When you think of Buffalo, New York, your mind might wander to its rich history, stunning architecture, or even the iconic Niagara Falls nearby. But after spending several days exploring this vibrant city, one of the highlights that I’ll never forget is the food. Buffalo is home to a unique blend of classic American cuisine with a twist, influenced by its proximity to Canada, its rich immigrant history, and its evolving food scene.
From dive bars serving the crispiest wings to upscale eateries offering gourmet twists on comfort food, Buffalo is a food lover’s dream. In this post, I want to take you on a culinary journey through some of the best classic American restaurants that I had the chance to visit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, these spots should be on your radar.
1. The Anchor Bar: Home of the Original Buffalo Wing
It’s nearly impossible to talk about Buffalo without mentioning its world-famous wings, and there’s no better place to experience them than the Anchor Bar. This is where it all began in 1964 when Teressa Bellissimo, the co-owner, created the now-iconic dish. The Anchor Bar isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a historical landmark.
As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted with the familiar aroma of fried chicken and hot sauce. The atmosphere was casual, yet inviting, with vintage photos on the walls and a buzz of excitement from locals and tourists alike. The menu here is straightforward, but the wings are the star of the show.
I decided to go with the classic buffalo wings, medium heat, served with a side of bleu cheese dressing and celery. The wings were crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a perfect balance of tangy hot sauce. The bleu cheese had just the right amount of creaminess, complementing the heat of the wings. These were the best buffalo wings I’ve ever had, and they lived up to the hype.
For anyone planning to visit, you can easily book a reservation via OpenTable or Resy, both popular platforms that allow you to skip the wait and secure a table in advance.
2. Schwabl’s: A Taste of German-American History
Buffalo has a strong German heritage, and Schwabl’s, a family-owned restaurant that’s been in operation since 1837, is a testament to that history. The place has an old-world charm, with its wooden interior and rustic decor. Known for its slow-roasted beef on weck, Schwabl’s offers a delicious blend of German and American comfort food.
The beef on weck is a must-try. It features tender roast beef piled high on a kummelweck roll (a soft, slightly salty roll topped with caraway seeds and kosher salt). The sandwich is served with horseradish and au jus on the side for dipping, which really elevates the flavor. The beef was so tender it practically melted in my mouth, and the slight kick from the horseradish added the perfect amount of heat.
I also tried their potato pancakes, which were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, served with a dollop of sour cream. If you’re looking for a hearty meal with a bit of history, Schwabl’s is the place to be.
To book a table at Schwabl’s, you can use Yelp Reservations or call directly. Keep in mind that it can get pretty busy, especially during peak dining hours, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
3. Ted’s Hot Dogs: A Local Institution
Sometimes, the best food experiences come from the simplest of places. Ted’s Hot Dogs is a Buffalo institution that’s been serving up delicious hot dogs since 1927. With locations around the city, it’s easy to find one nearby. The hot dogs here are grilled to perfection, served on a steamed bun with all the classic toppings.
I opted for the “Ted’s Special,” which includes mustard, onions, and their signature hot dog sauce. The hot dog had a nice snap to it when I took a bite, and the grilled flavor was enhanced by the tangy mustard and savory sauce. For a side, I got the golden, crispy fries, which were the perfect accompaniment to the dogs.
What makes Ted’s unique is that their hot dogs are always served fresh off the grill, and the atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming. It’s a casual dining experience, but one that’s definitely worth seeking out.
I recommend using GrubHub or DoorDash for delivery if you’re craving Ted’s from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb.
4. Frank’s: The Home of the Best Breakfast in Buffalo
If you’re a breakfast lover like me, then Frank’s is a spot you won’t want to miss. This family-owned diner has been serving hearty breakfasts since 1950. The moment I walked in, the aroma of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air, making it clear that I was in the right place.
I ordered the classic American breakfast: two eggs, bacon, hash browns, and toast. Everything was perfectly cooked—crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and golden-brown hash browns. It was simple but delicious, and the portion size was generous. The coffee was rich and strong, just the way I like it.
What really stood out to me, though, was their signature homemade pancakes. They were thick, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweetness. I drizzled them with syrup and topped them off with butter, which made for the perfect end to the meal.
Frank’s doesn’t take reservations, so it’s first come, first served. If you’re planning to visit on the weekend, I recommend getting there early to avoid the rush.
5. Buffalo Chop House: An Upscale American Dining Experience
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, the Buffalo Chop House is an excellent choice. Known for its high-quality steaks and elegant atmosphere, this restaurant offers a refined take on classic American steakhouse fare. As soon as I walked in, I was impressed by the modern yet cozy ambiance, complete with dark wood accents and plush seating.
I started with the bacon-wrapped scallops, which were perfectly seared and tender. The smoky bacon added a rich depth of flavor that complemented the delicate sweetness of the scallops. For the main course, I opted for a perfectly cooked 12-ounce New York strip steak, served with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach. The steak was cooked to perfection—juicy, flavorful, and tender. The mashed potatoes were creamy and indulgent, and the spinach added a nice, fresh contrast.
The Buffalo Chop House takes reservations via OpenTable, which makes it easy to secure a table in advance for a special night out.
6. Elmo’s: A Cozy Spot for Comfort Food
After a day of exploring Buffalo, I found myself craving comfort food, and Elmo’s was the perfect place to satisfy that craving. This cozy, unassuming diner is known for its classic American dishes, and it didn’t disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with friendly staff and a relaxed vibe.
I ordered the meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans, and I felt like I was back home enjoying a home-cooked meal. The meatloaf was tender and flavorful, and the mashed potatoes were smooth and buttery. The green beans were perfectly cooked and seasoned with just the right amount of garlic. For dessert, I couldn’t resist the homemade apple pie, which was served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It was the perfect ending to a comforting meal.
Elmo’s doesn’t take reservations, but there’s usually plenty of seating available, especially if you go during off-peak hours.
7. The Black Sheep: A Modern Twist on American Classics
Located in the heart of Buffalo’s Theatre District, The Black Sheep is a modern restaurant that offers a unique twist on classic American dishes. The interior is stylish, with exposed brick walls and chic decor, creating an atmosphere that’s both trendy and comfortable.
I decided to try their fried chicken and waffles, which is a popular dish on their menu. The chicken was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the waffles were light, fluffy, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The maple syrup was rich and flavorful, and the dish overall was a perfect comfort food indulgence.
The Black Sheep accepts reservations via OpenTable, making it easy to secure a table before heading out for a night in the city.
8. Explore Buffalo’s Food Scene Through Delivery Apps
In addition to experiencing these incredible restaurants in person, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Buffalo’s food scene from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb. Popular delivery platforms like Uber Eats, GrubHub, and DoorDash offer a wide range of restaurant options, including many of the classic American spots mentioned above. These apps make it easy to order and have your favorite Buffalo dishes delivered directly to you, whether you’re craving wings, hot dogs, or a hearty breakfast.
Buffalo’s food scene is a beautiful blend of tradition, innovation, and, most importantly, flavor. Each restaurant offers something unique, whether it’s the historical significance of the Anchor Bar or the modern culinary twist at The Black Sheep. The city is full of hidden gems, each waiting to be discovered, and if you’re a fan of American cuisine, Buffalo should be at the top of your list.