Buffalo, NY is not just the home of the chicken wing. It’s more than beef-on-weck sandwiches and an underdog NFL team. Buffalo may be part of the ‘Rust Belt’, but the locals are scrubbing hard to polish up the city.
Buffalo’s culinary scene has exploded in recent years with new markets, restaurants, food trucks, and relationships between local farmers and chefs. Many of these culinary superstars strut their stuff on Buffalo’s own version of Iron Chef, Nickel City Chef! From February-March of each year you kind find the best chefs from around Western New York competing to cook the best dish using farm fresh ingredients.
There are tons of talented men and women changing the face of cuisine in this once depressed city, and donning chef aprons isn’t their only achievement. These are just a few making big waves along Lake Erie.
Michael Obarka, Executive Chef at Ristorante Lombardo. This self-trained former dishwasher has won the hearts of Buffalonians with his dedication to high-quality ingredients. Rumor has it he sources foods both locally and from all over the world. Michael features rustic, regional Italian cuisine made from scratch at this traditional restaurant. He was named Best Established Chef 2015 by Buffalo Spree Magazine.
Brad Rowell, Executive chef at Elm Street Bakery. Don’t let the name fool you, this bakery serves up much more than bread and cakes. Brad’s use of local foods in his house-made ingredients is what sets his food apart. With a focus on seasonal, fresh food and a view of Brad in action through the open kitchen, it’s no wonder he was named Best New Chef 2015 by Buffalo Spree Magazine.
Edward Forster, Executive Chef of Buffalo Spree’s 2015 Best Restaurant, Buffalo Proper. From dishwasher to Buffalo Spree’s 2013 Chef to Watch, Edward dazzles diners with his New American cuisine. His innovative dishes and use of high-quality local ingredients earned him an appearance on the 2015 season of Nickel City Chef.
Steve Gedra, owner and chef at The Black Sheep. His creative, seasonal approach to the farm-to-table concept gives Steve an edge. His use of local ingredients in a comfortable environment help push Steve to the top of the pack.
There’s one sure thing the world should know about Buffalo, this city never loses hope and always moves forward. The culinary scene in Buffalo is one form of proof, but your best bet is to check it out for yourself. Sure you should check out the falls while you’re here, but the real reason to come to Buffalo this year is the food!