Diners' Choice: Innovative restaurants in Western New York

OpenTable

Updated 05 October 2026

Looking for the best restaurants that are fit for foodies in Western New York? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyses nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favourite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you book, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Aurora Cooks

4.9

4.9 (42)

$50 and over

American

Aurora

About the restaurant

Join us for an interactive chef's table dining experience! Gather around the counter for a show-stopping five-course prix fixe meal inspired by the season's bounty. Wine pairings and à la carte beverages are available. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Top review

Peter

Dined on 23 Sept 2026

The Chef and her assistant were incredibly creative! No one at the table left a bit of food on their plate 'cause everything was so yummy. Amazingly creative with local foods and I ate some veggies I would never have touched...they were all just delicious. Definitely a place we will visit once a year for special occasions (we live an hour and a half from the establishment. You have to try it to believe it.

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Experience

Aurora Cooks! Chef's Counter

Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant - Buffalo, NY

4.8

4.8 (2881)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Buffalo

About the restaurant

Bacchus wine bar and restaurant is located in the historic Calumet building in the heart of Buffalo's entertainment district. A seasonal menu highlights the best available ingredients from local and regional farms. Together with our Wine Spectator award winning wine list, this elegant yet casual restaurant has continually been ranked as one of Buffalo's best.

Top review

CarolGold

Dined 3 days ago

As always, Bacchus delivers with exceptional food, great wine options and perfect, professional service. The careful attention to dietary issues is especially appreciated. Consistently wonderful experience!

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Experience

Charlie Brown Christmas

Experience

Charlie Brown Christmas

Stella A Kitchen and Bar

4.8

4.8 (798)

$31 to $50

American

Lakewood

About the restaurant

Join us for casual fine dining in an eclectic atmosphere. Our kitchen is led by chef owner Bruce Stanton. We take pride in sourcing and preparing fresh quality seafood and meats, pastas, unique salads and southern inspired dishes. Serving dinner Wednesday-Saturday, reservations are highly recommended. 3 time winner of open table diners choice.
We are steps from Chautauqua Lake ( public dock in summer) , a short drive from the National Comedy Center, Chautauqua Institution, and the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel.
Booking special events on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday evenings and luncheons everyday.
Stella will be closed from Jan 1- Feb 3, 2026. We look forward to seeing you Feb 4!

Top review

Dick

Dined 4 days ago

Another birthday celebration (wife), we were greeted warmly and seated, Kerri our knowledgeable and kind server took our drink order. We ordered appetizers, my wife had the tuna crisps and I had the she crab soup. Entrees My wife ordered the lasagna bolognese and I ordered the Cajun salmon and smoked Gouda grits. Everything was delicious and would (have) order again. Atmosphere was wonderful, Kerri was great!!! Could not have been a more memorable experience!!

black & blue Steak and Crab - Buffalo

4.7

4.7 (2954)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Buffalo

About the restaurant

black & blue Steak and Crab sets the bar for the New American Steakhouse; elegant yet unpretentious, sophisticated yet approachable. b&b offers an inventive design and an unparalleled, vibrant ambiance for you and your guests. Our inspired cuisine coupled with our gracious hospitality is perfect for your special occasion dinner, night out with friends, family gathering or executive business event. black & blue also offers a variety of private rooms and tailor made menus for large groups. We would be happy to help plan your next business meeting or celebratory function. Whether it’s an intimate party, a lavish reception, or an important business meeting, you can be certain the black & blue experience will be effortless and memorable. The Club Room accommodates up to 45 guests for a sit-down meal. The Board Room accommodates up to 20 guests for a sit-down meal. You are sure to find a wine you like in their 20 foot climate controlled wine rack.

Top review

RaymondGold

Dined 2 days ago

This is my first time at Black & Blue Steak & Crab and I was not disappointed. The service was on point, very attentive and accommodating. The steaks were prepared perfectly and the aged meats melt in your mouth. Great drinks as well. I am visiting from Seattle and I only wish there was a Black and Blue restaurant there. Great choice.

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Griffon Brewery and Gastropub - Lewiston

4.7

4.7 (63)

$30 and under

Gastro Pub

Lewiston

About the restaurant

Griffon Gastropub brings bold flavor, house-crafted brews, and a warm neighborhood feel to Western New York. Known for elevated pub fare and locally inspired dishes, Griffon delivers a dining experience that blends comfort, quality, and creativity. Guests can enjoy everything from casual dinners and lively happy hours to celebrations with family and friends in an inviting, energetic atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of the Niagara River, Griffon offers world-class waterfront views, seasonal patio seating, and live music on the patio every Friday through Monday—perfect for soaking in the scenery. Every visit feels relaxed, refined, and distinctly local.

Top review

HeatherGold

Dined on 25 Sept 2026

Amazing food, ambience and view. The pickle poppers, filet, and cajun fish were all delicious. I'm so glad we found this place. Truly great meal and an amazing server who didn't mind our touristy questions at all. She was gracious and attentive.

Melting Pot - Buffalo

4.5

4.5 (1391)

$30 and under

Fondue

Buffalo

About the restaurant

Melting Pot isn't just a meal - it's an experience! Perfect for date nights, birthdays, and celebrations, Melting Pot blends fine dining with interactive fun that makes every occasion memorable. Our restaurant offers a warm, inviting escape where guests cook, dip, and share fondue together at the table. Savor our signature four-course fondue journey with award-winning cheese fondue, crisp salads, premium entrées (filet mignon, cold-water lobster tail, shrimp, teriyaki sirloin, chicken, vegan and vegetarian options), and unforgettable chocolate fondue. Private seating options, curated celebration experiences, and a full bar with craft cocktails and an extensive wine list help create an evening designed for connection and celebration.

Top review

Danielle

Dined 7 days ago

Very unique experience! You get a lot of food and it’s a fun place.

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Experience

VIP Deluxe Romance Experience

Texas de Brazil - Buffalo

4.4

4.4 (3879)

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

Buffalo

About the restaurant

Texas de Brazil is a Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, offering an authentic rodizio-style dining experience where gaucho chefs serve endless tableside carvings of flame-grilled beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and Brazilian sausage. Guests also enjoy an extravagant salad area with seasonal chef-crafted items, fresh vegetables, artisan cheeses, and Brazilian specialties. The vibrant atmosphere blends Brazilian hospitality with an elegant setting, perfect for date nights, group dinners, and celebrations. Located in Buffalo's Walden Galleria, a favorite of locals and visitors at one of the area's most popular shopping and dining destinations, surrounded by retail, entertainment, and a vibrant dining scene in the Buffalo area.

Top review

Michelle

Dined 4 days ago

The staff was friendly and very attentive. The food was very delicious.

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Experience

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri

Experience

Thanksgiving Day Experience

Patina 250

4.4

4.4 (1655)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Buffalo

About the restaurant

Patina 250 serves seasonal menus using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offering thoughtful, flavor-infused variations on the authentic tastes of Western New York. The restaurant interior offers a refined, welcoming atmosphere to enjoy drinks, shared plates or a full dining experience. Local artists’ work contributes to the modern mood with paintings, elaborate light fixtures and a sculptural wall installation. Owned by Delaware North, a global leader in hospitality.

Top review

Tanja

Dined 7 days ago

The food was simple but done perfectly. Service was friendly and attentive. 10 out of 10 no notes.

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Popular dish

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER

Popular dish

CRISPY BRUSSELS SPROUTS

Griffon Gastropub-East Aurora

4.3

4.3 (19)

$30 and under

Gastro Pub

East Aurora

About the restaurant

Griffon Gastropub brings bold flavor, our own craft brews, and a warm neighborhood feel. Known for elevated pub fare, locally inspired dishes, and inviting atmosphere, Griffon is the perfect spot for everything from casual dinners and happy hour to celebrations with family and friends. With a menu built around comfort, quality, and creativity, guests can enjoy a memorable dining experience that feels both relaxed and refined.

Top review

Aimee

Dined 4 days ago

I ordered the Mangia and it was absolutely amazing! Also ordered the peanut butter trifle and it so delicious. 10/10 would recommend.

Patrick's Rooftop

3.8

3.8 (209)

$30 and under

Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service

Buffalo

About the restaurant

Patrick’s Rooftop, located at 500 Pearl in downtown Buffalo, is the city’s highest rooftop bar and patio, offering unparalleled 360° views of Lake Erie, Canalside, and the Buffalo skyline. As one of the top Buffalo rooftop bars, we feature handcrafted cocktails made with local spirits, seasonal small plates perfect for sharing, and rotating DJs that bring energy to our outdoor bar experience. Ideal for happy hours, date nights, private events, and summer gatherings, our rooftop patio provides lounge seating under oversized umbrellas and twinkling lights above. Open spring through fall, Patrick’s Rooftop has earned its reputation as the best rooftop patio in Buffalo. Reserve your spot today at 500PearlBuffalo.com and elevate your next event at Buffalo’s premier rooftop destination.

Top review

Barbara

Dined on 16 Aug 2026

What a great view of Buffalo! Service was excellent at Sunday brunch.

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