Sample These Western New York Specialties

What’s a beef on weck? Ever tried sponge candy? Dig into the can’t-miss local New York delicacies — and the history behind them.

Beef on Weck

Its name may not seem altogether enticing, but we assure you: Once you try the unofficially official Sandwich of Western New York, you’ll get the fuss. Legend has it that this iconic New York food was invented sometime in the mid 1800s by a German baker — “weck” meaning “bread” in certain German dialects — who first piled slow-roasted beef on one of his caraway-and-salt-topped buns. These days, you’ll find the sandwich on oodles of local menus, usually topped with horseradish, often accompanied by au jus.

Where to try it: In Niagara Falls: Judi’s Lounge, Orange Tree Inn. In Lockport: Wagner’s. In North Tonawanda: Woodcock Brothers Brewery.

Chicken Wings

They may have originated in nearby Buffalo, but chicken wings are still a local specialty in Niagara Falls USA. Known elsewhere as “Buffalo wings,” they’re just “chicken wings” here — albeit chicken wings fried extra crispy, slathered in a buttery hot sauce and served with blue cheese dressing and celery.

Where to try it: In Niagara Falls: Duff’s, Anchor Bar, Avenue Grill, Judi’s Lounge — and essentially at every local eatery.

Fish Fry

Consider a fish fry the Western New York version of fish-’n-chips: fresh cod or haddock, battered and fried golden, served with coleslaw and fries. This New York delicacy is a Lenten mainstay — even eateries where you’d never expect to find a fish entrée (like a bakery!) fry up the good stuff on Fridays in Lent.

Where to try it: In Niagara Falls: Griffon Gastropub, Gadawski’s. In Lockport: Lock 34 Bar & Grill, Kith and Kin Bakeshop & Bistro (gluten-free!).

Johnnie Ryan Soda

Three generations of Ryans have been churning out this old-school cane sugar soda since 1935. They pride themselves on using the finest extracts and flavorings available, sweetened with 100% cane sugar. Expect all the usual suspects: cola and root beer, as well as orange, grape, crème, black cherry, ginger ale and birch beer.

Where to try it: In grocery stores and on local menus.

Bye’s Popcorn

The website boasts that this popcorn stand in Olcott is “60 seconds from the Lake Ontario waterfront,” and they mean it. Perhaps that’s why it’s been a summertime tradition for generations of visitors and locals alike, dating all the way back to 1923. The menu is simple: original buttered popcorn, or caramel, with or without nuts. When it’s this good — and this legendary — who needs to complicate things?

Where to try it: At the Bye’s Popcorn stand in Olcott, open seasonally.

Platter’s Orange Chocolates and Sponge Candy

Sponge candy is a light, crunchy toffee unique to the Western New York area; orange chocolate is a confection that real-life chocolate factory Platter’s has been serving up since 1938. Put them together — that is, smother the sponge candy in a coating of orange chocolate — and you have a must-eat New York sweet.

Where to try it: At Platter’s Chocolate Factory in North Tonawanda. Or right to your front door when you order online!

Niagara Falls USA

Destination Niagara USA is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Niagara County, including the iconic Niagara Falls.