and filmed us. Thank you, Jen!

His friend Matt hit another gentleman’s bubble with the utmost “bubbular” force!

Josiah couldn’t wear his glasses due to game rules but came out strong.

I keenly focused on tracking the puck and was resisting falling. Boy, was it tough to see through the bubble, despite my 20/20 vision.

We knocked and bounced off each other with reckless abandon.

The fact I didn’t make a complete fool of myself in front of 18,000 spectators was an achievement!

Our group lost, but the recollection was invaluable!

Photo/Video credit: Jen Donato.

    

KeyBank Center is a comfortable arena and presents a great hockey fan experience regardless of the tally.

Visit.

The Buffalo Sabres team standings hampered locals in recent seasons.

The Sabres perennial-losing team may very well be in the rearview mirror.

 

“Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.”― Jack Kerouac

Niagara Falls Off-Season Travel Guide (🌈Video and Pictures included!🌈)

Horseshoe Falls Niagara Falls

 

TRANSPORTATION

Buffalo has a terrific bus system because buses along each of the routes make frequent stops.

The stops are located close enough together that transfers are a breeze.

Navigating the transit from Elmwood Village in Buffalo to Niagara Falls was simple.

I hopped on the 26 NFTA bus and transferred to the 40 which took me right to my destination. The day pass was only $5, a bargain allowing me to hop on and off any bus.

I saved a great deal of money choosing public transportation over the much more expensive options of Uber, taxi or car rental.

This is a great example of employing value travel strategies to maximize your experience while minimizing the cost.

I also stayed at an airBNB a few blocks away from Elmwood Village for just under $40 per night.

As soon as I stepped foot in Elmwood Village, I felt right at home.

Off-Season Travel to Niagara Falls

Andrea Czopp, the Vice President of Operations for Destination Niagara USA, the biggest MYTH about visiting Niagara Falls outside of the busy summer tourist season is that there is a lack of things to do in the off-season.

“While it is true that the Maid of the Mist closes for the season in late October and doesn’t return until Spring, the Cave of the Winds attraction remains open year-round with an abbreviated tour and discounted ticket price,” Czopp says.

“… There are also several other viewing areas at the Niagara Falls State Park that remain open even in the coldest months of the year that offer spectacular views,” Czopp adds.

Photo credit: Destination Niagara USA

 

ADVANTAGES OF VISITING IN COLDER MONTHS

In my conversation with Czopp, she confirmed that in the offseason there are numerous benefits to visit the park:

—The crowds are smaller allowing for more space to move around and view the falls

—For those who drive, parking rates cost less.

—Hotel rates are more affordable.

Locals should be on the lookout for winter “staycation” hotel packages at Niagara Falls.

Visit NiagaraFallsUSA.com for more information.

Photo credit: Destination Niagara USA

WINTER WEATHER BRINGS SPECTACULAR VIEWS

During the winter months, the park takes on a whole different appearance.

“Freezing temperatures transform the mist into magical sculptures of snow and ice that cover every inch of the park including the trees and grass and even the guardrails and classic viewfinders,” Czopp says.

Visitors should wear:

  • layers,
  • hand and toe warmers,
  • thick socks and boots,
  • a hat that covers the ears,
  • gloves and a warm jacket.

By dressing for the weather, you can enjoy the wondrous beauty of Niagara Falls in any season. Of course, this is key to avoid common travel mishaps on your Niagara Falls getaway.

Photo credit: Destination Niagara USA

PICTURE PERFECT SHOTS

Of course, visiting Niagara Falls in the off-season allows you to take advantage of picture perfect shots. Once the temperature drops, fewer tourists are out and about everyday. Naturally, this makes it easier to capture shots worthy for social media. Be sure to capture some great images at the falls, Maid of the Mist, and Cave of the Winds. In addition, check out our Buffalo Niagara Falls travel guide to learn more about the top sites to see.

BRAVING THE WEATHER AND ENJOYING THE OFF-SEASON CONDITIONS

JEREMY FRIED’S AND KELLY STOVALL’S LATE OCTOBER VISIT

Jeremy Fried and Kelly Stovall planned their trip to Niagara Falls from Louisville, Kentucky in late October.

They felt the fog, cold weather, and snow flurries enhanced the atmosphere and visual experience of their stay in Niagara Falls.

“… the mist, the fog everywhere, the dark skies with all the color, the trees popping against the backdrop and everything,… for us, it’s an ideal time to come out and see all this stuff,” Fried and Stovall said.

They encourage others to do as they did, brave the weather and go in the off-season.

“Just experience the experience, go when you want to go, and I think off-season type tourism is especially great for the community you’re touring,” Stovall said.

Fried agreed and felt that less of a crowd had a positive impact on his personal experience.

“We get to make our way around more freely… have walked the trail all the way all day unimpeded get to take our time and just soak everything in. We were able to find everything. It’s been great, even in this chilly weather,” Fried said.

 

SASHA MACAREAG BRINGS THE CHILD’S PERSPECTIVE TO LIGHT

During my weekend visit, I spoke with an adorable little girl named Sasha Macareag.

Her experience elated her.

She was visiting with her brother and parents. They felt it was an excellent time of the year to be there.

“I love the weather,” Macareag said.

“Waterfall… good! I ride the boat [Maid of the Mist].”

She, like many other children, were all smiles that day.

They were fortunate to be there just before the Maid of the Mist goes into hibernation until Spring.

THE FIRST THREE THINGS TO DO AND SEE

NIAGARA ADVENTURE THEATRE

I loved it.

The movie, The Niagara: Legends of Adventure, offers a breathtaking aerial view of the falls and surrounding scenery from many angles.

It also covers the geological history of the three falls forming:

— American Falls

— Bridal Veil Falls.

— Horseshoe Falls/Canada Falls

There were stories about adventure seekers who have survived and those who perished in the overpowering water over the steep cliffs.

If you wish to get a glimpse of what you will witness at Niagara Falls beforehand, it is well worth the admission.

Discounted tickets are available online.

I suggest you see the movie before you head for the Maid of the Mist or other Niagara Falls attractions.

MAID OF THE MIST

Off-season travelers must plan to visit Niagara Falls before early November to catch a ride on the Maid of the Mist into the basin of the Horseshoe Falls.

A benefit to going in the off-season is the ample room to move around on the boat.

It is easier to witness the beauty of the waterfalls and the nature that surrounds from different positions.

My favorite souvenir from this attraction was the blue poncho included in the price of admission.

Wearing it kept me protected from getting drenched.

The boat ride was spectacular!

And I kept the poncho, a lasting reminder of my incredible day.

An adult ticket costs $19.25, and a children’s ticket, $11.20.

Children five years and younger ride free with an adult accompanying them.

Maid of the Mist is closed from early November through the end of April. However, the park is open year round. If you are always a fan the great outdoors when you travel, be sure to check out our West Virginia outdoor travel guide for adventure seekers.

Maid of the Mist Niagara Falls

 

CAVE OF THE WINDS

Open year round, this attraction includes:

— a movie about the gorge trip,

— the power plants of Niagara Falls,

— how Nikola Tesla connected the power of the Falls,

— and why the world changed once Niagara Falls came into existence.

Even in the off-season, you can take an elevator down to the Niagara Gorge to see the Bridal Veil and American Falls up close.

It is a multi-sensory experience:

— you see the falls,

— hear them,

— smell them,

— feel them (will get wet)

— and taste the mist (if you stick out your tongue)!

You can take an abbreviated tour which lets you experience the falls from observation platforms and you can visit the World Changed Here Pavilion.

A Hurricane Deck positions you 20 feet from the Bridal Veil Falls and enables you to feel the raw power of the falls.

The deck is closed, though, during the offseason because of the danger of ice and slipping hazards.

The Cave of the Winds attraction is worth the money if you are not in a rush to leave the gorge.

Stay down there until an employee kicks you out.

Enjoy the breeze, take pictures, and soak it all in!

An adult ticket costs $12, youth, $9.

But when the deck reopens in Spring 2019, the price jumps a few more dollars.

Cave of the Winds

 

LOCAL EATS AND TIME AT THE PARK AFTER THE DINNER 

I advocate choosing local restaurants over large chain establishments.

Your experience will be more authentic, the food superior, and you will support the local business community.

Below are two I visited and recommend.

Powercity EateryDelish!

Located just a five-minute walk from the state park, Powercity offers many vegetarian and vegan health food options paired with excellent coffee.

My pastrami sandwich = unbelievable.

Powercity Eatery

 

It came with egg and Canadian Bacon inside their homemade sourdough bread.

I ordered an almond milk cappuccino with a homemade lemon cinnamon ginger flavor.

Jahlil and the rest of the staff were so friendly. They ensured there would be no dairy or cross contamination to accommodate my food allergy.

The breads are all dairy-free!

Red Coach InnScrumptious!

Red Coach Inn is also a fantastic choice. About three blocks away from the state park, you can get a decent view of the Niagara rapids.

But the real reason to go there is for the food. It is delicious!

I ate dinner there. Prices are affordable.

Want to eat out more? Skip drinks, an appetizer, or both.

You can return after dinner for free, and this stop enables you to take a break from the crowds inside the park.

The wine bar is a nice gathering spot, and the fireplace provides the comfort you may need after lots of walking in the Niagara Falls State Park.

Red Coach Inn

 

I ordered the vegetarian stuffed Portobello mushroom with:

— tomato,

— spinach,

— artichokes,

— non-dairy risotto

— and oils. Ugh… so good.

The waitress Ashley and waiter Joe were accommodating towards me and my dietary needs.

If you will ever eat bread in a restaurant, indulge in those calories here.

ILLUMINATIONS

The Niagara Falls Light Show was not as amazing as advertised.

But if you stay at the park into the dark hours of the evening, the lighting could mesmerize you.

The glow of the mist and falls in the variety of colors are brilliant.

My preference is viewing the falls during the day with its natural yet striking aqua and white colors.

Staying late and seeing them illuminated in the dark is a good decision.

Niagara Falls Colors Illuminations Niagara Falls

NIAGARA FALLS IN THE OFF-SEASON IS AWESOME

My Itinerary

  • I left Buffalo, took the 40 bus to Niagara Falls for $5 roundtrip.
  • Had brunch at the Powercity Eatery.
  • Stayed in the park until dinner.
  • Once inside the park, I visited the Niagara Adventure Theatre for the 40 minute movie
  • Took the Maid of the Mist Boat Ride,
  • Spent time at the Pavillion and Gorge Trip in the Cave of The Winds,
  • Took in the breathtaking views of the Falls from Prospect Point, Terrapin Point and the Observation Tower,
  • Visited the statue of Nikola Tesla, the inventor of the remote control and fluorescent lighting.

I left to enjoy a delicious meal at the Red Coach Inn and got back to the park in time for Illuminations.

I exited the park around 8:30 PM and caught a late bus back to Buffalo.

My day was so incredible that I returned for half a day before leaving to head back home.

The peace and serenity of the waterfalls was uplifting and awe inspiring.

It was worth $5.00 for the bus fare to soak in the scenery one last time.

THE VERDICT

If there is rain, fog or snow, it still cannot spoil the natural wonder that is Niagara Falls. It is unreal!

“If you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel – as far and as widely as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live and eat and cook. Learn from them – wherever you go.” – Anthony Bourdain

Niagara Falls And Buffalo Restaurant Guide For The Best Dining With A View

I am a foodie who loves to explore local cuisine and support local restaurants and businesses. There is an abundance of them in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, NY.

Therefore, this area is a haven for all of you food lovers out there!   

I look for affordable and unique places, especially those that accommodate my food allergy. By planning trips around food allergies, I can eat what I want, and feel comfortable while traveling.

The following are the top eateries that I visited during my off-season trip. I like to taste the local dishes and the house specialties whenever possible.  I am allergic to dairy, therefore, I search for kitchens that will accommodate my needs.

 

 

ELMWOOD VILLAGE – HOME TO INCREDIBLE FOOD, COFFEE AND MORE

I stayed in Elmwood Village, named one of the United States’ “10 Best Neighborhoods” by the American Planning Association.

The streets are filled with independently owned businesses and public art to peruse and enjoy.

Go for a nice walk, shop, eat, taste a craft beer, whatever makes you happy.

And in Elmwood Village, you will find many things that will brighten your day.  This quaint and hip neighborhood offers the best coffee shop scene in Buffalo.  

I was there for five days and enjoyed every minute.

Buffalo - Elmwood Village

ASHKER’S

The owner, Angelo Ashker, is an incredible guy.  

He reassured me that my order would be prepared without any dairy in the ingredients, nor would there be any cross-contamination in the preparation. This was music to my ears. I had found a healthier place to add to my Buffalo New York restaurant guide.

His restaurant (four locations in Buffalo) was one of my favorites. The menu is filled with healthy options for breakfast and lunch. Many of the items are dairy-free.

I prefer my juices with to be a mix of vegetable and fruit.

The Heated Heart, a cold-pressed juice comprised of beet, carrot, ginger, lemon, apple, and cayenne was my pick.  It was not too sweet and had a nice kick from the cayenne. It makes for the perfect restaurants guide Buffalo NY healthy option.

For my main dish, I ordered the pumpkin pie smoothie bowl.  

It was a delicious combination of banana, spiced pumpkin, almond milk topped with pumpkin granola, coconut and chia seeds.  The bowl is a creamy blend of Fall flavors. The crunchy toppings were visually appealing and added texture.

For dessert, the coconut chia pudding is a healthy treat that is not overly sweet.  

The chia seeds pop while you chew, which is a surprising and pleasant sensation. Don’t be fooled by the name, you must try this indulgence.

I ordered a cashew milk latte with non-dairy salted caramel, a satisfying and creamy combination of salty and sweet.

What a delicious way to get a caffeine fix!

Buffalo Restaurant Ashkers

During my second visit, I ordered the Electric Lime cold press juice, a tantalizing concoction of lime, mint, pineapple, apple, cucumber, and kale.

Lime green is one of my favorite colors. I began to salivate when the brightly hued juice arrived at the table.  

Cucumber and mint are so refreshing, and adding kale to the mix is a fabulous way to ensure that I get my greens!

This blend of ingredients was crisp and invigorating.

Buffalo Restaurant Ashkers

Next to arrive was the garden plate. The dish was a medley of a savory tofu bean mix, peppers, onions, cauliflower, cabbage, tomato, spinach, home fries, and basil.  

It was served with multi-grain toast and jam. This crunchy and hearty power meal tasted oh so fresh.  Popeye would approve!

I couldn’t leave for the Buffalo Niagara Airport without indulging in a delicious and filling breakfast at Ashker’s beforehand. It was, hands down, one of the best restaurants guide Buffalo NY breakfast places. I hope you will love it as much as I did!

ROOT AND BLOOM

Root and Bloom is another gem located in the Elmwood Village neighborhood. It offers a plant-based menu free of meat, dairy, and honey.

I always look for vegan restaurants when traveling. First, they offer healthy, fresh food and second, no dairy is used in any of the dishes.  

This lifestyle offers many benefits.  When traveling, the body is stressed and exposed to many germs.  Eating a healthy and bright colored diet boosts the immune system.

Above all, I have an entire restaurant full of options to choose from, rather than just a few.

I ordered the Fernando, fried tostadas with black beans, ranch egg sauce, quinoa chorizo, griddle seared ranch eggs and vegetables, habanero cream, sliced avocado, and cilantro.

A dream on a plate, it was creamy without any dairy, mildly spicy and very filling. It was a great place to go if you are looking for the best lunch in Buffalo or a delicious dinner option!

If you are hungry, this is the dish to order. For those of you non-vegan Mexican food lovers, you will get your fix without missing the meat or dairy!

The apple crisp was made in a cast-iron skillet with spiced New York apples and crumble, topped with a scoop of non-dairy vanilla ice cream and cinnamon caramel.

To date, it is the best I have ever tasted.  

Indulge in this dessert, it is heavenly. Root and Bloom is a “must experience” during your Buffalo adventures.

Buffalo Restaurant Root and Bloom Buffalo Restaurant Root and Bloom

COFFEE: BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEES AND MORE

Blue Mountain Coffees is a local business in Elmwood Village. They offer wide varieties of coffees and teas, and the store smells amazing.

The aroma hits you instantly when you enter the store causing that Pavlovian effect, a mouthwatering prelude to satisfying that caffeine craving. 

The roaster roasts the beans locally, in store.

I tasted the organic fair trade Ethiopian and the Kenyan coffees. Both were full-bodied.

I added dairy-free coconut caramel flavoring to my almond milk latte. The syrup enhanced the taste and made it exceptional, even by the standards of the most discerning java drinkers. It acts as the cherry on top of any restaurants guide Buffalo NY brunch.

There is also a nice gift shop if you are looking to take something home for later.  

Other excellent choices to get your caffeine fix nearby include Caffe Aroma, Perks Café and Spot Coffee.

Buffalo Coffeeshop Blue Mountain Coffees
Blue Mountain Coffees - Buffalo

WINGS – THE ORIGINAL ANCHOR BAR AND OTHERS

The Buffalo Wing originated right here in this very establishment. On March 4, 1964, Dominic Bellissimo was bartending at Anchor Bar and his mother, Teressa, was working in the kitchen.

When his friends showed up hungry, he asked his mother to make them something to eat.

She took chicken wings that she usually cooked in the stock pot and consequently fried them instead.  Then she combined a simple butter and hot sauce.

The rest was history. Buffalo Wings have since become perhaps the greatest bar food ever.

I ordered 20 wings with a degree of heat ranging between the medium and hot. The kitchen uses only dairy-free margarine, and I was pleasantly surprised to learn I could eat them. Consequently, I did not have to skip the sauce.  It was delicious!

My dish was accompanied by celery sans the blue cheese.  I did not miss it one bit!

A knowledgeable resident told me that Duff’s Famous Wings, Gabriel’s Gate, 911 Tavern, Elmos and Amherst Ale House all make superb wings. Hopefully, the next time I am in the area, I will sample them all! This was one of the most fun restaurants in Buffalo!

NIAGARA FALLS

POWERCITY EATERY

Powercity Eatery is another favorite restaurant of mine in the Niagara Falls vicinity. This Buffalo NY restaurant guide would not be complete without it. It is located just a five-minute walk from the state park. Powercity offers many vegetarian and vegan food options and an extensive selection of coffee drinks.

I was in the mood for meat, so I ordered a pastrami, egg, and Canadian bacon sandwich on homemade sourdough bread. The presentation was simple, but the meal was far from it.  

The salty goodness of the pastrami and bacon added so much flavor to the hearty, crusty bread.  Consequently, the combination was a foodie’s dream.

I indulged in an almond milk cappuccino with a homemade lemon cinnamon ginger flavor. After all, a plain cappuccino is oh so 2017!  

Jahlil and the rest of the staff were friendly and attentive. They assured me that there would be no cross-contamination in the preparation of my beverage.

This is a must for food-allergic travelers. The loaves of bread are all dairy-free too.  An all-around win-win for me, I give this a 5 out of 5 grasshoppers!

The lack of cross-contamination and abundance of allergy-friendly foods is a recipe for good food Buffalo NY.

RED COACH INN

The Red Coach Inn is a restaurant that boasts of a panoramic view of the rapids. It is conveniently located within walking distance to Niagara Falls.  

Most eateries offering scenic vistas either overcharge or underwhelm. However, the food is fabulous and the prices are affordable. The view is good, but not spectacular as advertised.

Everything else about the Red Coach Inn is impressive. The wine bar within offers a wide selection of wines by the glass, beer and coffee drinks and is a nice gathering spot to relax and unwind.  The fireplace provides ambiance and a comfortable spot to warm up after a long visit to Niagara Falls State Park.

I ordered the vegetarian stuffed Portobello mushroom, with tomato, spinach, artichokes, Portobello mushroom, non-dairy risotto, and oils. The mushroom was beefy and the stuffing a delicious rich Mediterranean blend of flavors.

The waitstaff, Ashley and Joe, were attentive servers and very accommodating regarding my dietary needs. Their bread was exceptional…. daaaayuuuum.

The restaurant’s proximity to the state park offers the option to take a relaxing break from sightseeing. You can return to the park after dinner for free, so there is no reason to miss this gem. It is, after all, in this ultimate Buffalo area restaurant guide.

RESTAURANTS WITH OUTDOOR SEATING

In the age of COVID travel restrictions, many value tourists are prioritizing Niagara Falls and Buffalo restaurants with outdoor seating. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicioous options to consider. In Niagara, consider popular establishments like Savor, the Red Coach Inn, or Wine on Third. In addition, the Bakery Restaurant & Lounge is always another promising choice. In fact, you may want to consider making a reservation at the Top Of The Falls Restaurant, Buzzy’s New York Style Pizza, or the Parkway Prime Steakhouse & Lounge. Certainly, there are plenty of great restaurant choices for outdoor seating in Niagara Falls and Buffalo.

BIG IN BUFFALO

ANDERSON’S

Anderson’s is a local favorite. There are six locations in the city and they also have a food truck. This makes it one of the most trendy Buffalo restaurants around! Their custard is dynamite.  

In addition, there are two vegan flavors which are also suitable for those who are allergic to milk or eggs. I selected the chocolate raspberry chunk which was creamy, rich, fruity and chewy all at once. What a dynamite combination!

The Beef on Weck sandwich, a Buffalo specialty, was my favorite menu item. The chef slow roasts the roast beef until medium rare and serves it warm on a Kimmelweck roll with au jus, salt, and pepper.  

If you have never heard of a Kimmelweck roll, it is a Kaiser roll topped with pretzel salt and caraway seeds. For a classic “Beef on Weck”, definitely opt for the horseradish on your sandwich.

PEARL STREET GRILL AND BREWERY

The Kielbasa I had at the Pearl Street Grill and Brewery following the Sabres game was tasty and satiating. 

The extensive beer selection draws locals inside. Include this grill and brewery in your list of restaurants in Buffalo NY if you want to experience the town like a local.

Buffalo hosts an annual Best Kielbasa Contest. 

TRAVELING WITH DIETARY RESTRICTIONS

It’s safe to say that traveling with dietary restrictions in Buffalo, NY and Niagara Falls is not difficult. This restaurants guide Buffalo NY area list does not skimp on vegan, allergy-friendly options. Enjoy yourself by visiting accommodating places that still offer the local experience.

You can enjoy the places in the best restaurants guide buffalo NY on the water and still get a meal you can enjoy.

GRASSHOPPER GREG’S IMPRESSION

In conclusion, Buffalo is a culinary city that offers a plethora of friendly local businesses with unique and pleasurable dining options. 

Don’t let the cold weather months deter you from visiting the area. There is a tremendous variety of shops, restaurants and activities to explore in the offseason.

Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, health conscious eater, or an overall foodie, Buffalo has something for everyone. The quality and quantity of local top-notch choices impressed me. If you want to find out more about food on your next vacation, be sure to check out our Native American travel food guide as well.

 

“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” – Anita Desai