Buffalo Table For Two: 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.

Zebb's Deluxe Grill & Bar

Posted on Monday, January 19, 2009, under BBQ, burgers

If you find yourself driving down the boulevard and are tired of all the same places around the mall, drive north a few miles and check out Zebb's Grill & Bar. This place has so many positives if you haven't been here, you need to go soon. Whether it's the juicy burgers or the condiment bar (featuring lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, relish, salsa, etc.) or the freshly cut fries with the skins. On every table you'll find an exotic hot sauce for your enjoyment, beware some are tongue numbing.

The interior has a neo-diner ambiance including the neon lights and old black and white pics of movie stars of yesteryear. On the wall is an autographed Pat LaFontaine Sabres jersey. Zebb's feature 1/2 price appetizers in the evenings after 9 as well as an assortment of draft beers. Enjoy sports events in the lounge with 4 suspended TV's. If you have hungry little rugrats I recommend going on Sundays where kids eat free. Not only do they eat free, but Zebb's is kid friendly with crayons and activity place mats which helps keep toddlers occupied (for a little while anyway). Your children will love the old-fashioned homemade milkshakes, but only if they finish their dinner. They even bake fresh cookies which are out of this world!

The service is friendly and fast. The portions are huge so plan to take some food home. All in all Zebb's is a fun place to go, check out the humorous, yet true list of laws here. What do you like at Zebb's? Please comment below.

Review by Ian Walpole

Panera Bread

Posted on Wednesday, January 14, 2009, under breakfast, coffee, lunch

Since we all don't live in or near an art district in a big city, Panera sort of gives us a similar feeling of some of the avant-garde, modern cafes. With free wi-fi you never want to leave.

Sure it's a chain but I can't find anything not to love. Their service is friendly, the sandwiches, soups, salads and of course bread is exceptional. I chose the "You Pick Two" which gives you a choice of a 1/2 sandwich, bowl of soup or salad. I ordered the chipotle chicken sandwich w/bacon and the new chicken tortilla soup. I loved the sandwich and felt the soup was so so. My favorite soup by far is the broccoli cheddar, it of course is the least healthy of the choices which isn't a coincidence.

They have a choice of 5 different brews of coffee including the house, decaf, dark roast, hazelnut and stronger Colombian. They have a unique process when roasting the coffee beans. Panera roasts them in smaller batches so they can closely monitor the process and make adjustments where necessary. The coffee is refillable so you can get jacked up on caffeine to take on the rest of the day's rat race. I will say the only negative is the prices. My order came to 9.41 and all I ordered was 1/2 a sandwich, a bowl of soup and a coffee. It would be more reasonable to be around 7.00 than over 9.00. I recommend Panera and go whenever I can.

Review by Ian Walpole

Apple Granny

Posted on Monday, January 12, 2009, under dinner, lunch

In the heart of picturesque Lewiston lies a local favorite with a warm and inviting atmosphere coupled with friendly servers and amazing food. You're not a customer here, you're part of the family. Granny's feature daily specials as well as a fairly diverse assortment of choices. Not sure what you're in the mood for, go to AG's. I highly recommend the reuben and french onion soup! I haven't tasted their equal, and it hasn't been for lack of trying. More details here

Review by Ian Walpole

Ashker's Coffee House

Posted on Saturday, January 10, 2009, under breakfast, coffee, lunch

If you're in Youngstown and you like coffee, check this place out. It's in an old antique house and is beautiful inside and out. There is indoor and outdoor dining as well, including a lounge with a comfy leather couch, chairs and a huge plasma TV on the wall. The kind of place that you don't want to leave. The owner, Ron Ashker has spared no expense making this a cozy environment. Their coffee is always brewed fresh, I highly recommend the "Jamaican Me Crazy" ! Each entree is homemade, try any of the breakfast sandwiches or wraps.

The service is top notch, very friendly. I go out of my way on occasion just to spend time here. Also check out the location on Center street in Lewiston and or the new place on 3rd Avenue in the Falls. Also I don't own this place or work here, I just appreciate good coffee, food and service. It seems to be in the minority these days.

Review by Ian Walpole

El Palenque Mexican Grill

Posted on Friday, January 09, 2009, under dinner, lunch, mexican

Bueno comida, gracias!
In the past few years, there have been more and more authentic Mexican restaurants popping up around WNY. We've tried a few of them and were very impressed with El Palenque. The food was really tasty and served quickly with a smile. Of course by the time the entrée is served you're stuffed with tortilla chips and their amazing salsa. You need to be careful, the plate is hot! I ordered one chicken and one beef tip enchilada with rice and beans. After a few bites I realized this place was special. There seemed to be more flavor, more seasoning in each bite than the other places. The prices were quite reasonable too. La Tolteca may have better ambience, El Palenque has the superior flavor.

Review by Ian Walpole

Dunkin' Donuts

Posted on Friday, January 09, 2009, under breakfast, coffee

Do you know how a restaurant with "donuts" in their name are still in business? Not because of the food, it's the coffee. Better than Starbucks and Tim Hortons, their brew is exceptional! There's even evidence besides my palate, click here.

I can't say the same for their breakfast sandwiches. They're pricey and processed as ever. Timmy's breakfast sandwich blows them out of the water. I do, however like the flatbread sandwiches, but once again they're not cheap (3.99 are you serious?) Looking for a great cup 'o joe, look no further.

Review by Ian Walpole

Brickyard Pub & BBQ

Posted on Friday, January 09, 2009, under BBQ, dinner, lunch

If you love barbeque you have to take a trip to Lewiston (WNY's answer to Niagara on the Lake). This classy, quaint village is home of the best BBQ restaurant west of Dinosaur BBQ. You name it, pulled pork, chicken, ribs or steak, it's all phenomenal! I highly recommend the Brunswick stew as a side item as well as the baked beans. Each entree comes with freshly baked cornbread with honey butter.

Not hungry? Spend time in the beautiful bar and enjoy a microbrew while you watch the game. Preferably the Sabres though, watch the Bills and you'll no doubt lose your appetite.

Click here for menu

Old Man River

Posted on Friday, January 09, 2009, under hot dogs, ice cream, seafood

Ahhh, the sweet smell of spring and summer. It's only a couple months away, we can make it! Taking a drive down to Niawanda park in Tonawanda when the snow melts is a staple of many Buffalonians. Whether you're taking a walk, riding your bike or blades, it's the place to be! Old Man River is roughly 100 feet from the Niagara river so the view is superb.

OMR has a variety of sandwiches and items to choose from. The hot dogs and burgers are cooked on the grill as well as the unique vegetarian treat, the bunny dog. It's a seasoned, par boiled carrot grilled to perfection and eaten with a bun like a hot dog. There is quite a variety of hot dogs to choose from, the regular, foot long or white hot, my personal favorite. They have a wide variety of condiments that can be added by their dressers, I recommend the hot relish. Their french fries are made from natural potatoes and you really can tell the difference. The sweet fries are made from freshly cut yams and served with butter and brown sugar. Do you like seafood? Check out the "seafood shack". Clams served raw, boiled or casino, as well as lobster and shrimp.

It's a great place to take the family, serving ice cream, milkshakes and sundae's. There's a replica of a pirate ship for the children to eat or play on. You also have the option to walk down to sit by the mighty Niagara river. It's certainly something you need to do a few times over the summer. As you can see from the Urbanspoon ratings it's truly a WNY fave.

Tim Hortons

Posted on Wednesday, January 07, 2009, under breakfast, coffee, lunch

What is as Canadian as beer, hockey and snow? Tim Horton's. We here in WNY can benefit from what Canadians have been enjoying for years. I appreciate the coffee, the refreshing ice capps, hot soup, breakfast sandwiches and muffins. I don't like the coffee as much as Dunkin but it's still a quality brew even if a little weak. I can honestly say I've NEVER had a "bad" cup of coffee though. In the summer I get probably 4 ice capps a week, it's a great remedy for a hot, sweltering day and gives you some pep for a tiring afternoon.

For the most part the soup is good, not enough chicken in the noodle soup though. The chili is hearty and even has mushrooms? Timmy's breakfast sandwiches are amazing! They blow away Dunkin's by a mile and considerably less expensive. It's that moist flaky biscuit that keeps it from being so dry. Of course you're not eating them for your health. They're available before 11am on weekdays and before noon on weekends and holidays.

I can't comment on the donuts because I didn't have any, but the muffins are top notch. I highly recommend the cranberry-blueberry bran heated with butter and the seasonal pumpkin muffin. For a chain, Timmy Ho's gets the job done and helps many WNYers start their day on the right track.

For list of locations click here