Buffalo, New York, is a city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and delicious food scene. One popular Food Network show that has featured the city’s culinary delights is Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, hosted by Guy Fieri. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the places Guy Fieri has visited in Buffalo, highlighting the must-try dishes and the unique experiences that make each location special.
A Brief History of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in Buffalo
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives first aired in 2007 and has since become a staple of the Food Network. The show’s concept is simple: Guy Fieri travels across the country, visiting local eateries, diners, and restaurants that serve up mouth-watering dishes. Buffalo, with its vibrant food scene, has been featured on the show multiple times, showcasing the city’s unique culinary offerings.
Episode 1: “Buffalo Eats” (Season 2, Episode 13)
In this episode, Guy Fieri visits three iconic Buffalo eateries. The first stop is Gene McCarthy’s, a historic Irish pub that has been serving up classic dishes since 1964. Guy tries the famous “Beef on Weck” sandwich, a Buffalo staple that consists of thinly sliced roast beef served on a kummelweck roll with horseradish sauce.
Next, Guy heads to Charlie the Butcher’s Kitchen, a local institution that has been featured on the show multiple times. Charlie the Butcher, aka Charles Roesch, is a Buffalo legend who has been serving up delicious meats and sandwiches for over 30 years. Guy tries the “Beef on Weck” sandwich again, but this time with a twist – it’s made with prime rib instead of roast beef.
The final stop is La Nova Pizzeria, a popular spot for pizza lovers. Guy tries the famous “Buffalo-style” pizza, which features a thick crust, sweet sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Episode 2: “More Buffalo Eats” (Season 5, Episode 13)
In this episode, Guy Fieri returns to Buffalo to visit more local eateries. The first stop is Curly’s Grill, a casual restaurant that serves up classic American comfort food. Guy tries the “Curly’s Burger,” a juicy patty topped with cheese, bacon, and a fried egg.
Next, Guy heads to Gene’s Subs, a local favorite that has been serving up delicious subs and sandwiches for over 50 years. Guy tries the “Italian Sub,” which features salami, ham, pepperoni, and provolone cheese.
The final stop is Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the Buffalo wing. Guy tries the famous wings, which are made with a secret sauce that’s been a staple of the bar since 1964.
Episode 3: “Buffalo’s Best” (Season 10, Episode 13)
In this episode, Guy Fieri visits three more Buffalo eateries. The first stop is Resurgence Brewing Co., a local brewery that serves up delicious pub fare. Guy tries the “Fish Fry,” a classic Buffalo dish that features beer-battered cod served with fries and coleslaw.
Next, Guy heads to The Original Charlie’s Hot Dog, a popular spot for hot dog lovers. Guy tries the “Charlie Dog,” a classic hot dog topped with chili, cheese, and onions.
The final stop is Oliver’s Restaurant, a fine dining establishment that serves up creative American cuisine. Guy tries the “Duck Confit,” a dish that features slow-cooked duck leg served with roasted vegetables and quinoa.
Other Notable Mentions
While these episodes feature some of the most iconic Buffalo eateries, there are many other notable mentions that are worth trying. Some popular spots include:
- Jim’s Steakout, a local favorite that serves up delicious steaks and sandwiches.
- Duff’s Famous Wings, a popular spot for Buffalo wings.
- Bar Bill Tavern, a historic tavern that serves up classic pub fare.
Insider Tips and Recommendations
If you’re planning a trip to Buffalo, here are some insider tips and recommendations to keep in mind:
- Be sure to try the “Beef on Weck” sandwich at Gene McCarthy’s or Charlie the Butcher’s Kitchen.
- Don’t miss the famous Buffalo wings at Anchor Bar or Duff’s Famous Wings.
- If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, try Oliver’s Restaurant or Resurgence Brewing Co.
- Be sure to check out the local breweries, such as Resurgence Brewing Co. or Big Ditch Brewing Co.
Getting Around Buffalo
Buffalo is a relatively small city, and many of the eateries featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives are within walking distance of each other. However, if you’re planning to visit multiple locations, you may want to consider renting a car or using public transportation.
Accommodations
Buffalo has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. Some popular options include:
- The Hotel Henry Urban Resort Conference Center, a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city.
- The Foundry Suites, a boutique hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a unique atmosphere.
- The Buffalo Marriott HARBORCENTER, a modern hotel that offers stunning views of the city.
Conclusion
Buffalo, New York, is a city that is rich in history, culture, and delicious food. From classic diners to unique breweries, there’s something for every food lover in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a fan of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives or just looking for a new culinary adventure, Buffalo is a must-visit destination. So pack your bags, grab your appetite, and get ready to taste the best of Buffalo.
What is the Taste of Buffalo and how does it relate to Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives?
The Taste of Buffalo is an annual food festival held in Buffalo, New York, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene. The festival features a wide variety of local restaurants and food vendors, offering a range of cuisines from classic American comfort food to international flavors. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, a popular food and travel TV show, has visited several Buffalo eateries, highlighting the city’s unique food culture.
The show’s host, Guy Fieri, has explored many of Buffalo’s hidden gems, from traditional diners to modern restaurants, and even some eclectic eateries. The Taste of Buffalo festival and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives share a common goal: to celebrate the city’s rich food heritage and introduce visitors to the best of Buffalo’s culinary scene.
Which Buffalo restaurants have been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives?
Several Buffalo restaurants have been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, including Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the famous Buffalo wing, and Gene McCarthy’s, a historic Irish pub serving up classic pub fare. Other featured eateries include Charlie the Butcher’s Kitchen, a casual restaurant serving creative comfort food, and Lake Effect Ice Cream, a popular ice cream shop with unique flavors.
These restaurants, among others, have showcased the diversity and richness of Buffalo’s food scene, from traditional pub grub to innovative ice cream flavors. By featuring these local eateries, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives has helped put Buffalo on the culinary map, attracting foodies and visitors from around the world.
What is the significance of Anchor Bar in Buffalo’s culinary history?
Anchor Bar is a legendary restaurant in Buffalo, famous for being the birthplace of the Buffalo wing. In 1964, the bar’s owner, Teressa Bellissimo, created the dish as a snack for her son and his friends, and it quickly became a local favorite. Today, Anchor Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to try the authentic Buffalo wing experience.
Anchor Bar’s significance extends beyond its culinary claim to fame. The restaurant has become an iconic symbol of Buffalo’s food culture, attracting visitors from around the world. Its feature on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives has further cemented its reputation as a culinary landmark, solidifying its place in the city’s rich food heritage.
What types of cuisine can I expect to find at the Taste of Buffalo festival?
The Taste of Buffalo festival offers a diverse range of cuisines, from classic American comfort food to international flavors. Visitors can expect to find traditional Buffalo fare, such as beef on weck sandwiches and fish fries, as well as more modern twists on local favorites. The festival also features a variety of international cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian fusion.
In addition to traditional festival fare, the Taste of Buffalo also showcases the city’s vibrant food truck scene, with many local trucks offering unique and creative dishes. From gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal ice cream, the festival has something for every palate and preference.
How does the Taste of Buffalo festival support local restaurants and food vendors?
The Taste of Buffalo festival provides a platform for local restaurants and food vendors to showcase their cuisine and connect with the community. By featuring a wide range of local eateries, the festival helps to promote Buffalo’s food scene and support small businesses. The event also offers a unique opportunity for local chefs and restaurateurs to gain exposure and build their reputation.
The festival’s focus on local cuisine also helps to stimulate the local economy, with many restaurants and food vendors reporting increased sales and exposure following the event. By celebrating the city’s culinary heritage, the Taste of Buffalo festival plays an important role in supporting the local food community and promoting Buffalo as a culinary destination.
Can I visit the restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives during the Taste of Buffalo festival?
While the Taste of Buffalo festival features many local restaurants and food vendors, not all of the eateries featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives may be participating in the event. However, many of the featured restaurants are located in and around Buffalo, and visitors can easily plan a visit to these eateries during their trip to the city.
Some of the featured restaurants may also have a presence at the festival, offering samples or special menu items. Visitors can check the festival’s website or social media accounts for updates on participating restaurants and food vendors, and plan their itinerary accordingly.
What is the best way to experience the Taste of Buffalo festival and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives visits in the city?
The best way to experience the Taste of Buffalo festival and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives visits in the city is to plan ahead and create an itinerary that includes a mix of festival activities and visits to featured restaurants. Visitors can start by checking the festival’s website for a list of participating restaurants and food vendors, and then plan their visits to the featured eateries.
Additionally, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the city’s culinary landmarks, including Anchor Bar and other Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives featured restaurants. By combining the festival experience with visits to these iconic eateries, visitors can get a true taste of Buffalo’s unique food culture and culinary heritage.