As seen on the Food Network series Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (Guy Fieri really liked the jalapeño tater tots). The food served at this prototypical South Buffalo Irish pub splits the difference between local standbys like beef on weck and chicken wings (both classic-recipe and Smitty-style), and Hibernian specialties such as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie, and beer and cheddar soup. The Blackthorn is an old-school kind of place that doesn't look like much from the outside, but venture in and you'll find a friendly, welcoming ambience. However, service is often brusque, especially if you're seated at the bar rather than in the dining room.
Sun-Thu 11:30AM-10PM, Fri Sat 11:30AM-11PM·$15-40
Not just South Buffalo's favorite piercing studio, with all the relaxing vibes and attention to cleanliness and professionalism you need to set your mind at ease, but also a place to get your hands on some of the finest-quality and most creative body jewelry in town. The selection is not what you would call massive, but it's definitely well-curated, with a house style that's based on simple but elegant designs inspired by the shapes of nature: gold, titanium, and semiprecious gems forged into flowers, crescents, starbursts, helixes, even cute little bumblebees.
Tue-Sat noon-8PM
Another classic neighborhood watering hole that's been around for decades, Rush Inn doesn't have the history that Daly's has, but it certainly does have the same old-Buffalo charm — not to mention as friendly a rogue's gallery of barkeeps and regulars as you're likely to come across anywhere. The lighting is dim, the decor is spartan, the pool table and dartboard are fun diversions, and live music happens from time to time; stop by to drink it all in (along with a pint of Guinness or a cold bottle of Genny)!
Its name may no longer be apropos — the place moved in 2019 from its former location on South Park Avenue (aka U.S. Route 62) to the Shea's Seneca building — but the tacos, nachos, burritos, and other classic Tex-Mex fare is still on point. Don't be fooled by a menu that seems run-of-the-mill at first blush: there are some interesting innovations to be found among the specialty tacos, such as Korean barbecue, Philly cheesesteak, and even a beef on weck taco dressed with horseradish slaw. The food is serviceably good though a bit bland, perfect for those who like Mexican cuisine but can't handle spice, and if you don't like Mexican cuisine, check out their selection of specialty mac and cheese bowls. It's all served up fast-casual style for reasonable prices in a cavernous space that gets loud when it gets crowded.
Sun-Thu 10AM-10PM, Fri Sat 10AM-midnight·$10-25