Buffalo, New York, is a city where culinary tradition and innovation walk hand in hand.
Known for its blue-collar roots, passionate sports fans, and snowy winters, Buffalo’s food scene is equally robust—built on hearty classics, immigrant influences, and a fierce local pride.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Buffalonian, the city’s restaurants offer a delicious window into its soul.
Here are five of the best local favorites that define Buffalo’s unique flavor.
1. Anchor Bar
No food tour of Buffalo is complete without a pilgrimage to the Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the world-famous Buffalo wing.
Since 1935, this legendary spot has been serving up crispy, saucy wings that have become a global phenomenon.
The story goes that in 1964, co-owner Teressa Bellissimo whipped up a batch of wings for her son and his friends, tossing them in a secret hot sauce and serving them with blue cheese and celery. The rest is history.
The Anchor Bar’s wings are still made the same way—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and perfectly coated in tangy, spicy sauce.
The restaurant’s walls are lined with memorabilia, photos, and awards, creating a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Locals and tourists alike flock here for the original wings, but the menu also features Italian-American classics and live music nights.
For Buffalonians, the Anchor Bar is more than a restaurant—it’s a rite of passage and a source of city pride.
2. Schwabl’s
Step back in time at Schwabl’s, a Buffalo institution since 1837.
This family-owned restaurant is famous for its “beef on weck”—thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef piled high on a kummelweck roll (a Kaiser roll topped with caraway seeds and coarse salt), served with horseradish and au jus.
The sandwich is a savory, salty, and slightly spicy masterpiece that’s pure Buffalo.
Schwabl’s exudes old-world charm, with antique furnishings, a classic bar, and vintage photos that transport diners to another era.
The staff, many of whom have worked here for decades, treat guests like family. Locals rave about the unwavering quality and tradition—every bite tastes like history.
For many, Schwabl’s is the place for family celebrations, Sunday dinners, and a taste of Buffalo’s German-American heritage.
3. Chef’s Restaurant
Since 1923, Chef’s has been the go-to spot for Italian-American comfort food in Buffalo.
The restaurant’s signature dish, “Spaghetti Parm,” is a cheesy, saucy delight: spaghetti tossed in butter, smothered in tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella, and baked until bubbly.
The portions are generous, the flavors are classic, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Chef’s is a family-run operation, and it shows in the hospitality and attention to detail.
The walls are covered with photos of celebrities, politicians, and local heroes who have dined here over the years.
Locals love Chef’s for its consistency, friendly service, and the sense of nostalgia it evokes.
It’s the kind of place where generations gather to celebrate milestones, share stories, and enjoy a meal that feels like home.
4. Ted’s Hot Dogs
For over 90 years, Ted’s Hot Dogs has been a beloved fixture in Buffalo’s food scene.
The secret to Ted’s success is simple: charcoal-grilled hot dogs, made to order and topped with your choice of condiments.
The snap of the natural casing, the smoky flavor from the grill, and the endless topping options make Ted’s a favorite for all ages.
The atmosphere at Ted’s is casual and family-friendly, with picnic tables, retro signage, and the irresistible aroma of grilling franks.
Locals swear by the classic hot dog with Ted’s special sauce, but the menu also features burgers, fries, onion rings, and milkshakes.
For many Buffalonians, a trip to Ted’s is a cherished tradition—whether it’s after a baseball game, on a summer afternoon, or just because.
5. Ristorante Lombardo
For a taste of Italy in Buffalo, Ristorante Lombardo is the place to be. This upscale yet welcoming restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1975.
The menu features classic dishes like veal saltimbocca, house-made pastas, and fresh seafood, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients and a dedication to quality.
The ambiance at Lombardo is elegant but not stuffy, with white tablecloths, attentive service, and a well-curated wine list.
Chef Michael Lombardo and his team are passionate about bringing the flavors of Italy to Buffalo, and it shows in every dish.
Locals praise Lombardo for its consistency, creativity, and the sense of occasion it brings to any meal—whether it’s a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a special celebration.
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