by YAHOO! SEARCH
Inexpensive choices when dining in just won’t do
Updated: August 21, 2010, 2:43 AM
Buffalo is a great place to be hungry and to do something about it: Mouth-watering submarines, famous fiery chicken wings and juicy burgers cooked to perfection are to be found in not one or two places, but in almost every neighborhood.
Not to mention the opportunity to indulge in cuisine from nearly every region of the world.
Best of all, eating well in Buffalo is likely to fit within any budget— even that of a college student.
Whether looking for a place to unwind with friends after work or to grab a late-night snack after hitting the books, there is somewhere affordable nearby, ready to do both the cooking and the dishes for you.
Everyone deserves a break sometime.
Sure winners to satisfy your taste buds, wallet and curiosity include:
Tour of Asia
Saigon Bangkok (512 Niagara Falls Blvd.): The dim lighting of Saigon Bangkok enhances the ambience for enjoying the delectable flavors of Vietnamese and Thai selections. The menu satisfies meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Vegetarian selections include tofu and eggplant. Omnivores will be impressed with the chicken, pork and beef entrees.
You can’t go wrong with: Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish topped with shrimp, chicken, Thai seasonings, and other additions.
If you’re feeling adventurous: Try the Vietnamese hot and sour soup, a hot and spicy broth with peppers, pineapple, onion and spicy herbs. Made with your choice of chicken or shrimp.
A Mid East beauty
Falafel Bar (69 Allen St.): The
Falafel Bar (other locations: 3689 Sheridan Drive, Amherst; 3476 Main St., Buffalo) is the perfect fit for the person who wants a light but filling meal. The cozy dining room is highlighted by splashes of inviting color, and the menu features the Middle Eastern cuisine of souvlaki, hummus and, of course, falafel. Most prices range from $7 to $10, and with a vegan friendly menu, all will be pleased.
You can’t go wrong with: Open or wrapped chicken souvlaki
If you’re feeling adventurous: Try a hummus wrap, a lettuce and fresh vegetable flatbread with hummus, falafel and a tahini dressing.
Spice up your day
Niagara Cafe (525 Niagara St.): Located in the heart of Buffalo’s Spanish community, Niagara Cafe boasts native foods, spicy culture and very affordable prices. The rice and beans, flavorsome rotisserie chicken, chicken stew and roasted pork will leave your taste buds more than pleased. Eat in or take-out, it’s a satisfying experience.
You can’t go wrong with: The perfectly browned rotisserie chicken with a side of yellow rice.
If you’re feeling adventurous: Try a pastelito, a ground beef-and cheese-filled pastry cooked to a crisp and priced at just $2.
A local gem
Jim’s Steakout (nine Western New York locations, including Sheridan Drive and Elmwood and Delaware avenues): With nine restaurants, there is sure to be a Jim’s somewhere near you. Serving steak subs that drip with toppings, Jim’s aims directly at your inner junk food demon. The menu is reasonably priced, with beef tacos and burgers priced just under $2. Open until 5 a. m., there is never a bad time to indulge in Jim’s.
You can’t go wrong with: Chicken fingers and perfectly golden french fries.
If you’re feeling adventurous: Try the Jefferson, a steak and Italian sausage sub, topped with cheese, fried onions and Jim’s own sauce. A 6-inch sub is a bit pricey at $7, but it is well worth the splurge and end satisfaction.
Around the boot
Casa-di-Pizza (477 Elmwood Ave.): Home to what some consider Buffalo’s finest pizza and wings, Casa- di-Pizza also gives diners a choice from a lengthy selection of satisfying pasta dishes, fish dinners and generous salads. The comfortable dining room is good for a quick bite or a group gathering. Take-out is also available.
You can’t go wrong with: Classic pizza and wings, as can be done only in Buffalo.
If you’re feeling adventurous: Try the penne with sun-dried tomatoes and chicken in a vodka cream sauce.
True taste of India
Taste of India (3093 Sheridan Drive): The welcoming environment of the Taste of India is a bonus, adding to the fresh quality and selection offered by the menu. The Indian dishes to choose from include breads, appetizers and vegetarian specialties. A well-prepared buffet is offered during lunch and dinner hours. The best deals are available at lunch time, with meals priced at just under $6.
You can’t go wrong with: Chicken curry.
If you’re feeling adventurous: Try the lamb makhani, a boneless lamb tossed in a butter and cream sauce, topped with cashews and raisins.
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Entertainment Calendar
Best bets:
- Thu 2/9: Umphrey's McGee
- Thu 2/9: Don Felder -- An Evening at the Hotel California
- Fri 2/10: Brian Regan
- Fri 2/10: Don Felder -- An Evening at the Hotel California
- Sat 2/11: Rita Coolidge
- Sat 2/11: Sha Na Na
- Sat 2/11: Chris Webby
- Sat 2/11: Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra: Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto
- Sat 2/11: Don Felder -- An Evening at the Hotel California
- Sun 2/12: Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra: Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto
- Sun 2/12: Bill Medley
- more events »
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