Chief Petty Officer’s Club of Buffalo
This is one of the least known, coolest hangouts in the city. It's a place that is dedicated to serving our military. It's a place that celebrates our waterfront. It's a place that recognizes 'The Salt of the Earth' in Buffalo. This is a place that you... well... you just have to visit. The club is riddled with stories of Lake Erie and Buffalo, as well as the people that enjoy both. Why have you not heard about this 'club on the lake'? The CPO Club can't advertise due to its military affiliation. Its members and guests support Buffalo's waterfront and the United States military. The club relies on word of mouth to relay its 'hidden treasure' appeal. The treasure? Besides a casual nautical atmosphere, there are $2 beers, an unbelievable waterfront setting, and one of the best Friday fish fries around.
Saturday evening the band Gravity Thieves played for the duration of our extended stay, as stories of the evening's sail and its ten foot waves unfolded around us. The CPO Club is as close as you will get to the 'lake faring days of old'. There's nothing slick here, just a good time to be had. Seriously, the club is a fun time and the folks that keep it going would love to see you down there for a visit.
The CPO is run by Gus who is pictured above with his dad, AJ. The two have done everything they can to make folks feel at home at this lakeshore hideaway (in the city). There's only one catch to the CPO club... membership is $45 a year. It's suggested, but not mandatory. Every little bit helps, but as long as you're a friend of Gus' (everybody is), then you are welcome. If you decide to become a member, the benefits far outweigh the cost of membership. This place is also open year 'round, so don't wait for spring to stop in. Just remember one thing- if the bell rings, take off your hat. Otherwise... well, you'll find out.
Dinner is served Friday from 5:30-9:00. Lunches are served the first weekend of every month (that is when they serve the military as well). AJ recommends the shrimp alfredo. The place has a really sweet banquet room, and a Marine Room which is dedicated to India Company which is presently serving in Iraq. If the club attracts enough new members/visitors, they have plans on someday opening the second floor to the public. This would be incredible, as the shutters crank open allowing restaurant-goers one of the best views of Lake Erie anywhere. We hope that it is only a matter of time.
Food: Friday evenings and select days and nights.
Drinks: Just about every night.
The CPO Club is located at the foot of Porter Avenue in Buffalo. Swing a right before you get to LaSalle Park, pass The Buffalo Yacht Club and you'll find it on the left hand side along with plenty of parking. Phone: (716) 883-7436. Tell 'em your friends of Buffalo Rising.