Hertel is experiencing a wave of investments, throughout the street. One section in particular, closer to the Delaware Avenue intersection, has witnessed a number of new and exciting projects, including the opening of Centro Culturale Italiano di Buffalo, and (coming soon) The Monocle. And now there’s yet another major investment on the way, with the announcement of the ground breaking of Ristorante Lombardo’s new $500,000+ expansion project. Combined, these three projects total over $4 million in investments into the street.
Lombardo’s – family owned and operated since 1975 – will undergo a significant indoor-outdoor seating expansion that will extend the restaurant’s presence further towards the street.
Councilmember Joel Feroleto, Mayor Brown, and Congressman Brian Higgins joined general manager Tommy Lombardo and owner Tom Lombardo for a groundbreaking event over the weekend.
“After 47 years at our original location in North Buffalo, we are thrilled to continue our growth and to be investing yet again in our community,” said Thomas Lombardo. “Hertel Avenue is doing better than ever, it’s thriving; we are extremely grateful to be a part of it”
“Not only are we adding a three-season patio which helps us to expand and grow our business by extending our patio season, it is also a complete aesthetic refresh of the restaurant’s facade, which additionally brings the building right up to the sidewalk, further activating and beautifying the streetscape,” said Tommy Lombardo. “Like many of our neighbors, we are proud to be doing our part to continue the economic growth and beautification of Hertel Avenue.”
From modest beginnings as a small cinder block eatery, Lombardo’s has, over the last 47 years, become one of the city’s most regarded eating establishments, noted for its dependable high quality food and well appointed aesthetics.
It is impressive to see this large of an investment taking place, especially by a small business whose industry was hit hard by the pandemic.
Councilmember Feroleto
“It is impressive to see this large of an investment taking place, especially by a small business whose industry was hit hard by the pandemic,” said Councilmember Feroleto. “Ristorante Lombardo has been a staple in the North Buffalo community for 47 years, and I am excited for the atmosphere this expansion will create that will further enhance the walkability of Hertel Avenue.”
LaBella Associates (Architect – William Hovey, AIA) is the Architect of Record for the Lombardo’s patio expansion.
