Buffalo Table For Two: February 2009

Steelhead Irish Pub

Posted on Tuesday, February 17, 2009, under dinner, Irish, lunch, pub

Take a step back to the old country, to the grassy green hills, friendly folk, and great beer. The Steelhead is located in the quaint village of Lewiston. You may be in North America, but you'll swear you are over in Ireland! This restaurant/pub is Irish food and drink at it's finest. If you're looking for a traditional Reuben (which I ordered), it can't be beat. They also feature a baked reuben which I had on my last visit. The steak fries served as a side were seasoned to perfection. The portions are exceptional, there was almost too much corned beef spilling over the side. The SH also features authentic Shepherd's pie along with Bangers and Mash for the Irish grandparents. Try the Dublin Stout soup. It is an onion soup with Guinness stout. How Irish can you get? The decor is reminiscent of an earlier time period across the pond, don't ya know!

Review by Ian Walpole

Tempo

Posted on Tuesday, February 17, 2009, under dessert, dinner, fine dining

Valentine's Day is always a wonderful opportunity to treat your significant other to a meal that is way too expensive for any other day of the year.
This year, my search for such a place lead me to Tempo on Delaware Ave. in Buffalo. It's located in the very cool Allentown district, and looks to have been an old mansion at one time. The high class feel was apparent from the get-go with our coats graciously taken at the door. Our table was upstairs, which was much brighter and quieter than downstairs. I don't know if they always seat on both levels, or only for special occasions - but I was quite happy with the seating arrangement.

Upon being seated, we were offered a choice of normal, or sparkling water (which was a nice touch for my pregnant wife). Tempo boasted an extensive wine list, but I ended up with the Samuel Smith's Porter - which never disappoints. While looking over the special V-Day menu, a signature antipasti was brought to the table consisting of caponata, aged feta cheese, some pepperoncini and a roasted red pepper dipping oil. The waiters all seemed very knowledgeable about each and every dish the restaurant offered and went over some highlights without even being asked! After some careful deliberation we decided to split the twin Lobster tails, and order the Calamari appetizer with a salad.

The Calamari (one of my personal favorite appetizers) was very tender, with a light sauce that reminded me of the Asian Calamari from the now defunct Clarkson House in the Village of Lewiston. The portion was very satisfying, and the presentation was superb. Honestly I can't remember too much about the salad, but that might just be a result of being over shadowed by the offerings surrounding it.

The twin Lobster tails showed up grilled to perfection, with some homemade potato gnocci and 3 fried Artichokes. The taste of the Lobster was out of this world. There was a sauce drizzled over the entire dish that truly enhanced the already amazing flavors. The Artichoke was a heart kept intact with part of the stem, and LITERALLY almost stole the show from the Lobster. We even ended up asking the waiter about the stuffing used for the Artichokes and he agreed that they were incredible. They had a "bacon & chive mash potato" flavor that really jumped out and filled your taste buds with richness.

Although we had finished everything they put in front of us, there was still ample room left for desert. We opted for the traditional Creme Brulee, which was prepared to perfection and topped off one of the best meals we'd ever had!

Review by Brad Michaels

Cheeburger Cheeburger

Posted on Tuesday, February 10, 2009, under burgers, dinner, lunch

Looking for a kid friendly fun-filled atmosphere as well as a good old fashioned cheeseburger, fries and a shake, look no further. Cheeburger, Cheeburger is a blast from the past, but in a good way. When we arrived I will admit it felt like we were in "romper room". So you if you have a baby or toddler that tends to be a little boisterous now and again have no fear. On the other hand if you're looking for a relaxing dinner, run the other way!

CC serves a few different size burgers up to a one pounder (see photo). If you're feeling extra hungry or daring order this. If you complete it the staff takes your polaroid and put's it on the wall with your name and date. They even have a "repeat offender" section for the extra gluttonous. You have a choice of many different condiments they'll add to the burger including peanut butter (pretty sure that's a joke). CC doesn't serve hamburgers, only a cheeburger without the cheese. They offer fresh cut fries and hand battered onion rings along with an assortment of dips. I liked the texas horseradish sauce the best. The kiddies aren't left out with a "kid's meal" served in a cardboard '57 Chevy. My 2 year old son loved it! Wash it all down with a old fashioned milk shake served in a stainless steel container. We had the dreamsickle which was pretty much creamsickle flavor. The menu touts 378,000
different combinations and I who am I to argue, I didn't bring my calculator. If in the mood for a 50's style diner experience this is your place. Check out their menu.

Review by Ian Walpole

La Galera Mexican Restaurant

Posted on Wednesday, February 04, 2009, under dinner, lunch, mexican

La Galera (the galley in english) offers authentic mexican food with quick and friendly service. Prices are quite reasonable. Most of the lunch specials are under 5 bucks. Of couse you start eating as soon as you're seated the delectible chips and salsa. The salsa is of the thinner variety, but fresh and flavorful nonetheless. I normally order the beef taco and chicken enchilada with the rice and beans. The beef in the taco is always tender and savory. The decor of the interior is average, even though they did upgrade it. It's not the kind of place you go for a special occasion.

I arrived for lunch a little before 12 and they had a spanish television station on full blast. It was a spanish version of Jerry Springer (not that I watch it or anything) and was incredibly annoying. Before I had the chance, another customer asked to have it turned down. The owner and employees of La Galera are from the mexican state of Guanajuato. Not sure what that translates to flavor because many ethnic restaurants need to "americanize" their menu items. I guess I'll just need to investigate more in the future and report back. It's a tough job but somebody has to do it.

Review by Ian Walpole

Kabab & Curry Indian Buffet

Posted on Wednesday, February 04, 2009, under buffet, dinner, Indian, lunch

An impressive lunch buffet for a reasonable price (8.95). K & C's quality is excellent and the dishes aren't too spicy if you don't want them to be. The decor is inviting and relaxing. Try the foreign beers, they compliment the unique Indian food well. This is a charming family restaurant with flair and warmth. Our maitre de was very accommodating. The spectrum of flavors found in each dish was truly fabulous. From the lemon and oranges at the buffet, to the variety of poultry and meats, it was a delight for all the senses. We have been here numerous times and each visit the spead is significantly different. The roster of dishes seems endless, from curried lamb to peanut chicken, from basami rice for desert to a mango lasse to drink. My wife looks forward to coming here, so does my 5 year old son which says a lot. Rating 8/10.

Review by Keith Panaccione

For directions and other info click on blue Urbanspoon link.

Tandoori's Royal Indian Cuisine

Posted on Wednesday, February 04, 2009, under dinner, Indian

This is the premier Indian restaurant in the Buffalo area. A little pricey, however quality is first rate as well as ambiance. The entrees weren't too spicy either. Quick and friendly service, the petal laden cups for hand cleansing is a classy touch. Prime cut and tender lamb and lasse {Indian shake} is unrivaled. Basami rice is a nice touch for an after dinner mint Indian style. Rating 9/10.

Review by Keith Panaccione

For directions and other info click on blue Urbanspoon link.

Clarence Center Coffee Company

Posted on Wednesday, February 04, 2009, under breakfast, coffee, sandwich, tea

When its cold out this place is calling my name. It feels like a beatnik bar. The owner has traveled the world over, researching the best coffee and teas you could ever have. Great breakfast wraps and enormous sandwiches. Quaint Clarence Center is like going back 50 years in time. It has that old world charm, that envelops you. Rating 7/10.

Review by Keith Panaccione

For directions and other info click on blue Urbanspoon link.

Rock Bottom Eatery

Posted on Wednesday, February 04, 2009, under dinner, salad

This is great family restaurant with a hoppin' bar! My little guy loves the golf game. Friday night fish fry is a super value and delectable. Well drinks are first-rate and the ambiance is truly inviting. If possible sit by front of building with lots of light by large windows, or by fireplace. Great salads accompany the meal. Friendly staff is spot on. Rating 8/10

Review by Keith Panaccione

For directions and other info click below.

Muscoreil's Fine Desserts

Posted on Wednesday, February 04, 2009, under coffee, dessert, salad, sandwich

The atmosphere here is inviting. First rate quality spinach salad as well as a great selection of teas and coffee. They have an enormous selection of desserts and quality is A1. Attentive staff. Quiet and classy interior. Good size portions, average value. If possible sit by the large picture windows and fireplace. Rating 9/10.

Review by Keith Panaccione

For directions and other info click on blue Urbanspoon link.