It seems like we hear a whole lot about how crummy Buffalo is. Of course, people love to complain, and it’s often far easier to pick out the bad from the good. But it’s coming up on a year since I moved to this city, and frankly I’ve found a plethora of reasons to love and enjoy it.
I’m here to dispel the misconceptions and pessimistic outside views by taking a closer look at all the benefits Buffalo has to offer. Read on to discover why the Queen City is, in fact, a wonderful place to live.
1) The Food
Everyone is familiar with the Buffalo chicken wing phenomenon, and many may liken our cuisine to what dishes they’ve sampled at Buffalo Wild Wings (the chain restaurant ironically based in Minneapolis). But it does get better than this. If wings are what you’re looking for, Anchor Bar (the OG in Buffalo wings) and Duff’s lead the pack. Just don’t go thinking that’s all we’ve got here…
Images from Vincent X under CC Attribution 2.0, and Ted Thompson under CC Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0
I can pick from an arsenal of delicious restaurants any day of the week to satisfy my cravings. Since I settled here, I’ve had spectacular Chinese, Indian, Greek, Polish, Lebanese, Irish and traditional American favorites. To name a few: Great Wall for the best Chinese, Mezza for delicious shawarma (that meaty picture on the left), Ted’s for phenomenal hotdogs, Cole’s for great burgers and salads, Thirsty Buffalo for awesome bar food and wings. These are just some of my favorites – I’ll assure you it’s only the tip of the mouthwatering iceberg.
There are also a number of hole-in-the-wall hidden gems throughout the West Side, and they’re perfect when you’re eating on a budget. Two of my favorite small joints are Nick’s Place and The Kitchen Table in the Black Rock neighborhood. Nothing beats a hardy breakfast for five-ish bucks.
And for quick late-night refreshment, Buffalo’s food trucks frequent street corners near the best bars. Tacos, barbeque, risotto and even vegetarian dishes are popular finds at the trucks. In the nice months, the 16 food trucks gather in Larkin Square every Tuesday night to vend their best offerings.
2) Not Too Big, but Not Too Small
The beauty of Buffalo is that it’s juuussst right. Larger urban centers can be overwhelming and impersonal, while smaller cities don’t necessarily have much going on. But Buffalo is the ideal median size for those settlers chasing the best of both worlds.
You’ll sometimes see familiar faces when you walk down the street or drop into a bar, but there’s plenty of room to escape the routine spots if you’re looking for something new. Going back to its affinity for bicycling, Buffalo is small enough to navigate quickly and efficiently, while avoiding the headaches of congested traffic and distant commutes that larger cities bring with them.
The neighborhoods have a tendency to transform abruptly from block to block, crafting an intimate amalgamation of people from different cultural backgrounds and economic demographics. Which brings us to the next best thing about Buffalo, NY…
3) The People and Rich Cultural Diversity
For the most part, Buffalo’s populous is friendly, down-to-earth and approachable. There have now been multiple instances where I’ve had worthwhile conversations with complete strangers in the city. Of course, every place has its scrooges, but I have yet to log any notably unpleasant encounters.
The city is also a melting pot of various cultures and values. There are numerous annual events celebrating the heritage of the city’s ethnic groups, some of which are nationally recognized.
Dyngus Day is one of the largest and most well-known Buffalo traditions. The city is unofficially the Dyngus Day capital of America, with a significant concentration of dance hall events and live polka music. I attended it myself for the first time earlier this year, and it’s nothing short of a blast. Buffalo’s huge Polish population is extremely friendly and welcoming, as the celebration’s slogan states “everybody is Polish on Dyngus Day!”
Images from Pat DePuy (from St. Patrick’s Day and Pride Parade 2013 in Buffalo)
Buffalo’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest in the country (that is, the parade on Delaware Ave. – there are two different Paddy’s Day parades in Buffalo). The parade turns into an all-day affair with some of the most boisterous celebrations along Delaware and Allen in the city. Again, my first Paddy’s Day in Buffalo was this past March, and I must say I was impressed with its sheer size and scope.
But it doesn’t stop here. The Juneteenth Festival is a celebration of African American culture, Buffalo Greek Fest, Buffalo Italian Festival, the Puerto Rican and Hispanic Day Parade, the Pride Parade and many more are all staples of Buffalo’s cultural wealth.
4) The Sports
Bills, Sabres, Bandits and Bisons. Sure, every city has their teams. But Buffalo’s professional teams have an exceptionally fervent following, and it’s the thrill of routing for the underdog that has kept Buffalo fans loyal for so many decades.
There are several telling testaments to the devotion and passion of Buffalo sports fans. For starters, The Bills’ tailgating experience is ranked one of the best in the country. The line “Nobody circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bills!” was famously claimed by ESPN studio host Chris Berman, and some tailgates have become so extravagant that they’ve been asked by NFL officials to tone it down.
Images from bustedcoverage, Craig Kilgore (the boss), and commissioneroftailgating
Despite the fact that the team has never won a Super Bowl, its diehard fans continue to turn out in droves. Just last Sunday, the Buffalo Bills training camp sold out tickets for its opening day of practice. The fan-initiated #BillsMafia hashtag has become a phenomenon on Twitter that now has its own account and following of over 15,000, along with a popular line of merchandise.
While we’re on the subject of solid fan turnout, the Bandits set a record for the most fans present in one season (143,581 fans in 2009) in the National Lacrosse League. They also have the record for second-highest overall attendance in a season (2,086,412 attendees over 162 home games) and come in second in average attendance at 12,879 attendees.
Season tickets for Sabres games are currently inaccessible due to a capped number of season ticket holders, and to get your hands on them you’ll need to join a wait-list of over 2,700 people (as of 2012). They’re one of the few US-based hockey franchises that have a waiting list for season ticket purchases.
But regardless of statistics, I’ve seen firsthand how intensely the emotions fly during a Bills or Sabres game. I’ll never forget the times spent sitting in my Fredonia dormitory room during a Bills game, and hearing synchronized screams emanate from faraway windows after a fouled play or (occasional) touchdown. Or my first experience in a local bar during a Sabres game, as a successful shot conjured more ruckus from the excited patrons than I could’ve possibly fathomed.
There’s certainly something special about Buffalo sports that continues to defy the overwhelming odds.
5) It’s Bike-Friendly
It’s remarkably easy to get around Buffalo on a bike, and in some cases you’ll reach your destination more quickly on two wheels rather than four.
Many of the city’s busiest streets have shared and dedicated bike lanes to make safe travel easier for bicyclists. Below is a map of the existing bike lanes, bike projects in construction and proposed facilities for the future.
There are also over 300 bicycle parking locations installed throughout the city of Buffalo, NY. Now abundant throughout Buffalo’s downtown neighborhoods and surrounding areas, what started as an initiative of only 25 bike racks has grown to offer secure lock-up locations across the most populated areas.
GO Bike Buffalo is responsible for the aforementioned lanes and parking, along with programs to educate and enable bicyclists of all ages and abilities. The Safe Routes to School program offers resources to get parents to and from school on their bikes. Complete Streets gets involved with road construction and repair to push for bicycling safety and interests. GO Bike Buffalo also provides businesses with the opportunity to request bike parking locations outside their storefront, following legislation that installs these racks free of charge.
The community around Buffalo bicycling is growing exponentially as well. The Sunday Night Ride is a weekly meet-up of cyclists, yielding a bike pack that often reaches hundreds of people. The informal event can last for hours at a time and traverse one end of the city to the other.
6) The Architecture
There are a number of notable structures among Buffalo’s cityscape, and many buildings that were drafted by the nation’s most gifted architects. What makes it more interesting is that the city’s most contemporary buildings rise alongside centuries-old constructions, giving the urbanized areas an eclectic mix of masonry.
Below are a few highlights of Buffalo’s most noteworthy architecture.
Images from Tom Bastin, Maureen Jameson, and JasonParis under CC Attribution 2.0
The HH Richardson complex (left) is a mammoth red sandstone building with copper roofs at the southern edge of Buffalo State College. The structure is exemplified by its twin towers that rise 185 feet from the 91-acre campus, and these 19th century buildings are widely considered to be haunted. It was designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, one of the recognized trinity of American architecture greats (alongside Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan). And after many years of vacancy and decay, the complex is finally being restored to its former glory.
Buffalo City Hall (center) is an Art Deco style building (and the second tallest in Buffalo’s skyline) that features extraordinary exterior design elements and detailed sculptural friezes. City Hall towers over Niagara Square and marks the city center. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was one of the most expensive city halls to construct in the country’s history.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House complex (right) is a considerably smaller Buffalo landmark, albeit one of the most impressive. Located near the Buffalo Zoo on Jewett Parkway, the original building had been abandoned following the Great Depression, suffering structural decay and vandalism throughout the 20th century. After flip-flopping property ownership and a number of modern modifications, the house is being restored to its original structural specifications, in what Mr. Wright had claimed his opus work.
7) Four Season Climate
Buffalo’s climate may be wacky, but the region yields all four seasons to its residents.
Some may favor the meteorological stability offered by places such as Florida, but I’ve never been one to prefer year-round snow or sun. I find it difficult to claim a “favorite season” like some can aptly share. This may have something to do with being raised outside of Rochester (another tumultuous town for weather conditions), but the prospect of blooming flowers and butterflies on Christmas Day just depresses me.
Just think about all the activities we get to enjoy thanks to having all four seasons:
- Pumpkin picking, haunted hay rides, Halloween and harvest festivities (plus delicious locally-brewed pumpkin beers in the fall).
- Building snowmen and igloos, watching the snow fall with your significant other, sledding, skiing, snowboarding, and shoveling your driveway! (heh…)
- Watching the world thaw and become green again in Spring, and dancing in the rain if you’re so inclined (as a neighbor of mine recently decided to, sans-clothing).
- Enjoying a picnic in the park, swimming, bicycling, driving with the top down on your Jeep (or motorcycle, or other convertible vehicle).
There’s just something wonderful and climactic that comes with the change of seasons. If nothing else, I’d venture to say the variety makes life more interesting.
Not to mention that we’re 99% off the hook for threats of natural disaster, save the occasional blizzard or ice storm. But a few days without power and some toppled trees is nothing compared to a hurricane or earthquake.
So ponder that next time you have an issue with the grey skies.
8) Abundant Green Space
This city has a ton of green space to enjoy. Complementing the many buildings and roadways, Buffalo’s parks are plentiful and easily accessible.
The Olmsted Park system makes up six major parks in the immediate vicinity, offering playgrounds, golf courses, sports courts, open lawns, foot and bike paths. Many of the city’s traffic circles are embedded with open grass, trees, fountains and benches.
Image from efoxsolomon, under CC Attribution 2.0
Bidwell Park is a wide median of green space that runs along Bidwell Parkway and continues along Lincoln and Chapin Parkways to form several miles of open lawns and foliage. Delaware Park makes up the largest expanse of greenery in the city and borders both the Buffalo Zoo and Albright Knox Art Gallery. Squaw Island is another sizable outlet for outdoor activities, settled just across the shoreline of the West Side.
We may take it for granted, but it’s a fantastic convenience to take the dog for a walk, throw the pigskin with the guys or let the kids play in a nearby park.
9) It’s on the Up-and-Up
It’s time to turn our noses up at the idea of Buffalo in urban decay and take a moment to appreciate how much this city has going for it.
A much-neglected part of Buffalo’s goodness is its potential. I can tell that the city has a lot of room to grow, and from everything I’ve seen there is vast potential for Buffalo to bloom into a revitalized and glorious urban center (as it once was before its industrial downturn).
The people are passionate, and in my experiences shooting reportage for a local newspaper I’ve seen what Buffalo’s empowered citizens are capable of achieving. Growing efforts are already in motion to make this city a better place, and I’ll cite movements such as the Clean Air Coalition, Buffalo First, GO Bike Buffalo and the Silo City arts initiative for their progressive roles in doing so. Not to mention so many of the local business leaders who are collaborating to work towards a more sustainable economy. Some big things are in the works here, and I believe there’s far more to come down the line.
So did I miss anything? I am a newcomer, after all. Let me know what you’d add about Buffalo’s assets in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more #BuffaLove, check out a time-lapse of our 26-foot mural of the Buffalo city skyline.
I am 25, Buffalo born and raised, and moved to South Carolina a few years ago to follow my parents retirement… Let me just say, I miss Buffalo more and more in every passing year. I hope after I finally finish my degree I can move back, because having a degree is essential in Buffalo. Buffalo has one of the most educated young populations that I”ve ever seen. Everyone in that city at least has their BA. The best part about Buffalo are the surrounding towns you can raise a family… West Seneca, Williamsville, Orchard Park, East Aurora, Lancaster, etc. Jump on the thruway and you’re in Downtown Buffalo in 15 minutes— Best of both worlds 🙂
BigWag Awesome stuff. Couple others: local fishing (my personal favorite, aside from sports), beef on weck, Polish food, Tim Horton’s and Mighty Taco.
Ok..so he left out a couple things, but give him a break. He’s only been here a year. It seems in that year he’s done a hell of a lot more than a lot of natives have done…
Good points
here. One minor thing – City Hall
overlooks Niagara Square (with the McKinley Monument obelisk). Lafayette Square
is right down Court Street at Main and has the cool Civil War era monument.
Glad you love
it here!Good to have you!
RuthMahoney Oh definitely, Ruth. This post is awesome and very thorough, so the comments were certainly no knock on it. Just wanted to generate more discussion about our beloved city.
AmandaWhalenTheriot When you come back, don’t rule out city neighborhoods. There are a lot of great ones. I grew up in the suburbs but have been living in North Buffalo for a while. It’s been a great place to live and to raise a family. You don’t realize how good it is to be able to walk to a store or restaurant (rather than have to drive everywhere) until you’ve lived it.
AmandaWhalenTheriot When you come back, don’t rule out city neighborhoods. There are a lot of great ones. I grew up in the suburbs but have been living in North Buffalo for a while. It’s been a great place to live and to raise a family. You don’t realize how good it is to be able to walk to a store or restaurant (rather than have to drive everywhere) until you’ve lived it.
Ohh you’re right! My apologies, I can navigate the city pretty well now but still mix up some of the finer points, thanks for letting me know (and I’m correcting it as we speak). But so glad you enjoyed the post!
Don’t have the time to figure out a PC way to say this, but Buffalo benefits from something else: the nasty bits — and Buffalo has nasty bits as bad as anything in the Rust Belt — are huge and horrid, but they are quite insulated from the rest of the city. They are so bad you can instantly tell if you’ve gone the wrong way in time to hang a quick u turn. One dead giveaway is the percentage of boarded up and/or gutted buildings; another one is the number of police cars running ‘hot’ (with flashing lights) at night.
Unlike in other cities, nobody seems to talk much about making these areas (and their people, who of course do not figure in paeans like this article) part of the city’s bright future. It’s got its collective hands full with the parts that might, with enough energy and love, be saved.
greencaOhh you’re right! My apologies, I can navigate the city pretty well now
but still mix up some of the finer points, thanks for letting me know
(and I’m correcting it as we speak). But so glad you enjoyed the post!
Music! I love all of the free concerts Buffalo puts on over the summer, Canalside on Thursdays, Larkinville on Wednesdays, those are just two examples but there are many more!
DonaldFrazier Thanks for your feedback, Donald. I’m quite familiar with Buffalo’s not-as-nice places as well, and I never tried to claim that our city is without problems. As a matter of fact there are many glaring social and economic issues that need attention in Buffalo, and there is a great deal of commentary elsewhere that addresses what needs improvement.
But I wrote this in an optimistic light with the intention of highlighting the good things about Buffalo, as well as what’s going on to rejuvenate the city as a whole.
At the end of the article I mentioned several organizations that are taking significant steps to revitalize this city, but I’ll take this opportunity to touch on a few others as well. In particular, Heart of the City (https://www.hocn.org/) is a nonprofit committed to improving the quality of residential housing in the lower west side. Habitat for Humanity (https://www.habitatbuffalo.org/) is active in Buffalo, and the Investigative Post (https://www.investigativepost.org/) is dedicated to bringing us objective, unbiased news. I hope you can agree that although we’ve got problems, people are going out of their way to make a difference in Buffalo.
First of all, thank you so much for writing this. We can all bitch about what’s wrong with the city, but hardly do we hear about the good and frankly, that’s what creates a better environment, praising the good. I too am a WNY native, but moved away once I started university and then lived in Tokyo, Japan for another 6 after school. When I returned to the US, I didn’t immediately come back to Buffalo, but thought I could make it in other places. Well, I can say that my husband and I have been residents of Elmwood village for the past 2 years and couldn’t be happier. Since I have a 3 year old, I would say that I would have mentioned that its a great place for families. The city and surrounding areas offer such an abundance of options for children of all ages, not to mention that we have some of the best schools in the country. Once again, thank you for taking the time to write about this amazing place.
Good job. I’d add easily accessible natural spaces (an abundance of state parks and nature preserves between twenty minute and hour drives in pretty much all directions), proximity to Canada (situated between Toronto, Pittsburgh, and access to the East Coast and New England such as we are), and prime positioning in fruit-growing regions, being positioned just about halfway between the Chautauqua and Niagara viticultural areas (but I work for a local winery, so maybe I’m just hyping up my employer).
Very well written. No mention of the 4 am closing time though? I’ll add some upscale places like Torches, Mothers, Merge, and the Chop House to this list too. I’ve “lost” two kids to Buffalo so far, and they seem to be thrilled with the city.
Very nicely written. Forest Lawn cemetery is also another beautiful green space filled with all sorts of history.
AmandaWhalenTheriot I also moved to SC from Buffalo to follow family. I’m increasingly homesick, but with a daughter starting high school, now is not the time to move. Not sure if I will make it back someday, but I really do miss it.
This was a great article!
Mostly I like this post, but theres one thing I must take issue with. You refer to “spectacular Chinese food” and recommend Great Wall… That place is a fast-food Chinese place which does not serve anything close to “spectacular”. Try Peking Quick 1 or China Star (Sheridan) for the best Buffalo has to offer in this category.
I mean the category of Chinese food, not the category of Chinese fast food
I have lived here for a little over 2 years after having lived in Rochester sine ’95 (and many many other places before that). As much as it pains me to say, if I was forced to choose between the two, I would have to choose Buffalo. The major difference is that Rochester is “striving to be” something (mostly what they were in the past) and Buffalonians simply revel in who they are. Even the news reporting is different. ”Rochester Park Ave Fest netted 65.000 dollars more than last year.” ”Taste of Buffalo had 65,000 more attendees this year!”
This is a city that knows itself. It has had shatteringly hard times and has come to maturity with the understanding that times like that happen but thriving sometimes requires hard work through tough times. The welcome camaraderie from everyone I have met is warm and inviting. Living in the Allentown district is nothing short of amazing. With the community activities year round one is never bored and just within the two years I have been here I can travel to all corners of the city and run into people who know me well enough to say hello (Yes, people here are that friendly). Say “hi” back!
I agree with the other comments concerning the greater Buffalo area. The local produce, the ease of access to international destinations and the amazing access to natural wonders. Where else can you go sailing on one Great Lake and end the day visiting a 350 year old French fortification on another?
The only thing I think was overlooked was the Buffalo Arts community. The abundance of shows, concerts, museums, galleries, theater (Broadway shows, no less, and the community theater here is THRIVING), and live street performance, is all there and easily accessible for the common citizen. So many of these attractions are simply free to walk into. And while the transit system can be complained about in any city Buffalo’s subway and buses are excellent for the person who wants to enjoy what downtown has to offer without the hassle of driving or searching for parking.
One last thing. The inner and outer harbour venues are amazing locations to enjoy a concert and have a great time with friends and family
I could go on but I don’t wanna make the city blush….
Buffalo is also known as the city of good neighbors. During the winter neighbors are willing to help each other shovel there way out or go shopping.
MartiGorman Hi Marti, of course you can link to it from your site, and I’ll certainly check it out. I’m glad you enjoyed the post, and thanks again for the kind words.
Djones111Thanks for the feedback. It’s probably unfair of me to call Great Wall “the best” Chinese, especially without specifying that I was referring to “done in 10 minutes” Chinese food, not sit-down cuisine. It was simply my opinion from my comparatively limited experience dining in Buffalo, and by no means did I mean to demean the other great Chinese food in this city.
JohnLSmith Hi John, glad to see such a thorough response! A lot of great points, and I’ve had some great times at the Outer Harbor events so far this summer myself. I did neglect to mention the arts scene, and I’m betting I could dedicate an entire article to talking about the various local galleries, festivals, theaters and events. Thanks again for your feedback, good sir.
BillBanas Hey Bill. I’ve heard a lot of awesome things about Gabriel’s Gate, and that’s going to be one of my next destinations for dinner out. I appreciate your feedback!
CarolBooker Absolutely, Carol. I’ve already been subject to random acts of kindness in the city here, for the most part the people you meet are very friendly and helpful. Thanks for your comment.
wyarger Haha, how could I forget?! Still getting used to that one myself, but it also means there’s a plethora of great food open late. Thanks for the suggestions.
MarkAndrzejczak Ah yes, our proximity to the border is a definite perk as well. The wine region surrounding Buffalo is great – I went to school in Fredonia, so I’ve gotten a taste of what Chautauqua county has to offer. Thanks for the feedback!
tokyogirlatherat My pleasure! Thanks for the comment, and I’m glad you enjoyed it.
BethColby For sure – free or nearly free! I’ve already been able to see Edward Sharpe at Canalside for free, and paid almost nothing to see The Flaming Lips at ArtPark. Thanks for mentioning that, Beth.
JackieMamon Thanks for commenting, Jackie. Forest Lawn is huge, I haven’t been there myself yet but it’s a significant source of the city’s green space.
pdepuy JohnLSmith Don’t forget Shakespeare in the Park! All you need is a blanket and a bottle of wine. Don’t forget a donation. Its a wonderful way to send a summer evening!
no way man
I give credit to all you people for being so “positive” about Buffalo. Personally, I think that city is a welfare infested crap hole. It’s the second poorest city in America(right behind Detroit) and there is no sign it’s getting any better. I spent one year there and wasn’t impressed at all. As far as young people go that move in from out of town…….not an ideal place to enjoy life. I took a $10,000 dollar a year paycut to move to Denver, Colorado and I’m enjoying every minute of it. In Buffalo I couldn’t get on any rec softball/kickball team to save my life. Out here I could play on a rec league 7 days a week if I wanted to. Denver is also the fastest growing city for young adults in the United States. Go Broncos! I hope the Bills go 0-18 this year. Haha! Open your eyes to reality people, BUFFALO and everywhere else in New York State are welfare magnets for the rest of the country.
Remember that trolls should not be fed, even the obviously unhappy ones.
negativityisgood 0-18 in a 16 game football season? No wonder you couldn’t find your way onto any rec teams or into any rec leagues. Go Bills!
by you listing #1 that buffalo’s food is good, its obvious that you totally and completely lack of good taste…..Buffalo has the worst and most awful bad restaurants in the world….pizza sucks , pasta sucks, greek food sucks…there is wings , wings and more wings…..we had visited over 25 local places and out of the 25 , only Elmo’s and duffs are good..but again, these places serve Chicken!!!! Russell’s which is supposed to be the gem of buffalo is a total piece of crap…….sir , you have to taste for food…..any mediocre basic restaurant in South Florida is better than your best here, hands down….and we do have adversity….you don’t…you call having 4 or 5 types of food many..? please , we have over 25 different types of food in South Florida and all great, and i mean great………the great from here is mediocre at best…Buffalo stinks , it’s like being in the Butt of NY….Buffalo is a Hick Town with no taste at all….reason why is only the home of barely 250k and 1.2 million in the 3 county…!!!!!!! that’s pathetic
there is nothing positive about buffalo ,nothing at all…being a hick town where the food is just brutal and having a football team playing in the snow..is that great?? please..Buffalo its just Pathetic , is a half ass place
ha ha ha , lady don’t worry you wont….Buffalo stinks…everything is so bad is not even funny….my guess is you people have never ever gone anywhere else..because when you do, you will leave buffalo…..there is definitely a reason why buffalo has a population of about 260k ….100k Ghetto and white Trash ..the rest are a bunch of hicks with no taste at all…
nobody wants to come here sir, nobody…there is 75% negative and 25 % positive here……you will think because this is ” NY” Food will be at least good………..but that’s not even the case….is totally and completely awful, brutal…after you eat a couple of wings…or at longhorns, P.F. Chang’s…..that’s it!!! 90% of the local places are really really bad
MarioEscoto Please stay in Florida then.
Kathleen McGinnis MarioEscoto I’m gonna go ahead and 2nd Kathleen McGinnis. Mario, just out of curiosity, what has Buffalo done to you?! Secondly, judging by your comments and your Facebook page posts, you’re just generally a negative dude it seems. I’d comment more, but most of what you said isn’t decipherable. You have yourself a splendid day. Buffalo loves you, Mario!!
MarioEscoto The “75% negative” = Mario.
DimaMaddah Dima for president!
DimaMaddahGo easy on him, Dima. He has plenty of “adversity” in South Florida.
MarioEscoto Craig Kilgore I also second Kathleen McGinnis. I’m not sure when you visited Buffalo for your extensive restaurant-hopping endeavor, but perhaps you were suffering from an episode of seasonal depression. If anything can help diminish what seems like a very negative attitude on your part, perhaps some good ol’ South Florida vitamin D is just what the doctor ordered.
In any case, to assist you on a (suggested) journey to a positive mental state, I’ve found what looks like a very helpful article for you to check out! Happy reading and Buffalo does love you!!
http://www.wikihow.com/Think-Positively
I don’t know what “buffalo hick town” you’ve visited but you’ve clearly
never been to the real city of Buffalo. Diversity (in food and culture) is
prominent throughout and the restaurants are just a taste of the culture this
city is proud of. You’ve clearly never been to Niagara Cafe with some of the
best puerto rican food on the west side. Or maybe you’d be interested in some
Ethiopian from Gatur’s on Allen? India Gate on Elmwood has the best chicken
makhani and you’re drunk if you say say “pasta sucks” after visiting
Chef’s or “greek sucks” after having
souvlaki from Family Tree. Walk away from the suburbs and the comfort of your
chain restaurants once in a while. My point after all of this is, if you’re
going to judge an entire city based on your watered down taste buds from the
South of Florida then you have bigger issues to work out (like learning how to
properly use ellipsis in a sentence). PS: There are 1.2 million people who live
in the Metro Buffalo area, not in the combined statistical area (or 3
county…!!!!!! as you would put it) so I would suggest getting your facts
straight before going on an internet rampage.
negativityisgood I love people with this idiotic mentality. Want me to paint you a picture of the future? People from the East Coast get so “fed up” with the welfare, “government intrusion”, and over-regulation. So they move. They settle down in their nice southern, or western city. But wait! Something goes wrong, they get laid off from their job! Or worse, injured while on the job! They run to the government to see what sort of aid they can get, and the government says “Get off your lazy butt and get back to work”. If they were injured on the job, or were unfairly discriminated against they go to an attorney. But the attorney notifies them that he/she can’t do anything for them because they have no legal protections. Aw, boo-hoo. See the scenario I’m highlighting? The government is not a person, or seperate entity. The government is a reactionary force. Businesses, industries, or other organized groups of people do something that offends or harms the general public and then the government reacts. New York has the laws and regulations it has for a reason, because businesses did something at one point that caused negative reactions.
Thanks for the fantastic article on my home-town!
MarioEscoto could you use ANY MORE ellipsis?! I think you must be over 55 because only old jaded people use an ellipse in excess to describe how jaded they are. AND FLORIDA HAS THE WORST FOOD IN THE COUNTRY. go to Applebees.
Speaking of ignorance …
ColinWGallagher, Excellent mention. I used to live south of the city and that was definitely a spot for amazing wings. Don’t they (or didn’t they) put a little bit of Parmesan cheese in their sauce?
ColinWGallagher, Maybe that’s what it was. Regardless, they are amazing. Gonna have to get down there now that you got me thinking about it!
ColinWGallagherBillBanasBar Bill is an awesome little bar in EA. Great wings, great atmosphere.
MarioEscotoobv you have a stick up your ass! And clearly you have no idea what good food is or a hidden gem. You probably never at at Gabriel’s Gate and instead talk about Duff’s. How cliche! I, myself, have served in the military and lived in multiple states and that is outside of the east coast. I was born in Florida and have family there. I grew up in Buffalo. Needless to say none of the places I have been have any friendlier and wholesome things than Buffalo. I guess you don’t know what good things are bc you are too self absorbed in your ridiculous taste for things. You don’t even have a legitimate reason why so go be a debbie downer elsewhere!
negativityisgood @http://www.livefyre.com/profile/12729880/ Couldn’t find a rec softball/kickball league? Are you kidding? Some of my friends easily play 5 nights a week. Hell Buffalo even has a LGBT league which has 13 teams!
FawnElizabethThayer, Thanks for commenting! I would also like to thank you for your service in the military. My brother served in the Marine Corps and I have several friends and family members that have served or are still serving (along with some awesome coworkers) so
MarioEscoto Do us all a favor and stay in Florida then… we are the city of good neighbors but even we have limits!
STOP WRITING NICE THINGS ABOUT BUFFALO! These are carefully-guarded secrets that we locals have been trying to keep from the attention of denizens in larger cities to prevent them all from moving here. Winter is our greatest defense because people (seemingly irrationally) prefer to live in warmer climates even if that means their homes and livelihoods could be wiped out over the course of a few hours by a tornado, earthquake, wildfire, flood, tsunami, or hurricane. I live in Buffalo because it’s NOT NYC, and I never want it to become anything like NYC.
Additional bonus: When global warming drowns the gulf states and the East Coast, we’ll still be sitting 150 meters above sea level next to one-fifth of the world’s freshwater supply. LET’S NEVER REMIND PEOPLE OF THIS.
I know it’s been 4 years since you wrote this comment, but OMG it great! I live in Pinellas county FL and am looking for a nice cloudy place to move…the Internet says Buffalo! Not only do you have next to zero natural disasters (went through Hurricane Irma last year…nope, not again!) but the cost of living up there is so much less than here! I could buy 3 houses there after I sell mine here (I have a standard 3/2/1)! Your property taxes are astronomical though. I keep seeing all these pro-Buffalo articles and I’m like “ssshhhh, don’t tell anyone; it needs to remain affordable until I get there darn it!”
MarioEscoto i think u mean diversity..although I am just from a stupid hick town 😉
negativityisgood for sure Denver is great and beautiful. I have been there and the weather and city is breathtaking. I really enjoyed my time there and would recommend it to anyone. I live in Orange County California now. It is also beautiful. Something about waking up to beautiful sun every day has done wonders for my mood and attitude. For you…not so much. I hope you feel better about whatever it is that;s making you so miserable
also everything about this article was 100 percent accurate. The people that live in Buffalo are the most friendly out of all the places I’ve been. And there isn’t one day that passes that I dont crave some of our yummy food
Buffalo is a nice place to be from! It’s too cold for me to want to go back and live. Sorry, but I am proud to know things are on the up and I still have plenty of kin living there to visit every 25 years or so. LOL!
MarioEscoto All I can think of is that somebody really shut you and “negativityisgood” down in Buffalo. Now you have a grudge against the whole city and the people who live there. I lived there for over 60 years, and only left because a warmer climate was better for my health. The things you seem to hate most about the city are the things I miss most, the restaurants. There were so many good ones in all areas of the city, and now all the new ones on Chippewa, you could eat out a couple times a week without repeating any. I’ve seen pictures of “The Lodge” on Chippewa and thought it had to be in a Vegas casino not in Buffalo. My friends and I would go out for dinner, and try a different restaurant each time. The food was always great and the management welcoming. I live in Vegas now, and would put some of their best against some of Buffalo’s best, and would have no doubt that Buffalo’s could hold their own or even best some of Vegas’s. Ghetto, white trash, welfare and population decrease are not problems only seen in Buffalo. I doubt there is any city in the country that doesn’t have the same problems. It’s a good thing you left, because your kind of negativity is what kills the joy in life. Now you can kill it in Florida, and negativity can kill it in Denver and leave Buffalo for those who love it, whether we are there or not
you have some more explorations to do if these are the only examples of great architecture you have. sure they’re the most recognizable and commonly mentioned but if you have a hard on for architecture porn, there are many more great examples downtown.
and while the city is becoming “bike friendly” with it’s new complete the streets program, the reality is that drivers aren’t especially bicycle friendly AND many bicyclists aren’t exactly the type to follow the rules – very few are.
hockeyhips83 Thanks for your thoughts! As the title mentions, I am a relatively new Buffalonian, so I apologize if I’ve overlooked the rest of the exceptional architecture of note (Buffalo’s beautiful buildings could have their own dedicated blog post). I’d love to hear what some of the best structures are to check out in the city, though – if you don’t mind sharing.
And excellent point about bicycling. While there are many responsible cyclists who follow the rules of the road (that is, all the same rights and expectations a motorized vehicle has on the streets), there are those who are reckless and end up putting their life and other drivers in danger. Then there are the plethora of ignorant drivers who refuse to respect the rights bicyclists have. I’ve had a few close calls of my own in both the driver’s seat and on a bike, and it can be extremely frustrating and disconcerting.
But, of course, this is going to be the case just about anywhere you go.
MarkAndrzejczakPossibly the best comment thus far. Cheers to you and your irrefutable rationale, my friend!
SeanFolck You’re very welcome, Sean. It was my pleasure, as there’s seemingly endless Buffalo benefits to address (even in this brutally cold weather!).
The beauty of Buffalo is that even after 32 years – I am still finding hidden gems, amazing restaurants and fabulous little neighborhoods! You named some great places – but there are still some that will blow these away. Newcomer – you have a lot of exploring to do! Glad you are loving Buffalo and taking advantage of all the city has to offer. (PS – For AMAZING eats – check out Martin Cooks. Quaint little place on West Side. )
http://www.buffaloah.com is the motherload on Buffalo’s historic built environment. Welcome….
mswitz I’ll have to check out Martin Cook’s – I live on the West Side so it shouldn’t be far! Thanks for the input.
MarioEscoto Just further proof that nothing good ever comes out of Florida.
Good stuff, man. Good read.
Thanks for posting this Pat. It’s been many years since I’ve lived in Buffalo, and this brought back some fond memories.
I didn’t appreciate it at the time, but there’s a great history with the Olmsted parks. Frederick Law Olmsted was like the “Frank Lloyd Wright” of landscape architecture. He defined a standard that people still study today. He was also involved in designing the Niagara Reserve, the oldest state park in the US, and restoring Goat Island to its natural state. Olmsted is probably best known for designing Central Park in NYC with his partner, Calvert Vaux.
Number 10 should be music. From what I understand, the local music scene is as strong as ever and Buffalo hosts some great world-class concerts.
Craig_Knox Thanks for your thoughts, Craig. I’m glad I could pull up the nostalgia for you, and we have some fantastic artists bringing the music scene to new heights in Buffalo these days.
Cheers!
BillBanas
Agree!!! For the best wings in Buffalo, go to Gabriels’ Gate or Dukes Bohemian Grove Bar (DBGB) on Allen Street. O r head into South Buffalo to Doc Sullivan’s, Potter’s Field, O’Daniel’s or 9/11!
Great article!!!!
2. lol
I’ll tell you the 9 worst things about Buffalo as a newcomer, and a lot of people I meet here who are from or have visited premiere cities feel this way:
1. People here are NOT friendly, as they say they are. They are helpful with directions, for example, but do not like outsiders, distance themselves from them, and definitely do not like anyone who criticizes their city even if true, correct, and it’s their perception/opinion.
2. The art, music, and fashion are awful. Lots of people here think they’re “good” or better because they have not been exposed to, well, better. In fact, many people I meet have rarely traveled outside of the Buffalo area and simply do not know what’s better.
3. The political and education system are in shambles, just look at what’s happening with the student learning/test scores. ‘Nuf said.
4. The sports teams are last place losers. Yes, they’re loveable losers, but still losers.
5. If you are not from the same town as someone else within Buffalo, they might not like you. This was told to me by several locals. Ridiculous rivalries and an “us against them” mentality even within their own area. How stupid is that? Hey, we’re Americans, right? Get over it, high school is over.
6. Many locals are clueless, oblivious, and unaware that their city is downtrodden, getting worse, with little leadership or a major plan to correct it. The waterfront? A joke. Go Bills, and take the Sabres with you.
7. Allen Street can’t decide what it wants to be. Crust Pizza is trying to spruce the place up, making it better, and look at the pushback it’s getting from a tiny “art” gallery that features some of the worst art and especially “music” I’ve ever seen or heard. Refer to #2 above. Let’s make progress and give the place a more upscale look and feel, not fall back to the traditional “it’s always been here so it must be good mentality.” Wake up!
8. The traffic signals are not coordinated well. There is a “train to nowhere” running down Main Street, a huge mistake not by the lake that wrecked business for downtown merchants. Finally this is being addressed, but far too late. Potholes, anyone? Two seasons here, winter and construction.
9. I’ve met a few smart folks here, but overall I have met some of the dumbest and most incompetent people ever. What are these people thinking? What are they doing? Can’t tell you how many times I’ve just turned around, walked out, and never returned to a business because of the needlessly long waits, getting the wrong order/doing the wrong things in a variety of ways, and just a non-caring attitude that would not be tolerated in better places.
Sorry if you don’t realize the other side of the equation. On the plus side, the food, cost of living, architecture, and snow plowing are good, but these are little consolations. Buffalo has a long, long way to go to be relevant. It should embrace alternate, better-place thinking and NOT be so isolated. The thinking here seems to be, “Few people even know where we are geographically, ever heard of western New York (wonder why – maybe it’s more of a north-south state — ever hear of western Florida or western California?), or care about us, so we’ll just create and live in our own bubble world, tolerate mediocrity, and pretend it’s all good.” I’ve divorced Buffalo. If you like it or love it, fine, that’s up to you. I’ve seen better, know better, and expect better, which is why I go other places to get it. As a famous coach once said, “You don’t get what you deserve, you get what you tolerate.” LOL, “Last one Out Loses.” If you disagree, try not to be disagreeable – you’ll just be furthering my point.
Let me know if you need one of those not friendly Buffalonians show you how to post a comment a single time.
nogobuffalo Thanks for your honest input. I won’t deny that Buffalo is
an imperfect city with some significant problems (like any other), and several
of your points are fact-based and relevant. But, for the sake of healthy debate
and to reflect many WNY-ers’ sentiments, I’m going to respectfully disagree
with your purely subjective thought on Buffalo being a city that’s “downtrodden,
getting worse, with little leadership or a major plan to correct it.”
I’m not sure if and when you visited or lived here, because
this point may have been very true several years ago but is completely false today.
In the year alone since I wrote this post: construction has begun on the sizeable
HarborCenter hockey/entertainment/hotel complex downtown, Silo City has become
a bustling outlet for artistic endeavors of all shapes and sizes, several innovative
new craft breweries have opened, Canalside has become a major destination for music,
sports and arts (as has Larkin square), and hundreds of millions of dollars in new
construction is transforming the medical campus downtown. And this is only the
tip of the iceberg.
Despite your clear cynicism, I’d urge you to explore this
place with an open mind if you’re ever back in the area. We may not make your
own list of “premier cities”, but you could be surprised at the widespread cultural
and economic developments this city has experienced in the recent past.
P.S. In my individual experience, the best part about this
city is still its people. I can’t tell you how many kind, outgoing, dynamic and
immensely talented folks I’ve befriended since relocating here. If nothing
else, that makes this city a worthwhile – and relevant – place to be. Apologies
if you’ve only managed to connect with the other pessimists.
Not “cynicism,” reality! Each poerson is entitled to his or her opinion about Buffalo, and my/our reality is that it’s not so wonderful for many reasons I mentioned and more. Let’s face it, Buffalo is not a destination place, has a lot of problems (more that other comparable cities, and its people in total are not so great, either. Many nice ones, yes, but many not so much. Also, the knock on Buffalo people by many I’ve heard is that they are too homogeneous, Buffalo-centric, haven’t been many other places to compare it to and so think Buffalo is better than it really is if they had seen and experienced better. Sorry, but lots of people feel this way. Reminder: it’s other people’s REALITY, not negativity or cynicism. I hope you can appreciate that. That’s what forums are for, after all, to express opinions even if they aren’t agreeable to some.
nogobuffalo Is this your reply? If not, let me know. May have been marked as spam.
LouisTully The comment struggle continues.
nogobuffalo Since the very definition of “reality” leans on factual information and concrete evidence, I’d love to see some research or quantifiable data behind your claim that Buffalo citizens are, as a whole, poorly traveled and naive. That’s quite the conclusion to draw about an entire city’s population.
And no, my intentions are not to shut out your thoughts. Believe it or not I’m interested in hearing your dissenting opinion and debating the issue, as long as it’s kept civil and productive.
Hmmm, tried to post a reply but the site wouldn’t let me. Tells me all I need to know. Dissenting opinions not accepted? Is this a forum or a lecture about how “wonderful” Buffalo is? If the latter, you have a lot to observe about this place – as in NOT!
I am in my fifties and I was born and raised in New York City. I’ve lived here all my life In the so called best city in the world. I am reading these posts about how some people think Buffalo is not a great city. Well neither is New York City.
People who visit New York City or see it on television or in the movies, only see the glamorous part of the city. Here is what you don’t see:
1) Manhattan is for the rich only.
2) The people are rude and dirty.
3) There is letter on the buses there is litter on the subways and people litter in the streets.
5) People smoke while standing on the line for the bus.
6) The rents even in the outer boroughs are too high. I know someone who lives in Manhattan and they are paying $4700 a month for a 600sq ft apartment.
7) And if you take the Giants and the Yankees away we wouldn’t have many championships in the either.
8) Finally, the city is just too crowded.
I actually want to move to Buffalo, but I don’t know anyone there.however I am willing to swap places with someone who wants to move here and I can move there.
frankiegoeswest Ill trade you, what is your living space you are offering? you can email me at codyepic@gmail.com
Thank you do much pat for your lovely article on our wonderful city. There is so much love here. This was beautiful and eloquently written . I enjoyed reading very much. I send many blessings to you on your journey. Much love from*☆~ B’lo Ny~☆*
negativityisgood the set part of Buffalo is that since i was born there, no matter where in the world i go, people think i am a friendly and really nice person. Countless people from South America to Thailand have found me to be so sweet and friendly and real that they wanted to know where i was from
Many of those moved to Buffalo just because they figured i must have become the person I am cause of being from there
That is a big deal–in a world of terrorism and fear and racism, Buffalo is still a friendly welcoming easy place to live
Also there is another feature–near to Niagara Falls and Toronto
for weekends
and New York City is just a short 8 hours drive
a pretty drive, too through upstate new York
I posted that talk to text on my phone, so there are some typos. But thank you for your pleasant reply. Any place one lives will have its negatives and positives, it’s all relative. The problem comes when someone measures whatever against panacea. New York City is cold, callous, and soulless. My immediate neighborhood has nearly 40,000 people.
Culturally, the City of Neighbors has a lot to offer. So it’s not New York or Paris. Those places are exclusive not inclusive. No, I haven’t been to Buffalo yet, but I will be visiting between this spring and summer. Also, my current employer has offices there. Though I’m currently underemployed, (all the more reason to relocate to a city with more reasonable rents) I venture that I will prosper there.
frankiegoeswest one thing that attracts me too is the emphasis on bicycling–
they are friendly about that. My sister says they have a lot of gang violence–but how could that shock me when i now live in LA??
I will have to be careful not to get into the food–people there are not as fit as in Calif or nYC
Also google churches–if you a re into history Buffalo has some of the most gorgeous church architecture in the country–really? And trees–oh G-d how i miss the huge trees.
Buffalonians are also very civic minded and there are many historical groups who fight to save the big trees, the lovely old buildings and they promote the city
also have you ever know of a place where people actually are wait listed for years to join the volunteer fire dept? They do in Buffalo–it is a prestigious thing to be a volunteer fire fighter
check it out
walk around the neighborhood
also notice the lovely old porches–when i was acid people used to sit out not he porches int he evening and swap stories or gossip
negativityisgood I came to Buffalo 6 years ago and I have been trying to assimilate myself with the environment but it’s been hard for me to get myself into the weather mood and everything. I am not trying being negative here but it’s just so difficult for me to be comfortable with Buffalo. one time I had my car broke and it was so harsh for me to get the immediate transportation..if it was not for http://www.buffalo-airporttaxi.com/ I would’ve been in a lot of trouble.Buffalo needs a lot of development and infrastructure and jobs.
negativityisgood I agree with you an continue to meet people who relocated to Buffalo expecting so much more but getting so much less! Some are about to scream or cry and I don’t blame them. Many shills for Buffalo I meet here haven’t experienced better to know what’s better – if they did, they’d realize that Buffalo is mediocre at best (yes, even with Canalside which is visually dominated by that eyesore Skyway Bridge). And Canalside is a “so what?” anyway – seen much better elsewhere, but one thing about it is true: it’s better than nothing. The bands there are mediocre, the art/fashion/culture here is sub-par to yeeeeech!
THERE IS SO MUCH BETTER OUT THERE ELSEWHERE! If you get all the ‘C’ students together they will argue over who is the best, but that is the best ‘C’ student thinking he/she 9is an A or B student (not!) — Buffalo is NOT an A or a B, and could very well be a D or an F for so many, especially if you come from a better place. I do not recommend this city unless you are looking to just accept mediocrity and have zero accountability among so many people that make so many mistakes with an ‘oh well’ attitude.
Buffalo also decided it wants to be a big Middleport and not a Little Toronto or New York City, which is a real shame because those cities are premiere and aspirational for Buffalo. This city wants people to not make fun of it and plays ‘pretend’ in its view of itself among the general rank and file. Some local residents do see it for what it is and cringe, but trying to make this place better at this time is futile based on the politics of it all.
I hear a lot about Buffalo’s “resurgence”. Are you kidding me? It’s basically lipstick on the pig, pardon the expression. This is nothing near where it should be (the governor came here, dropped off a billion dollars, made a speech, waved goodbye, left and probably was wondering how Buffalo will squander it).
What about Buffalo’s “increasing population”? Another laugher – the newbies are coming in from Burma, Africa, Nepal, and other warm-weather places. Why? It’s NOT because they want to be in Buffalo, but because they want to get into the United States and then LEAVE Buffalo asap – talk to them and you’ll discover this. They might stay a bit longer than necessary to save up money to go to that better place, but they want to basically get out of here.
What about the Bills? LOL. They got Jets reject Rex Ryan. ‘Nuf said. The Sabres? Last place. Jack Eichel? Nothing proven yet. Could be a good player, but that the news is showing so much of him and hockey in general where there are so many more important things going on tells you where Buffalo’s mentality is at.
I feel most sorry for the people who are stuck here and know better, not so much for those who close their eyes and deceive themselves about Buffalo because at least they can find a potentially false/unknowing sense of happiness. I’d say that Buffalo is a nice place to visit, but not really that either – there is a shunning – not embracing – of out-of-towners, even an over-suspicion of what you’re even doing here (well excuuuuse me!).
In closing, I wish I could say the winter weather is the worst thing about Buffalo, but that’s far from the worst. It’s, in general, the homogeneous people who usually don’t know any better and treat outsiders as, we,, outsiders. Buffalo sucks in this way, and will suck the life out of you if you let it. Good thing I developed a great strategy for dealing with this place which includes, well, not dealing with it unless I absolutely have to, and if I do have to, then telling it like it is to the many knuckleheads I meet (more so than most other places I’ve been).
And finally, if you think I’m just blowing smoke about Buffalo, like the steel mills no longer here, then Google Buffalo: Rudest City In America and see what an independent survey had to say just a few years ago. Many Buffalonians I’ve met don’t even realize they’re being rude! Maybe in 50-100 years things will get better here, but for now, it’s best to re-buff Buffalo and move on to a better place before the mediocrity-is-good bug bites you.
Your fourth comment on this post since July of 2014. Buffalo haunting your dreams or what? Another extremely opinionated response with no legit backing. Not sure what Buffalo did to you personally but I’m sure it wasn’t on purpose. See you again in a few months!
nogobuffalo There is something seriously wrong with you if you feel the need to comment on this article every 6 months. Seek treatment.
le80 nogobuffalo
Your response is very entertaining. Thanks for proving my point about people in Buffalo (not all, but some like you). Instead of considering an alternative point of view you immediately think the other person needs “treatment,” LOL. Maybe it’s YOU who need the help! You need serious help if you cannot tolerate an opposing point of view. Get help, seriously.
nogobuffalo le80 “Get help” – from the guy who created a Livefyre account just to blast a city who left him in the dust, buwahah!
Gotta say I’m sold. Been to Buffalo a number of times, and this thread has given me lots of good ideas for things to do, places to go etc. I even like the urban dystopia of it, so battered and burnt through that you can’t really get in trouble unless you’re looking for it. I cycled all the way up Bailey to the SUNY campus, with PD cars always rolling hot in sight, and nobody had the energy or incentive to hassle me. Can’t do that in many much richer cities.
Isn’t there any way for all of this goodness to make the place economically attractive as well? A great university, a vibrant culture, smart young people who want to stay, a very much affordable COL, lots of state institutions that want to place to succeed, and best of all no illusions that the factory jobs will come back. But I know dozens of young people who are idling their lives away, with no dreams to chase or real-life aspirations. Transit is a major, major issue. Your own car is just as necessary there as in the suburbs of LA, but the costs are as great as Queens so many people can’t even start to build their own lives.
Aren’t there enough pro-Buffalo votes to advance forward-thinking policies? Isn’t anybody thinking positive about this stuff but me?
le80 nogobuffalo
You got that wrong, but no surprise there. I left Buffalo in the dust where it belongs. The Bills don’t even have a rival. nobody cares! If you can’t handle other people’s opinions, then I feel more sorry for you than before. Get help – it’s not all about you or Buffalo. Go online and see why Buffalo was voted “The Rudest City In America” – that’s all you need to know. And plenty of online voters agree. Am not reading any more responses, so have fun talking to yourself if so inclined to respond. See ya (through all that “dust”)!
refawa12 negativityisgood Buffalo needs to improve but before that can happen there needs to be a recognition that there are a lot of problems here. There is a lack of accountability (blaming others and/or circumstances), a need to put a smiley face on things rather than face the harsh realities here, and there is a misperception of what’s “good” here which is generally mediocre or worse because those telling you what’s “good” have never experienced better and thus have little or no frame of reference. The local TWC YNN newscasts are a total joke, and have 15 minutes of weather in the “news”cast plus high school sports and lots of other meaningless fluffy stuff when there are murders, fires and other bad situations all around not being addressed properly. Time for Buffalo to wake up and tackle its really tough issues. Google “Buffalo – Rudest City In America” and you’ll see what outsiders think of Buffalo (the only opinion that really counts – don’t go by what the locals say). This is a self-segregating city that is not welcoming, and even hostile, to outsiders. Best to avoid and/or ignore it as best you can. That’s what I do and it works. Complain a lot to the management/ownership as needed. There are very few smart people here and they rise to the top quickly by comparison. Do not debate with the front line yokels (I give them one chance and then ask for the highest ranking person there, including corporate office as needed). This works best. Hope this helps.
nogobuffalo refawa12 negativityisgood – nogobuffalo: it is absolutely hilarious you feel the need to comment on this article every few months for no reason whatsoever. Life must be really boring in whatever hole you live in now.
Great blog post. Two easy targets: Wings and Chinese food. For great (non-fast-food) Chinese, head to Ming Cafe in University Heights or to Ming Teh just over the river in Fort Erie (just don’t mention the name of the other restaurant while you’re there due to family rivalries). For great wings, I think Gabriel’s Gate in Allentown is better in quality, size, quantity and especially atmosphere and location than Anchor Bar or the cheesy suburban Duff’s.
All of the things you mentioned are very cool, even sentimental and romantic, but Buffalo is not the place to stay or go if you are a young educated professional and want to advance in your field. Not slamming Buffalo, i live here, but it is a working class blue collar town and always will be. So, if you aspire to be a software designer or advance in the technologies like robotics and automation or want to develop a notable career as and advertising exec or in the financial sector you will reach a ceiling in Buffalo if you can get on the first rung of the ladder at all. OK place if you are a welder and your significant other is an LPN – you might have around a joint income of 90,000 and live on the west side, eat pizza and wings and watch a Sabers game. That’s not bad but nobody climbs a mountain to get to the middle. Reach higher. so Buffalo is not a bad place in my opinion, just mediocre.
I grew up in the Southtowns of Buffalo, in rural Holland (15 minutes south of East Aurora). I was an angry, resentful mess by the time I graduated from high school in 2005, because my parents had just recently divorced. Well, everyone back then were all about “moving to the Carolinas”, so I dumped some of my anger on Buffalo/WNY and moved to Charlotte as soon as I got my diploma.
Within a few days I discovered the horror of burning my hands on the steering wheel at only 8 in the morning. I couldn’t fathom how anyone could live there, so needless to say I hit the road and kept exploring. Wound up in Philly (or “Killadelphia” as it was known at the time) for 2 years because my friends from back home had moved there and I was having the time of my life with them. Checked out a couple more cities after that, but in all my travels I discovered one profound truth: the grass WASN’T greener on the other side. Every region has it’s issues and seemingly all have one extreme of some sort… no place was “just right”, as the article above referenced. Guess where I wound up discovering that perfect blend of “just right” in life? Buffalo freakin’ New York.
So here I am, back in the southtowns. There’s literally only one light in this town and more cows than people… but because Buffalo/WNY is such a unique and amusingly odd place, all I have to do is simple hop on Route 16 (becomes the 400, then the 190) and in 30 minutes flat I’m in the middle of the city. I can walk out of a Sabres game in downtown Buffalo, drive a half hour, make only TWO turns, pull in my driveway, crack my car door open and I’m greeted by the sound of crickets and a waterfall next to my house. Seriously… in what other city is that even remotely possible? Concrete jungle to gorgeous untamed wilderness in just 30 minutes? Nowhere. There’s no place like Buffalo/WNY. You can enjoy the fast paced excitement of city life and all it has to offer, and in a half hour be back at your house in the country, watch wildlife roam through your 40 acres of wilderness while you toast marshmallows on a fire pit, and then fall asleep like a baby while your front door is unlocked.
I’m happy to have learned my lesson and returned. There’s just no place like it. I didn’t even have to go into the food… for cripes sakes Buffalo beat out INTERNATIONAL CITIES to rank in the Top 10 best food cities. That’s insane.