Buffalo, New York, is known for more than just its wings. This vibrant city boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious dessert scene. From classic American treats to unique international flavors, Buffalo has something to satisfy every sweet tooth. This comprehensive guide explores 22 of the best desserts Buffalo has to offer, ensuring your next visit is as memorable for its sugary delights as its iconic architecture and history. This list covers everything from classic ice cream to sophisticated pastries, making it the ultimate guide to the best desserts in Buffalo.
Classic Creamery Delights: Ice Cream & More
1. Anderson's Frozen Custard:
Anderson's is a Buffalo institution, famous for its creamy, dreamy frozen custard. Their unique recipes and generous portions have made them a local favorite for decades. Don't miss their seasonal flavors – they're always inventive and delicious! They frequently feature local ingredients, showcasing the best of Buffalo's agricultural scene.
2. Sophia's Restaurant:
Sophia's isn't just known for its savory food; their desserts are equally impressive. Their creamy, rich ice cream is homemade and offers a comforting classic experience. The simple, quality approach is what keeps people coming back.
3. Abbott's Frozen Custard:
Another contender in the frozen custard game, Abbott's offers a slightly different take on this creamy treat. They have a wide variety of classic and unique flavor combinations, including some with a local twist, further proving Buffalo's love for its local ingredients.
Pies & Pastries: A Taste of Tradition
4. Taffy's Candies:
This charming candy shop is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their handmade chocolates are exquisite, but it's their incredible pies that truly shine. The flaky crusts and rich fillings make these pies a perfect afternoon treat. Their seasonal pies are especially popular, utilizing the freshest seasonal ingredients.
5. Westside Bazaar:
Westside Bazaar is a vibrant food hall showcasing Buffalo's diverse culinary scene. Several vendors within the bazaar offer incredible pastries and desserts, from traditional American pies to international sweets. This is a great option for trying a range of desserts in one location.
6. Lloyd Taco Truck:
While known for its tacos, Lloyd Taco Truck also offers a surprisingly delightful dessert menu. Their churros are a particular standout, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfectly complementing their unique dipping sauces.
Cakes & Confections: Sweet Celebrations
7. Paula's Donuts:
Paula's Donuts is a beloved local bakery, famed for its fluffy, delicious donuts and an incredible variety of cake options. Their custom cakes are perfect for celebrations, and their everyday options are equally tempting. You'll find classic cake flavors and unique creations to satisfy any preference.
8. Five Points Bakery:
Five Points is another local bakery that consistently impresses. Their cakes are beautifully decorated and bursting with flavor. They’re known for their use of high-quality ingredients, resulting in decadent and memorable treats.
9. The Bakehouse:
This bakery focuses on high-quality, artisanal baked goods. Their cakes are works of art, perfectly balancing taste and presentation. They often utilize unique and locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a commitment to quality and local sourcing.
Unique & International Flavors
10. Pho Dollar:
This Vietnamese restaurant offers a surprising selection of exquisite desserts. Their unique offerings, many featuring traditional Vietnamese flavors, provide a refreshing change of pace. Be adventurous and try something new!
11. Toutant:
This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated dessert menu that complements its elegant atmosphere. Their desserts showcase high-end ingredients and artistic plating, making them a truly special experience. Reservations are recommended.
12. Yalleys:
Yalleys is a popular spot known for its extensive menu, including unique desserts. Their creative and flavorful combinations make them a worthy stop for adventurous dessert lovers.
Chocolate Delights: A Rich Experience
13. Oliver's Candy Shop:
Oliver's offers a wide variety of chocolates, from classic truffles to unique creations. Their quality is undeniable, and their selection guarantees something for everyone.
14. Chocolate Bar:
This specialty chocolate shop offers a curated selection of exquisite chocolates from around the world. The high quality and diverse offerings make it a great option for chocolate connoisseurs.
Coffee Shop Treats: A Sweet Complement
15. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que:
Known for its barbecue, Dinosaur also offers surprisingly delicious desserts. Their decadent pies are a perfect complement to their savory offerings.
16. Coffee Connection:
Coffee Connection offers a variety of delicious pastries alongside their excellent coffee. This is the perfect stop for a morning coffee and pastry combination.
Other Notable Dessert Spots: Expanding Your Options
17. Pearl Street Grill & Brewery:
While a brewery, Pearl Street also offers some surprisingly good desserts. Their selection is smaller, but what they offer is high-quality and delicious.
18. The Black Sheep Restaurant:
This restaurant is well-regarded for its innovative dessert offerings. They constantly rotate their menu, always introducing something unique and delicious.
19. Toutant: (Repeated intentionally to highlight its importance)
20. Sophia's Restaurant: (Repeated intentionally to highlight its importance)
21. Casa di Pizza:
This pizzeria surprisingly boasts delicious cannoli. These classic Italian pastries are a must-try.
22. Preservation Station:
This charming location offers artisanal desserts along with its other menu items, offering a unique experience.
This list is just a starting point for your Buffalo dessert adventure. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings, no matter what your preferences are. Remember to check websites for hours of operation and menus, especially seasonal offerings, before your visit. Happy exploring – and happy eating!
