Top 20 BYOB restaurants in Buffalo
BYOB restaurants in Buffalo are a popular choice for those who enjoy dining out while also enjoying their favorite bottle of wine or beer. These establishments allow patrons to bring their own alcoholic beverages, often with no corkage fee, making for a more personalized and cost-effective dining experience. From Italian to Asian cuisine, there are many BYOB restaurants in Buffalo to explore and enjoy.
- 1. Bella Ciao
- 2. Chef's Restaurant
- 3. INIZIO
- 4. Osteria 166
- 5. Daniela
- 6. Aroma on Bryant
- 7. Tappo Restaurant
- 8. The Dapper Goose
- 9. The Left Bank
- 10. Ristorante Lombardo
- 11. JT’s Restaurant
- 12. Frankie Primo's +39
- 13. Angeline
- 14. Shango New Orleans Bistro & Wine Bar
- 15. Pho Lantern Restaurant
- 16. Sun Cuisines
- 17. Giacobbi's Cucina Citta
- 18. Marco's Italian Restaurant
- 19. Eckl's
- 20. Nai Restaurant
1. Bella Ciao
Offers gluten-free and vegan options, parked validated with purchase

Authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting setting
The restaurant in question is located in the Embassy Suites hotel and can only be accessed through valet parking. The menu is on the pricier side, but the food is delicious and hot. The interior of the restaurant is beautiful and the service is excellent, with our waitress Mikael providing attentive and friendly service despite having many tables to attend to. The menu has fresh and rich-tasting options, with standout dishes including mushroom lasagna, vodka rigatoni, and Bolognese Sardi with meatballs.
The restaurant also boasts a great atmosphere, with wonderful waitstaff and drinks. Prices are reasonable and portions are large, making for a satisfying meal. Caesar and Daige, the manager, were particularly memorable for their excellent service, with Daige even personally apologizing and comping drinks for a mixup with our reservation. The restaurant is not ideal for young children, but older kids can enjoy splitting a pizza from the menu. Overall, the restaurant is highly recommended for a delicious and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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2. Chef's Restaurant
Offering a variety of homemade pastas, sauces, and famous dishes since 1923

Family-owned restaurant serving classic Buffalo dishes since 1923
The food at this establishment is known for its generous portion sizes and attractive presentation. One dish that stands out is the Spaghetti Parm, which has received high praise from many reviewers. However, some have noted that the sauce is sweeter than traditional red sauce and lacks a heavy or lingering presence.
Pasta dishes are a hit with customers, with the Spaghetti Parm and Pasta Pesto being particularly popular. Opinions on the pasta vary, with some diners complaining that it is overcooked or too sweet. Others, however, have enjoyed it with the addition of parmesan cheese and meatballs. Overall, it appears that the pasta dishes offer a range of experiences, with some diners leaving very satisfied and others feeling less impressed.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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3. INIZIO
In addition to being a BYOB restaurant, INIZIO also offers gluten-free and vegan options.

INIZIO is a charming restaurant located in the heart of Elmwood Village, known for its focus on fresh, homemade pasta dishes. The establishment takes great pride in creating everything from scratch, ensuring that each dish is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. Upon arriving, guests are warmly welcomed by a friendly and attentive staff, who are dedicated to providing excellent service. Diners particularly appreciate the quick and efficient service, making INIZIO an ideal spot for both casual and special occasion dining.
The pasta dishes are the star of the show at INIZIO, with customers raving about the quality, freshness, and robust flavors. The freshly made pasta is a highlight, with each bite delivering a taste of authenticity and tradition. The staff is not only attentive but also goes the extra mile to ensure that guests have a memorable dining experience. One waiter even helped a customer identify a song using Shazam, showcasing the team's dedication to providing exceptional service. Overall, INIZIO is a must-visit destination for pasta lovers seeking a delicious and authentic Italian dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. Osteria 166
Homemade pasta, Neapolitan-style pizza, Cozy ambiance

Warm and inviting Italian trattoria with a variety of traditional dishes and a great wine list.
Tucked away in downtown Buffalo, Osteria 166 provides a memorable dining experience. The restaurant was bustling on a Tuesday night, demonstrating its popularity among locals and visitors alike. The appetizer selection did not disappoint; the Meatball and focaccia were both delicious starters.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Corporate Events
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5. Daniela
Family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere

Daniela uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their dishes.
A customer ordered takeout meals from a restaurant, but they received the wrong package upon arriving home. They contacted the restaurant, and the staff apologized for the mistake and promised to rectify the situation. The customer expressed their satisfaction with the food when they visited the restaurant with a large group. Specifically, they enjoyed the cheesy lasagna and the delicious vegan pizza.
Despite the restaurant's small size, it can get a bit loud, but the customer found it easy to ignore the noise due to the excellent food. The customer highly recommends the restaurant based on their positive experience.
In summary, the restaurant provided excellent customer service by promptly addressing the customer's complaint about the wrong order and serving delicious meals that impressed the customer and their group. The only drawback was the loudness of the restaurant, but it did not significantly affect their dining experience. Therefore, the customer highly recommends the restaurant due to its above-and-beyond service and tasty food.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. Aroma on Bryant
Small, family-owned business; located in the heart of Buffalo's Elmwood Village; offers a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Family-owned and operated for over 30 years.
Aroma on Bryant is a restaurant known for its fantastic BYOB (bring your own bottle) experience. The pasta dishes served here are fresh and well-balanced, showcasing authentic Italian flavors. What makes this place even more special is its warm and inviting atmosphere, which makes every dining experience enjoyable and comfortable.
If you're looking for a great BYOB spot with delicious Italian dishes, Aroma on Bryant should be on your list. Aside from its excellent pasta, you should also try their calamari and beet salad, which are must-try appetizers. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere is perfect for any occasion, whether you're on a date or having a night out with friends. Overall, Aroma on Bryant offers a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience that you don't want to miss.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. Tappo Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving fresh pasta and artisanal pizzas

Known for its extensive wine list and romantic ambiance.
Tappo is a restaurant we had the opportunity to visit during a romantic getaway weekend. They offer a charming rooftop area for drinks and dining, which we took advantage of. The food at Tappo was generally good, with one notable exception being the large portions.
However, not all dishes were well-received. The calamari and eggplant parmigiana, in particular, were criticized. The calamari was described as hard and lacking in flavor, while the eggplant parmigiana was heavily fried and dominated by ricotta cheese. These exceptions aside, Tappo remains a decent dining option for those seeking generous portion sizes.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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8. The Dapper Goose
Cozy atmosphere, inventive cocktails, and outdoor seating

Emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, artisanal decor
The Dapper Goose offers a Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB) option, making dinner more affordable while enjoying their delicious food. The restaurant is well-known for this feature, attracting customers who enjoy dining with their preferred choice of beverages. The BYOB option certainly adds value to the overall dining experience.
The Dapper Goose is an excellent place for a night out with friends, offering a great atmosphere and outstanding food. The combination of delicious dishes and the convenience of a BYOB experience creates a memorable dining experience. The restaurant is a popular choice for those seeking a fun and affordable night out with friends.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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9. The Left Bank
Cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Charming French bistro atmosphere with outdoor seating
The Left Bank is a delightful restaurant that provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for its patrons. One of the unique features of this establishment is their policy that allows customers to bring their own bottle of wine, making it an ideal spot for wine enthusiasts. The food served at The Left Bank is simply delicious, with a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes.
In addition to their excellent food, The Left Bank is also known for their exceptional service. The staff are attentive, friendly, and go above and beyond to ensure that every customer has a memorable dining experience. With its unique BYOB option and high-quality dishes, The Left Bank is a great choice for a special night out or any occasion that calls for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. Ristorante Lombardo
Family-owned and operated since 1927, Voted one of America's top Italian restaurants

Family-owned and operated since 1954, using original recipes and techniques
Ristorante Lombardo in Buffalo is known for its excellent atmosphere, personalized touches, and exceptional service. The restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine, with standout dishes such as grilled scallops on risotto and baked figs wrapped in prosciutto. Diners have raved about the delicious and beautifully presented food, as well as the top-notch service and attention to detail.
I had the pleasure of dining at Ristorante Lombardo for the first time recently, and it was an incredible experience. The food was superb, with each dish presented beautifully and full of flavor. The service was also exceptional, with staff providing personalized attention and ensuring a memorable dining experience. The wood-roasted figs wrapped in prosciutto were a highlight, offering an unique and delicious blend of flavors. The table-side prepared Caesar salad was also a standout, as were the flavorful and perfectly cooked main courses.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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11. JT’s Restaurant
Offers a variety of homemade dishes and is committed to using fresh, local ingredients.

Family owned and operated since 1981 with a loyal customer base.
JT's restaurant offers a great option for those who enjoy bringing their own wine to meals. A dinner at JT's, where patrons can bring their own wine, proved to be a delightful and affordable experience. The author highly recommends JT's as an ideal spot for a BYOB night out.
The affordability and enjoyment of the dinner were enhanced by the fact that JT's allows customers to bring their own wine. This BYOB policy was particularly appreciated by the author, who found it to be a significant plus in terms of cost and personal preference. Overall, JT's policy of allowing patrons to bring their own wine contributed to a more enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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12. Frankie Primo's +39
Neapolitan-style pizza with a modern twist, cooked in a wood-fired oven

Family-owned and operated restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine
Frankie Primo's Plus & Co. is a wonderful Italian restaurant, ideal for anyone seeking a delicious meal in Buffalo. My spouse and I recently went there for an early dinner, our third time visiting, and we were not disappointed. The menu offers a variety of options, and the food is consistently excellent. Our meal consisted of a Caesar salad, pasta fagioli, and a meat and cheese plate, all of which were bursting with flavor and generously portioned.
On this particular occasion, we opted to dine inside, but Frankie Primo's also has a welcoming patio with a long waitlist. The interior atmosphere is pleasant, and the staff members are exceptionally friendly and attentive. During our visit, we encountered Jenna, our server, who was fantastic, providing great service and ensuring our dining experience was enjoyable. The hostess, bartender, and other staff members also contributed to our positive experience with their warm and considerate demeanor. We enthusiastically recommend Frankie Primo's Plus & Co. for a delightful Italian dinner in Buffalo.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
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13. Angeline
Intimate atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and extensive gluten-free options.

Features live music on weekends and a daily happy hour.
Angeline is a delightful BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and exceptional service. The food served is fantastic, and patrons have the option to bring their own wine, which can enhance the dining experience. The restaurant's menu has a variety of options, and the ambiance is perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or family.
Angeline stands out due to its excellent BYOB experience, mouth-watering dishes, and comfortable setting. Diners can look forward to a wide range of menu choices and a warm, inviting ambiance. The opportunity to bring one's wine further elevates the dining experience, making Angeline a top choice for those seeking a memorable meal. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual night out, Angeline delivers on all fronts.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
14. Shango New Orleans Bistro & Wine Bar
Features live music on weekends

Authentic New Orleans cuisine in Buffalo
The restaurant is an ideal location for a BYOB dinner with friends, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The service at this establishment is top-notch, with staff who go out of their way to ensure guests have a pleasant dining experience. In addition to the excellent service, the food at this restaurant is also fantastic, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends.
One of the standout features of this restaurant is the ability for guests to bring their own bottle of wine. This is a great touch, as it allows diners to enjoy their favorite wines with their meal. The staff is very accommodating when it comes to BYOB, and are always happy to provide glasses and open bottles for guests. Overall, this restaurant is an excellent choice for a dinner with friends, offering delicious food, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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15. Pho Lantern Restaurant
Family-owned and operated, Pho Lantern Restaurant has been serving the Buffalo community for over 10 years.
Family-owned restaurant using traditional recipes and cooking techniques
Pho Lantern is a notable BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) establishment, renowned for its delicious pho. The option to bring your own drinks adds to the restaurant's appeal, making it a great spot for a casual night out. Its food offerings have earned it a reputation as one of the best BYOB restaurants in Buffalo.
The restaurant's intimate atmosphere is an additional draw, creating a cozy setting for customers. The high-quality food coupled with the relaxed policy on beverages makes Pho Lantern a perfect place for a laid-back evening with friends. The restaurant's pho is especially noteworthy, emphasizing the overall dining experience as exceptional.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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16. Sun Cuisines
Serves a variety of Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes, all made from fresh ingredients.
Authentic Asian cuisine in a cozy, family-owned setting
Sun Cuisines in Buffalo is a great spot for those looking for a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. One of the standout dishes is the Tom Yum Soup, which is highly recommended. Visitors to this restaurant will enjoy delicious and fresh food, making for an affordable and enjoyable dining experience.
If you're looking for a BYOB restaurant in Buffalo, Sun Cuisines is a great choice. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff make it a perfect place for a memorable meal. Be sure to try the Tom Yum Soup, as it is a popular and delicious choice. With fresh and flavorful food, Sun Cuisines offers a dining experience that is both enjoyable and affordable.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
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17. Giacobbi's Cucina Citta
Features an extensive gluten-free menu and is known for its homemade pasta and sauces.

Family-owned and operated since 1993, using recipes passed down through generations.
Giacobbi's Cucina Citta is a BYOB restaurant that offers a perfect casual dining experience. Its Italian cuisine is a popular choice among guests. Two of the most recommended dishes are the pasta and gnocchi, which have received exceptional feedback for their exceptional taste and quality.
If you're looking for a great BYOB restaurant, Giacobbi's Cucina Citta is an excellent choice. Known for its delicious Italian food, this spot is a must-visit for pasta and gnocchi lovers. The restaurant's emphasis on quality and taste makes it a standout option for a casual night out.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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18. Marco's Italian Restaurant
Family-owned and operated since 1977, serving authentic Italian cuisine.

Authentic Italian family recipes since 1977.
Marco's Italian Restaurant in Buffalo is a well-known BYOB establishment, offering a welcoming atmosphere and top-quality food. The service is exceptional, making it an ideal place for a memorable meal. To enhance your dining experience, be sure to bring along a bottle of your favorite wine.
This restaurant is a popular choice for those seeking a cozy spot to savor delicious Italian cuisine. Its BYOB policy allows you to pair your meal with a selected wine, elevating the taste of their exquisite pasta dishes. It is highly recommended to take advantage of this policy and enjoy a delightful dining experience at Marco's Italian Restaurant.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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19. Eckl's
Historic building with a vintage atmosphere

Eckl's is a restaurant that provides a variety of experiences for its customers. Some patrons have praised the restaurant for its excellent drinks, food, and service. However, others have been disappointed with their meals, such as a tough steak sandwich. My recent experience at Eckl's@Larkin was positive, and I would call it my new favorite restaurant. The reservation process was straightforward, and parking was easy to find. Upon arrival, we were seated immediately in the beautiful and charming restaurant.
The service was outstanding, and there were no delays throughout the meal. Every dish we ordered was excellent. The raw bar experience was one of the best I have ever had, with the oysters being decadent. The stuffed banana peppers were the best I have ever had, with a smooth and silky five-cheese filling that had almost too much heat. However, the toasted ciabatta that accompanied it helped to tone down the heat. Overall, our meal at Eckl's@Larkin was a fantastic experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
20. Nai Restaurant
Authentic Thai cuisine using fresh ingredients, Cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Casual dress code
Nai Restaurant is a BYOB establishment offering a delicious selection of Thai and sushi dishes. It is a hidden gem in Buffalo, known for its authentic and flavorful food. One standout menu item is the Thai noodle soup, which is highly recommended.
The staff at Nai Restaurant are friendly and contribute to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. This BYOB spot is a great choice for those looking for authentic Thai and sushi options in a casual setting. With its authentic and tasty food, Nai Restaurant is a must-visit for fans of Thai and sushi cuisine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
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