South Buffalo

WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME

South Buffalo has always been the heart of Buffalo’s Irish community. What was true one hundred years ago, is true today. The heart of this close-knit city within a city is the Irish Center where Irish music, dance and culture is celebrated and preserved. Republic of Ireland flags line nearby streets and Irish pubs can be found along thoroughfares like Abbott Road and South Park Avenue. This side of the city is also home to three of the best wing joints in the world – 911 Tavern, Doc Sullivan’s and the Blackthorn Pub (the longtime favorite of beloved native son, the late Tim Russert). South Buffalo also has the good fortune (the luck of the Irish?) to be anchored by two Frederick Law Olmsted parks. South Park is home to the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens while Cazenovia Park is the more scenic of the two, highlighted by the gently flowing creek it was named after.

At a Glance

A walk through one of Buffalo’s many neighborhoods can be stimulating, entertaining and a chance to see how the locals live. For most travelers, shopping is near the top of the list of things to do while away from home, and everyone is always looking for the next spot to relax and re-energize after getting in some serious steps. With that in mind, here are some suggestions about where to sip, shop and savor while in the BUF.

Sip

Molly Maguire’s

Good times and good drinks await as this hopping South Buffalo bar where nightly music and old-school tavern atmosphere reign.

Bottle Rocket

Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve is the place to satisfy all your craft beer needs. Mix and match a six pack, have a pint at the bar, or grab a growler to go.

Blackthorn

The Gaelic sign greeting customers walking into the Blackthorn Restaurant & Pub says it all – “Cead Mile Failte” or “a hundred thousand welcomes.” Irish heritage, warmth, wit, hospitality, and good beer abound in this Seneca Street establishment.

Shop

Dog Ears

This local bookstore and café with a fun, funky feel for all to enjoy has been a community staple for many years, offering local residents and visitors a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

Tara Gift Shoppe

WNY’s Original Irish Import shop, Tara’s inventory includes the finest that Ireland offers including Royal Tara, Condron Knitwear, Solvar, Fado and Shanore jewelry.

LADD Thrift Shop

This compact thrift store in South Buffalo holds a good selection of clothing, toys, books, and jewelry. Sometimes the contents of LADD Thrift Shop spill out onto the sidewalk alongside the front doors.