The Classics: Buffalo’s Signature Dishes
Buffalo Wings
Buffalo, New York. The name often conjures up images of snow, football, and, undoubtedly, Buffalo wings. While the city’s claim to fame is undeniably deserved, limiting Buffalo’s culinary identity to just one dish is a disservice to its rich and diverse food scene. Nestled near the Canadian border and shaped by waves of immigration, particularly Polish and Italian, Buffalo offers a delicious tapestry of flavors waiting to be discovered. This article will peel back the layers and explore the iconic and lesser-known dishes that define Buffalo’s unique culinary identity, proving that there’s so much more to the Queen City’s palate than meets the eye. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure!
Buffalo wings are synonymous with the city, and for good reason. Their story begins at the Anchor Bar, where Teressa Bellissimo is credited with inventing the now-ubiquitous dish. The classic Buffalo wing is characterized by its unbreaded, deep-fried preparation, coated in a vinegary, cayenne pepper-based hot sauce, and served with celery and blue cheese dressing. The tangy heat of the sauce, balanced by the creamy coolness of the blue cheese, is a flavor combination that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of people worldwide.
If you’re seeking the quintessential Buffalo wing experience, a pilgrimage to the Anchor Bar is a must. However, numerous establishments throughout the city claim to offer the “best” wings, each with their own unique twist on the original. Gabriel’s Gate, known for its charcoal-broiled wings, offers a smokier alternative. Duff’s Famous Wings boasts intense heat levels for the adventurous palate. La Nova Pizzeria serves up wings known for their crispy texture. And for those seeking variety, many restaurants offer an array of sauces, from honey garlic to lemon pepper to even peanut butter.
Beyond the standard mild, medium, and hot, Buffalo’s wing scene offers something for everyone. Experiment with different spice levels and unique flavor combinations to truly appreciate the artistry behind this iconic dish. Remember to embrace the “Buffalo style” of eating wings: no utensils allowed!
Beef on Weck
Next up on the Buffalo food hall of fame is the beef on weck. This sandwich is a true regional specialty, consisting of thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a kummelweck roll. But it’s not just any roll; the kummelweck is crucial to the beef on weck experience. This distinctive roll is topped with coarse salt and caraway seeds, adding a salty and aromatic counterpoint to the rich beef.
The perfectly cooked roast beef should be tender, juicy, and pink in the middle. But the final touch is the most crucial: a generous dollop of horseradish. The horseradish adds a pungent kick that cuts through the richness of the beef and complements the salty, caraway-studded roll.
For an authentic beef on weck experience, head to Schwabl’s, a Buffalo institution that has been serving up this classic sandwich for over a century. Charlie the Butcher, another local favorite, is known for its expertly prepared beef and perfectly toasted kummelweck rolls. Wardynski’s also makes a great Beef on Weck for those looking to also try some Polish foods.
Sponge Candy
And lastly, completing the trifecta of Buffalo’s most iconic foods is sponge candy. This airy, brittle confection is a textural marvel. Imagine a honeycomb-like interior encased in a crisp chocolate shell. The result is a sweet, crunchy, and melt-in-your-mouth treat that is utterly addictive. Sponge candy is notoriously difficult to make, requiring precise timing and temperature control. This delicate process is what gives it its unique, fragile structure.
Several local candy shops specialize in sponge candy, each with their own closely guarded recipes. Watson’s Chocolates and Parkside Candy are two perennial favorites, offering a variety of sponge candy options, including milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and even flavored varieties. The exact origins of sponge candy in Buffalo are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but its enduring popularity has solidified its place as a beloved local treat.
Beyond the Basics: Other Buffalo Culinary Delights
Polish Influences
Buffalo’s culinary landscape extends far beyond wings, beef on weck, and sponge candy. The city’s strong Polish heritage has left an indelible mark on its food scene, with pierogi being a prime example. These dumplings, traditionally filled with potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or meat, are a staple in many Buffalo households and restaurants. A perfect pierogi boasts a tender dough and a flavorful filling, often topped with sautéed onions and sour cream.
Check out restaurants like Polonus Restaurant, Babcia’s Pierogi, or even Wardynski’s for authentic pierogi. Kielbasa, another Polish staple, is widely available at local butchers and delis. Look for kielbasa made with high-quality ingredients and smoked to perfection. And don’t forget golabki, stuffed cabbage rolls braised in tomato sauce, for a truly comforting and satisfying meal.
Italian-American Cuisine
Buffalo’s Italian-American community has also played a significant role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. Pizza in Buffalo has its own unique style. Unlike New York-style pizza with its thin, foldable crust, Buffalo pizza often features a thicker, slightly sweet crust. A defining characteristic is the use of cup-and-char pepperoni, which curls into a cup shape and chars around the edges during baking, releasing its flavorful oils. You’ll find this regional pizza style at Bocce Club Pizza, Imperial Pizza, and Lovejoy Pizza.
Aside from pizza, many Italian restaurants throughout Buffalo serve up classic pasta dishes, from hearty lasagna to creamy fettuccine Alfredo. Explore the Italian restaurants along Hertel Avenue and Elmwood Avenue for a taste of Buffalo’s Italian-American culinary heritage.
Fish Fry
Finally, no exploration of Buffalo food would be complete without mentioning the Friday fish fry. This tradition is deeply ingrained in Buffalo culture, particularly during Lent. Local churches, fire halls, and restaurants offer up generous portions of fried fish, typically haddock or cod, served with french fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that brings communities together. To find a great Fish Fry, check your local churches or neighborhood pubs.
Modern Buffalo Food Scene
Craft Breweries and Brewpubs
Buffalo’s culinary scene is not stuck in the past. In recent years, the city has experienced a surge in craft breweries and brewpubs, each offering its own unique take on beer and food. Flying Bison Brewing Company and Resurgence Brewing Company are some well-regarded examples. Many breweries partner with local food trucks or operate their own kitchens, offering menus that complement their beers. From gourmet burgers to creative tacos, the craft beer scene has added a new dimension to Buffalo’s culinary offerings.
Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Adding to this resurgence, the farm-to-table movement has also gained traction in Buffalo, with restaurants increasingly emphasizing the use of locally sourced ingredients. Chefs are partnering with nearby farms to create seasonal menus that showcase the freshest produce and meats. This focus on sustainability not only supports local farmers but also enhances the quality and flavor of the food. Marble + Rye and Toutant are examples of local spots committed to the farm-to-table movement.
Unique Ethnic Cuisine
Beyond the familiar European influences, Buffalo’s food scene is becoming increasingly diverse, with a growing number of restaurants showcasing cuisines from around the world. You can find flavorful Ethiopian stews, authentic Vietnamese pho, and spicy Thai curries, reflecting the city’s evolving demographics and culinary interests.
Food Festivals and Events
Taste of Buffalo
To truly immerse yourself in Buffalo’s food scene, consider attending one of the city’s many food festivals and events. The Taste of Buffalo, held every summer, is the largest outdoor food festival in the United States, showcasing the diverse culinary offerings of hundreds of local restaurants and food vendors. From classic Buffalo wings to international cuisine, the Taste of Buffalo offers something for every palate.
Other Local Food Festivals
Beyond the Taste of Buffalo, numerous other local food festivals celebrate specific cuisines or ingredients. Check local event listings for details on upcoming food festivals during your visit. This provides a unique opportunity to sample a wide variety of dishes and support local businesses.
Conclusion
Buffalo’s food scene is a delicious reflection of its history, culture, and community. While the city is justifiably famous for its wings, there’s so much more to discover beyond that iconic dish. From Polish pierogi to Italian pizza to Friday fish fries, Buffalo offers a diverse and satisfying culinary experience. So, plan your trip to Buffalo today and embark on a delicious adventure! Explore the local restaurants, sample the regional specialties, and discover why Buffalo is a true food lover’s paradise. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the depth and breadth of Buffalo’s culinary offerings. Get ready to have your taste buds tantalized and your perceptions of Buffalo food completely transformed. This city offers far more than just wings – it’s a culinary destination worth exploring.
