Buffalo, New York, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and a big part of that is its thriving happy hour culture. Whether you're looking for discounted drinks, delicious appetizers, or a lively atmosphere, Buffalo has something to offer everyone. This comprehensive guide explores 32 of the best happy hours in Buffalo, categorized for your convenience. We'll cover everything from upscale lounges to casual pubs, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next happy hour adventure. Remember to always check individual establishment websites for the most up-to-date information on times and offerings.
Happy Hour Heaven: Exploring Buffalo's Best Deals
Finding the perfect happy hour can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This guide simplifies the process by categorizing Buffalo's best happy hour spots, making your search a breeze. We've included a variety of options to match different preferences and budgets. Remember to check specific websites for the most current pricing and availability.
Upscale Happy Hour Experiences
These locations offer a more refined happy hour experience, often with higher-end cocktails and sophisticated ambiance.
- The Mansion on Delaware Avenue: Known for its elegant atmosphere and creative cocktails.
- Sophia's: A stylish restaurant with a curated happy hour menu and excellent wine selection.
- Tappo: Offers a sophisticated happy hour with Italian-inspired dishes and craft cocktails.
- Swift Current Bar: This spot pairs expertly crafted drinks with stunning waterfront views.
- Lloyd Taco Truck (various locations): While a taco truck, they often offer happy hour deals at some locations. Check their website for details.
Casual and Lively Happy Hours
These spots provide a more relaxed and fun atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends.
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: Famous for its BBQ and lively atmosphere. Their happy hour is a must-try.
- Gabriel's Gate: A gastropub with a wide selection of beers on tap and a popular happy hour menu.
- Thin Man Brewery: A local brewery with a large outdoor patio and a great happy hour selection.
- Resurgence Brewing Company: Another local brewery known for its creative brews and fun atmosphere.
- Hamburg Brewing Company: A popular brewery in Hamburg with a family-friendly atmosphere and good happy hour deals.
- Admiral's Pub: A classic Buffalo pub with a great selection of beers and a lively atmosphere.
- The Black Sheep: A cozy pub with a focus on craft beer and a relaxed vibe.
- Gene McCarthy's: A traditional Irish pub with live music and a great happy hour.
Happy Hour with a View
Enjoy your happy hour drinks and food with some stunning scenery.
- The 716 Food and Sport: Great views and a lively atmosphere.
- Sky Bar at the Curtiss Hotel: A rooftop bar with stunning city views. Expect a more upscale experience.
- The Terrace at the Hyatt Regency: Another rooftop option with amazing views of the city and Lake Erie.
Happy Hour for the Foodie
These locations boast particularly delicious happy hour menus.
- Westside Bazaar: A diverse food hall with several vendors offering happy hour specials.
- Taqueria Los Mayas: Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and margaritas during their happy hour.
- Sophia's: Not just upscale, Sophia's also boasts impressive food options during their happy hour.
- Liberty Hound: Offers creative bar snacks to complement their already great drink list.
Happy Hour on a Budget
These places offer great deals without breaking the bank.
- The Anchor Bar: Home of the Buffalo wing. While not always explicitly advertised, they often have daily deals.
- Duff's Famous Wings: Another Buffalo wing institution with potentially good daily specials.
- Bar Louie: A chain, but they usually have strong happy hour promotions.
- Squire's Castle: Offers great value for its location and ambiance.
Happy Hour Hidden Gems
These lesser-known spots deserve a visit.
- Allen Street Hardware: A unique bar with a cool industrial vibe.
- Mosey's: A laid-back bar with a friendly atmosphere.
- Oliver's: A classic Buffalo bar with a long history.
- Caffe Aroma: A local favorite with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Happy Hour with Entertainment
These locations offer live music or other entertainment to complement your drinks.
- The Tralf Music Hall: Catch a show and enjoy their happy hour specials.
- SportsPage: Multiple locations, usually with TVs showing various sports.
Happy Hour Near Specific Landmarks
If you're near a particular landmark, these locations are good choices:
- Happy Hour near Canalside: Many bars and restaurants around Canalside offer happy hour deals. Check local listings.
- Happy Hour near the Theater District: Several restaurants cater to pre- or post-theater crowds with happy hour specials. Check local listings.
Tips for a Successful Buffalo Happy Hour
- Check the website: Always confirm happy hour times and specials on the restaurant's official website.
- Go early: Popular spots can get crowded, especially during peak hours.
- Make a reservation: For larger groups or upscale establishments, a reservation is recommended.
- Explore different neighborhoods: Buffalo has many distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique happy hour offerings.
- Embrace the local scene: Take advantage of the opportunity to sample local beers and cuisine.
This list is not exhaustive, and new happy hour spots are constantly emerging in Buffalo. Use this guide as a starting point for your own happy hour adventures in the Queen City! Remember to drink responsibly and have fun!
