May 31, 2016 – We’ve written a lot about the new businesses opening around Buffalo’s Elmwood Village and North Buffalo, but it could be argued that downtown Buffalo has experienced the most growth over the past year.

Downtown Buffalo has been revitalized by the introduction of new restaurants and businesses catering to downtown office workers, locals and out-of-towners alike. We’ve put together a list of some of the most prominent openings, as well as a few other new spots to look forward to later this year.

And since these new downtown places are just a short drive from many of our apartment communities, they should definitely be on your summer bucket list.

New Businesses in Downtown Buffalo

D’Avolio Kitchen – Best known for its gourmet olive oils, vinegars and herbs and spice blends, the D’Avolio brand recently opened up a second “Kitchen” location at 535 Main St. to complement their Elmwood shop, Williamsville restaurant and several other locations. Featuring a wide variety of pizzas made using their homemade dough, fresh sandwiches, soups and salads, D’Avolio Kitchen is a great spot for a quick and healthy meal downtown. Their famous oils and vinegars are also available for purchase at the downtown location, making it an easy stop whether you’re looking for a meal, cooking supplies or a fancy gift.

Jerk’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream – Transport yourself to a simpler time and cool down with an old-fashioned milkshake, egg cream or Italian soda at the recently opened Jerk’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream, located on the 500 block of Main Street downtown. Jerk’s is the first ice cream parlor in decades to be open in downtown Buffalo. Just an 8 minute drive from our Main Jewett apartments, their tasty treats are a fabulous antidote to a sticky summer day.

Raclettes – Another newcomer to Main St., Raclettes brings a taste of Paris to downtown Buffalo. This bistro offers classic French dishes including Coq Au Vin, fondue, and ratatouille, as well as a wide selection of tartines (sandwiches), crepes and cheeses. Only 10 minutes from our Delaware Park apartments, Raclettes is a classy yet casual restaurant and bar that’s perfect for a pre- or post-Shea’s meal, a night out with friends, or even a first date.

Coming Soon to Downtown Buffalo

Martin Cooks – Having just closed its location at Horsefeathers Market on the West Side, Martin Cooks is set to open a new restaurant on Genesee Street. Known for its unique dishes, warm atmosphere and fresh, local cuisine, the new Martin Cooks will bring a high-class vibe to this area of downtown. Our nearby residents shouldn’t fret about the move–Martin Cooks will still be just a short drive from our apartments in North Buffalo and the Elmwood Village.

Just Fries – We never thought we’d see a french-fry-only restaurant here in Buffalo, but we’re not complaining.With the recent addition of Allen Street Poutine to the Allentown area, and Just Fries set to open in June, Buffalo is having a bit of a fry renaissance (frynaissance?). Just Fries, Buffalo’s first “french fry cafe,” will be located at 9 Genesee Street, a 9 minute drive from our Delaware Park apartments. With varieties including Reuben fries, cheeseburger fries and fries topped with marshmallow and bacon, we won’t be able to resist stopping here this summer.

What’s been your favorite addition to downtown Buffalo? What are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below.