Niagara Falls Dining: the Guide to Falls Fare for Foodies

Our roundup of Niagara Falls USA local dining favorites to seek out during your visit to Niagara County.

Are you the type of traveler who plans your itineraries around your meals? If so, here’s a roundup of Niagara Falls USA local dining favorites to seek out during your visit to Niagara County.

In Niagara Falls, New York:

The Historical Gem: Red Coach Inn

For a traditional throwback, head to this oh-so-charming inn that oozes quirky quaintness and makes for the most romantic dining experience in town. A tip? Take a table by either the inn’s roaring fireplace or in its dining wing opposite Niagara Falls State Park.

The New York Deli: Power City Eatery

If you’re off on a morning hike or looking for breakfast on the fly, the tastiest caffeine and carb fix in town can be found at Power City Eatery. Strong Americanos and fresh bagels with honey-jalapeño schmears are the highlights in this Long Island-inspired quick stop. Swing by at lunch to gather the perfect house-cured picnic sandwiches: pastramis on rye, savory Reubens and Italian sammies.

The “Little Italy” Mainstays: La Hacienda and Michael’s

There’s nothing like generations-old Italian-American eateries for comfort fare — and this trio in Niagara Falls, New York’s Little Italy doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find the usual suspects — meatballs, veal parmigiana, vodka sauce and the like — but it’s worth seeking out the family specialties that have been handed down for decades, like La Hacienda’s New York pizzas or Michael’s famous calzones.

In Lewiston:

The Farm-to-Table Charmer: Carmelo’s

A menu guided by the seasons, a romantic ambience, a warm atmosphere that invites you to linger — what’s a foodie not to love about this second-generation eatery in charming Lewiston? Since the chef works closely with local farmers and artisan producers, the menu changes regularly, but expect Italian-inspired dishes like housemade pastas, salmon with salsa verde and garlicky cioppino.

The Destination-worthy Dessert: Hibbard’s Original Frozen Custard

This historic spot (operated by the same family since 1939!) offers a creamy and rich treat, made fresh throughout the day. Classics like chocolate, vanilla and black raspberry are available daily, in addition to a rotating menu of flavors from peanut butter to pistachio. Open seasonally.

In North Tonawanda:

The You’ll-think-you’re-in-France Bistro: Webster’s Bistro & Bar

A steaming bowl of French onion soup, a glass of pinot noir, a heaping plate of steak-frites, crème brûlée — you’ll swear you’ve been transported to a café in the City of Lights in this lovely neighborhood restaurant, a local’s favorite. Dessert is not to be missed.

In Lockport:

The Cozy Gastropub: Shamus Restaurant

You’ll feel like you’ve got the luck of the Irish at this homey-yet-refined pub. Grab a pint and a charcuterie board at the Coppertop Tap Room, or settle into the dining room for Guinness-battered fish-and-chips, fresh sea bass or a hearty steak.

The Stylish Seafood Spot: Steak Stone & Sushi

Whether you’re craving spicy tuna, shrimp hibachi or surf and turf, you’re guaranteed authentic Japanese cuisine at this intimate eatery in Lockport. Watch your meal cook to perfection on an 800-degree hot stone seasoned with pure Himalayan salt — the first steak-stone grill in Western New York!

Farther Afield:

The Apple-Lover’s Dream: Blackman Homestead Farm

During the u-pick apple season, stop and enjoy the harvest at this sixth-generation working farm, where you’ll find some delectable foodie souvenirs to take home: delicious fruit butters, pie fillings, fresh-pressed juices and craft hard cider.

The Bucolic Brewpub: Becker Farms & Vizcarra Vineyards

The 340-acre Becker Farms & Vizcarra Vineyards makes the perfect rustic retreat for foodies. Their brewpub menu offers tasty bites like hummus plates, truffle frites and pulled pork sandwiches, best washed down with a flight of their home-crafted beer or cider — or a glass of Vizcarra wine. Want a true taste of the property? Have them pack you a picnic to enjoy on the sprawling grounds.