Japanese Cuisine in the Suburbs

{The Caterpillar roll}

 A couple weeks ago my friend Lauren introduced me to a new sushi restaurant in the suburbs - Kumo Cuisine. It's located in the Target plaza on Transit Road in Depew. While you would think it's a small place from the outside, you walk in to this very spacious and relaxing restaurant. Cute Asian accents compliment the tables and walls and the variety of sushi they offer is incredible. For an affordable price you can choose some of your favorites or even try new rolls. Definitely another place on my list of places to go back to and its close to home.

{Sushi rolls and appetizers}

Cinco de Mayo

Happy Cinco de Mayo! While you could whip up a nice margarita at home or at almost any bar in town, below are my top places to celebrate this day around town! Cheers!

-B

• Cantina Loco
• Don Tequila
• Coyote Café  in Hamburg
• Arriba Tortilla in East Aurora
• Agave

A Monday Night at the noodle bar

Last Monday, my friend, Nicole and I met for are monthly girls night out, it was long over due, but we went to Kaydara noodle bar on Main St. downtown {its down the street from Sheas, right off the 33}. We literally had the whole place to ourselves. We chose a table by the window looking out onto Main St. Our waiter {I forgot his name} was awesome, he walked us through the menu and specials and even suggested hitting up another restaurant in the area for drinks after dinner. The food was so good and different - not a bad different, but something you don't really see in Buffalo - at least I'm not familiar with other noodle bars in town.

They are open for both lunch and dinner, the food is fresh and you can see them making it in their open kitchen. Note though, if you want to order alcoholic drinks you won't be able to, at least not until later this summer when they have their liquor license.

-B

{Delicious cucumber water to accompany are dinner}

{One of the many sitting areas - the Bar}

Burgers and Beer at A.B.V.

{I loved the neat salt and pepper shakers on the table and the custom beer glasses}

A couple weekends ago, Shanna was in town and we wanted to go some where "Buffalo" {this is a harder decision to make with all the new restaurants, bars and breweries opening now and I love it!}. We decided on Allen Burger Venture on Allen St. Let me tell you it was pretty cool! All sorts of people came into the place during the couple hours we were there.. young and old, hipsters and not.

It is a small place and if you're at a table near the bar it does get a little crowded, but the girls night out catch up date we planned was great, the hamburgers were yummy {and huge!} and there was a large beer selection to choose from and it was served cold which is always a positive.

I give this place two thumbs up and if you haven't been or have people visiting from out of town its definitely a spot to hit up.

Until next time..

-B

{I ordered a regular burger #4 and Shanna got the Turkey burger}

{Just one half of the beer menu above the bar}

{Wall Art - definitely fits the vibe of Allentown}

{My girl Shae Shae enjoying her beer! }

{Until my next visit #Cheers}

Sushi in Cheektowaga

For all of the years I've passed by Sakura in Cheektowaga, Saturday was the first time I've actually ever been there and I must say it was awesome! I've never heard anything bad about this restaurant and I know why - the service was great, the food was delicious and it  offered a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. If you're ever in Cheektowaga and looking for sushi check them out!! Sometimes the 'burbs' aren't so bad!

-B

I loved the way they brought out the sushi all on one tray- something I've never seen before {yes its the little things that make me happy}

The china they used for my hot water and lemon..reminds me of my trip to Japan. Makes me want to go back!

Let's Brunch!

Since its become such a popular "thing to-do" in town a couple weeks ago I was able to head back to one of my favorite places and check out their brunch, Providence Social. The best thing you can do is make a reservation. I made one for 11am and am so thankful I did. Within 10 minutes of being there, there was a line of people and the place was packed - it isn't a surprise though for $1 Mimosa's I'd be there early too!

I ordered the bacon, egg and cheese omelet and side of mixed fruit - Yum! If you're looking for a new place to brunch make sure to put Providence Social on your place to visit!

-B

{Once 12 noon hits, you're good to order these delicious mimosa's!}

Sushi at SeaBar!

A place I where I can always guarantee on great sushi is Seabar! While I don't get there as often as I'd like, I haven't had a bad experience yet.

-B

The Grand Opening of Groom Service Beauty & Dry Bar

While I am sad I won't be able to make the grand opening I'm super excited its down the street from where I work, so I can pay a visit.. multiple times! Check out the details on the Grand Opening below!

Thank you Media Giants for the invitation!

-B

Groom Service Beauty & Dry Bar is opening the doors to its flagship boutique on the ground floor of the recently renovated Hotel Lafayette in Downtown Buffalo. Join co-founders Myriah Jaworski and Katie Ambrose and the curated Groom Service team of artists as they celebrate with a posh grand opening event on Friday, March 27 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Guests are invited to mingle in the chicly-designed hotel lobby where the new Public Expresso + Coffee Bar is also celebrating their grand opening party. A special ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 5:15 p.m. sharp, at the door to Groom Service.

Groom Service provides lavish beauty services in-store, in-room at the hotel, and on-location. All Groom Service brands are retailing in downtown Buffalo for the first time!

A Great Place to Go for Wine Wednesday!

It’s been months of planning to make time to visit Providence Social. Finally a few Wednesday’s ago Nicole and I took advantage of are monthly get-togethers and enjoyed their wine night specials!

The minute I walked in I fell in love with the place I loved the bar area and the old school music from the 50s and 60s era - a place that makes me think of my childhood memories when my parents would make me listen to their oldies music {now a days I catch myself singing to some of that same music, I guess that’s what happens as you get older}. The dim lighting with amazing light fixtures makes for a pretty atmosphere. The dining area is pretty open – leaving you and your party not feeling on top of other people... like you find at some other restaurants in the area.

Wednesdays make for great wine deals! $4 for a glass, $16 for a bottle! You can’t beat that price. For the amount of wine Nicole and I drink when we get together - it was a great deal!

From the outside- it’s not what you would expect when you walk in. The pricing is affordable and offers a good selection of food that can be shared. Now, I'm planning a time to go back and check out their brunch! From what I see on social media it looks like they put together a nice Sunday Funday!

-B

A Little Sake at the Saigon Café

With everyone's busy schedules now a days my friend Nicole and I try to meet up at least once a month to catch up at a new restaurant in the area with wine and food. A few weeks back we met at the Saigon Café {which happens to be in a new location on Elmwood since Oct. of 2014}. While I was waiting I figured I would get a sake flight {its been a while since I had one and it took me back down memory lane when I visited my cousin in Japan}. The Black and Gold was my favorite!

Once Nicole arrived I ventured over to wine, we stayed at the bar and order a bunch of food!{See what we ordered in the pictures below} I had never been to Saigon before so I was going off of Nicole's expertise {she did an awesome job, everything we had was delicious!}.

{Vietnamese Hot & Sour Soup}

{Pad Se-Ew with Chicken}

We also order the Curry too, but I didn't snap a pic. of it. ..It was a Tuesday evening so while the bar area wasn't that busy, the dining area had a decent crowd. People had also been coming in and out, picking up the take out food they had called ahead for {I think this is a nice service to have and gets bonus points in my book!}. The overall feel of the restaurant was cozy and nice. I loved the lighting, and the windows, Saigon is located on the corner of Elmwood and W. Utica so you can see everything going on outside, which I liked.

If you've ever been what are some of your favorite dishes? What are your thoughts on the new location? Do you like, don't like? Share them with me!

-B

Holiday Cocktails with Slim Lizzy's

 

Can you believe Christmas Eve is one week from today and New Year's Eve is only 14 days away!  And with that comes the preparations, the gatherings at loved ones homes, the parties and so on. One question everyone will ask is what you'd like to drink and my friends over at Slim Lizzy's have some of the perfect holiday cocktail recipes for you to enjoy!

Below are two signature drinks that you can use in the upcoming weeks to treat yourself and your girlfriends!

Cranberry Holiday Mint Cosmo

• 4 oz. Slim Lizzy’s Cosmo
• 2 oz. Cranberry juice Muddled mint
• Shake Slim Lizzy’s Cosmo and cranberry juice together with muddled mint
• Strain over ice
• Garnish with mint leaf and cranberries

{Photo's courtesy of Slim Lizzy's}

Cosmo in a Pear Tree

• 4 oz. Slim Lizzy’s Cosmo
• 2 oz. Pear Vodka
• 1 oz. Grenadine
• 1 oz. Ginger ale
• Shake together Slim Lizzy’s Cosmo, Pear Vodka and Grenadine
• Top with ginger ale and garnish with a cherry

{Each cocktail is under 200 calories and can be found at Tops or NOCO stores in Western New York.}

Slim Lizzy's is a slim social cocktail for women. New to the area, Slim Lizzy's can be found in the pre-select areas of the Northeast, Buffalo is one of those lucky markets! Offering two delicious flavors, the Margarita and Cosmopolitan, each are only 80 calories {making it perfect for us ladies who enjoy a couple cocktails, but not the calories that come with having them}. Slim Lizzy's is malt-free and gluten-free.

So what are you waiting for? Try Slim Lizzy's out and enjoy your Holidays! Cheers!

-B

Emerson School of Hospitality

A couple weeks ago I had the chance to attend a school tour and presentation at Emerson School of Hospitality {the school is located on Chippewa St. in Buffalo}. I've walked past the building multiple times, but never really gave much thought to it, but after this tour, this school is pretty amazing!

With a multiple level building this school is an academic, fitness and culinary center. Emerson sure does impress. Not only do students go through all of their general studies, they have a chance to take classes in the culinary arts. Learning how to cook, bake and prep all kinds of foods.

Emerson offers a café style area called Emerson commons and that is open on school days from 7:30-10am {breakfast} and 11:15-1:30pm {lunch}, making it a great spot for people who work downtown. Emerson also offers banquets and catering and makes wedding cakes, along with a variety of other fine desserts.

For someone {like me} who just thought the school, was like any old ordinary school, its not. Its pretty awesome and its pretty cool that kids have that type of opportunity in this area.

For more info on Emerson click here.

-B

{One of the multiple kitchens that you can see as you walk by on Chippewa St.}

{Emerson Commons, open to the public on school days}

{Car view}

{People and Places Who Move Buffalo} Dog E Style Restaurant

I'm excited to share my experience with you on the new hot dog restaurant that opened in Downtown Buffalo last month, Dog E Style.  Offering one of a kind hot dogs, Dog E Style, not only offers great food, but has a fully stocked bar and is located in a unique space downtown. Read more of my interview with Thomas Cowen below and see why they are moving Buffalo forward.

How did the concept of Dog E Style begin? 

Rocco Termini came up with the idea and is working on "building a neighborhood" in the heart of the City of Buffalo. Where did the idea and name come from? 

The idea came to us because everyone loves hot dogs! We also added a nice craft beer selection and a restaurant that can offer a full bar with liquor and wine. The name was meant to stick, so people would remember us. Once you stop in to see us you will realize the time and effort we put in to create "not your typical hot dog restaurant." How did you decide on the space for the restaurant?

We kicked around the idea of using old shipping containers so we contacted the manufacturer that makes the containers, bought the materials and put them together on sight, along with steal beams to make it weather and climate proof. What would you say makes you stand out from your competition, other hot dog/fast food places?

We are not your average hot dog stand. We are a Hot Dog restaurant that serves not your everyday hot dog, we serve all different kinds. Special made wieners, sausage, cheeseburgers & a few vegetarian options.

A few items we serve are:

BANH MI DOG     - Chinese sausage, Saigon style, house made  Jalapenos & Saigon veggies

GREEK DOG        - Lamb dog, tzatziki, olives, pepperoncini, feta

CHICAGO DOG   - True Chicago style Dog - poppy seed bun, neon relish, sport peppers, tomatoes, mustard, onion, celery salt & pickle

House made Cheeseburger

House Made Fries

Portabella Sandwich with a fried egg

NO DOG - slow roasted caramelized carrot, spicy mayo, vegetarian chili What would you like customers to get out of their experience when visiting Dog E Style? 

Different. Affordable. Casual. Relaxed  Why did you choose downtown Buffalo and not a suburb? 

Downtown Buffalo is on the Up & Up. If you haven't been downtown in a while you are missing out on a city that is coming back to life. We want to show people that it is ok to start investing in this city again. There are so many things happening all over, whether its the Waterfront, revitalizing the Chippewa/ Entertainment District or the Medical Corridor, you see cranes and hardhats everywhere. Delaware North, IBM, Roswell, Terry Pegula, they are all showing that now is the time to get in the city!   What about Buffalo do you love the most? 

The People! Is there any other information or specials you feature that you'd like the general public to know about? 

We are always running special dogs! Our website will be up and running soon, but in the meantime stay up to date with us on are social media pages. Does Dog E Style feature catering or will they in the near future?

Yes, we offer drop-off catering for your office for lunch, dinner or even if you want to pick it up for any special event you can.

DOG E STYLE

128 Genesee St

Buffalo, NY 14203

716-844-5900

Me and the guys from work thought the food was awesome, the space was great and it is on our list of places to visit again and again {especially for lunch}. Thank you Tessa and Tom for helping me share more information on Dog E Style. And a special thank you to Mr. Termini for continuing to move Buffalo forward.

-B

Follow them on Twitter, Like them on Facebook, Check them out on Instagram

{ The lunch crowd that began to form once we placed our order }

{ Offering a fully stocked bar - craft beer, wine and liquor }

{ I love the chalk board menu }

{ Italian sausage with onions and peppers and French fries }

Left Bank

A few weeks ago I finally went to the well-known Left Bank with my friend Nicole. I've heard great things about the restaurant and wanted to check it out! Located at 511 Rhode Island St. in Buffalo, the wine was, of course, great and the food was delicious! I got the panko crusted chicken and it was so delish!

The décor was rustic, with exposed brick walls and dim lighting. The bar area was big enough and separated from the eating area, so if you wanted to go for cocktails you totally could. It is a little on the pricy side, but if you have a special event or occasion and you're looking for a nice dinner out, this is a nice place to go. If you're a brunch type person, I heard they have an amazing brunch that you may want to try. Make sure to call ahead of time to make reservations. Check out some of my pictures below. Have a great Monday!

-B

{ I loved the Sunflower on the table }

{ Bread and Oil were served and we ordered the fried calamari for an appetizer }

{ The bar }

Celebrity Chef Culinary Extravaganza!

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Celebrity Chef's Culinary Extravaganza at Ilio DiPaolo's. What a night it was, an eight course meal, after dinner cordials and Chefs Michael Obarka from Ristorante Lombardo, Dan Buckley, Dr. Andy Cappuccino, and Chef Michael DiPaolo and staff all put their special touches on the food while is was paired with delicious wines from Marchesi de' Frescobaldi.

The money raised from the dinner goes directly to the Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund. Dennis DiPaolo and his family are huge supporters of the Western New York community so it was nice to give back to them. Overall it was a nice evening full of good food, drinks and company.

-B

{Special Guest: Lamberto Frescobaldi}

{Lots of wine glasses and shrimp tails to start the evening off}

{The Filet was the best, I thought}

Public House

Last week I met my friend Jackie who was in from out of town, out at the Public House. Located at 1206 Hertel Ave. in Buffalo this pub offers a modern touch with a flare from the past. Lots and I mean lots of craft brews are on hand to choose from... "Wheats and What Nots," "Foreign Objects," "The Biters," "The Dark Side," "Gluten Free," "Made in America," "For All the Tree Huggers" and "North' Mericas" they put a lot of thought into offering something for everyone.

Its a nice place to go for a happy hour and their Mac N' Cheese was pretty delish too! If you're looking for a new happy hour hangout or a place to go to watch the game check the Public House out.

Cheers!

-B

{ A variety of beers on hand, making it a place that has something for everyone }

{ The Bar }

A Sweet Taste of Seafood

{Photo credit: Just a Blonde in Buffalo}

The other night my friend Nicole and I met for dinner and drinks at the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria building which now is home to Oshun Restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner, Oshun has an oyster bar and variety of seafood selections.

Recommended by our waitress, Nicole and I picked 3 small plates to share {Clams, Mussels and Calamari}. The mussels and calamari were both our favorites, sweet and a little spicy. The clams were ok, but left a "fishy" after taste.  We also ordered dessert - I'm not a big dessert person, but the warm cookies with salted pretzels and homemade vanilla ice cream was the second best decision after the Malbec wine I had ordered!

Overall, I loved the history that was used as part of the "art deco" décor. Add that element with the food and great company and it makes for a nice evening out!

-B

{Oyster bar}

A Food Truck Rodeo with a little Buffalo History

Taking place the first Wednesday of the month, a handful of Buffalo food trucks lined up outside the Buffalo History Museum's parking lot for the annual Food Truck Rodeo. Its a great opportunity to come out and have dinner with your family, friends or significant others and enjoy the History Museum for free. The next one taking place is on Wednesday, September 3 from 5-8pm. Bring the kids for free face painting, grab a blanket or folding chairs and have a picnic. For more details click here.

-B

Lovely Lewiston

Every time I go to Lewiston, I'm simply amazed at the beauty there, from Artpark to Old Fort Niagara it is simply amazing, especially in the summer months. My friend Lauren and I decided to spend a Saturday afternoon just walking around and taking in that "small" town feel. We first stopped at Artpark where we were able to be "big kids" and make some clay pottery for free. We then walked around and saw some of the sculpture artwork that was in the park.

After Artpark we hit up the ever so popular Silo to grab some lunch and ice cream, from there we walked down by the water and saw the Whirlpool Jet Boat tours that take place by Water St. Landing. We didn't have enough time to take a jet boat tour, but it is on my list of things to do. We drove through the Main St. and just looked at shops and restaurants that filled the street. It was a relaxing afternoon just exploring the "hidden treasures" that are only minutes away. Have you ever been to Lewiston? What are some of your favorites places to go when you're there?

 -B

Bada Bing!

I never was a fan of the old Bada Bing located next door to Purple Monkey {that is no longer there}, but the other day I grabbed lunch with Lacey and the new restaurant/bar located down the street from their old location {42 West Chippewa} is pretty impressive. It was modern and clean, the food was good and the service was nice, making it a great spot to go for lunch if you work downtown. You get your food in a reasonable amount of time and there is an upstairs and outdoor patio area for seating as well. Not being a fan at one time, I must say I can't wait to go back, but this time for a happy hour.

-B