On the Town

Buffalo has always been known as something of a party town, what with our 4 a.m. last call and wealth of watering holes. There are nightlife hubs found on Allen Street, along Elmwood Avenue, in University Heights and on Hertel Avenue in North Buffalo, but the region's nightlife nexus is Chippewa Street in the heart of downtown. This multi-block strip of bars, clubs, restaurants and coffee shops serves up an eclectic menu of entertainment options to suit every taste.

You'll find urban atmosphere and trendy tunes at Soho (64 W. Chippewa Street), caffeinated cool at Spot Coffee (227 Delaware Ave.), and a high energy country & western party bar at the Buckin' Buffalo (294 Franklin St.). Relax, unwind and hear live local talent Thursday nights at Bayou (73 Chippewa St.) or catch a show at Mohawk Place (47 E. Mohawk St.); famous for its happy hour and voted best live music club. For a slightly more sophisticated ambience, sample the cocktails at Snooty Fox (445 Delaware Ave.). At Laughlin's (Franklin and Tupper, left) you'll find sophisticated décor and an outdoor balcony for beautiful summer evenings.

If you're in the mood to dance, Level night club, located at 73 W. Chippewa Street pumps trance, techno, and house music onto a huge main floor with an intense laser visual show. Enjoy hot Latin rhythms at La Luna (52 W. Chippewa St.) or hip hop beats at Quote nightclub on the corner of Delaware Avenue and Chippewa. Or check out a concert at the Town Ballroom (681 Main St.) in the Theatre District. Here you'll find a funky but chic venue that features all genres - both underground and mainstream.

Pool shooters can rack 'em up at Pearl Street Grill and Brewery (corner of Pearl and Seneca Streets). As the only restaurant in Buffalo that brews its own beer (including Canal Street Oatmeal Stout, right), Pearl Street is a must stop not only for passionate pool shooters, but beer lovers as well.