At long last, the controversial second floor at Acropolis has opened as a dining area. Over the past couple of months I’ve peaked in to check on the progress, and must say that they’ve done an excellent job reworking the floor plan. The bar had already been partially built, but when a permitting snafu (for music, and bar service on the second floor – see history) made it impossible to continue on with original plans, a long seating banquette was incorporated into the design.
In the end, the second floor is a welcome addition to the business and the block. At night the colorful lighting adds a splash of sophistication to the street, while the increased activity adds to the overall liveliness. This past Saturday I took a R&R Pedicab ride down Elmwood to grab a cup of coffee (after opening The Peddler) and was delighted to see a packed upper patio filled with diners who were enjoying looking out onto the action of Elmwood.
Later in the day I stopped in to see the finished product. For what might have originally appeared to be a limited amount of space, the second floor has a lot of seating and is not congested at all. The patio incorporates clear glass shields rather that railings so as not to obscure views. The tables can be moved inside and out to accommodate different seating arrangements. There’s a deli case with a few non-alcholol bottled drinks and a couple of bathrooms for added convenience, but mainly the addition adds seating for what looks to be around 50 people. It’s also a nice spot for private parties and catered events.
While Acropolis may not have gotten everything that it originally set out to get, the second floor turned out well, all things considered.
Acropolis
708 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14222
(716) 886-2977