I rarely drive down Main Street these days, but I happened to be zipping down Main one night a few weeks ago when my eye was caught by a glow coming from The Eights Bistro. I remembered seeing a brief mentioning of this new restaurant (back story) a few months ago, but I hadn't heard much about it since then. Making a mental note, I immediately added it to my "to-dine" list.
When my friend and I were looking for a new restaurant to check out this week, The Eights Bistro immediately popped into my mind. After briefly glancing at their menu online and seeing all sorts of unique and mouthwatering options, we decided to try it out.
The atmosphere at The Eights is industrial-chic and features white walls with exposed brick accents, a single metallic wall-hanging, and unfinished wooden floors. The minimalistic décor lends to the casual-cool vibe that radiates throughout The Eights. The staff is friendly and relaxed and they were more than happy to chat with us about the menu items. Music from The Killers and The Cure piped over the sound system, drowning out the sound of the noisy crowd gathered around the bar.
This bistro features alternating microbrews that will be sure to please Buffalo's beer-enthusiasts, but it was the distinctive menu items that really stood out to me. We started with two appetizers: the homemade peanut brittle and the Vegan pumpkin dip. Along with chunky peanuts, the brittle had bits of bacon in it as well as a hint of chili which gave it a unique taste which was a perfect union between sweet and spicy. The Vegan Pumpkin dip was served with toasted apples and grilled baguette; it was simply incredible - the dip was creamy and warm with the distinctive flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon infused throughout - once apple slices and baguettes were finished, the dip was polished off by spoon.
Offering a variety of sandwiches and pizzas as their main entrees, we struggled to narrow it down to just two. My friend chose Vegan Philly Cheesesteak in which sautéed mushrooms, onions, and peppers subbed for the "steak". This sandwich was topped with fresh lettuce and served with sweet potato fries. I went with the Asian pulled pork sliders - three mini sandwiches served with fresh coleslaw. Both of these dishes were fantastic and left us wanting to come back to try more.
The Eights Bistro is one of my favorite new Buffalo restaurants. Delicious fusion food, a welcoming relaxed atmosphere, and a staff that is clearly passionate about their restaurant make dining at this establishment a treat.
The Eights Bistro is located at 888 Main Street. It is open Tuesday through Saturday at 5 p.m. and will soon be open for late breakfast and lunch. Check out the website at www.theeightsbistro.com.
* Note that The Eights Bistro is operated by Amelia Schineller, fiance of Buffalo Rising founder Newell Nussbaumer.
Great place. Genuine and friendly staff, supporters of Buffalo, supporters of the arts, hosts of community events such as WAM (writers, artists, musicians) and ELAB (emerging leaders in the arts buffalo), etc., etc. Well done.