Buffalo Rising Online

Aug 7th 2007, 9:33am By Courtney Bajdas

Dreading packing another lunch? Do you stand in front of the fridge, door wide open, staring into the cluttered vastness waiting for something to jump out at you? Waiting for some delectable surprise to pop up? I'm not sure where this surprise would come from, seeing as the contents of your fridge haven't changed since yesterday when you practiced this same exact ritual?

Make it easy on yourself and go out for lunch. That's what I did Monday afternoon. I hopped on the train, rode it a couple of stops to Lafayette Station, then walked one block west to the Olympic Towers which houses The Gourmet Store. The Gourmet Store transforms a standard office building lobby into a quaint cafe. With huge windows, potted trees, and linen covered tables this isn't your standard rush-in, rush-out lunch spot. That being said, the service is quick and we had no problems finding a sunny table. You can also call in your order for pick up if that better suits your schedule.

The daily specials are categorized as: Chicken DJ (or CDJ, if you're a regular) a different take on the chicken breast everyday, Spa Cuisine- the health conscious option, and Finn's Whim, a grab bag of lunch selections. There is also selection of soups that change each day.

My lunch buddy ordered a bowl of Crabby Monday Gumbo (Tuesday is Contradiction Chili--it starts off sweet and finishes hot). It was served in a disposable container but was presented nicely in a basket with a generous helping of bread. The bread acted as a testament, as well as a relief, to the heat of the gumbo. With visible chunks of sausage, shrimp, chicken, and crab, it was certainly filling. The cup, though deceptively small is a hearty portion.

I opted to build my own sandwich. The half portion I ordered combined tuna fish with lettuce, tomato, and mayo in a whole wheat pita. It came with a small green salad. The sandwich was substantial and tasty. The tuna at The Gourmet Store is made by substituting half the mayo with extra virgin olive oil, a splash of hot sauce, and a little dill. It is certainly not your mother's Miracle Whip sodden tuna.

I also ordered a yogurt parfait because it looked so enticing. When I inquired about the daily parfait, the accommodating cashier quickly grabbed one from the cooler and opened it up for an accurate answer. Diced papaya, sliced plums, shaved almonds, and granola over non-fat yogurt and drizzled with honey. It was delicious!

The Gourmet Store is a pleasant option for lunch with fresh food, creative options, and a sunny courtyard atmosphere. It certainly made me forget all about the office...for an hour.

The Gourmet Store
Olympic Towers
300 Pearl Street, Buffalo, NY 14202
716.855.1970