Now that the weather is a bit more wintry, we figured you could use some extra motivation to step out. Sadly good eats and strong drinks can only motivate to a certain extent. So in the interest of proving there’s more to life than sunny days and day drinking in beer gardens (although not much more if you ask us), we put together a list of some of the best spots to cozy up next to a roaring fire – including coffee shops, classy restaurants, a few drinking spots of course, and everything in-between.
Photo courtesy of Hamburg Brewing Co.
Hamburg Brewing Co.
Neighborhood: Hamburg
If you’re looking to drink near a fireplace in Western New York you absolutely cannot beat the tasting room at Hamburg Brewing Company. With cushions, benches, and tables surrounding the fire there’s not a bad seat in the house. The list of impressive Hamburg brews and light fare is enough to satisfy pretty much any age group. Trust us, people come from all over to experience the “are we in Buffalo?” effect on the outskirts of Hamburg.
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Photo courtesy of D’Arcy McGees
D’Arcy McGees
Neighborhood: Downtown
If you find yourself seeking warmth in the Theater District or craving an Irish pub experience, D’Arcy McGees is right up your ally. Grab a few imported beers, maybe a Shepard’s Pie, and head to the stools and small tables by one of two fireplaces.
Photo courtesy of Armor Inn Tap Room
Armor Inn Tap Room
Neighborhood: Hamburg
Technically this isn’t a fireplace, but there is definitely fire involved at this suburban tap room. The Armor Inn in Hamburg has a couple fire pits outside on their patio – perfect for a nice change of pace after being cooped up inside crowded bars all winter long. Maybe save this one for a night when it’s above 15 degrees.
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Photo courtesy of The Lodge
The Lodge Bar + Grill
Neighborhood: Downtown
Come for the restaurant/bar’s sophisticated atmosphere and fabulous decor, stay for the yummy cocktails by the fire right in the dead center of the city. Easy access to the Chip Strip, Theater District, hotels, and more.
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Photo courtesy of Merge
Merge
Neighborhood: Downtown
Cozy up by the Merge fireplace with a crisp cocktail and a warm cup of soup while catching a live performance – usually jazz. Good for before or after diner. Merge has a great selection of vegetarian friendly dishes but plenty for the carnivore too.
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Photo courtesy of Spot Coffee OP
Spot Coffee OP
Neighborhood: Village of Orchard Park
If you’re in the mood for a fireside coffee and a snack, you can’t beat this adorable fireplace setup at SPoT Coffee in the Village of Orchard Park. Bring a friend or a good book, grab a breakfast sandwich and a latte, and stay all day.
Encore
Neighborhood: Downtown
Encore has five fireplaces in that old, unique building of theirs. One is in the bar area, one is upstairs near a couple of tables near the sushi station, and the rest are scattered about just waiting for you to come get toasty. We’d be crazy if we didn’t mention our favorite day of the week to stop by Encore – Tuesday’s All You Can Eat Sushi.
More Info / SOB’s Recommendation
Photo courtesy of Pan American Grill & Brewery
Pan American Grill and Brewery @ Hotel Lafayette
Neighborhood: Downtown
Is there anything better than a stoic leather couch by a hearty fire? Yes; a stoic leather couch by a hearty fire with a beverage in hand. Lounge by the fire at Pan American Grill before or after dining at one of the Hotel Lafayette’s several delicious restaurants including the Pan Am Grill itself, Bourbon and Butter or Butterwood Sweet & Savory. We’re pretty positive this fireplace setup with both surprise and impress you.
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Photo by @hughes13 via Instagram
Gabriel’s Gate
Neighborhood: Downtown
While the ambiance at Gabriel’s Gate is more of an Allentown “dive bar” than others on this list, it’s hands down one of the favorite spots to get wings in Buffalo – and for good reason. Tell your waitress you want a “single medium”, then just sit back by the fire with a cold one and let them do the rest.
Photo courtesy of The Roycroft
The Roycroft Inn
Neighborhood: East Aurora
Outstanding Brunch. Historic Buildings. Artisanal Menu. Seasonal ingredients. While The Roycroft is a favorite in the summertime thanks to their upscale brunch on the patio, it also serves as a perfect place to escape the cold for a hearty, fireside meal in the adorable Village of East Aurora. Dine by the fire or drink fireside in the newly renovated Craftsman Lounge.
SOB’s Recommendation
Resurgence Brewing Co.
Resurgence Brewing Co.
Neighborhood: West Side
The “fireplace” at Resurgence Brewing Co. is again, actually a fire pit. It makes for a great opportunity to warm up on a chilly night all year round, but especially in the winter. Stop by to witness a part of Buffalo’s resurgence first hand, try a Sponge Candy Stout, or play one of their fun giant games.
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Photo by Jill Greenberg
The Daily Planet Coffee Co.
Neighborhood: Hertel
This new coffee shop in North Buffalo is equipped with everything you need to get through the winter. That is plenty of fireside tables, coffee, live music of all kinds, poetry, fresh scones made in house, seasonal drinks, and our favorite – board games.