If you are looking for hearty Italian food in a comfortable unpretentious setting head down to this long standing West Side institution. It has been serving great food to families and factory workers without interruption since 1921. Many of the factory workers are long gone but Santasiero’s still packs in people from all over Buffalo. I am continually surprised to find that many suburbanites will take the trek down to enjoy a diner in what looks more like a corner bar than a family restaurant. The front section of the restaurant is right out of a movies set. Its original tin ceiling, long side bar, large windows, and open kitchen set a great mood for a fulfilling meal. The rear section has large tables perfect for family gatherings.
You could easily pass by this unassuming place at the corner of Niagara and Lafayette without notice. But, that would be a big mistake. The simple Sicilian style food is rich and hearty and is served up in large tasty portions. When I was young my mother would buy pints of their tomato sauce and freeze it for later dinners at home. There is no reason to make your own sauce with Santasieros nearby. Though the Tomato sauce is great, the clam sauce is to die for, and the meatballs out of this world the real reason to head to Santasieros is the Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta Fasoola in Santasieros dialect). The heaping bowl of beans and pasta in a rich broth can’t be matched anyplace. This is the definition of comfort food.
I think I need to head down there right now.
Santasieros restaurant is at 1329 Niagara Street at the corner of Lafayette Phone 716.886.9197