Author: Suzanne Fitzery-Jaszcz
Nestled in a quiet blue-collar neighborhood where Tonawanda meets the City of Buffalo lies the Dalmatia Bar and Hotel. Just steps from beautiful Riverside Park, this long time favorite watering hole for residents is now under new ownership! Martin Galindo has recently purchased the property and has big plans for its future.
Some readers might know Marty from the years he spent slinging drinks at Mr. Goodbar or during his stint working at Spot Coffee on Elmwood. With his characteristic smile and booming laugh, Marty shared with me how he ended up landing this delightful tavern. He explained that his business partner was looking at buying some property that included a bar and invited Marty to look at the place. As soon as he stepped foot inside the tavern, he fell in love and the rest is history.
One of the first steps he took was to upgrade the tap system and increase the craft draught selection. The establishment has a modest menu featuring typical bar items such as burgers and wings. Every Monday and Thursday they feature 40-cent wings and Fish Fry Fridays. He plans to keep the prices low (currently his most expensive draught beer is $3.50) and wants to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. The bar features a sizable room in the back with a pool table, and extra tables for dining. He plans to upgrade the space in order to better host live music and private functions.
The bar and hotel date back to the 1930s, with the hotel portion being converted into apartments back in the 1970s. With more of these old timey neighborhood taverns closing, it’s nice to know that Marty will be carrying on the tradition of keeping this corner bar running. If you want a fun night out that will not break the bank stop into the Dalmatia Bar.
Hotel Dalmatia | 1187 Tonawanda Street | Buffalo, NY | (716) 877-9539 | Facebook
Hours- 10am-Midnight