By Jenna Smith:
Mother's Day is coming up very soon, and this is one of the busiest days of the year for Buffalo restaurants. Taking mom out to enjoy a nice meal out, while giving her a day off from cooking is one of the best ways to let her celebrate the occasion. The best restaurants book quickly, so I hope that you got your reservations early. Here are my top 5 picks in Buffalo to take your mom out for a delicious meal to say "thanks" for all that she does:
City
Charlie O'Brien's (South Buffalo)
For those looking for some simple good eats in South Buffalo, why not head to the neighborhood favorite Charlie O'Brien's. A humble watering hole for many South Buffalo natives, Charlie O's is known to have some of the best chicken fingers and french fries in the city, so if mom wants to get some great fried food and a pint of Yuengling then Charlie O's might be the best place for those modest mommies.
Charlie O'Brien's (716-823-0068) 865 Elk Street, Buffalo 14210
La Dolce Vita Café & Bistro (North Buffalo)
This is my favorite spot in Buffalo for lovers of Italian food. Every dish on the menu is a hit. The wine selection here is also fantastic, so be sure to select a nice bottle to help mom celebrate her special day. The Filetto, which is sirloin steak paired with some of the most delicious mushroom risotto this side of Rome, is highly recommended.
La Dolce Vita Café & Bistro (716-446-5690) 1472 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo 14216
Regional
The Roycroft Inn (South-towns)
This East Aurora landmark has been around since the 1800's! The inn is known for its excellent Sunday brunch so topping it for Mother's Day is not an easy task. The inn's normal brunch has been turned into a much more exquisite and elegant buffet for this special day. If you are lucky enough to get a reservation, enjoy your complimentary 'Mom'osa!
The Roycroft Inn (716-652-5552) 40 South Grove Street, East Aurora, 14052
The Polish Villa (Cheektowaga)
There is no shortage of Poles in Buffalo and if your mom is looking for Dyngus Day round two The Polish Villa is an ideal spot for some homemade pierogi and kielbasa. On this Mother's Day the Villa is offering a special Sunday Brunch and a select dinner menu so give them a call before all the seats are taken.
The Polish Villa (716-822-4908) 1085 Harlem Road or 2954 Union Road, Cheektowaga 14227
The Grapevine Restaurant & Catering (North-towns)
This new American casual restaurant is one of the best places to go with mom if you want to make sure that the whole family enjoys her special day. The menu is varied enough so that everyone will find something to their liking. One of the highlights is the number of giant saltwater aquariums that are all full of beautiful, tropical fish. This is sure to be a hit with kids, and will help them to behave well enough to ensure the day is pleasant for mom. The prices here are very reasonable, and the portions are very generous.
The Grapevine Restaurant & Catering 2545 Niagara Falls Boulevard Amherst, NY 14228 (716) 691-7799
Leonardi's Pizzeria (Amherst)
This Buffalo institution has been providing the best pizza in town (IMO) since 1972. This is the place to go and enjoy yourself if your mother is a true fan of pizza. This family owned and operated business prides itself on making pizza with an authentic taste, and old country excellence. They use the freshest ingredients, and their dough is simply magical. They also offer some of the most delicious wings in Buffalo, which is saying a lot. Their service is always excellent, and no reservation will be needed for anyone looking for a last-minute place to head to on Mother's Day.
Leonardi's Pizzeria (716-835-8700) 614 Grover Cleveland Highway, Amherst 14226
Now that I've presented my list, I'm curious where you are going to be taking your mom on Mother's Day. What's your top pick?
Umm....how about MOTHER'S on Virginia Place? Too obvious?