Hoppin’ Around: Elmwood Village
Cole’s Elmwood
Buffalo’s Elmwood Village is quintessential Buffalo. A bustling small business scene, smack dab in the middle of a highly-walkable neighborhood. The tree-lined streets are filled with people of all ages doing their coffee runs, grocery shopping, stopping out for a beer, and all of the above. Many of the establishments in Elmwood have been around for decades, making the village a true melting pot of charming culture and new digs.
It was hard to not include every single spot on Elmwood Ave., but that’s what Google Maps is for! Here are some of my favorites.
Food and Drinks
Cole’s - They recently just celebrated 90 years! The Buffalo combo platter (a beef on weck, wings, and fries) is always my go to. Cole’s has a great rotating beer list, and their decor is full of local paraphernalia (think framed newspaper articles and college pennants). A summer brunch on the Cole’s patio is a luxury.
Mr. Goodbar - A true dive bar with an incredible variety of craft beer. They often have local music and are one of my favorite spots to watch the Bills games. You can count on Goodbar to be open late night. The garlic parm chicken wings and tater tots are near and dear to me.
The Beer Keep - A bottle shop, often dropping hard-to-find beers (Hop Butcher, Fiden’s, Suarez). My dog loves the outdoor patio in nice weather!
Caffe Aroma - A coffee shop that is buzzing at all hours of the day! Caffe Arroma has yummy specialty coffees but also serves wine, beer, and non-alcoholics. Come here solo to cozy up with a good book, or bring some friends for board games. I love that they stay open late - a good alternative for someone who wants to go out without the loud bar scene.
Forty Thieves - This sports bar always brings the good vibes. During the day it’s a great spot to grab lunch with friends or family. Nights and weekends, it’s a party scene. People love Forty on football Sundays, but be prepared: it gets packed!
Inizio - Italian food the way it should be, she says, as a non-Italian who has never been to Italy. But for real, the pasta is fresh and somehow feels light, not drowning in too much sauce or cheese. The restaurant is pretty small and very popular, so you’ll want to get a reservation ahead of time.
Lloyd Taco Factory - This taco truck turned brick and mortar spot is near and dear to Buffalo millennials. (Watch the video here on my first ever Lloyd experience!) Their new Elmwood location has multiple levels, amazing cocktails, and delicious tacos. My favorite is the Dirty South chicken and waffles taco.
The Place - Their banana pepper dip and mac and cheese might just be my favorites in the city. The Place has cozy vibes all year round. Whenever I’m dining out with a group and we can’t agree on where to go, The Place always wins.
Shopping
Buffalo ShopCraft - A store of entirely local made goods. ShopCraft is a must around the holidays for Christmas ornaments, decorations, and gifts, but all year round I love popping in. I’ve discovered multiple local artists here. Bonus: free gift wraping!
Penzey’s - You wouldn’t think a spice store would be a must visit, but Penzey’s truly is. The store is sectioned into spice blends, baking spices, grilling sets, and more. They often release new spice mixes to support national and global causes.
Watson’s Chocolates - More than just sponge candy! Of course, if all you buy is sponge candy, I see nothing wrong with that.
Little Salmon - As I try more and more to buy local products with clean ingredients, stores like Little Salmon are so appreciated. They carry a variety of zero-waste products and have a refillery section for home products and skincare. They also have non-alcoholic beverages like St. Agrestis Phony Negroni, a personal fave.
Elmwood Pet Supplies - My pup loves this store! They have the cutest pet accessories, treats, and toys. The owner has great recommendations and will make your pet feel loved with all the snacks and samples.
