The Ultimate Tom & Jerry Guide Every Buffalonian Needs

Maybe it’s the foamy crown. Maybe it’s the seasonal spices. Maybe it’s all hype. Either way, the Tom & Jerry is a classic cocktail choice come Christmastime, especially for those of us drinking in Buffalo. This cozy drink is sweet, hot, and festive. Think warm sugar cookie in a glass.

If you’re Tom & Jerry obsessed, you’ll be happy to hear you can find your favorite boozy beverage at many bars around Buffalo. Here’s the guide you need in your life! Friendly reminder that these drinks are served around the holidays – call before visiting to find out exactly when they will be on the menu.

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1. The Place

229 Lexington Ave Buffalo New York 14202 / More Info

Drinking a Tom & Jerry at The Place is tradition, and has been since 1941. Over the years, it has become the restaurant’s most iconic drink. Regulars and not-so-regulars look forward to its seasonal release year after year. But no joke, they have their own trademarked recipe.

2. Cole’s

1104 Elmwood Ave Buffalo New York 14222 / More Info

Cole’s always goes all out with holiday decorations, so drinking a seasonal beverage here just feels right. Keep warm and cozy with an extra frothy Tom & Jerry. If you love a lot of meringue, this variation of the bevvy is most definitely for you.

3. Rohall’s Corner

540 Amherst St Buffalo New York 14207 / More Info

This place might look like your average dive bar from the outside, but many consider it a Tom & Jerry hidden gem. Crafting smaller batches pays off for these folks, and the dark rum helps, too. When it comes to freshness, Rohall’s does not disappoint.

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4. The West End Inn

340 Union Street Hamburg NY 14075 / More Info

The newly renovated and reopened West End Inn in Hamburg is kicking off the holiday season with a classic Tom & Jerry.

5. Glen Park Tavern

5507 Main St Williamsville New York 14221 / More Info

Expect a large coffee mug and a cinnamon stick for stirring when you order your Tom & Jerry here. This tavern, in the heart of the village, has been serving the wintertime cocktail extra thick for many years now.

6. Creekview Restaurant

5629 Main St Williamsville New York 14221 / More Info

Not far down the street from Glen Park Tavern, you’ll find another spot to get your T&J fix. Think one’s less foamy and more battery. Creekview has quite the view overlooking the falls of Ellicott Creek. It’s no wonder the dining destination has been a village favorite for years.

7. Schwabl’s Restaurant

789 Center Rd West Seneca New York 14224 / More Info

This seasonal drink has a special spot on this restaurant’s list of libations from now through St. Patrick’s Day. You’ll feel like you’re back in the 1930s as you sip from your old fashioned Tom & Jerry mug at this joint in West Seneca.  

8. The Garage Cafe & Lounge

1127 Hertel Ave Buffalo New York 14216 / More Info

During the holidays you’ll find Tom & Jerrys in custom mugs available at The Garage’s bar every night they are open on Hertel Ave!

9. Hoak’s

4100 Lake Shore Rd Hamburg New York 14075 / More Info

Starting Decmeber 1 through the New Year’s holiday you can find “Grandma Reilly’s Tom & Jerry” being at Hoak’s – a tradition since 1949.

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10. The Delaware

3410 Delaware Ave Tonawanda New York 14217 / More Info

Served in a glass mug, this drink is not only tasty but its presentation is totally photo-worthy! Take a peek at their other seasonal drinks too for more beautifully made hot beverages.

11. McPartlan’s Corner

669 Wehrle Dr Buffalo New York 14226 / More Info

This cute and cozy Irish pub is a longtime community staple. They opened back in 1955 and are one of the first places known for serving this Christmastime cocktail. If you’re all about celebrating the classics, come here to cheers!

12. The Globe Restaurant

711 Main St East Aurora New York 14052 / More Info

If you’ve ever been to East Aurora during the holidays, then you know this storybook town truly embraces the season. As part of the festivities, The Globe Restaurant offers a traditional Tom & Jerry to be enjoyed throughout the season.

13. Colter Bay

561 Delaware Ave Buffalo New York 14202 / More Info

Colter Bay is known for their craft beer and ciders on the draft as well as their extensive cocktail list, so why not add another drink to the mix? During the holidays you’ll find them serving up a classic Tom & Jerry.

This post was originally published in 2021 and has been updated.