GirlFriday:
There’s not much else, when it comes to local institutions, that kicks off the holiday season more for die-hard Buffalonians, than a stop at The Place on Lexington Avenue. Whether it be to warm your hands, imbibing in a Tom and Jerry, or catching up with friends that you somehow only get to see once a year, what better place comes to mind? Now, that’s not to say that most of us don’t frequent The Place all year long, but many of us do find ourselves drawn there this time of year, to enhance our jolly senses, and spread that merry cheer.
It is not commonly known, that between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the kitchen at The Place opens for Friday and Saturday lunches, as well as the all-mighty Sunday brunch. Now, some of us love indulging in Sunday drinks (especially when there’s a Bills’ game), but rarely find ourselves doing so without the accompaniment of a plate of brunch specials. The Place’s menu is classic brunch fare, with all of your favorite offerings, being made in house. Thats right, the corned beef hash is made from scratch; as are the hashbrowns grated fresh. The eggs are cooked however you want, and to perfection. You can also order steak and eggs, crab cakes, the requisite stuffed peppers (although these actually deliver a powerful heat), macaroni and cheese, and of course their famous daily selection of soups.
The restaurant’s delightful 22oz bloody Mary rings in at $5.95, which is a welcome price, compared to others in the area. And the mimosas are balanced the “correct” way of Champagne topped off with “some” orange juice. This is my type of brunch. One where you can get some quality food in your stomach, and be able to linger, whether catching the game, or in great conversation with some of the many, friendly faces rounding out the bar. Speaking of the bar, The Place looks and feels fantastic these days (see updates). The new bar has plenty of character, especially with wonderfully lit stained glass sign made by Six Dimension Design (across the street). I’m also a big fan of the laminated penny tables found in back – very unusual and a great conversation piece. When eating at The Place, we still like to sit in the barroom, although there are plenty of areas to sit depending on whether you’re feeling social or not.
Like I previously mentioned, The Place is only offering this limited food service between Thanksgiving and New Years, so if this is an experience you’d welcome year ’round, speak up! Owner Kenny Moriarty will gladly entertain extending the food service, based on customer demand. So what are you doing tomorrow at noon? I know where I’ll be!!
During the holidays, The Place opens at noon for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as for Sunday brunch.
The Place
229 Lexington Ave
Buffalo, NY 14222-1717
(716) 881-1178