Food from a truck?

Buffalo’s Food Truck Tuesdays kick into high gear

By Michael Read

Summer is right around the corner and that means Buffalo’s Food Truck Tuesdays are back.

The popular food destination kicked things off on April 29 and with over 30 trucks offering many delicious food and drink options.

Samantha Epps, director of events for the Larkin Square and Larkin Development group, didn’t expect to make a whole day of the week dedicated to the food trucks. Instead, it was meant for meal alternatives.

“It was simply an idea to create alternate dinnertime food options for the residents of Larkinville and create opportunities for local businesses,” Epps said.

Not only are local businesses benefitting from appearing in the popular Larkin Square event but even trucks and business make the trip from out of Western New York to give Buffalonians a taste from Lake Ontario.

“Food Truck Tuesdays was the first organized food truck event of it’s kind and quickly grew to be the largest food truck gathering in Western New York. It is also unique in the way that it brings trucks from Rochester as well as local Buffalo trucks,” Epps said.

One of those Rochester based trucks is Midnight Smokin’ BBQ.  

Epps said if you want to beat the dinner rush, come early. And what are you supposed to do after you eat? Well, the director of events has some things that might interest you.

“After you grab some food, grab a drink at any one of our three bars and a seat by the band to enjoy some live local music.”

Hungry patrons check out Food Truck Tuesday on a chilly April day.
(Photo credit to Michael Read)

Just a warning, seating is limited but guests are allowed to bring in either folding chairs or a picnic blanket, according to the website, larkinsquare.com/things-to-do/food-truck-tuesdays/.

But for Tuesdays that aren’t all sunny and 75, you will most likely be able to find a table to eat at, arrive late and beat the lines.

“I went on a colder day so there wasn’t as many people,” said Brianna Brenon, of Lockport.

Brenon has seen many pictures on social media singling out the crowds that are usually pouring into Larkin Square. “It was nice with no lines though,” she said.

Two of the many trucks parked in Larkin Square.
(Photo credit to Michael Read)

The good, the bad and the future for Food Truck Tuesdays:

The Good- “This year our new trucks are: Ted’s Hot Dogs, Antone’s at the Fair, Midnight BBQ, and Gourmasian Bistro,” Epps said.

The Bad- “I thought the prices were a little high on some things,” said Brenon, who paid $6 for a smoothie and $3 for macaroni and cheese.

The Future- “We add on new trucks every year and have plans to rotate in new trucks mid-season. We’re always looking for new ways to recreate this event,” said Epps as she also shed light on how far they have really come. “Food Truck Tuesday started out as a small events with 4 trucks and over the past three years has quickly evolved into a giant event.”

As for first-time food truck visitor, Brenon used three words to describe her overall experience.
Energetic. Delicious. Options.

readme01@mail.buffalostate.edu

Local restaurants week to shine

A look into the world’s largest independent restaurant promotion in the country

By Michael Read

    Buffalo is known for its food festivals and the great tasting food they have to offer.

    The Galbani Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival is the nation’s second-largest Italian street festival. The National Buffalo Chicken Wing Festival is recognized as one of the best festivals in the country. And the Taste of Buffalo is the largest two day food festival in the United States.

    Christa Hobart, event coordinator for Local Restaurant Week, she said she runs an event that is, “the biggest one of its kind in the country!”

    Hobart is talking about Local Restaurant Week. ‘"Restaurant Week" concepts started popping up over the country about 10 years ago,” Hobart said.

    “Our version is a little different than most in that we only allow local independent restaurants with no ties to a national franchise or chain to participate,” she said.

    This week-long event includes 200 participating restaurants in Western New York. The styles of the restaurants includes casual, fine dining, ethnic and electric- a beneficial combination for those interested in wanting to try new and unique foods at a reasonable price.

    Restaurants offer customers pricing options depending on what they order. Meals can be priced at three different amounts: $20.16, $30.16 and $40.16.

    The economic impact it has on the local economy: $8 million, annually according to its press release.

    What makes it so popular?

    Hobart thinks it’s a combination of family and community.

“Many small independent restaurants have been in the same families for years and years and are multi-generational,” she said. “It's just not like this in other cities. We have something really special right here in Western New York.”

    Fan favorites? That’s a tough question for the woman who has coordinated the event for the last four years.

    “The most searched restaurants on our website are always the steak and seafood restaurants like Buffalo Chophouse, Black & Blue and EB Green's.  The  fine dining or "white tablecloth" restaurants are always popular too”, Hobart said.

    Other popular restaurants include the iconic Chef’s and Lombardo’s. Hobart also said, “Equally popular are any restaurants new to the area.”

    What is a helpful feature on the Restaurant Week website (http://www.localrestaurantweek.com/restaurants.html) is you can filter through the participating restaurants and find a place that fits your mood. The site allows you to filter through neighborhoods, price and the type of food you are in the mood for-breakfast, lunch, dinner and even vegetarian friendly.

    Depending on the restaurant, they have the Local Restaurant Week menu attached under the restaurant's information so eager customers can inspect what is on the menu under the different meal prices.

    As for being the world’s largest independent restaurant promotion in the country, Hobart said it’s all because of the people.

    “People love to support their small neighborhood restaurants and this celebration gives them a good excuse to do it,” she said. “Local Restaurant Week is a perfect way to gather a few friends or a few family members and to savor the local flavor!”

Here are websites for the restaurants that were listed above:

Buffalo Chophouse
http://www.buffalochophouse.com/

Black & Blue
http://blackandbluesteakandcrab.menu/

EB Green's
http://www.ebgreens.com/

Chef's
https://www.ilovechefs.com/

Lombardo
http://ristorantelombardo.com/


readme01@mail.buffalostate.edu

What is Chick-fil-A?

A look into Western New York’s possible new restaurant

By Michael Read

If you know what Chick-fil-A is and you live in the Western New York you’ve probably made the two hour drive to Erie, PA to get your fix.

This drive could get a lot shorter.

According to local news outlets WIVB-TV and TownSquare Media’s WYRK, Chick-fil-A is, “exploring options in the region.”

Although nothing is set in stone nor has a location or time frame been established, many Buffalonians are already thrilled at the possibility of the restaurant making an appearance in region

“I really hope that they do build one here and soon,” said Buffalo native Brianna Brenon, who travels to Erie because “the quality of the food and the service is unlike anything you’ll find in a typical fast food restaurant.”

Chick-Fil-A dining room in Erie, Pa. (photo by Michael Read)

Chick-fil-A is a fast-food chain that specializes in chicken-sandwiches, strips and nuggets. Two things that sets them apart from other chains is the commitment to their employees and customer satisfaction.

Unlike other fast-food chains, at Chick-fil-A you are given your food at your table by an enthusiastic employee who claims it is their pleasure to serve you.

“I really love my job,” said Darlene, who was unable to give us her last name, has been with the company for seven years. “I want to make sure that everyone is happy and enjoying their meal.” She and others go to each table in the dining room and asks customers if they need any refills on their drinks or any dipping sauces from behind the counter.

Chick-fil-A’s speciality is their Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich. This sandwich consists of two pickles and a chicken breast fried to perfection on a bun.

Chik-Fil-A signature Chicken Sandwich with side of waffle fries and signature Chik-Fil-A sauce
(photo by Michael Read)

Might sound very simple, but the quality of the chicken is why the sandwich bears the name of the restaurant. Fresh, hot, juicy and the batter in which the chicken is fried in is filled with flavor and a crisp outer layer with every bite taken.

Another speciality that bears the name of the restaurant is the Chick-fil-A sauce, a dipping sauce that tastes as if honey mustard and barbeque were to be mixed together.

Let's say you want to venture on the healthy side of ‘fil-A. They do have healthy options on their menu, as well.

Grilled chicken is available as a substitute if you don’t want the crispy original chicken. And they offer chicken wraps and chicken salads.

For sides, the waffle fries will do. But dip them in the Chick-fil-A sauce and you’ll be thanking me. (I got this suggestion from Darlene)

“I also like the flowers on the tables,” says Brenon.

Will this be the newest date night restaurant in Buffalo?

Maybe not. Nevertheless, if Chick-fil-A does open up in the Western New York area, there is one day of the week that they are closed.

Sunday.

According to its founder, Truett Cathy, set this so that “restaurant employees should have an opportunity to rest, spend time with family and friends, and worship if they choose to do so.”


readme01@mail.buffalostate.edu

These meals don’t cost an arm and a leg

Meal deals for college students

By Michael Read

We’ve all seen our bank statements and gasped at the amount of money we’ve all spent on food each month. Although, $5 for a grande very, berry hibiscus at Starbucks doesn’t seem like a lot of money at the time, it sure adds up.

Brianna Brenon, 19, a sophomore business management student at Hilbert College, can attest to this.

“I probably spend around $100 a month on food, including Starbucks,” said Brenon, a

frequent Starbucks drinker. It’s easier because, “someone else does all the work for you and you don’t have to worry about the clean-up.”

Kevin Pickering, 19, a sophomore business administration major at Buffalo State, spends around $80 a month on food. Something that Pickering says, “needs to change”.

Pickering also troubles with the problem that many college students face: lack of time.

“I have no time to cook. Between school, work and homework there isn’t enough time,” said Pickering.

So, here’s the problem: we all spend too much money on food and drink for various reasons.

Here’s the solution: cheaper, smarter and more convenient choices when you choose what to eat. Below are some of the solutions that could eventually save you money and time when you’re hungry and hurting in the wallet.

Wegmans pre-packaged foods (photo by Michael Read)

Wegmans

Wegmans is a great source for food if you want an easy and healthy meal idea. Between their fresh fruit and salad bars, the chain has a great selection of various grab-and-go meals.

It also has a $6 meal deal.

The $6 meals are a take-home and heat-up meal. Consisting of one meat and two sides.

Chef Jennifer Renner, has been working in the Prepared Foods Department at Wegmans on Alberta Drive for three years and praises the convenience of the meal deal.

“Personally the benefits of the $6 meals are that they are easy, quick, and cheap meals that college kids grab on the go. They are already to go and all they have to do is warm them up,” Renner said.

Wegmans and its prepared food department sure hit the nail on the head with this convenient and easy meal. And the best part is you can choose your own combination of various foods they have offered in the case.

To add on to the grab-and-go, they also have these exact $6 meals, already packaged with a delicious combination of food already chosen for you.

Renner also stresses that these meals are for everyone, “These meals are just an easy way for both families and students because they are so easy.”

Wegmans grab-and-go meals (photo by Michael Read)

Wegmans also has available cafe seating in their store if you want to eat there and get some homework done. And if you’re lucky, there may be some free samples of food to try throughout the store.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Welcome To Moe’s!

As if the bright yellow and maroon logo didn’t scream out to you, the employees will take care of that. Moe’s is a fun and energetic restaurant that offers customers a taste of the southwest at a reasonable cost, too!

Monday’s are Moe Monday’s. You get a delicious, cheap deal.

For $7.25, you can order either a burrito or a burrito bowl, made to order with desired toppings and just the way you like it. Included with the main entree is, your choice of homemade queso or guacamole, paired with their never ending free tortilla chips and a drink.

Dominique Capizzi, a Moe’s employee on Niagara Falls Boulevard in Amherst, said, “Mondays are crazy, it’s literally insane.”

“Since it’s so cheap, people end up getting more stuff on top of the special. The 10 bins full of chips we have are gone through within the first few hours after we open.”

Wednesday’s are College Nights.

For $8, you get more choices on your main entree than you do on Mondays at Moe’s. You can either order a burrito, burrito bowl, salad or two tacos. Also included with the main entree is everything you’ll get with the burrito on a Monday - chips with queso or guacamole and a drink.

“We are pretty steady on college nights,” Capizzi said.

If you don’t want to wait in those long lines on a Moe’s Monday, flash your college ID card on a Wednesday and you’ll still get a great deal.

Maybe one day Brenon will open a restaurant someday. Meanwhile, Moe’s or Wegmans will suit the business management major just fine.

“I want to try cutting down on my spending,” she said, “when I am going out to eat.”

Meal Deals for consideration

If you want to go somewhere extremely affordable and get waited on, Denny’s is your best bet. Denny’s has a great, but small, side menu which features a $2, $4, $6 and $8 section.

If you want to go somewhere casual with your buds to watch the Bills beat the Patriots, Applebee’s is your go-to sports bar dining destination.

Applebee’s offers a 2 for $20 deal where you order an appetizer and two entrees, all for $20. With a great variety of meals to choose from, this meal deal is also a good idea for a date night.

For our guests, 21 and older, this meal deal is the ideal date night extravaganza.

At Panos on Elmwood, dinner for two and a bottle of wine costs $30 after 4 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. This deal includes a house salad, two entrees and a bottle of wine.

Meal deal locations near Buffalo State

Wegmans

601 Amherst Street

Buffalo, New York 14207

0.6 miles from Buffalo State

Moe’s Southwest Grill

2658 Delaware Avenue

Buffalo, New York 14216

2.1 miles from Buffalo State

Denny’s

2215 Delaware Avenue

Buffalo, New York 14216

1.4 miles from Buffalo State

Applebee’s

2656 Delaware Avenue

Buffalo, New York 14216

2.1 miles from Buffalo State

Panos on Elmwood

1081 Elmwood Avenue

Buffalo, New York 14222

0.2 miles from Buffalo State

readme01@mail.buffalostate.edu

Wings, wings and more wings

Battle for the ‘Best Wing’ in Buffalo

By Michael Read

Chicken wings aren’t just an appetizer on menus in Buffalo. They have their own section.

They are food royalty in Western New York.

Here is the million dollar question: What restaurant has the best wings?

A pretty simple, yet loaded question that can’t really be answered without uncertainty and disagreement. Even “The Wing King,” Drew Cerza, can speak truth to this.

“This is what always creates a great debate at the dinner table or bar…”Who makes the best wings”? There never will be consensus, but that’s OK…”

Cerza is a proud man who is honored to be “The Wing King”, though he does have his opinion on the perfect wing.

“I don’t like my skin too soft or too crispy…kind of in the middle, however, I do enjoy a crispy wing as long as it isn’t too dried out. I like the meat to still be juicy inside.”

Cerza also said, “It is important that the wings are shaken well in the basket to get all the grease off.”

We all have that “chicken wing joint” where we get our wings. Yet, there always seems to be some familiar names thrown into the ring of champions.

Cerza credits the passion of Buffalonians and their love for the chicken wing that causes such debates.

“Buffalonians are very territorial to the wings in their neighborhood and the wings they grew up with. We show a great passion and loyalty to our favorite wing and pizza joints in Buffalo.”

Let the battle begin.

Round 1. Anchor Bar, home of the “Original Chicken Wing.”

Known for its originality and as the birthplace of the chicken wing, the Anchor Bar has a long and devoted history in Buffalo.

Anchor Bar wings (photo by Michael Read)

Big hits include wings that are crispy, fresh and made to order. If you seek monster wings, The Anchor Bar is not your place. Wings were lightly sauced, not too overpowering. The snack size blue cheese cup keeps you asking for more.

Classified as a “bar”, Anchor has a family-friendly environment. A good place to bring a family or go on a date.

One question that popped up during the meal was, where’s the carrots?

Round 2: Duff’s “Famous Wings”.

Well, what’s so famous about them one may ask. The size speaks for themselves. As Billy Fuccillo says, they’re “HUUUGE!”

Nevertheless, Duff’s wings are a party for the mouth. Juicy, cooked just right and whether you like a lot of sauce or not, Duff’s drowns their wings in it.

At their original location corner of Sheridan Drive and Millersport Highway in Amherst, the dining area is the only thing small served at Duff’s. Small, yet cozy, you’ll likely run into a friend, co-worker or even Joe from down the street.

Buffalo is certainly the city where everyone knows everyone, something Cerza loves about this community.

“Buffalo to me is not a location on the map. It is a community of great people. We have a bond that makes you feel an important part of something special.”

Duff’s also reiterates a warning for all wing eaters.

“WARNING! Medium IS HOT! Medium hot IS VERY HOT! Hot is VERY VERY HOT!”

As the official chicken wing of the Buffalo Bills, Duff’s expands its “famous wing” to an NFL franchise. Excellent use of commercial marketing.

Duff’s wings are served with the blue cheese, carrots and celery sticks. Fries are an addition in requested, but worth the extra cost.

Round 3: The new kid on the block, 716 (Food and Sport).

Terry and Kim Pegula’s newest addition to downtown Buffalo seems to be paying off for the husband-wife owners of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres.

With a modern day edge on downtown, 716 (Food and Sport) is a sight to be seen. Flat screens on every wall, corner and crevice of the building. But, the big show is the 38-foot video screen featured over the main bar.

The experience adds a new flavor to the term sports bar. 716 style drink glasses feature a different sports ball on the bottom of each glass.

The wings are just as new as the restaurant.

Newest flavors to the chicken wing scene include, (716) Signature, Beer BBQ and Chicken on Weck.

Chicken on Weck?

Sounds crazy, but even “The Wing King” said it is one of the most unique wing he has ever tasted.

“Actually, right here in Buffalo - 716 has a great beef on weck wing.”

(716) Food and Sport's Chicken on Weck wings (photo by Michael Read)

Topped with sesame seeds and sea salt, this wing is definitely a unique eat.

Another flavor that takes its own name to a cross between mild and BBQ is the (716) signature sauce: barbeque flavor with a little kick.

(716) Food and Sport wings - Chicken on Weck (left),  (716) Signature wings (right)
(photo by Michael Read)

Each wing was full of flavor, cooked perfectly and presented professionally. Served with the typical blue cheese, carrot and celery sticks, but also served with a horseradish cream sauce for the chicken on weck wings. Perfect touch.

(716) Food and Sport is your go-to experience for drinks and wings. Whether it is before, during or after a Buffalo Sabres game or event at First Niagara Center.

When asked what is the perfect side for his chicken wings, Cerza joked, “Beer, beer and more beer!”

Cerza also said that if you want to try new and unique wings, the National Buffalo Wing Festival is a great outlet that offers wings from all over the country on Labor Day weekend.


readme01@mail.buffalostate.edu