20 Best Restaurants in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, New York, is more than just the home of the famous Buffalo Wings; it's a city with a diverse culinary scene that is sure to satisfy any food lover's cravings.

Having lived here for many years, I've had the pleasure of exploring the wide variety of delicious restaurants this city has to offer.

From mouthwatering food trucks to fine dining establishments, Buffalo truly has something for everyone.

In this article, I'll be sharing the 20 best restaurants in Buffalo, New York.

Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through Queen City's culinary gems!

Man-aung Sushi

I've been living in this neighborhood for years, and one of my favorite spots to grab a bite to eat has always been Man-aung Sushi.

This small gem of a sushi restaurant is an amazing place to visit for sushi lovers, especially for those who appreciate a more authentic experience.

From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

The menu is extensive, offering a wide variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes to suit every taste.

One of my favorite dishes to order is their Dragon Roll, which is made with fresh eel, avocado, and cucumber, then topped with a delicious unagi sauce.

I've also had the pleasure of trying their Rainbow Roll, a California roll topped with an assortment of fresh fish and avocado.

To accompany my sushi, I usually order a bowl of miso soup and a side of edamame, which are both perfectly prepared every time.

What sets Man-aung Sushi apart from other sushi restaurants in the area, however, is their omakase experience - a chef's selection of the finest sushi and sashimi, handpicked daily for the freshest and most delicious flavors.

Bella Ciao

Bella Ciao is a cozy Italian restaurant located in Buffalo, NY.

The atmosphere here was warm and inviting, perfect for a date night or a family dinner.

One of the best things about Bella Ciao is their extensive menu.

I had a hard time deciding between their mouth-watering options!

Eventually, I decided to start with the Bruschetta, which was a perfect balance of flavors and textures: fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic atop crusty bread.

I also sipped on a delicious glass of wine they recommended while I awaited my main course.

For my entrée, I chose the Seafood Risotto. It was phenomenal!

The dish arrived steaming hot, packed with fresh seafood, including shrimp, scallops, and clams, all mixed in a creamy, perfectly cooked risotto.

I was thoroughly impressed by the quality and flavor of the dish, and my taste buds were dancing with delight.

Compass Run

Last weekend, I decided to visit Compass Run with my friends, and we had an amazing time!

This local gem is located just a short drive away from the heart of the city, making it a convenient spot for a fun day out.

One of the highlights of our visit was the delicious food that we tried from their menu.

I ordered a mouth-watering burger, which was cooked to perfection and served with a side of crispy fries.

My friends raved about their meals too, especially the fresh salads and flavorful sandwiches.

We couldn't resist indulging in some of their scrumptious desserts as well, which were the perfect way to end our meal.

Another standout feature of Compass Run was the beautiful outdoor patio area that offered a gorgeous view of the surrounding scenery.

We were lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, and we enjoyed sipping on our drinks while soaking up the sun and admiring the landscape.

The Dapper Goose

I decided to catch up with some old friends at The Dapper Goose, and I must say, it was an absolute delight.

As soon as I walked in, I was blown away by the urban vibe and welcoming atmosphere.

The stylish interiors, combined with a friendly staff, set the tone for what was to be a fantastic evening.

We were fortunate enough to snag a table on their outdoor patio, which was perfect for a warm summer evening.

The fresh air and comfortable seating made for an ideal setting to catch up with my friends and enjoy some delicious food.

Speaking of food, The Dapper Goose offers a diverse menu of seasonal New American eats.

I opted for their crispy Brussels sprouts as an appetizer, which was cooked to perfection.

My entrée, the pan-seared scallops, was equally impressive.

With a beautiful sear and a delicate balance of flavors, it was easily one of the best scallop dishes I've ever tasted.

But what truly sets The Dapper Goose apart is their selection of clever cocktails.

I tried the Bourbon Renewal, and it was a game-changer.

The mix of bourbon, lemon, crème de cassis, and bitters created a harmonious blend of flavors that had me asking for another round.

Vice Restaurant

Recently, I decided to spend an evening at Vice Restaurant to indulge in some delicious comfort food.

The airy, casual atmosphere made for a delightful dining experience.

I started my meal with one of their signature burgers, which was cooked to perfection and oozing with flavor.

As I enjoyed my burger, I couldn't help but notice the tempting aroma of their wood-fired pizzas.

I decided to give in to my cravings and ordered one to share with my friends.

The crust was crispy, and the toppings were a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

It's no wonder that Vice is known for its pizzas!

Rakhapura Restaurants

One of the best things about living in this city is the incredible food scene, and one of my all-time favorite spots is Rakhapura Restaurants.

From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel right at home.

One thing that really sets Rakhapura apart is the fantastic service.

As for the food, it's nothing short of amazing.

Every dish I've tried has been bursting with flavor, and the presentation is always top-notch.

I was particularly impressed with their signature dishes, which were cooked to perfection and served with an excellent array of sides.

What really sealed the deal for me, though, was the special touch that Rakhapura adds to their dishes with unique and delicious sauces.

It's clear that they've put a lot of thought into crafting the perfect pairings for each dish, and it truly elevates the dining experience to a whole new level.

Another great thing about Rakhapura is the variety it offers.

Everyone in my group of friends and family has their own favorites, and we can all find something we love on the menu.

Iron Tail Tavern

Last weekend, I decided to check out Iron Tail Tavern with a few friends, and we had an incredible time.

The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The exposed brick walls and rustic wooden accents created a cozy ambiance that we couldn't resist.

For starters, we shared the crispy calamari and the mouthwatering Buffalo cauliflower.

Both were perfectly cooked and so flavorful – a fantastic way to kick off our meal.

For our main courses, we decided on the blackened salmon, the smoked brisket sandwich, and the lobster mac and cheese.

The salmon was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of spice to complement the flaky texture.

The smoked brisket sandwich was packed with flavor, tender and juicy, and the lobster mac and cheese was rich and decadent, with chunks of lobster meat throughout.

To top it all off, we couldn't resist trying their famous mixed berry cobbler for dessert.

Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this sweet treat was the perfect ending to an already outstanding meal.

Throughout the evening, we enjoyed a few drinks from their impressive list of craft beers and handcrafted cocktails.

Sophia's Restaurant

One of my favorite spots to enjoy a scrumptious breakfast in town is Sophia's Restaurant.

I always feel at home in this quaint comfort-food kitchen, which is actually a converted house.

The cozy atmosphere just adds to its charm!

Their menu is filled with hearty helpings of both breakfast and lunch dishes, making it difficult to choose just one.

On my last visit, I decided to try their famous stuffed French toast and let me tell you, it was simply divine!

My friend, meanwhile, ordered an omelet, which was also a hit - fluffy, delicious, and packed with fresh ingredients.

Ristorante Lombardo

Just the other night, I had one of the most amazing dining experiences at Ristorante Lombardo.

This place offers unique, old-world Italian cooking with a long wine list, and the warm, inviting atmosphere is truly a standout feature.

I started my evening with a glass of wine (which was superb) from their extensive list and then moved on to the appetizers.

The arancini were perfectly crispy on the outside and filled with delicious, gooey cheese on the inside – I couldn't get enough of them!

For my main course, I had the most amazing pasta dish, with homemade noodles cooked to perfection and a rich, flavorful sauce that had me savoring every bite.

Throughout the meal, I noticed that the other diners were also enjoying their food and the relaxing, intimate ambiance.

SZND

I recently visited SZND for a much-needed night out with friends.

Upon entering, I was impressed by the cozy and inviting ambiance.

We started off with a variety of small plates, which included a delicious crab cake that was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

We also enjoyed the truffle fries, which were some of the best I've ever had – crispy, flavorful, and not too oily.

For the main course, I opted for the pan-seared salmon, which was cooked to perfection and served with a delightful lemon butter sauce.

My friends ordered the braised short ribs and the shrimp and grits, both of which were equally impressive and packed with flavor.

Throughout our meal, the staff remained attentive and helpful, ensuring our drinks were never empty and providing recommendations on what to try next.

Inizio

Inizio is also a hidden gem in my town. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cozy and intimate ambiance, perfect for a date night or catching up with friends.

One of the reasons I love Inizio is its menu which offers a variety of dishes, from delicious starters to tantalizing entrees.

I decided to try their Arancini appetizer, which did not disappoint.

The risotto balls were crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, served with a flavorful marinara sauce.

For my main course, I opted for the Tagliatelle Bolognese.

The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the meat sauce was rich and flavorful, making it an unforgettable dish.

What I appreciated most about Inizio was the attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience.

The presentation of each dish was impeccable, and the portions were generous.

Billy Club

The other day, I decided to treat myself to a nice dinner at Billy Club.

One of the things that really sets Billy Club apart is its creative New American cuisine.

I opted for one of their specials, which was a perfectly cooked steak accompanied by a delicious, unique sauce.

I also enjoyed a side of their mouth-watering truffle mac and cheese, which was rich and indulgent.

To top it all off, I couldn't resist trying one of their expertly crafted cocktails.

I was very pleased with my choice, as the drink was refreshing and well-balanced.

The Grotto

The atmosphere at The Grotto was casual, perfect for a laid-back dinner with friends and family.

The menu here offers a wide variety of options, from sandwiches and homestyle cooking to Italian dishes like pasta and pizzas.

After browsing through the menu, I decided to try one of their signature pasta dishes, and I was not disappointed.

The pasta was cooked perfectly, and the sauce had just the right amount of flavor and spices.

The portion size was generous, and I even had some leftovers to take home with me.

In addition to my pasta dish, I also had the opportunity to try one of their delicious pizzas.

The crust was thin and crispy, just the way I like it, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful.

I could tell that the ingredients used were of high quality, and the overall taste was simply delightful.

Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant

My friends and I decided to have a girls' night out and ended up at Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant, which turned out to be an amazing choice!

The moment we walked in, we were greeted by the chic, candlelit atmosphere that made us feel right at home.

It was the perfect setting for a sophisticated and relaxing evening.

We were impressed by Bacchus' extensive wine list, which seemed to have a great selection for every palate.

We even noticed that they had a nice variety of options for every budget.

The innovative American small plates and entrees were absolutely delicious!

We started with a cheese and charcuterie board that was beautifully presented and paired perfectly with our wine.

For dinner, we shared several small plates, including a mouth-watering risotto and a unique beet salad that had the perfect blend of flavors.

Hombre y Lobo Tacos + Tequila

One of my favorite places to grab a bite and unwind after a long day is Hombre y Lobo, a fantastic spot for tacos and tequila in the neighborhood.

As soon as I step inside, I am always greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What sets Hombre y Lobo apart from other taco joints is its extensive menu, offering a wide variety of delicious and unique taco options.

My personal favorite is their al pastor taco, which is marinated with perfection and cooked on a rotating spit, giving it that authentic Mexican street food taste.

The shrimp and fish tacos are also a must-try for seafood lovers.

Every taco is served with fresh and flavorful toppings, making each bite a delightful experience.

But you can't forget about their fantastic tequila selection!

Hombre y Lobo has a wide range of tequilas to choose from, some of which are rare and unique.

I love pairing my tacos with a cold margarita or a shot of smooth añejo tequila.

Besides their mouthwatering tacos and tequila, Hombre y Lobo also offers some scrumptious sides and desserts.

You can't go wrong with their elote, a Mexican street corn dish topped with cotija cheese and chili powder.

And for dessert, their churros are a must-have!

They're crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and served with a luscious chocolate dipping sauce.

Buffalo Tikka House

One of my favorite places to eat in the neighborhood is Buffalo Tikka House.

Their flavorful and authentic Indian cuisine always hits the spot, especially after a long day.

I started my meal with their scrumptious vegetable samosas, which were perfectly crispy and filled with a delicious mix of potatoes and peas.

For my main course, I decided to try their famous chicken tikka masala.

The dish was generously portioned, and the chicken was tender and cooked to perfection.

The rich and creamy sauce had the right balance of spices, making it a truly mouthwatering experience.

In addition, I couldn't resist ordering their garlic naan, which was warm, soft, and the ideal accompaniment to my meal.

It helped to soak up all the flavorful sauce from the chicken tikka masala, ensuring that I didn't miss out on a single bit of deliciousness.

To finish off my meal, I satisfied my sweet tooth with their delightful gulab jamun.

It was served warm, and the syrup it was soaked in had just the right amount of sweetness.

The Left Bank

From the first bite of The Left Bank's succulent Panko-crusted chicken cutlets, it was evident that this was more than a meal – it was a culinary journey.

The tender chicken enveloped in a golden-brown crust was a joy to the palate, and the hefty portion size suggested a wonderful generosity.

My partner's skillfully prepared salmon was adjusted with no hassle to fit his dietary needs, showcasing their flexible and considerate service.

The charm of the outdoor dining, adorned with twinkling lights, enhances the atmosphere, making it a delightful location for any occasion.

The service was professional, with a harmonious blend of attentiveness and respect for our dining space.

One standout dish was the carrot pappardelle, a delicate balance of sweet and savory that left me craving for more.

But the star of the night was their nightly special – halibut, crowned with a soft shell crab, a duo that danced harmoniously on the taste buds.

As we concluded our meal with a slice of double-berry blast cake, it was clear that The Left Bank isn't just about dining, it's about experiencing a smorgasbord of flavors.

Taste of Siam

My friends and I decided to give Taste of Siam a try as we were craving some authentic Thai food.

As soon as we entered, we were welcomed by the warm atmosphere and the lovely interior design, which already put us at ease.

The roomy and relaxed surroundings made it a perfect spot for our Friday night dinner.

We started our meal with some appetizers, and their chicken satay was to die for.

The peanut sauce was just the right mix of creamy and spicy.

For the main course, I ordered the Pad Thai, and it was one of the best I've ever had.

The flavors were well-balanced, and the dish was not overly greasy, which is a common problem with most Pad Thai dishes I've tried in other places.

My friends had the green curry and the pineapple fried rice, both of which they couldn't stop raving about.

One of the highlights of our night was the selection of cocktails. They were not only delicious but also beautifully presented.

Blue Cave Italian Restaurant

One of my favorite spots to enjoy a delicious Italian meal in the area is the Blue Cave Italian Restaurant.

The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with beautiful murals on the walls and soft lighting that creates an intimate dining experience.

On one of my visits, I decided to try their, which was cooked to perfection.

To accompany my meal, I chose a glass of red wine from their extensive wine list, which was the perfect touch to round out my dining experience.

Hutch's

When my friends and I decided to dine out at Hutch's, we were in for a delightful culinary experience.

This restaurant offers fine American cuisine with global touches, and I must say, the dishes did not disappoint.

The unpretentious, exposed-brick setting with a patio created a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, making us feel right at home.

We began our meal with some delicious appetizers.

The crab cake, in particular, was a standout, with its crisp exterior and flavorful, tender interior.

Our entrees were equally impressive.

I ordered the pan-roasted salmon, which was cooked to perfection – moist and flaky, with a delicious crust.

My friends opted for the succulent filet mignon and the mouth-watering short ribs, both of which were cooked to perfection and full of flavor.

The side dishes, such as the truffled mac and cheese and the garlic mashed potatoes, were the perfect accompaniments to our entrees.

The dessert menu was the cherry on top of a fabulous meal.

We indulged in the warm chocolate lava cake, which was rich, gooey, and absolutely divine.

Paired with a glass of wine from their extensive collection, it was the perfect ending to a fantastic dining experience.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that Buffalo is a hidden gem when it comes to dining experiences.

The diverse range of restaurants, each with its unique ambiance and scrumptious menu, has made it a pleasure to explore and savor the flavors of the city.

Every time I try a new restaurant or dish, I am reminded of the rich, diverse culture of Buffalo and how fortunate I am to call this city my home.